A laser cutting device for processing a thin-walled hollow workpiece

Abstract

This invention belongs to the field of laser cutting, specifically a laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces. It includes a cabinet with a water-filling clamping component and a central clamping component. A 5° angle exists between the thin-walled tube and the cabinet surface. The lowest point is at the end of the thin-walled tube closest to the water-filling clamping component, and a laser cutting component is located near the central clamping component. This method uses an inclined arrangement of the thin-walled tube and water injection from its end. Compared to the traditional method of placing the tube flat and inserting a thin water-filling tube, this solution provides more convenient and stable water injection. The elimination of the need for a main water pipe greatly simplifies control. Compared to traditional spray-type wet cutting, the cutting kerf comes into more comprehensive contact with the cooling water, resulting in higher cooling efficiency and more uniform cooling at the cutting location.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of laser cutting, specifically a laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces. Background Technology

[0002] Laser micromachining has become a primary method for processing thin-walled tubes due to its high processing efficiency, minimal cutting residue, non-contact processing, and ease of automation. However, the laser processing process generates heat rapidly, and thermal diffusion can cause thermal damage to the parts. Whether it's the heat-affected zone, the melting zone, recasting, or slag, all these alter the microstructure. The heat-affected zone compromises the integrity of the parts, significantly reducing processing yield.

[0003] Laser micromachining generally involves two processes: dry cutting and wet cutting. Dry cutting involves blowing assist gas into the laser-material interaction area to remove debris from the cut and cool the laser-affected zone. Wet cutting is typically advantageous for cutting small parts because small metal parts generate heat rapidly during the cutting process. Wet cutting plays a crucial role in minimizing the temperature of the heat-affected zone, especially due to the temperature increase caused by heat diffusion. Wet cutting helps maintain optimal thermal management within the workpiece. Furthermore, since molten and solidified material remains on the cut and surface, in addition to debris near the cut, there are also molten particles and evaporated material deposited on the surface. Introducing high-pressure water to the cutting point creates a thin water film on the workpiece surface. Particles falling onto this film cool quickly and cannot adhere to the workpiece surface.

[0004] For example, Chinese patent CN103212821A discloses a wet laser cutting machine, including a cutting head and a pre-positioned water guiding system. The motor of the pre-positioned water guiding system is connected to the water guiding pipe through a coupling, a bushing, and a water guiding pipe. One end of the bushing is located inside the coupling, and the other end is sealed to the water guiding pipe. The end of the water guiding pipe near the bushing has a water inlet, which is connected to the automatic water supply system with a sealed bearing. The outer diameter of the water guiding pipe is smaller than the inner diameter of the pipe to be processed. The end of the water guiding pipe away from the bushing is inserted into the interior of the pipe to be processed. High-pressure water is introduced for rapid cooling to prevent the pipe from being over-burned during laser cutting.

[0005] However, the aforementioned patents still have the following drawbacks:

[0006] The aforementioned patent involves inserting a water pipe into the pipe to be cut, and then spraying cooling water into the pipe during cutting to achieve cooling. This method requires that the diameter of the water pipe be smaller than the diameter of the pipe to be processed, and that the water pipe be long enough to meet the pipe cutting length requirements. This makes it difficult to insert the water pipe into the pipe during loading and clamping, especially when the pipe diameter is small. If automated equipment is used to achieve this action, the control is difficult and manual intervention is usually required.

[0007] The aforementioned patent uses a water pipe to inject water inside the fitting, but the water pipe is fixed at only one end. When the main water pipe is long, it inevitably sags at the far end, causing the main water pipe to directly contact the inner wall of the fitting, thereby encroaching on the original contact position between the cooling water and the fitting, making it difficult to achieve a comprehensive cooling effect, which in turn easily affects the quality of laser cutting.

[0008] 3. When laser cutting thin-walled metal pipes, the pipes must rotate to form a circular cut so that the pipes can be completely cut. However, thin-walled pipes may bend due to improper handling during transportation or storage. As a result, the rotation of the pipes during laser cutting will cause circular runout, which will cause the relative position between the pipes and the laser cutter to change continuously, thus affecting the quality of laser cutting. The above-mentioned patent cannot solve this problem. Summary of the Invention

[0009] To overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention addresses the technical problem of using a method that involves tilting thin-walled pipes and injecting water from their ends. Compared to the traditional method of placing the pipes flat and inserting a thin water inlet tube, this solution offers more convenient and stable water injection. The elimination of the need for a main water pipe significantly simplifies control. The tilted design ensures that water completely fills the interior of the thin-walled pipe after injection. Compared to traditional spray-type wet cutting, this results in more comprehensive contact between the cutting edge and the cooling water, leading to higher and more uniform cooling efficiency at the cutting point. When the laser cutter penetrates the thin-walled pipe, the airflow at the nozzle blows the molten slag generated at high temperatures away from the surface of the pipe. Simultaneously, Bernoulli's principle creates negative pressure on the outside of the thin-walled pipe, causing the water inside to flow outwards under this negative pressure and be absorbed by the airflow at the nozzle. The water mist is blown away to cool the cut seam of the thin-walled tube. The blown-away slag comes into full contact with the water mist and cools and solidifies, eliminating the glaring sparks produced by traditional laser cutting. It also prevents slag from falling back onto the surface of the thin-walled tube and creating bumps that affect its surface quality. When the water-filled clamping component holds the end of the thin-walled tube and pulls it away from the pneumatic chuck, the wheel seat and straightening wheel straighten the tube, eliminating bending and preventing circular runout that causes constant changes in the relative position between the laser cutter and the tube. This improves the accuracy and stability of laser cutting. This solution is highly automated, requires no manual intervention, and is easy to control. It effectively improves processing efficiency and quality, and can automatically and continuously perform laser cutting while connecting to subsequent processing equipment.

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces, comprising:

[0011] The cabinet has two first brackets fixedly connected to it, and a set of first linear drives is fixedly connected between the two first brackets. A water injection clamping component is drivenly connected to the first linear drives, and a middle clamping component is provided on the cabinet at one end of the first linear drives.

[0012] Furthermore, a thin-walled tube is clamped between the water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component. The thin-walled tube has a 5° angle with the cabinet. The end of the thin-walled tube closest to the water injection clamping component is located at the lowest point. The water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component can drive the thin-walled tube to rotate.

[0013] Furthermore, a second bracket is fixedly connected to one of the first brackets, and a second linear drive perpendicular to the first linear drive is fixedly connected to the second bracket. A connecting plate is driven to the second linear drive, and a laser cutter pointing towards the axis of the thin-walled tube is fixedly connected to the connecting plate. An air valve is provided on the connecting plate, and one end of the air valve is connected to a nozzle whose opening direction is along the tangential direction of the rotation of the thin-walled tube. The opening direction of the nozzle is perpendicular to the ray direction of the laser cutter.

[0014] Furthermore, the water injection clamping component includes a second chuck seat, which is throttle-connected to a first linear drive. A chuck cavity is rotatably connected inside the second chuck seat. Three chuck jaws for clamping the ends of thin-walled pipe fittings are slidably connected to the surface of the chuck cavity. A hollow tube is axially slidably connected inside the chuck cavity. Three pushers are respectively provided at the ends of the hollow tube. Each pusher is provided with a sliding pin. Each chuck jaw has an inclined sliding groove. Each sliding pin is slidably connected to the corresponding sliding groove.

[0015] Furthermore, the hollow tube is hollow inside, and an outer sleeve is fixedly connected to the end of the hollow tube at the center of the three pushers. An inner sleeve that communicates with the inside of the hollow tube is slidably connected inside the outer sleeve. A water injection head that can be inserted into a thin-walled pipe is fixedly connected to the end of the inner sleeve. A spring is provided between the inner sleeve and the hollow tube. A water tank is provided inside the cabinet, and a water pump is provided at one end of the water tank. The water pump is connected to the end of the hollow tube through a flexible hose.

[0016] Furthermore, two sets of circumferentially arranged vent holes are respectively opened on the outer wall of the chuck cavity. A piston disc that is fixedly connected to the hollow tube is slidably connected inside the chuck cavity. The range of motion of the piston disc is between the two sets of vent holes. An end cap is fixedly connected to the end of the chuck cavity away from the chuck jaws. A sealing ring that fits tightly against the inner wall of the second chuck seat is provided on the outer wall of the chuck cavity between the two sets of vent holes. Air vents are opened on the top of the second chuck seat at the corresponding positions of the two sets of vent holes.

[0017] Furthermore, a gear ring is fixedly connected to the end of the end cover extending out of the second chuck seat, a second motor is fixedly connected to the second chuck seat, the power output end of the second motor passes through the second chuck seat and is connected to a gear, the gear meshes with the gear ring for transmission, and a gear cover that covers the gear and the gear is fixedly connected to the side of the second chuck seat near the gear ring.

[0018] Furthermore, the central clamping component includes a third bracket fixed to the cabinet, a first chuck seat fixedly connected to the third bracket, a pneumatic chuck coaxial with the thin-walled tube being rotatably connected inside the first chuck seat, a driven wheel and a driving wheel being rotatably connected inside the first chuck seat, the driven wheel being fixedly connected to the pneumatic chuck, and the driven wheel and the driving wheel being connected by a transmission belt, a first motor being fixedly connected to the outside of the first chuck seat, and the power output end of the first motor being connected to the driving wheel.

[0019] Furthermore, a fourth bracket is fixedly connected to the end of the third bracket located away from the pneumatic chuck. Multiple wheel seats are fixedly connected to the top of the fourth bracket. A set of straightening wheels is rotatably connected in each wheel seat, and each set of straightening wheels makes rolling contact with the surface of the thin-walled tube.

[0020] Furthermore, a crossbeam is fixedly connected to the cabinet on the side away from the third support, and multiple sets of bottom support wheels for supporting thin-walled pipes are evenly arranged above the crossbeam.

[0021] Furthermore, a cylinder frame is provided between the water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component. Each end of the cylinder frame is fixedly connected to a gripper cylinder. Each gripper cylinder has a set of opposing grippers for clamping thin-walled pipes at its drive end. A base is hinged to the lower side of the cylinder frame.

[0022] Furthermore, a second cylinder that controls the tilt of the cylinder frame is hinged between the base and the cylinder frame. A support plate is fixedly connected to the cabinet body below the base. Two first cylinders are fixedly connected to the bottom side of the support plate. The extended ends of the two first cylinders pass through the support plate and are fixedly connected to the base. Two sets of synchronous belt assemblies are respectively provided on both sides of the cylinder frame on the cabinet body.

[0023] In summary, compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0024] (1) This method uses thin-walled pipes to be tilted and water is injected from the end of the thin-walled pipes. Compared with the traditional method of laying the pipes flat and inserting the water injection tube into the pipes, this method is more convenient and stable for water injection. The fact that the main water pipe does not need to be inserted greatly simplifies the control difficulty.

[0025] (2) The inclined thin-walled pipes allow water to be injected into them so that the water completely fills the inside of the thin-walled pipes. Compared with the traditional spray-type wet cutting, the cutting position is in more complete contact with the cooling water, resulting in higher cooling efficiency and more uniform effect at the cutting position.

[0026] (3) When the laser of the laser cutter penetrates the thin-walled tube, the airflow at the nozzle blows the molten slag generated at high temperature away from the surface of the thin-walled tube. At the same time, the Bernoulli principle is used to generate negative pressure on the outside of the thin-walled tube, so that the water inside the thin-walled tube flows out from the inside to the outside under the negative pressure and is blown into water mist by the airflow at the nozzle. The water mist will cool down the cut gap of the thin-walled tube, and the blown-away molten slag will come into full contact with the water mist and cool and solidify. Therefore, there is no dazzling spark generated during traditional laser cutting. At the same time, it avoids the molten slag from falling back onto the surface of the thin-walled tube and causing bumps that affect the surface quality of the thin-walled tube.

[0027] (4) When the water-filled clamping component clamps the end of the thin-walled pipe and pulls the thin-walled pipe away from the pneumatic chuck, the wheel seat and straightening wheel can straighten the thin-walled pipe to eliminate the bending of the thin-walled pipe and avoid the circular jump that occurs when the thin-walled pipe rotates, which causes the relative position between the laser cutter and the thin-walled pipe to change continuously, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of laser cutting.

[0028] (5) This solution has a high degree of automation, requires no human intervention, and is easy to control. It can effectively improve processing efficiency and quality, and can automatically and continuously perform laser cutting work. It can also be connected to subsequent processing equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the present patent.

[0030] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of a section at point B in the middle.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the laser cutter and nozzle.

[0032] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A magnified view of a section at point C.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a side view of the present patent.

[0034] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Sectional view at point AA.

[0035] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a section at point D.

[0036] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a section at point E in the middle.

[0037] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the central clamping component.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the water injection clamping component.

[0039] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the chuck cavity.

[0040] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: Cabinet 10; Thin-walled pipe 11; First support 12; First linear drive 13; Second support 14; Second linear drive 15; Connecting plate 16; Laser cutter 17; Air valve 18; Nozzle 19; Pneumatic chuck 20; First chuck seat 21; Driven wheel 22; Driving wheel 23; Transmission belt 24; First motor 25; Third support 26; Fourth support 27; Wheel seat 28; Straightening wheel 29; Second chuck seat 30; Chuck cavity 31; Vent hole 32; Air vent 33; Seal 34. Piston disc; 35. End cap; 36. Hollow tube; 37. Push claw; 38. Sliding pin; 39. Chuck gripper; 40. Slide groove; 41. Second cylinder; 42. Outer sleeve; 43. Inner sleeve; 44. Water inlet head; 45. Spring; 46. Support plate; 47. First cylinder; 48. Base; 49. Cylinder frame; 50. Gripper cylinder; 51. Opposing gripper; 52. Synchronous belt assembly; 53. Water tank; 54. Water pump; 55. Hose; 56. Gear ring; 57. Gear; 58. Second motor; 59. Gear cover; 60. Crossbeam; 61. Bottom support wheel; 62. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] like Figure 1-11 As shown, a laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces includes a cabinet 10. A water-filling clamping component and a central clamping component are respectively arranged on the cabinet 10. The water-filling clamping component and the central clamping component simultaneously clamp the thin-walled tube 11 and can drive the thin-walled tube 11 to rotate. There is a 5° angle between the thin-walled tube 11 and the surface of the cabinet 10. The end of the thin-walled tube 11 near the water-filling clamping component is the lowest point. A crossbeam 61 is fixedly connected to the side of the cabinet 10 away from the water-filling clamping component. Multiple bottom support wheels 62 for supporting the thin-walled tube 11 are evenly distributed on the crossbeam 61 along the axial direction of the thin-walled tube 11. A laser cutting component is arranged near the central clamping component.

[0043] By tilting the thin-walled tube 11 and using a water-filling clamping component, clean water can be injected into the thin-walled tube 11 during laser cutting until the water level exceeds the laser cutting position. This allows the clean water inside the thin-walled tube 11 to quickly remove heat from the cutting area, preventing excessive melting of the thin-walled tube 11 at the cutting position and thus avoiding edge defects.

[0044] Meanwhile, this method uses a thin-walled pipe 11 set at an angle and water is injected from the end of the thin-walled pipe 11. Compared with the traditional method of laying the pipe flat and inserting a thin water injection tube into the pipe, this solution is more convenient and stable for water injection. The absence of inserting the main water pipe greatly simplifies the control difficulty. At the same time, the angled thin-walled pipe 11 ensures that the water will completely fill the inside of the thin-walled pipe 11 after water is injected into it. Compared with the traditional spray-type wet cutting, the cutting position is in more complete contact with the cooling water, resulting in higher cooling efficiency and more uniform effect at the cutting position.

[0045] like Figure 1-11 As shown, two first brackets 12 are fixedly connected to the cabinet 10. A first linear drive 13 is arranged between the two first brackets 12 along the axis of the thin-walled pipe 11. The first linear drive 13 is connected to the water injection clamping component. A second bracket 14 is fixedly connected to one of the first brackets 12. A second linear drive 15 perpendicular to the first linear drive 13 is fixedly connected to the second bracket 14. A connecting plate 16 is connected to the second linear drive 15. A laser cutter 17 pointing towards the axis of the thin-walled pipe 11 is fixedly connected to the connecting plate 16. An air valve 18 is arranged on the connecting plate 16. One end of the air valve 18 is connected to a nozzle 19 whose opening direction is tangential to the rotation of the thin-walled pipe 11. The opening direction of the nozzle 19 is perpendicular to the ray direction of the laser cutter 17.

[0046] By setting the second linear drive 15 and the laser cutter 17, in conjunction with the rotation of the thin-walled tube 11, the automatic laser cutting of the thin-walled tube 11 is realized, with high processing efficiency and stable processing quality. By setting the first linear drive 13, the second chuck seat 30 can realize the automatic clamping and feeding action, thereby realizing continuous automatic laser cutting.

[0047] By setting the air valve 18 and the nozzle 19, a high-speed airflow is ejected along the tangential direction of the rotation of the thin-walled tube 11 during the laser cutting process. When the laser of the laser cutter 17 penetrates the thin-walled tube 11, the airflow at the nozzle 19 blows the molten slag generated at high temperature away from the surface of the thin-walled tube 11. At the same time, the Bernoulli principle is used to generate a negative pressure on the outside of the thin-walled tube 11, causing the water inside the thin-walled tube 11 to flow out from the inside to the outside under the negative pressure and be blown into water mist by the airflow at the nozzle 19. The water mist will cool the cut gap of the thin-walled tube 11, and the blown-away molten slag will come into full contact with the water mist and cool and solidify. Therefore, there is no glaring spark generated during traditional laser cutting, and the molten slag is prevented from falling back onto the surface of the thin-walled tube 11 and causing bumps that affect the surface quality of the thin-walled tube 11.

[0048] Although the rotation of the thin-walled tube 11 causes the slit in the thin-walled tube 11 to gradually increase, and the clean water inside the thin-walled tube 11 continuously leaks out from the gap in the thin-walled tube 11, the water injection clamping component can continuously replenish the consumed clean water during processing, so that the slit of the thin-walled tube 11 is always in full contact with clean water for cooling during the laser cutting process.

[0049] like Figure 1-11 As shown, the water injection clamping component includes a second chuck seat 30, which is drivenly connected to the first linear drive 13. A chuck cavity 31 is rotatably connected inside the second chuck seat 30. Three chuck jaws 40 for clamping the ends of thin-walled pipe fittings 11 are slidably connected to the surface of the chuck cavity 31. Rubber pads are provided on the clamping surfaces of the chuck jaws 40. A hollow tube 37 is axially slidably connected inside the chuck cavity 31. Three pushers 38 are respectively provided at the ends of the hollow tube 37. Each pusher 38 is provided with a sliding pin 39. Each chuck jaw 40 has an inclined sliding groove 41. Each sliding pin 39... The chuck cavity 31 is slidably connected to the corresponding slide groove 41. Two sets of circumferentially arranged vent holes 32 are respectively opened on the outer wall of the chuck cavity 31. A piston disc 35 is slidably connected to the hollow tube 37 and the piston disc 35 is fixedly connected to the hollow tube 37. The range of motion of the piston disc 35 is between the two sets of vent holes 32. An end cap 36 is fixedly connected to the end of the chuck cavity 31 away from the chuck jaw 40. A sealing ring 34 that fits tightly against the inner wall of the second chuck seat 30 is set on the outer wall of the chuck cavity 31 between the two sets of vent holes 32. An air vent 33 is opened on the top of the second chuck seat 30 at the corresponding positions of the two sets of vent holes 32.

[0050] By driving the hollow tube 37 to move axially, the sliding connection between the sliding pin 39 and the sliding groove 41 can be used to simultaneously drive the three chuck jaws 40 to retract inward to clamp the thin-walled tube 11 and then release the clamping of the thin-walled tube 11 by expanding outward. By setting the piston disc 35 to fill or exhaust air into the two air ports 33 respectively, the axial movement of the piston disc 35 and the hollow tube 37 can be controlled by air pressure. The circumferential arrangement of the multiple air ports 32 can achieve the control of the axial movement of the piston disc 35 and the hollow tube 37 without affecting the normal rotation of the chuck cavity 31.

[0051] like Figure 1-11 As shown, a gear ring 57 is fixedly connected to the end of the end cap 36 that extends out of the second chuck seat 30. A second motor 59 is fixedly connected to the second chuck seat 30. The power output end of the second motor 59 passes through the second chuck seat 30 and is connected to a gear 58. The gear 58 meshes with the gear ring 57 for transmission. A gear cover 60 that covers the gear ring 57 and the gear 58 is fixedly connected to the side of the second chuck seat 30 near the gear ring 57.

[0052] By setting the gear ring 57 and gear 58, the second motor 59 can control and drive the chuck cavity 31 to rotate, thereby driving the thin-walled tube 11 to rotate to meet the action of automatic laser cutting of the thin-walled tube 11.

[0053] like Figure 1-11 As shown, the hollow tube 37 is hollow inside. An outer sleeve 43 is fixedly connected to the end of the hollow tube 37 at the center of the three pushers 38. An inner sleeve 44, which communicates with the inside of the hollow tube 37, is slidably connected inside the outer sleeve 43. A water injection head 45, which can be inserted into the thin-walled pipe fitting 11, is fixedly connected to the end of the inner sleeve 44. A spring 46 is provided between the inner sleeve 44 and the hollow tube 37. A water tank 54 is provided inside the cabinet 10. A water pump 55 is provided at one end of the water tank 54. The water pump 55 is connected to the end of the hollow tube 37 through a hose 56. A sealing packing is provided between the end cap 36 and the hollow tube 37. A rubber sealing ring is provided on the outside of the water injection head 45.

[0054] By setting the water injection head 45, the water injection head 45 can be inserted into the end of the thin-walled pipe fitting 11 while the chuck jaws 40 are clamping the end of the thin-walled pipe fitting 11. The elastic thrust of the spring 46 is used to keep the water injection head 45 and the end of the thin-walled pipe fitting 11 tightly sealed, thereby facilitating the water injection and cooling action. The water tank 54 stores the required clean water, and the water pump 55 can actively pump clean water and continuously replenish the clean water consumed during the cutting process.

[0055] like Figure 1-11As shown, the central clamping component includes a third bracket 26 fixed to the cabinet 10. A first chuck seat 21 is fixedly connected to the third bracket 26. A pneumatic chuck 20, coaxial with the thin-walled tube 11, is rotatably connected inside the first chuck seat 21. A driven wheel 22 and a driving wheel 23 are rotatably connected inside the first chuck seat 21. The driven wheel 22 is fixedly connected to the pneumatic chuck 20. The driven wheel 22 and the driving wheel 23 are connected by a transmission belt 24. A first motor 25 is fixedly connected to the outside of the first chuck seat 21. The power output end of the first motor 25 is connected to the driving wheel 23. A fourth bracket 27 is fixedly connected to the end of the third bracket 26 away from the pneumatic chuck 20. Multiple wheel seats 28 are fixedly connected to the top of the fourth bracket 27. A set of straightening wheels 29 is rotatably connected inside each wheel seat 28. Each set of straightening wheels 29 makes rolling contact with the surface of the thin-walled tube 11.

[0056] By setting the pneumatic chuck 20 at the middle position of the thin-walled tube 11 to assist in clamping the thin-walled tube 11, and by providing rotational power to the pneumatic chuck 20 through the driven wheel 22 and the driving wheel 23, the pneumatic chuck 20 can drive the thin-walled tube 11 to rotate. At the same time, when the water-filled clamping component clamps the end of the thin-walled tube 11 and pulls the thin-walled tube 11 away from the pneumatic chuck 20, the wheel seat 28 and the straightening wheel 29 can straighten the thin-walled tube 11 to eliminate the bending of the thin-walled tube 11 and avoid the circular runout of the thin-walled tube 11 during rotation, which would cause the relative position between the laser cutter 17 and the thin-walled tube 11 to change continuously, thereby improving the accuracy and stability of laser cutting.

[0057] like Figure 1-11 As shown, a cylinder frame 50 is provided between the water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component. Claw cylinders 51 are fixedly connected to both ends of the cylinder frame 50. Each claw cylinder 51 has a set of opposing claws 52 for clamping the thin-walled pipe fitting 11 at its driving end. A base 49 is hinged to the lower side of the cylinder frame 50. A second cylinder 42 for controlling the tilt of the cylinder frame 50 is hinged between the base 49 and the cylinder frame 50. A support plate 47 is fixedly connected inside the cabinet 10 below the base 49. Two first cylinders 48 are fixedly connected to the bottom side of the support plate 47. The extended ends of the two first cylinders 48 pass through the support plate 47 and are fixedly connected to the base 49. Two sets of synchronous belt assemblies 53 are respectively provided on both sides of the cylinder frame 50 on the cabinet 10.

[0058] By setting up the cylinder frame 50 and the gripper cylinder 51, the cut thin-walled pipe 11 can be leveled and moved downwards, and the cut thin-walled pipe 11 can be placed on two sets of synchronous belt assemblies 53. The synchronous belt assemblies 53 will then transport them outwards in a unified manner, which will facilitate subsequent collection or subsequent processing steps.

[0059] In this embodiment, initially, the device is connected to the power supply and control system. The pneumatic chuck 20 and the air port 33 are respectively connected to the pneumatic control system. At this time, the water injection clamping component is located away from the middle clamping component and is in an outward expansion state, while the cylinder frame 50 is in the lowest position. The operator injects sufficient clean water into the water tank 54. The operator passes the thin-walled pipe 11 to be processed through the middle clamping component, so that the thin-walled pipe 11 passes through the middle of the pneumatic chuck 20 and is clamped by the pneumatic chuck 20. The rest of the thin-walled pipe 11 is supported and lifted by the bottom support wheel 62 to prevent the thin-walled pipe 11 from bending due to its own weight.

[0060] During operation, the control system first controls the second linear drive 15 to drive the laser cutter 17 and the air valve 18 to rise and avoid collision. The control system then controls the first linear drive 13 to drive the water injection clamping component to move towards the pneumatic chuck 20 until the water injection head 45 is inserted into the end of the thin-walled tube 11. At the instant the water injection head 45 is inserted into the thin-walled tube 11, the spring 46 is compressed to provide a buffering effect, preventing a hard collision between the water injection head 45 and the thin-walled tube 11 that would cause the end of the thin-walled tube 11 to be squeezed and deformed. At the same time, the elastic thrust of the spring 46 keeps the water injection head 45 and the end of the thin-walled tube 11 sealed.

[0061] Subsequently, the piston disc 35 and hollow tube 37 are pushed towards the pneumatic chuck 20 by the pneumatic control system. Through the sliding connection between the base 49 and the inclined slide groove 41, the three chuck jaws 40 synchronously converge inward to stably clamp the end of the thin-walled tube 11. Then, the pneumatic chuck 20 is controlled to release the clamp on the thin-walled tube 11, and at the same time, the first linear drive 13 is controlled to move the water injection clamping component away from the pneumatic chuck 20. This causes the water injection clamping component to pull the thin-walled tube 11 axially. During this process, multiple straightening rollers 29 continuously roll the surface of the thin-walled tube 11 to straighten it and prevent bending of the thin-walled tube 11 from affecting subsequent laser cutting operations.

[0062] When the water-injection clamping component pulls the thin-walled pipe 11 to a specified distance according to the processing requirements, the first linear drive 13 is stopped, and the pneumatic chuck 20 is controlled to clamp the thin-walled pipe 11 again. At the same time, the water pump 55 is started to inject water into the thin-walled pipe 11 through the hose 56 and the toothed ring 57. Since the thin-walled pipe 11 is in an inclined state and the water-injection clamping component is at the lowest point, the clean water in the thin-walled pipe 11 fills the internal space of the cabinet 10 under the action of gravity until the water level in the thin-walled pipe 11 completely exceeds the laser cutting position, so that the clean water in the thin-walled pipe 11 can fully contact the inner wall of the thin-walled pipe 11.

[0063] While the water injection action is being performed, the first cylinder 48 is controlled to push the cylinder frame 50 upward, and the second cylinder 42 is controlled to adjust the angle of the cylinder frame 50 so that it is parallel to the axis of the thin-walled pipe 11. At this time, the opposing grippers 52 are located on both sides of the thin-walled pipe 11 and do not clamp the thin-walled pipe 11. The second linear drive 15 drives the laser cutter 17 and the nozzle 19 to move downward until the laser cutter 17 and the nozzle 19 move to the designated working position. The spray direction of the nozzle 19 coincides with the rotation tangent direction of the thin-walled pipe 11, and the laser cutting work can then begin.

[0064] During laser cutting, the water-filled clamping component and the middle clamping component drive the thin-walled tube 11 to rotate. The laser cutter 17 emits a laser beam to quickly melt the surface of the thin-walled tube 11. In conjunction with the automatic formation of annular slits by the thin-walled tube 11, the clean water inside the thin-walled tube 11 effectively cools the slit position, thereby avoiding the problem of excessive melting and defects on the edge of the slit due to the inability of the temperature at the slit position to dissipate in time.

[0065] At the same time, the high-speed airflow ejected from the nozzle 19 blows the molten slag generated during laser cutting away from the surface of the thin-walled tube 11. The airflow also generates negative pressure at the narrow cut using Bernoulli's principle, causing the water inside the thin-walled tube 11 to flow out and be dispersed by the airflow to form a water mist. The molten slag comes into contact with the water mist and cools and solidifies rapidly, preventing the molten slag from adhering to the surface of the thin-walled tube 11 and forming bumps. The water mist can also suppress the generation of sparks, making it easier for workers to observe the cutting process. During this process, the water pump 55 continuously delivers water to replenish the water consumption.

[0066] After the thin-walled pipe fitting 11 is cut, the control gripper cylinder 51 causes the opposing grippers 52 to clamp both sides of the thin-walled pipe fitting 11. At this time, the control hollow tube 37 and piston disc 35 retract, causing the chuck grippers 40 to expand outward and release the clamping of the thin-walled pipe fitting 11. Then, the control first linear drive 13 causes the water injection clamping component to completely disengage from the thin-walled pipe fitting 11, and the water injection head 45 is pulled out from the end of the thin-walled pipe fitting 11, and the water inside the thin-walled pipe fitting 11 is directly discharged. Then, the control second cylinder 42 is instructed to activate the cylinder. The frame 50 moves the thin-walled tube 11 to a horizontal position, while controlling the first cylinder 48 to retract so that the cylinder frame 50 moves the thin-walled tube 11 downward until both ends of the cut thin-walled tube 11 are placed on the two sets of synchronous belt assemblies 53. The opposing grippers 52 release the grip and control the cylinder frame 50 to continue moving downward until it is completely away from the range of the thin-walled tube 11. At this time, the synchronous belt assembly 53 is started to transport the cut thin-walled tube 11 outward for easy collection or to continue subsequent processing steps.

[0067] Then the second linear drive 15 drives the laser cutter 17 and the nozzle 19 to rise again. Repeating the above actions can achieve continuous laser cutting. No manual intervention is required during this process. The cutting work is efficient and the cutting effect is stable.

[0068] The aforementioned laser cutter 17, air valve 18, pneumatic chuck 20, gripper cylinder 51, synchronous belt assembly 53, water pump 55, etc. are mature existing technologies. The structures in the attached drawings are only for illustration and will not be described in detail here.

[0069] The specification and claims use certain terms to refer to specific components. Those skilled in the art will understand that hardware manufacturers may use different names to refer to the same component. This specification and claims do not distinguish components based on differences in name, but rather on differences in function. The term "comprising" throughout the specification and claims is an open-ended term and should be interpreted as "comprising but not limited to." "Approximately" means that within an acceptable margin of error, those skilled in the art can solve the technical problem and substantially achieve the technical effect within a certain margin of error.

[0070] It should be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a product or system comprising a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a product or system. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the product or system that includes said element.

[0071] The foregoing description illustrates and describes several preferred embodiments of this application. However, as previously stated, it should be understood that this application is not limited to the forms disclosed herein and should not be construed as excluding other embodiments. It can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and can be altered within the scope of the application concept described herein through the foregoing teachings or techniques or knowledge in related fields. Any modifications and variations made by those skilled in the art that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this application should be within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces, characterized in that, The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces includes: Cabinet (10), on which two first brackets (12) are fixedly connected, and a set of first linear drives (13) is fixedly connected between the two first brackets (12). A water injection clamping component is connected to the first linear drive (13), and a middle clamping component is provided on the cabinet (10) at one end of the first linear drive (13). A thin-walled pipe (11) is clamped between the water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component. There is a 5° angle between the thin-walled pipe (11) and the cabinet (10). The end of the thin-walled pipe (11) near the water injection clamping component is located at the lowest point. The water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component can drive the thin-walled pipe (11) to rotate. A second bracket (14) is fixedly connected to one of the first brackets (12). A second linear drive (15) perpendicular to the first linear drive (13) is fixedly connected to the second bracket (14). A connecting plate (16) is drivenly connected to the second linear drive (15). A laser cutter (17) pointing towards the axis of the thin-walled tube (11) is fixedly connected to the connecting plate (16). An air valve (18) is provided on the connecting plate (16). One end of the air valve (18) is connected to a nozzle (19) whose opening direction is along the tangential direction of the rotation of the thin-walled tube (11). The opening direction of the nozzle (19) is perpendicular to the ray direction of the laser cutter (17). The water injection clamping component includes a second chuck seat (30), which is drivenly connected to a first linear drive (13). A chuck cavity (31) is rotatably connected inside the second chuck seat (30). Three chuck jaws (40) for clamping the ends of thin-walled pipe fittings (11) are slidably connected to the surface of the chuck cavity (31). A hollow tube (37) is axially slidably connected inside the chuck cavity (31). Three pushers (38) are respectively provided at the ends of the hollow tube (37). Each pusher (38) is provided with a sliding pin (39). Each chuck jaw (40) is provided with an inclined sliding groove (41). Each sliding pin (39) is slidably connected to the corresponding sliding groove (41). The hollow tube (37) is hollow inside. An outer sleeve (43) is fixedly connected to the end of the hollow tube (37) at the center of three pushers (38). An inner sleeve (44) communicating with the inside of the hollow tube (37) is slidably connected inside the outer sleeve (43). A water injection head (45) that can be inserted into a thin-walled pipe fitting (11) is fixedly connected to the end of the inner sleeve (44). A spring (46) is provided between the inner sleeve (44) and the hollow tube (37). A water tank (54) is provided inside the cabinet (10). A water pump (55) is provided at one end of the water tank (54). The water pump (55) is connected to the end of the hollow tube (37) through a hose (56). Two sets of circumferentially arranged vent holes (32) are respectively opened on the outer wall of the chuck cavity (31). A piston disc (35) fixedly connected to the hollow tube (37) is slidably connected inside the chuck cavity (31). The range of motion of the piston disc (35) is between the two sets of vent holes (32). An end cap (36) is fixedly connected to the end of the chuck cavity (31) away from the chuck jaws (40). A sealing ring (34) that fits tightly against the inner wall of the second chuck seat (30) is provided on the outer wall of the chuck cavity (31) between the two sets of vent holes (32). An air vent (33) is opened on the upper part of the second chuck seat (30) at the corresponding positions of the two sets of vent holes (32).

2. The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end cap (36) extending out of the second chuck seat (30) is fixedly connected to a gear ring (57). A second motor (59) is fixedly connected to the second chuck seat (30). The power output end of the second motor (59) passes through the second chuck seat (30) and is connected to a gear (58). The gear (58) meshes with the gear ring (57) for transmission. A gear cover (60) covering the gear ring (57) and the gear (58) is fixedly connected to the side of the second chuck seat (30) near the gear ring (57).

3. The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central clamping component includes a third bracket (26) fixed on the cabinet (10). A first chuck seat (21) is fixedly connected to the third bracket (26). A pneumatic chuck (20) coaxial with the thin-walled tube (11) is rotatably connected inside the first chuck seat (21). A driven wheel (22) and a driving wheel (23) are rotatably connected inside the first chuck seat (21). The driven wheel (22) is fixedly connected to the pneumatic chuck (20). The driven wheel (22) and the driving wheel (23) are connected by a transmission belt (24). A first motor (25) is fixedly connected to the outside of the first chuck seat (21). The power output end of the first motor (25) is connected to the driving wheel (23).

4. The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces according to claim 3, characterized in that, A fourth bracket (27) is fixedly connected to the end of the third bracket (26) away from the pneumatic chuck (20). A plurality of wheel seats (28) are fixedly connected to the top of the fourth bracket (27). A set of straightening wheels (29) is rotatably connected in each wheel seat (28). Each set of straightening wheels (29) is in rolling contact with the surface of the thin-walled tube (11).

5. The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces according to claim 4, characterized in that, A crossbeam (61) is fixedly connected to the cabinet (10) on the side away from the third support (26). Multiple sets of bottom support wheels (62) for supporting thin-walled pipes (11) are evenly arranged above the crossbeam (61).

6. The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces according to claim 1, characterized in that, A cylinder frame (50) is provided between the water injection clamping component and the middle clamping component. The cylinder frame (50) is fixedly connected to two ends of the cylinder frame (50). Each clamping cylinder (51) is provided with a set of opposing clamping jaws (52) for clamping thin-walled pipe fittings (11) at its driving end. A base (49) is hinged to the lower side of the cylinder frame (50).

7. The laser cutting device for processing thin-walled hollow workpieces according to claim 6, characterized in that, A second cylinder (42) for controlling the tilt of the cylinder frame (50) is hinged between the base (49) and the cylinder frame (50). A support plate (47) is fixedly connected inside the cabinet (10) below the base (49). Two first cylinders (48) are fixedly connected to the bottom side of the support plate (47). The extended ends of the two first cylinders (48) pass through the support plate (47) and are fixedly connected to the base (49). Two sets of synchronous belt assemblies (53) are respectively provided on both sides of the cylinder frame (50) on the cabinet (10).

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