A cleaning device and method for cleaning micro-precision parts for probes.

Abstract

This invention relates to a cleaning apparatus and method for micro-precision parts used in probes. The cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning machine body and a receiving component disposed within the cleaning machine body. The receiving component includes: a porous main container, detachably disposed within the cleaning machine body and capable of being driven to rotate by the cleaning machine body; several porous sub-containers, detachably disposed within the porous main container; and several microporous cleaning tanks, detachably disposed within the porous sub-containers. Each microporous cleaning tank has a receiving cavity for accommodating parts and multiple micropores communicating with the outside environment. The diameter of each micropore is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the part. Cleaning fluid flows between the porous main container, the porous sub-containers, and the microporous cleaning tanks to clean the parts in the receiving cavity. This invention, through its three-layer cleaning structure and the microporous design of the microporous cleaning tanks, ensures sufficient flow of cleaning fluid while avoiding the loss and impact damage of micro-parts during the cleaning process, as is common in traditional cleaning methods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of probe cleaning, and specifically to a cleaning device and method for cleaning micro-precision parts for probes. Background Technology

[0002] Cleaning of micro-precision components (such as probes) is a crucial step in high-end manufacturing. These components typically exhibit characteristics such as tiny size (e.g., a maximum outer diameter of 0.1-0.5 mm and a length of 0.5-1.0 mm for standard models), precise structure, diverse materials (e.g., palladium alloys, beryllium copper, phosphor bronze, carbon steel), and easily damaged surfaces (sharp ends and tails are prone to impact damage). Currently, probe cleaning primarily employs ultrasonic cleaning, but this method generally suffers from technical challenges related to probe damage and loss.

[0003] Regarding cleaning containers, existing technologies mostly employ metal cleaning chambers or fixed fixtures. For example, patent CN105170548A discloses a test probe cleaning device, which includes a cleaning chamber and an inverted test fixture, and uses an ultrasonic emitting probe for cleaning. The cleaning chamber of this device is a rigid metal structure, which is prone to collision with probe parts with lower hardness (such as phosphor bronze) during the cleaning process, resulting in damage to the probe surface.

[0004] Patent CN107030061B discloses a probe cleaning device, including a cleaning chamber, an ultrasonic generator, and a control module, with the height of the cleaning chamber adjusted by a lifting screw. Although this device achieves automated control of the cleaning process, it still adopts a traditional open cleaning chamber structure. For probe parts with small dimensions (0.1-0.5mm), they are easily lost from the tank under the action of ultrasonic vibration, resulting in part loss.

[0005] Furthermore, patent CN215543295U discloses a chip test probe cleaning device that uses a water tank and filter to achieve water recycling. Although this device takes filtration into account, its cleaning container is still made of traditional rigid materials, which cannot prevent collision damage to the probes during the cleaning process, and it lacks effective measures to prevent leakage.

[0006] Existing technologies have attempted to address the impact problem using soft materials, such as nylon mesh. However, these materials suffer from issues like high-temperature deformation, shedding, and tangling, which can actually cause secondary contamination of the probe. For instance, nylon mesh is prone to softening and deformation under high-temperature cleaning conditions, and its fibers can detach and adhere to the probe surface, especially inside probes with a crown structure, forming white residue that affects product cleanliness.

[0007] Therefore, how to provide an efficient probe cleaning method that can avoid damage to the probe during the cleaning process, prevent the loss of micro probes, and meet the stability requirements of the high-temperature probe cleaning environment is an urgent technical problem to be solved in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address at least one of the aforementioned problems in the prior art, the present invention provides a cleaning device and method for cleaning micro-precision parts for probes. Through a three-layer cleaning structure and the microporous design of the microporous cleaning tank, the cleaning fluid is ensured to flow fully while avoiding the defects of loss and damage to micro-parts during the cleaning process in traditional cleaning methods.

[0009] In one aspect of the present invention, a cleaning apparatus for micro-precision parts for probes is provided, comprising a cleaning machine body and a receiving assembly disposed within the cleaning machine body, wherein the receiving assembly comprises:

[0010] A porous main container is detachably disposed in the cleaning machine body and is driven to rotate by the cleaning machine body;

[0011] Several porous sub-containers are detachably disposed within the porous main container;

[0012] Several microporous cleaning tanks are detachably disposed within the porous sub-container;

[0013] The microporous cleaning tank has a cavity for accommodating the parts and a plurality of micropores that connect the cavity to the outside. The diameter of the micropores is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the parts.

[0014] The cleaning fluid flows between the porous main container, the porous sub-container, and the microporous cleaning tank to clean the parts in the containment cavity.

[0015] Preferably, the cleaning machine body has a cleaning and filtration pipeline with a filtration accuracy of 0.5-5μm, including a coarse cleaning liquid filtration pipeline and a fine cleaning liquid filtration pipeline arranged in parallel.

[0016] The coarse washing liquid filtration pipeline is equipped with a first filter, and the fine washing liquid filtration pipeline is equipped with a second filter. The filtration level of the first filter is lower than that of the second filter.

[0017] Preferably, the first filter uses a filter element with a filtration accuracy of 1μm-5μm, and its type is selected from one of the following: a wound filter element, a sintered metal filter element, or a glass fiber pleated filter element.

[0018] The second filter uses a filter element with a filtration accuracy of 0.5μm-1μm, and its type is selected from one of polypropylene filter elements, polytetrafluoroethylene filter elements, or ceramic filter elements.

[0019] Preferably, the cleaning machine body includes a cleaning chamber, and a rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, and a drive gear is mounted on the rotating shaft;

[0020] The porous main container is rotatably mounted in the cleaning chamber by a support assembly and has a gear recess that matches the drive gear, so as to drive the porous main container to rotate around its axis.

[0021] Preferably, the inner wall of the cleaning chamber is also rotatably provided with a support shaft, and the rotation shaft and the support shaft are parallel to the axis of the porous main container.

[0022] Preferably, the porous main container is horizontally mounted within the cleaning chamber, with its axis aligned horizontally. The rotating shaft and support shaft are located around the porous main container, and their vertical height is lower than the axis of the porous main container. The rotating shaft and support shaft, positioned below the porous main container, stably support it while simultaneously driving its rotation through the engagement of a drive gear and a gear recess.

[0023] Preferably, the porous main container includes a first rotating part, a second rotating part, and a cleaning cylinder fixed therebetween;

[0024] The gear recesses are formed on the annular walls of the first and second rotating parts, respectively;

[0025] The outer surface of the first rotating part is provided with a support part that cooperates with the support assembly;

[0026] The second rotating part is provided with a through hole to be fixed to the open end of the cleaning tube, and the opening of the cleaning tube is closed by a tube cover that cooperates with the opening and / or the second rotating part.

[0027] Preferably, two drive gears are provided on the rotating shaft, which respectively engage with the gear recesses on the annular walls of the first and second rotating parts.

[0028] Optionally, the support shaft can also be fixed to the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, and two rotating wheels are provided on the support shaft, corresponding to the annular walls of the first rotating part and the second rotating part respectively, so as to support the first rotating part and the second rotating part when the porous main container rotates.

[0029] Preferably, the cleaning cylinder is provided with a plurality of mounting components for fixing the porous container, and the outer wall of the porous container is provided with mating parts adapted to the mounting components, thereby detachably positioning the porous container inside the cleaning cylinder; and / or

[0030] The cross-section of the cleaning cylinder perpendicular to the axis is polygonal, and the porous sub-container has a cylindrical cross-section. Multiple porous containers are inserted into the cleaning cylinder along the axis and then arranged closely together.

[0031] By installing components or using a shape fit, the cleaning cylinder (or porous main container) drives the porous sub-containers to rotate stably.

[0032] Preferably, the mounting assembly includes a positioning structure and a locking structure;

[0033] The outer wall of the porous container is provided with a positioning part adapted to the positioning structure and a locking part adapted to the locking structure.

[0034] After the porous sub-container docks with the positioning structure through the positioning part and performs preset steps, the quick locking mechanism can engage with the locked part, thereby detachably fixing the porous sub-container inside the porous main container.

[0035] Preferably, the microporous cleaning tank includes a tank body, a sealing plug, and a sealing cap:

[0036] The interior of the tank forms the receiving cavity, and one end of the tank has a filling opening;

[0037] A sealing plug, which fits into the inner wall of the tank to seal the filling opening;

[0038] The sealing cap fits into the outer wall of the tank and abuts against the end face of the sealing plug to secure the sealing plug.

[0039] Preferably, the sealing plug is interference-fitted with the inner wall of the tank, and the sealing cap is interference-fitted with the outer wall of the tank.

[0040] Preferably, the microporous cleaning tank satisfies at least one of the following:

[0041] 1) The material of the microporous cleaning tank is selected from any one of polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, and polyvinylidene fluoride;

[0042] 2) The pore size of the micropores on the microporous cleaning tank is less than 0.50 mm;

[0043] 3) A water inlet is formed at the other end of the tank opposite to the filling opening, and a filter screen is provided on the inner wall of the end. The diameter of the water inlet is larger than the micropores, and the diameter of the filter screen is smaller than or equal to the micropores.

[0044] Preferably, the porous sub-container is equipped with a baffle. After the microporous cleaning tanks are installed in the porous sub-containers, the axes of each microporous cleaning tank, the axis of the porous sub-container, and the axis of the porous main container are parallel. The parallelism of these three axes and the design of the water inlet at the bottom of the tank allow the cleaning fluid to enter quickly from the water inlet at the bottom of the cleaning tank and flow out centrifugally from the micropores on the side wall of the cleaning tank as the main container rotates, which is beneficial for forming a circulating cleaning path for the cleaning fluid.

[0045] Preferably, the sidewall of the porous main container has a double-layer structure, including the cleaning cylinder and a guide cylinder arranged around the outside of the cleaning cylinder, and the guide cylinder is detachably fixed between the first rotating part and the second rotating part.

[0046] The guide tube has a porous structure, with several guide vanes fixed to the inner wall of the guide tube.

[0047] In a second aspect of the invention, a cleaning method according to the aforementioned probe micro-precision component cleaning apparatus is also provided, comprising the following steps:

[0048] S1. Place the parts to be cleaned into the microporous cleaning tank and seal it. Then place it in the porous sub-container and put several porous containers into the porous main container.

[0049] S2. Start the preset cleaning program, including:

[0050] S2.1, Preliminary cleaning process: Inject preliminary cleaning solution into the cleaning chamber, start the ultrasonic device, and simultaneously drive the porous main container to rotate. After the preliminary cleaning is completed, discharge the preliminary cleaning solution.

[0051] S2.2 Fine cleaning process: Inject fine cleaning solution into the cleaning chamber, start the ultrasonic device, and drive the porous main container to rotate at the same time. After fine cleaning is completed, discharge the fine cleaning solution.

[0052] S2.3 Steam cleaning process: High-temperature steam is introduced into the cleaning chamber, and then the atmosphere is opened.

[0053] S2.4 Drying process: Heating and ventilating the cleaning chamber to dry, to obtain the cleaned micro-precision probe parts.

[0054] Preferably, in the rough washing process of S2.1, the ultrasonic device operates at a first power and discharges the rough washing liquid after running for a first time;

[0055] In the fine cleaning process of S2.2, the ultrasonic device operates at the second power and discharges the fine cleaning solution after running for the second time.

[0056] In the steam cleaning process of S2.3, high-temperature steam is introduced into the cleaning chamber and the process lasts for three hours.

[0057] In the drying process of S2.4, heating and ventilation of the cleaning chamber are carried out for the fourth time.

[0058] The values ​​of the first power and the second power of the ultrasonic device, as well as the first duration and the second duration, are adaptively matched and selected according to the material hardness of the part.

[0059] Preferably, for cleaning parts whose material hardness is less than or equal to a preset threshold, such as palladium alloy probes or beryllium copper parts, the following parameter combination is used:

[0060] The first and second power ratings are 30%-50% of the rated power.

[0061] The first and second durations are 1-4 minutes each;

[0062] The third duration is 3-6 minutes;

[0063] The fourth segment lasts 4-10 minutes.

[0064] Preferably, for cleaning parts whose material hardness exceeds a preset threshold, such as PB pipes and carbon steel parts, the following parameter combination is used:

[0065] The first and second power ratings are 90%-100% of the rated power.

[0066] The first and second durations are 3-5 minutes each;

[0067] The third duration is 3-6 minutes;

[0068] The fourth segment lasts 4-10 minutes.

[0069] Preferably, between the rough washing step S2.1 and the fine washing step S2.2, and / or between the fine washing step S2.2 and the steam cleaning step S2.3, deionized water is sprayed for 10-30 seconds.

[0070] Optionally, the temperature of the coarse and fine cleaning solutions is between 60-90℃. Higher temperatures are beneficial for improving the cleaning effect. After multiple experiments, temperatures above 60℃, such as around 65℃, can meet most cleaning needs. However, excessively high temperatures not only consume energy but also easily damage the filter element, shorten its service life, and even lead to the risk of filter element breakage. Therefore, the temperature of the coarse and fine cleaning solutions is set not higher than 90℃, preferably not higher than 80℃.

[0071] Preferably, the following steps are included before step S1:

[0072] The parts to be cleaned are placed into a microporous cleaning tank, and the entire microporous cleaning tank is immersed in a pretreatment tank containing hydrocarbon solvents, so that the hydrocarbon solvents pre-rinse the parts through the micropores in the tank wall.

[0073] Before being fed into the cleaning device, the parts were heavily contaminated with oil and debris. Multiple tests showed that the more oil and debris present, the more likely the parts were not completely clean after cleaning, significantly reducing cleaning efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, it is preferable to remove debris and excess oil before entering the cleaning device. Furthermore, the microporous cleaning tank of this invention has multiple applications. It can be used alone for simple pre-rinsing, or it can be used in conjunction with a porous main container and porous sub-containers in the micro-precision parts cleaning device for probes of this invention.

[0074] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0075] 1. By adopting a three-layer cleaning and protection structure (porous main container - porous sub-container - microporous cleaning tank) and a precision microporous design on the microporous cleaning tank with pores smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the parts, the cleaning fluid is ensured to flow fully while preventing the loss of fine parts during the cleaning process. The microporous cleaning tank, made of soft materials (such as polytetrafluoroethylene), avoids the impact damage to parts caused by traditional metal containers.

[0076] 2. For low-hardness parts, use low power for a short time (30%-50% power, 1-4 minutes); for high-hardness parts, use high power for a long time (90%-100% power, 3-5 minutes). Different cleaning strategies are employed based on the hardness of the parts, ensuring effective cleaning while further minimizing the risk of damage.

[0077] 3. By designing a double-layered porous main container with a flow-guiding structure, a high-speed swirling flow is generated during rotation, resulting in a strong penetration and agitation effect of the cleaning fluid. This solves the problem of poor cleaning fluid exchange caused by the microporous structure of the microporous cleaning tank.

[0078] 4. Employing a dual parallel filtration system with coarse washing (1-5μm) and fine washing (0.5-1μm), it can effectively remove pollutant particles of different sizes. This ensures both filtration efficiency and extends the filter cartridge's lifespan. Attached Figure Description

[0079] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0080] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the accommodating components in this invention;

[0081] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the cleaning chamber and the porous main container in this invention;

[0082] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the porous main container, rotating shaft, and support rod in this invention.

[0083] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a porous main container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a porous container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the composition and structure of the microporous cleaning tank in this invention;

[0086] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of the side wall of the microporous cleaning tank in section A;

[0087] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom of a microporous cleaning tank in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] List of reference numerals

[0089] 11. Cleaning chamber; 12. Rotating shaft; 13. Drive gear; 14. Support rod; 15. Support shaft; 21. Porous main container; 211. Cleaning cylinder; 212. First rotating part; 213. Second rotating part; 214. Flow guide cylinder; 216. Flow guide and pressurization unit; 217. Reinforcing rib; 22. Porous sub-container; 221. Partition plate; 23. Microporous cleaning tank; 230. Micropore; 231. Water inlet; 232. Filter screen; 233. Tank body; 234. Sealing plug; 235. Sealing cover. Detailed Implementation

[0090] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1-7 The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0091] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, terms such as "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," and "inner," indicating directional or positional relationships, are based on the directional or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," and "fourth" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0092] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0093] As described in the background section, the existing technology has not effectively solved the problem of damage and loss during the probe cleaning process. There is an urgent need for a new type of cleaning container structure that can avoid probe damage, prevent the loss of micro parts, and meet the stability requirements under high-temperature cleaning environment.

[0094] To address the aforementioned problems, in one aspect of the present invention, a micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes is provided, with reference to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 It includes a cleaning machine body and a housing assembly. The cleaning machine body provides rotational power and ultrasonic energy, while the housing assembly provides physical protection for the micro-parts. Together, they can prevent damage to the micro-parts and prevent them from being lost.

[0095] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 2 The cleaning machine body includes a drive unit, a cleaning chamber 11, a filter unit (not shown), an ultrasonic unit (not shown), a steam cleaning unit (not shown), a drying unit (not shown), and a control system. The drive unit rotates the porous main container 21 to enhance the agitation of the cleaning fluid; the cleaning chamber 11 provides space for the cleaning process; the filter unit uses a parallel coarse and fine dual-path filtration system to circulate and purify the cleaning fluid and reuse it, removing contaminants of different particle sizes; the ultrasonic unit generates high-frequency vibrations for auxiliary cleaning; the steam cleaning unit introduces high-temperature steam into the cleaning chamber 11 to remove residual solvents and achieve high-temperature sterilization; the drying unit introduces filtered hot air into the cleaning chamber 11 and removes moisture to ensure that the parts are dried quickly and evenly; the control system connects to and controls the operation of other devices.

[0096] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the drive unit includes a gear transmission system and a rotating shaft 12. The gear transmission system includes a drive motor and a reducer. The drive motor is a servo motor, and its output shaft is connected to the reducer via a coupling. The reducer is a planetary gear reducer to convert the high-speed rotation of the motor into a low-speed, high-torque output suitable for the cleaning process. The rotating shaft 12 is rotatably disposed within the cleaning chamber 11 and is drively connected to the output end of the reducer.

[0097] Furthermore, two drive gears 13 are coaxially fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 12. Correspondingly, the porous main container 21 includes a cleaning cylinder 211 with an opening on one side and a first rotating part 212 and a second rotating part 213 coaxially fixed at both ends of the cleaning cylinder 211. The first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213 are both formed in annular shape, and a ring of gear recesses that mesh with the drive gears 13 are formed on their ring walls. The first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213 respectively cooperate with the two drive gears 13.

[0098] Furthermore, a support assembly is also provided inside the cleaning chamber 11. The support assembly includes a support rod 14, wherein the two ends of the support rod 14 are fixedly connected to the inner walls of both sides of the cleaning chamber 11 and are parallel to the rotating shaft 12 to support the annular walls of the first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213. The support rod 14 supports the porous main container 21 from one side, and the rotating shaft 12 drives the first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213 from the other side through the drive gear 13 to realize the rotation of the porous main container 21.

[0099] As an optional embodiment, two rotating wheels are provided on the fixed support rod 14, corresponding to the annular walls of the first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213 respectively, so as to support the first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213 when the porous main container 21 rotates.

[0100] As an optional embodiment, the support rod 14 is rotatably disposed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber 11 to provide rotational support for the porous main container 21.

[0101] As an optional embodiment, the support assembly also includes a support shaft 15, one end of which is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the cleaning chamber 11. The outer side of the first rotating part 212 is provided with a recessed hole for accommodating the support shaft 15 as a support part, so as to make the rotation of the porous main container 21 more stable.

[0102] As an optional embodiment, the drive unit can employ a bevel gear transmission. This method includes a vertical motor located at the bottom of the cleaning chamber 11, which converts vertical rotation into horizontal rotation via a bevel gear set, driving the rotating shaft 12 inside the cleaning chamber 11 to rotate. This structure saves space and is easy to maintain.

[0103] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the cleaning chamber 11 is entirely welded from 316 stainless steel and forms a square trough-like structure with an opening on the top. Its inner wall is mirror-polished with a surface roughness Ra≤0.4μm to prevent dirt adhesion and facilitate cleaning. The bottom of the cleaning chamber 11 adopts an inverted conical structure with a cone angle of 15°-20°, and a drain port is provided at the lowest point. This ensures that the cleaning fluid can be completely and quickly drained, avoiding cross-contamination between different cleaning fluids when switching between coarse and fine cleaning processes. The top of the cleaning chamber 11 is equipped with a hinged sealing cover, ensuring that the entire cleaning process is carried out in a completely sealed environment, preventing cleaning fluid evaporation and ensuring operational safety. A solvent-resistant and high-temperature-resistant fluororubber sealing strip is fixed to the lower side of the sealing cover.

[0104] As an optional embodiment, the cleaning chamber 11 is equipped with an internal lighting device and a sealed cover observation window. The observation window is made of high-temperature resistant tempered glass, and the internal lighting device uses a built-in LED light source, which allows operators to observe the cleaning status inside the cleaning chamber 11 and the operation of the porous main container 21 in real time.

[0105] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the filtration device employs parallel coarse cleaning solution filtration pipelines and fine cleaning solution filtration pipelines to perform graded filtration based on the contamination characteristics at different cleaning stages, ensuring filtration accuracy while extending the filter element's lifespan. Furthermore, the filtration device also includes a circulation pump. The circulation pump is a corrosion-resistant magnetically driven pump, with its pump casing and impeller made of 316 stainless steel, ensuring long-term operation in hydrocarbon solvent environments and providing power for the circulation of the cleaning solution throughout the system.

[0106] Furthermore, the coarse washing solution filtration pipeline and the fine washing solution filtration pipeline are independent of each other and are switched by a multi-way valve driven by a servo motor. This multi-way valve receives instructions from the control system to connect the coarse washing pipeline during the coarse washing process and switch to the fine washing pipeline during the fine washing process.

[0107] Furthermore, the coarse washing liquid filtration pipeline is mainly used to treat washing liquid containing larger particulate contaminants (mainly processing debris and entangled fibers). A first filter is installed in the coarse washing liquid circulation pipeline, and the first filter uses a filter element with a filtration accuracy of 1μm-5μm.

[0108] In the exemplary embodiment, the first filter is a wound-up filter element. This filter element is made of polypropylene wire wound along a central tube, ensuring a filtration accuracy of 1 μm.

[0109] In another specific embodiment, the first filter is a sintered metal filter element. This filter element is made of 316L stainless steel powder sintered at high temperature, forming a rigid filter structure with uniform micropores. It has high strength, is suitable for high-temperature cleaning environments, and can be repeatedly cleaned and reused.

[0110] In another specific embodiment, the first filter is a glass fiber pleated filter element. This filter element is made by pleating glass fiber filter paper, which has a large effective filtration area, low pipeline resistance, and large filtration throughput, making it suitable for the high-flow circulation requirements during coarse washing.

[0111] Furthermore, the coarse washing liquid filtration pipeline is also equipped with a first differential pressure sensor for monitoring the blockage of the first filter. When the inlet and outlet pressure difference exceeds the set value (such as 0.2MPa), the system prompts to replace or clean the filter element.

[0112] The filtration pipeline for the cleaning solution is used to perform ultra-fine filtration of the cleaning solution during the rinsing process, thoroughly removing submicron-sized fine particles (such as the tiny white particles remaining inside the crown mentioned in the background art). A second filter is installed in the rinsing solution circulation pipeline, and the second filter uses a high-precision filter element with a filtration accuracy of 0.5μm-1μm.

[0113] In the exemplary embodiment, the second filter uses a polypropylene (PP) filter element. This filter element has an extremely high rejection rate for particles larger than 0.5 μm.

[0114] In another specific embodiment, the second filter uses a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) filter element. This filter element is made of a PTFE microporous membrane laminated on a non-woven fabric support layer, and can stably retain particles larger than 0.5 μm. It has excellent chemical compatibility, can withstand various cleaning solvents, and can withstand steam cleaning and drying temperatures up to 130°C.

[0115] In another specific embodiment, the second filter is made of a ceramic filter element. This filter element is made of high-purity alumina through sintering, has a rigid structure, can be backwashed and sterilized at high temperatures, and has a long service life.

[0116] Furthermore, a second differential pressure sensor is installed in the fine washing liquid filtration pipeline, which is the same as the first differential pressure sensor mentioned above.

[0117] As an optional embodiment, the filtration device has an automatic backwashing function. When the differential pressure sensor is triggered, the control system can automatically start the backwashing program, close the pipeline valves, open the drain valve and the backwashing flow path, and use the cleaning fluid to backwash the filter element, thereby discharging impurities attached to the outer surface of the filter element and extending the service life of the filter element.

[0118] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the ultrasonic device includes an ultrasonic generator and several transducers. The output power of the ultrasonic generator can be steplessly adjusted within the range of 10%-100% of the rated power. The transducers are multiple piezoelectric ceramic transducers, which are installed on the bottom and side walls of the cleaning chamber 11 using a high-temperature resistant and solvent-resistant adhesive (such as epoxy resin) to form a uniform sound field distribution and avoid cleaning dead zones.

[0119] Ultrasonic devices can use different power parameters for different materials and hardnesses of parts. For low-hardness parts such as palladium alloys and beryllium copper, the ultrasonic power can be set to 30%-50% of the rated power to avoid excessive cavitation effect causing violent collisions and damage between parts; for high-hardness parts such as PB phosphor bronze tubes and carbon steel, the power can be set to 90%-100% of the rated power to quickly remove stains using stronger cavitation.

[0120] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the steam cleaning device is used to introduce high-temperature steam into the cleaning chamber 11 to further dissolve and remove residual trace solvents and dirt, and to achieve high-temperature sterilization. The steam cleaning device includes a steam generator, a steam delivery pipeline, and nozzles. The steam generator uses electric heating, specifically an immersion stainless steel heating tube, which can quickly heat water and generate pure saturated steam. The steam delivery pipeline consists of a stainless steel pipe and insulation cotton, connecting the steam generator outlet to the cleaning chamber 11. A solenoid valve is installed on the steam delivery pipeline to control the steam flow. Multiple nozzles are evenly distributed on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber 11 to evenly distribute the high-temperature steam throughout the chamber.

[0121] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the drying device is used to deliver clean hot air into the cleaning chamber 11 and expel moisture, ensuring that the fine parts are dried quickly and thoroughly, avoiding water residue. The drying device includes an air supply unit, a heating unit, and an exhaust unit. The air supply unit consists of a high-temperature resistant centrifugal fan, providing the power required for the drying airflow; the heating unit uses a PTC ceramic heater, which can heat the supplied air to an adjustable temperature of 80-100°C; the exhaust unit includes an exhaust port located at the top of the inner wall of the cleaning chamber 11 and an exhaust fan connected thereto. The exhaust fan creates a slight negative pressure inside the cleaning chamber 11, driving hot air to enter from the bottom of the cleaning chamber 11, penetrating the porous main container 21, the porous sub-container 22, and the microporous cleaning tank 23, carrying away solvent vapor and moisture from the surface of the parts, and finally expelling it from the top.

[0122] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the control system includes a main controller, a human-machine interface, and a signal detection module. The control system is electrically connected to the aforementioned drive device, filter device, ultrasonic device, steam cleaning device, and drying device to control the operation of the aforementioned devices.

[0123] Furthermore, the main controller employs a programmable logic controller. It has multiple pre-stored standard cleaning programs (such as palladium alloy / beryllium copper mode and PB tube / carbon steel mode) as well as user-defined programs.

[0124] Furthermore, the human-machine interface is integrated into the control panel of the cleaning agent body. The control panel is equipped with a main power switch, a power control knob, a power display screen, other function buttons, and indicator lights.

[0125] Furthermore, the signal detection module includes a temperature sensing unit, a pressure sensing unit, a liquid level sensing unit, and a speed feedback unit. The temperature sensing unit uses a platinum resistance temperature sensor to monitor the liquid temperature, steam temperature, and hot air temperature inside the cleaning chamber 11. The pressure sensing unit monitors the inlet and outlet pressures of the coarse and fine wash liquid filtration pipelines and calculates the pressure difference to determine the filter element clogging status. The liquid level sensing unit uses a capacitive liquid level sensor to monitor the liquid level inside the cleaning chamber 11 to prevent overflow or dry burning. The speed feedback unit monitors the rotational speed of the rotating shaft 12 of the porous main container 21 in real time and feeds the signal back to the main controller, forming a closed-loop control.

[0126] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 1The assembly includes a porous main container 21, several porous sub-containers 22, and several microporous cleaning tanks 23. The porous main container 21 rotates under the drive of the cleaning machine body to enhance the agitation of the cleaning fluid and provide installation space for the porous sub-containers 22. The porous sub-containers 22 are used to group and fix the microporous cleaning tanks 23, limiting their range of motion to reduce collisions. The microporous cleaning tanks 23 are used to contain fine parts; through precise micropores on their outer walls, they allow the cleaning fluid to flow while preventing the loss of fine parts. By adopting a three-layer cleaning protection structure, the range of motion of fine parts during the cleaning process is reduced, avoiding the impact damage to parts caused by traditional metal containers. The specific dimensions of the porous main container 21, porous sub-containers 22, and microporous cleaning tanks 23 can be determined based on their fit, part dimensions, and cleaning volume.

[0127] In one alternative embodiment, refer to Figures 1 to 4 The internal space of the porous main container 21 is preferably polygonal prism-shaped, and more preferably regular hexagonal. Compared to a cylindrical structure, this special shape of the porous main container 21 generates more turbulent flow during rotation, thereby significantly enhancing the flushing effect on the porous sub-containers 22 and the microporous cleaning tank 23, and improving cleaning efficiency. Simultaneously, the porous sub-containers 22 have a cylindrical cross-section, and multiple porous sub-containers 22 are closely arranged and positioned after being inserted into the cleaning cylinder 211 along the axis. The multiple porous containers 22 are mutually fitted and interlocked within the polygonal main container, allowing the polygonal cleaning cylinder to drive the cylindrical porous container 22 to rotate stably. (Refer to...) Figure 4 Furthermore, each edge of the porous main container 21 is welded with reinforcing ribs 217 to prevent deformation after long-term use.

[0128] Furthermore, the open end of the porous main container 21 is provided with a detachable main cover plate, which is fixed by a quick-release clamp to facilitate the placement and removal of the porous sub-container 22.

[0129] As an optional embodiment, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4The porous main container 21 has a double-layered sidewall structure, comprising a cleaning cylinder 211 and a guide cylinder 214 annularly arranged around the outside of the cleaning cylinder 211. The guide cylinder 214 is detachably fixed between the first rotating part 212 and the second rotating part 213 by bolts. Both the cleaning cylinder 211 and the guide cylinder 214 are formed into a porous mesh structure, with a certain interval between them, forming an annular flow channel. Inside the annular flow channel, several flow guiding and pressurizing units 216 are uniformly welded circumferentially. Each flow guiding and pressurizing unit 216 consists of two stainless steel guide vanes arranged in a V-shape along the flow direction. The flow-facing side of the V-shaped opening faces the guide cylinder 214, and its confluence side faces the cleaning cylinder 211. When the porous main container 21 rotates, the cleaning fluid enters the annular flow channel through the outer hole on the guide cylinder 214. As the liquid flows through the flow-guiding and pressurizing unit 216, it is compressed and accelerated, eventually being ejected from the confluence side of the unit and re-entering the porous main container 21 through the inner hole. This process increases the kinetic energy and penetrating power of the cleaning fluid, effectively solving the problem of poor exchange of cleaning fluid between the inside and outside of the microporous cleaning tank 23 caused by its microporous structure. Under this flow-guiding and pressurizing effect, the arrangement of the microporous cleaning tank 23 within the porous sub-container 22 can be relatively free, and the cleaning fluid can also achieve better internal and external exchange.

[0130] As an optional embodiment, the porous main container 21 may also be provided with several mounting components for fixing porous sub-containers 22. These mounting components are arranged in a circumferential array to fix several porous sub-containers 22. The mounting components include a positioning structure and a locking structure. Specifically, the positioning structure is a groove provided on the inner wall of the porous main container 21 along its axial direction. A sliding strip that mates with the groove is fixed on the outer wall of the porous sub-container 22. A blind hole is provided at the bottom of the groove, and a locking spring is fixed at the bottom of the blind hole. A locking rod is fixed at the other end of the spring, with a hemispherical head. A hemispherical locking groove is provided at the corresponding position of the sliding strip to accommodate the head of the locking rod. When the porous sub-container 22 slides to a preset position, the locking groove on the sliding strip moves to a position aligned with the locking rod, and the locking clip springs into the locking groove of the sliding strip, thus locking the porous sub-container 22.

[0131] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 4 Several porous sub-containers 22 are arranged in a circular array inside the porous main container 21. The top of the porous sub-containers 22 is provided with a detachable cover plate, which is fixed by quick-release clamps to facilitate the removal and placement of the microporous cleaning tank 23 inside.

[0132] Furthermore, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 5The porous sub-container 22 has a pre-shaped partition 221 arranged along its axis. The partition 221 can divide the interior of the porous container 22 into multiple small chambers, so that each small chamber can accommodate multiple microporous cleaning tanks 23 end to end. This ensures that all microporous cleaning tanks 23 maintain the same orientation during the cleaning process, thereby avoiding the phenomenon that some microporous cleaning tanks 23 do not clean the parts thoroughly. At the same time, the axes of the microporous cleaning tanks 23 and the porous sub-container 22 are basically parallel to the axis of the porous main container 21, that is, basically perpendicular to the direction of rotation, which can also accelerate the exchange of cleaning fluid from the micropores in its peripheral wall, so as to achieve better cleaning effect.

[0133] Furthermore, due to the relatively large thickness of the tank 233 (e.g., 0.5-1 mm) and the relatively small pore size (less than 0.5 mm), the cleaning fluid still cannot easily enter or exit the microporous cleaning tank 23. Therefore, several water inlet holes 231 are provided at the other end of the tank 233 opposite to the filling opening (i.e., the bottom of the tank 233), as shown in the figure. Figure 8 The inner wall of the end is provided with a filter screen 232 by means of fixation or integral molding. The pore size of the water inlet 231 is larger than that of the micropore, and the pore size of the filter screen 232 is smaller than or equal to that of the micropore. During the cleaning process of the parts, the cleaning liquid can enter the micropore cleaning tank 23 in large quantities through the water inlet 231 and the filter screen 232. During the rotation of the main container, the cleaning liquid is thrown out from the peripheral wall of the micropore cleaning tank 23 under the action of centrifugal force.

[0134] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, reference is made to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The microporous cleaning tank 23 is machined from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE material has the characteristics of low hardness, chemical inertness, resistance to high and low temperatures, and low coefficient of friction, which can effectively prevent scratches or bumps to precision parts such as probes during filling and cleaning, while meeting the process requirements of high-temperature steam cleaning and drying.

[0135] Furthermore, the microporous cleaning tank 23 includes a tank body 233, a sealing plug 234, and a sealing cap 235. The tank body 233 is a cylindrical cavity open at one end. Numerous uniformly distributed micropores 230 are precision-carved onto the cylinder wall and bottom of the tank body 233. The diameter of the micropores 230 is less than 0.50 mm, for example, 0.08 mm-0.48 mm. Compared to the maximum outer diameter of conventional parts (0.1 mm-0.5 mm), a diameter of 0.15 mm-0.35 mm is preferred, for example, 0.15 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, and any diameter value between them. The specific diameter of the micropores is determined based on the minimum outer diameter of the parts being cleaned. This diameter should not be too small to ensure sufficient flow and exchange of the cleaning fluid, nor should it be too large to effectively prevent the outflow of fine parts, thus simultaneously solving the problems of thorough cleaning and preventing loss. The sealing plug 234 is frustoconical in shape and is inserted into the filling opening of the tank 233 via an interference fit, forming the first seal to prevent parts from leaking out of the tank 233 opening. The sealing cap 235 is interference-fitted with the outer wall of the tank 233. When the sealing cap 235 is closed, its end face presses against the end face of the inserted sealing plug 234, forming a double seal. The operator inserts the parts to be cleaned into the inner cavity of the tank 233 through the filling opening, then manually presses in the sealing plug 234 to complete the initial sealing, and finally tightens the sealing cap 235 to complete the sealing.

[0136] As an optional embodiment, the inner wall of the sealing cap 235 is threaded to mate with the external thread at the opening of the tank 233. When the sealing cap 235 is tightened, its end face presses against the end face of the inserted sealing plug 234, forming a double seal. The operator inserts the parts to be cleaned into the inner cavity of the tank 233 through the filling opening, then manually presses in the sealing plug 234 to complete the initial sealing, and finally tightens the sealing cap 235 to complete the sealing.

[0137] As an optional embodiment, the sealing cap 235 can be connected to the tank body 233 using a quick-release fastener. The inner edge of the sealing cap 235 has a raised portion, and the outer wall opening of the tank body 233 has a corresponding groove. Pressing down the sealing cap 235 will complete the locking and sealing.

[0138] In a second aspect of the invention, a cleaning method according to the aforementioned probe micro-precision component cleaning apparatus is also provided, comprising the following steps:

[0139] S0, Pre-cleaning:

[0140] The parts to be cleaned are placed into tank 233, and the entire tank 233 containing the parts is immersed in a pretreatment tank containing hydrocarbon solvent. By gently shaking the tank 233 manually or making it reciprocate within the tank, the solvent is allowed to flow fully through the micropores in the tank wall, rinsing the parts and initially removing surface-adhered machining debris and most of the oil. Subsequently, the micropore cleaning tank 23 is removed from the pretreatment tank, and excess solvent and suspended contaminants are drained, completing the pretreatment operation.

[0141] S1. Loading and sealing steps:

[0142] Press the sealing plug 234 into the filling opening of the tank 233, and then close the sealing cover 235; place the sealed microporous cleaning tanks 23 one by one into the porous sub-container 22, and close the cover of the porous container 22.

[0143] Secure the loaded porous sub-container 22 inside the porous main container 21, and close the main cover of the porous main container 21.

[0144] S2, Automatic Cleaning Program:

[0145] Close the sealing cover 235 plate of the cleaning chamber 11, select the cleaning program that matches the hardness of the part material through the human-machine interface, and start the fully automatic cleaning process, which includes the following steps:

[0146] S21. Pre-washing process:

[0147] Hydrocarbon solvent is injected into cleaning chamber 11 as a rough cleaning solution, and the rough cleaning solution in cleaning chamber 11 is heated to 65°C.

[0148] Start the ultrasonic generator and select the first power according to the hardness of the part material: when cleaning parts with a material hardness less than or equal to the preset threshold, use 30%-50% of the rated power; when cleaning parts with a material hardness greater than the preset threshold, use 90%-100% of the rated power; at the same time, drive the porous main container 21 to rotate at a speed of 10-50 rpm; run for the first time: 1-3 minutes for low-hardness parts and 3-5 minutes for high-hardness parts.

[0149] During the coarse washing process, the coarse washing liquid filtration pipeline works continuously, and the first filter uses a wound-wire filter element with a filtration accuracy of 1μm to circulate and filter the cleaning liquid.

[0150] After completion, drain the coarse washing solution.

[0151] S22. Fine washing process:

[0152] Hydrocarbon solvent is injected into cleaning chamber 11 as a fine cleaning solution, and the fine cleaning solution in cleaning chamber 11 is heated to 65°C.

[0153] The ultrasonic generator is activated and operates at the same second power as the first power value, while simultaneously driving the porous main container 21 to maintain rotation; the second duration of operation is the same as the first duration.

[0154] During the fine cleaning process, the fine cleaning solution filtration pipeline is in operation, and the second filter uses a polytetrafluoroethylene filter element with a filtration accuracy of 0.5μm to precisely filter the cleaning solution;

[0155] After completion, drain the washing solution.

[0156] S23. Steam cleaning process:

[0157] High-temperature steam at 130-150℃ is introduced into the cleaning chamber 11 and run for 4-5 minutes to sterilize the parts at high temperature and remove residual solvents.

[0158] S24. Drying process:

[0159] Start the heating device to heat the air in the cleaning chamber 11 to above 130°C, and at the same time start the air supply device to send in filtered hot air and expel moisture. Run for 3-4 minutes to ensure that the parts are completely dry.

[0160] Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including both the preferred embodiments and all changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Thus, if these modifications and modifications of the invention fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, the invention is also intended to include these modifications and modifications.

Claims

1. A device for cleaning micro-precision parts for probes, characterized in that, It includes a cleaning machine body and a receiving assembly disposed within the cleaning machine body, wherein the receiving assembly includes: A porous main container is detachably disposed in the cleaning machine body and is driven to rotate by the cleaning machine body; Multiple porous sub-containers are detachably disposed within the porous main container; Multiple microporous cleaning tanks are detachably disposed within the porous sub-container; The microporous cleaning tank has a cavity for accommodating the parts and a plurality of micropores that connect the cavity to the outside. The diameter of the micropores is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the parts. The cleaning fluid flows between the porous main container, the porous sub-container, and the microporous cleaning tank to clean the parts in the containment cavity.

2. The micro-precision component cleaning device for probes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine body has a cleaning and filtration pipeline with a filtration accuracy of 0.5-5μm, including a coarse cleaning liquid filtration pipeline and a fine cleaning liquid filtration pipeline connected in parallel. The coarse washing liquid filtration pipeline is equipped with a first filter, and the fine washing liquid filtration pipeline is equipped with a second filter. The filtration level of the first filter is lower than that of the second filter.

3. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cleaning machine body includes a cleaning chamber, and a rotating shaft is rotatably mounted on the inner wall of the cleaning chamber, with a drive gear mounted on the rotating shaft; The porous main container is rotatably mounted in the cleaning chamber by a support assembly and has a gear recess that matches the drive gear, so as to drive the porous main container to rotate around its axis.

4. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 3, characterized in that, The porous main container includes a first rotating part, a second rotating part, and a cleaning cylinder fixed therebetween; The gear recesses are formed on the annular walls of the first and second rotating parts, respectively; The outer surface of the first rotating part is provided with a support part that cooperates with the support assembly; The second rotating part is provided with a through hole to be fixed to the open end of the cleaning tube, and the opening of the cleaning tube is closed by a tube cover that cooperates with the opening and / or the second rotating part.

5. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning cylinder is equipped with several mounting components for fixing the porous container. The outer wall of the porous container is provided with mating parts adapted to the mounting components, thereby detachably positioning the porous container inside the cleaning cylinder; and / or The cross-section of the cleaning cylinder perpendicular to the axis is polygonal, and the porous sub-container has a cylindrical cross-section. Multiple porous containers are inserted into the cleaning cylinder along the axis and then arranged closely together.

6. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The microporous cleaning tank includes a tank body, a sealing plug, and a sealing cap: The interior of the tank forms the receiving cavity, and one end of the tank has a filling opening; A sealing plug, which fits into the inner wall of the tank to seal the filling opening; The sealing cap fits into the outer wall of the tank and abuts against the end face of the sealing plug to secure the sealing plug.

7. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 6, characterized in that, The microporous cleaning tank satisfies at least one of the following: 1) The material of the microporous cleaning tank is selected from any one of polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, and polyvinylidene fluoride; 2) The pore size of the micropores on the microporous cleaning tank is less than 0.50 mm; 3) A water inlet is formed at the other end of the tank opposite to the filling opening, and a filter screen is provided on the inner wall of the end. The diameter of the water inlet is larger than the micropores, and the diameter of the filter screen is smaller than or equal to the micropores.

8. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 7, characterized in that, The porous sub-container is equipped with a partition. After the microporous cleaning tank is installed in the porous sub-container, the axis of each microporous cleaning tank and the axis of the porous sub-container are parallel to the axis of the porous main container.

9. The micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The sidewall of the porous main container has a double-layer structure, including the cleaning cylinder and a guide cylinder arranged around the outside of the cleaning cylinder. The guide cylinder is detachably fixed between the first rotating part and the second rotating part. The guide tube has a porous structure, with several guide vanes fixed to the inner wall of the guide tube.

10. A cleaning method for a micro-precision component cleaning apparatus for probes according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Place the parts to be cleaned into the microporous cleaning tank and seal it. Then place it in the porous sub-container and put several porous containers into the porous main container. S2. Start the preset cleaning program, including: S2.1, Preliminary cleaning process: Inject preliminary cleaning solution into the cleaning chamber, start the ultrasonic device, and simultaneously drive the porous main container to rotate. After the preliminary cleaning is completed, discharge the preliminary cleaning solution. S2.2 Fine cleaning process: Inject fine cleaning solution into the cleaning chamber, start the ultrasonic device, and drive the porous main container to rotate at the same time. After fine cleaning is completed, discharge the fine cleaning solution. S2.3 Steam cleaning process: High-temperature steam is introduced into the cleaning chamber, and then the atmosphere is opened. S2.4 Drying process: Heating and ventilating the cleaning chamber to dry, to obtain the cleaned micro-precision probe parts.

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