Automobile front cover positioning equipment and positioning method

Abstract

The invention discloses automobile front cover positioning equipment and a positioning method, and the automobile front cover positioning equipment comprises a support which is provided with a plurality of rack rails; the positioning mechanism is arranged on the rack track and comprises a plurality of positioning columns and a pushing assembly, one ends of the positioning columns are connected with the pushing assembly, the other ends of the positioning columns abut against the workpieces, and the pushing assembly is used for pushing the positioning columns to reciprocate in the vertical direction; the clamping mechanism is arranged on the rack track, the clamping mechanism comprises a plurality of clamping columns and a driving assembly, the output end of the driving assembly is meshed with the tooth surface of the rack track, and the driving assembly is used for driving the clamping columns or the positioning columns to reciprocate in the horizontal direction; and the control mechanism is electrically connected with the positioning mechanism and the clamping mechanism and used for controlling operation of the positioning mechanism and the clamping mechanism. By moving the positioning columns and the clamping columns in multiple directions, the adaptability to front covers of different vehicle types is improved, and the problem that in the prior art, positioning equipment is insufficient in product adaptability is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of automated assembly technology, and in particular to a car hood positioning device and positioning method. Background Technology

[0002] In the automotive manufacturing industry, existing car hood positioning typically employs mechanical clamps or simple positioning devices to secure the workpiece. However, due to significant differences in the shape, size, and materials of car hoods across different vehicle models, existing positioning equipment often exhibits limited adaptability to different types of hoods.

[0003] In existing technologies, some positioning devices fix the hood using simple mechanical clamping devices or frequently adjusted positioning points. While these devices can meet basic positioning needs to a certain extent, they lack versatility and are difficult to adapt to variations in the shape and size of hoods across different car models. For example, when producing different car models, the equipment may need to redesign the clamps or adjust the position of the positioning points. This not only increases operational complexity but may also lead to decreased positioning accuracy due to improper adjustments, limiting the improvement of production efficiency. This technical problem of low product adaptability makes existing equipment increasingly unable to meet the demands of flexible and intelligent production in modern automobile manufacturing.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a positioning device that can effectively improve the adaptability of the hood to different car models, so as to improve production efficiency, reduce costs and meet the flexibility requirements of modern automobile manufacturing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide a car hood positioning device and positioning method to solve the technical problem that the prior art cannot effectively position and clamp the hoods of different car models.

[0006] To achieve this objective, the present application adopts the following technical solution: A car hood positioning device, comprising: A bracket, on which multiple rack tracks are provided; A positioning mechanism is provided on the rack and pinion track. The positioning mechanism includes multiple positioning columns and a pushing assembly. One end of each positioning column is connected to the pushing assembly, and the other end is used to abut against the workpiece. The pushing assembly is used to push the positioning column to reciprocate in the vertical direction. A clamping mechanism is provided on the rack track. The clamping mechanism includes multiple clamping columns and a drive assembly. The output end of the drive assembly meshes with the tooth surface of the rack track and is used to drive the clamping columns or positioning columns to reciprocate in the horizontal direction. A control mechanism, electrically connected to the positioning mechanism and the clamping mechanism, is used to control the operation of the positioning mechanism and the clamping mechanism.

[0007] Furthermore, the positioning post includes a post body, a guide sleeve, and a flexible contact head. The guide sleeve is fitted over one end of the post body and the output end of the pushing component, and the flexible contact head is disposed at the other end of the post body.

[0008] Furthermore, the positioning post also includes an elastic buffer, the helical spring of which is provided with a pre-compression structure. The helical spring is embedded in the connecting cavity between the post body and the flexible contact head to absorb the impact force during pushing.

[0009] Furthermore, the rack and pinion track includes a first support plate, a first track, and a second track. The first track is disposed on a first side of the bracket. The first support plate is slidably connected to the first track via a slider. The second track is disposed on the first support plate, and the first track and the second track are perpendicular to each other. The driving assembly includes a first driving member and a second driving member. The first driving member is used to drive the positioning column and the clamping column to reciprocate along a first horizontal direction on a first track. The second driving member is used to drive the clamping column to reciprocate along a second horizontal direction on a second track. The positioning column is disposed on the first support plate at one end away from the first track.

[0010] Furthermore, the rack and pinion track also includes a second support plate, a third track, and a fourth track. The third track is disposed on the second side of the bracket. The second support plate is slidably connected to the third track via a slider. A first sliding seat is fixedly disposed on the second support plate. The fourth track is slidably engaged with a groove on the sliding seat. The fourth track is disposed on the second support plate, and the third track and the fourth track are perpendicular to each other. The drive assembly further includes a third drive member and a fourth drive member. The third drive member is used to drive the clamping column to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the third track, and the fourth drive member is used to drive the fourth track to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction, thereby driving the clamping column to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction.

[0011] Furthermore, the rack and pinion track also includes a third support plate and a fifth track. The third support plate is slidably connected to the third track via a slider. A second sliding seat is fixedly provided on the third support plate. The fifth track is slidably engaged with a groove on the second sliding seat. One end of the fifth track is connected to the positioning post. The driving assembly further includes a fifth driving element, which is used to drive the fifth track to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction, thereby driving the positioning column to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction.

[0012] Furthermore, multiple position sensors are provided on the sides of both the second and third support plates, and the fourth and fifth tracks are respectively provided with sensing plates corresponding to the position sensors.

[0013] Furthermore, it also includes a display screen electrically connected to the control mechanism, the display screen being used to display the operating status and position information of the positioning mechanism and clamping mechanism in real time, as well as a human-machine interface.

[0014] This application also provides a method for positioning a car hood, used to control the car hood positioning device described in any of the above claims, including the following steps: The control mechanism is activated, and the push component is controlled to drive multiple positioning columns to move vertically upward to a preset initial height, which is greater than the maximum thickness of the car hood workpiece. The car hood workpiece is placed on the top of the positioning post. The control mechanism generates a control signal based on the position information fed back by the sensor and transmits it to the pushing component. The pushing component pushes each positioning post to adjust its displacement in the vertical direction according to the control signal, so that the bottom surface of the car hood workpiece remains horizontal. The control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the preset clamping parameters and transmits it to the drive assembly. The drive assembly drives the clamping column to move horizontally according to the clamping control signal until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, thus completing the clamping operation of the car hood workpiece.

[0015] Further, the step of the control mechanism generating a clamping control signal and transmitting it to the drive component according to preset clamping parameters includes: Obtain the preset clamping parameters corresponding to the car hood workpiece, the preset clamping parameters including the clamping force and the clamping column moving speed; The displacement sensor and pressure sensor of the clamping mechanism collect real-time position and contact status data of the side of the car hood workpiece to generate workpiece status data. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism compares the workpiece status data with the preset clamping parameters, calculates the deviation between the workpiece side position and the preset target position and the deviation of the contact pressure, and generates parameter deviation values. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the parameter deviation value. The clamping control signal is used to correct the moving speed and / or clamping force of the clamping column and drive the clamping column to move horizontally along the rack track until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, thus completing the clamping operation.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, this application has the following beneficial effects: This application achieves precise positioning and fixation of car hoods through the coordinated operation of multiple rack and pinion tracks on the bracket, along with a positioning mechanism and a clamping mechanism. The positioning pins in the positioning mechanism, driven by a pusher assembly, can flexibly adjust their height vertically to accommodate hood workpieces of different sizes and shapes, ensuring the horizontality and stability of the workpiece during positioning. The clamping pins in the clamping mechanism, through engagement between the drive assembly and the teeth of the rack and pinion tracks, can move precisely horizontally to quickly clamp the workpiece, preventing it from shifting during processing or assembly. The control mechanism, through electrical connection, achieves precise control of the positioning and clamping mechanisms, resulting in a high degree of automation, ease of operation, and significantly improved efficiency throughout the positioning and clamping process. This allows the equipment to quickly adapt to changes in the shape and size of hoods for various car models without changing fixtures or frequent adjustments, thereby greatly improving the flexibility of the production line. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings are only for the purpose of assisting those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed in the specification, and are not intended to limit the implementation conditions of this application. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportions, or adjustments to the size should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in this application, provided that they do not affect the effects and purposes that this application can produce.

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of a car hood positioning device; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of a car hood positioning device from another perspective; Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the image; Figure 4 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of point B in the image; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a first support plate of an embodiment of a car hood positioning device; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a structure of an embodiment of a third support plate for a car hood positioning device; Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating the overall steps of the car hood positioning method.

[0020] Illustration: 1. Bracket; 11. First side; 12. Second side; 2. Rack and pinion track; 21. First support plate; 22. First track; 23. Second track; 24. Second support plate; 25. Third track; 26. Fourth track; 27. Third support plate; 28. Fifth track; 3. Positioning mechanism; 31. Positioning post; 311. Post; 312. Guide sleeve; 313. Flexible contact head; 32. Pushing assembly; 4. Clamping mechanism; 41. Clamping post; 42. Drive assembly; 421. First drive component; 422. Second drive component; 423. Third drive component; 424. Fourth drive component; 425. Fifth drive component; 5. Control mechanism; 6. Slider; 61. First sliding seat; 62. Second sliding seat; 71. Position sensor; 72. Sensing plate; 8. Display screen. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the inventive objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described below are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0022] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. It should be noted that when a component is considered to be "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be a component centrally located at the same time.

[0023] The technical solution of this application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0024] Reference Figures 1 to 6This application provides a car hood positioning device, comprising: a bracket 1, on which a plurality of rack tracks 2 are provided; a positioning mechanism 3, disposed on the rack tracks 2, the positioning mechanism 3 including a plurality of positioning pins 31 and a pushing component 32, one end of the positioning pin 31 being connected to the pushing component 32 and the other end being used to abut against a workpiece, the pushing component 32 being used to push the positioning pin 31 to reciprocate in a vertical direction; a clamping mechanism 4, disposed on the rack tracks 2, the clamping mechanism 4 including a plurality of clamping pins 41 and a driving component 42, the output end of the driving component 42 engaging with the tooth surface of the rack tracks 2, for driving the clamping pins 41 or the positioning pins 31 to reciprocate in a horizontal direction; and a control mechanism 5, electrically connected to the positioning mechanism 3 and the clamping mechanism 4, for controlling the operation of the positioning mechanism 3 and the clamping mechanism 4.

[0025] In this embodiment, the bracket 1 is provided with multiple rack rails 2. The rack rails 2 are linear guide rails with toothed structures, which can cooperate with the gears or other meshing mechanisms of the drive assembly 42 to achieve linear motion. The number and layout of the rack rails 2 can be optimized according to actual production needs. For example, they can be arranged along different directions or planes of the bracket 1 to adapt to automotive hood workpieces of different sizes and shapes, thereby improving the versatility and adaptability of the equipment. The positioning mechanism 3 is mounted on the rack and pinion track 2 and includes multiple positioning columns 31 and a pushing assembly 32. The positioning columns 31 are the components that directly contact the workpiece. Their function is to provide stable support and a positioning reference through their contact points with the front cover surface. By controlling the operation of the pushing assembly 32, the positioning columns 31 can move up and down in the vertical direction (i.e., the Y-axis), thereby adjusting the height of the contact point with the workpiece. This reciprocating vertical movement function allows the equipment to adapt to front cover workpieces of different heights or thicknesses. For example, when producing different car models, the curved shape or height of the front cover may differ. The positioning columns 31 can be flexibly adjusted to a suitable height according to the actual size of the workpiece by the drive of the pushing assembly 32, ensuring that the workpiece remains horizontal and stable during positioning. When the equipment starts, the driving assembly 42 drives the positioning columns 31 to extend outward in the horizontal direction, i.e., towards the support 1, to expand the positioning space beyond the product size. After the product is placed on the positioning columns 31, the position of the positioning columns 31 can be adjusted by further controlling the movement of the pushing assembly 32, keeping the workpiece horizontal. The clamping mechanism 4 is mounted on the rack and pinion track 2 and includes multiple clamping columns 41 and a drive assembly 42. The main function of the clamping columns 41 is to fix the workpiece in the positioning position by applying clamping force, preventing it from shifting or shaking during processing or assembly. The drive assembly 42, through meshing with the tooth surface of the rack and pinion track 2, can convert the rotational motion of the motor into the horizontal linear motion of the clamping columns 41 or the positioning columns 31, thereby achieving fast and reliable clamping of the workpiece. After the positioning column 31 completes its positioning, the drive assembly 42 is controlled to make the clamping columns 41 clamp the product and keep it stationary, providing a stable workpiece state for the next process. The control mechanism 5 is electrically connected to the positioning mechanism 3 and the clamping mechanism 4 to control their operation. It can control the vertical movement of the positioning column 31 and the horizontal movement of the clamping column 41 through preset programs or real-time commands, so that the entire positioning and clamping process is completed according to the predetermined process flow. The control mechanism 5 may include components such as microprocessors, sensors, and actuators. By collecting information such as the position and size of the workpiece, it adjusts the motion parameters of the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 in real time, thereby achieving rapid adaptation and precise fixation of the front cover of different car models.

[0026] It is worth noting that the clamping posts 41, positioning posts 31, and corresponding driving components in the above embodiments are all in multiple sets, and each set of clamping posts 41, positioning posts 31, and corresponding driving components can work independently, enabling differentiated positioning and clamping operations for different parts of the car hood according to their characteristics and needs. For example, for the thinner edges of the hood, clamping posts 41 with less force can be used for fixing, avoiding damage to the workpiece due to excessive clamping force; for the thicker middle part of the hood, clamping posts 41 with greater force can be used to prevent the workpiece from shifting during processing. At the same time, multiple sets of positioning posts 31 can position different key points of the hood separately, improving the positioning accuracy.

[0027] Furthermore, this embodiment is used for fixing and positioning a car hood. In practical applications, subsequent processing or inspection operations will be performed, and the corresponding processing and inspection equipment can be used in conjunction with the car hood positioning equipment. For example, after the hood is positioned and clamped, it can be directly connected to automated welding equipment to perform welding operations at the joints of the hood. During the welding process, the workpiece will not shift, thereby ensuring welding quality and improving welding efficiency. Alternatively, it can be connected to inspection equipment, such as a laser inspection instrument, to inspect the flatness, dimensions, etc. of the hood. The inspection equipment can quickly and accurately obtain relevant inspection data based on the reference position determined by the positioning equipment.

[0028] In one embodiment, the positioning post 31 includes a post body 311, a guide sleeve 312, and a flexible contact head 313. The guide sleeve 312 is fitted over one end of the post body 311 and the output end of the pushing component 32, and the flexible contact head 313 is disposed at the other end of the post body 311.

[0029] In this embodiment, the positioning post 31 consists of three parts: a post body 311, a guide sleeve 312, and a flexible contact head 313. The post body 311 is the main body of the positioning post 31, serving to connect and transmit force. Its material can be metal or other high-strength materials to ensure long-term stable operation in high-frequency, high-load industrial environments. The guide sleeve 312 is fitted onto one end of the post body 311 and the output end of the pushing component 32. By fitting onto the post body 311, it ensures the post body 311 maintains correct directionality and stability during movement, preventing deviation caused by external forces or vibrations. It also connects to the output end of the pushing component 32, transmitting power. The guide sleeve 312 may include structures such as sliding bearings or ball bearings to reduce friction and improve the smoothness of movement. The flexible contact head 313 is another key component of the positioning post 31, located at the other end of the post body 311. It directly contacts the workpiece (car hood), providing cushioning and adaptability during contact, preventing damage to the workpiece surface due to rigid contact. The flexible contact head 313 may be made of rubber, silicone, or other elastic materials that can undergo slight deformation upon contact to absorb impact forces while maintaining stable contact with the workpiece. For example, the contact surface of the flexible contact head 313 may be provided with an arc-shaped rubber pad, which is fixedly connected to the top of the main body of the column 311 to adapt to the surface shape of the workpiece and reduce the risk of workpiece damage.

[0030] In one embodiment, the positioning post 31 further includes an elastic buffer, the helical spring of the elastic buffer is provided with a pre-compression structure, the helical spring is embedded in the connecting cavity between the main body of the post 311 and the flexible contact head 313, and is used to absorb the impact force during pushing.

[0031] In this embodiment, the elastic buffer is composed of a helical spring with a pre-compression structure. This spring is embedded in the connecting cavity between the main body of the column 311 and the flexible contact head 313, absorbing the impact force generated during the pushing process of the positioning column 31. The pre-compression structure ensures that the helical spring is already in a certain compressed state initially, enabling it to respond quickly to external forces and provide buffering force. The helical spring is located within the internal structure of the positioning column 31. The connecting cavity accommodates the helical spring and ensures its normal deformation and recovery under force. The limiting effect of the connecting cavity ensures that the helical spring will not shift or fail during movement. During the positioning process of the car hood, the positioning column 31 needs to reciprocate vertically to contact the workpiece. The weight and shape of the workpiece itself, as well as the dynamic contact during the positioning process, may cause significant impact force. By setting up an elastic buffer, the elastic deformation characteristics of the helical spring are utilized to convert the impact force into the compression or extension energy of the spring, thereby effectively absorbing and dispersing the impact force and protecting the workpiece and the positioning equipment.

[0032] In another embodiment, the pre-compression structure includes a pressure sensor. The signal output port of the pressure sensor faces the bottom of the flexible contact head 313. The pressure sensor is embedded in the bottom surface of the flexible contact head 313 and indirectly contacts the bottom end of the helical spring. By detecting the impact force when the workpiece contacts the flexible contact head 313, real-time pressure data is generated. The pressure sensor is connected to an external microprocessor module via a signal line to transmit the collected pressure data to the control system for dynamically calculating and adjusting the pre-compression of the helical spring to ensure that the impact force is within a safe range.

[0033] In one embodiment, the rack and pinion track 2 includes a first support plate 21, a first track 22, and a second track 23. The first track 22 is disposed on the first side 11 of the bracket 1. The first support plate 21 is slidably connected to the first track 22 via a slider 6. The second track 23 is disposed on the first support plate 21, and the first track 22 and the second track 23 are perpendicular to each other. The driving assembly 42 includes a first driving member 421 and a second driving member 422. The first driving member 421 is used to drive the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction on the first track 22. The second driving member 422 is used to drive the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the second track 23. The positioning column 31 is disposed on the first support plate 21 at one end away from the first track 22.

[0034] In this embodiment, the rack and pinion track 2 includes a first support plate 21, a first track 22, and a second track 23. The first track 22 is disposed on the first side 11 of the bracket 1, and the second track 23 is disposed on the first support plate 21, arranged relatively perpendicular to the first track 22, so that the clamping column 41 can be independently controlled to move in two mutually perpendicular horizontal directions (i.e., the first horizontal direction and the second horizontal direction). The drive assembly 42 includes a first drive member 421 and a second drive member 422, which are responsible for driving the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 to move in different directions, respectively. The first drive member 421 is used to drive the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction on the first track 22. Its output end transmits power to the first support plate 21 by meshing with the tooth surface of the rack and pinion track 2, thereby driving the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 to move synchronously. The second drive member 422 is used to drive the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the second track 23. The movement of the clamping column 41 in the second horizontal direction is independent of the positioning column 31. This independent drive enables the clamping column 41 to be positioned when clamping the workpiece without interfering with the movement trajectory of the positioning column 31. The positioning column 31 is fixedly mounted on the first support plate 21 at one end away from the first track 22 to avoid interference with other moving parts.

[0035] It is worth noting that the first side 11 described in the above embodiments can be any side of the bracket 1. The bracket 1 can be a symmetrical or asymmetrical structure. When the first side 11 is selected as a certain side of the bracket 1, it can be arranged according to factors such as actual production space and ease of operation. Moreover, the clamping column 41 and positioning column 31 on the third support plate 27 in the above embodiments are only one example layout. In practical applications, the distribution position and number of clamping column 41 and positioning column 31 on the bracket 1 can be adjusted according to the specific shape, size and processing requirements of the car hood. The first horizontal direction and the second horizontal direction are two mutually perpendicular directions along the X-axis. When processing hoods with complex curved surfaces or special shapes, the positions of the clamping column 41 and positioning column 31 on the first track 22 and the second track 23 can be adjusted. Through dual tracks and dual drives, the clamping column 41 and positioning column 31 can move in multiple dimensions in the plane.

[0036] In one embodiment, the rack and pinion track 2 further includes a second support plate 24, a third track 25, and a fourth track 26. The third track 25 is disposed on the second side 12 of the bracket 1. The second support plate 24 is slidably connected to the third track 25 via a slider 6. A first sliding seat 61 is fixedly disposed on the second support plate 24. The fourth track 26 is slidably engaged with a groove on the sliding seat. The fourth track 26 is disposed on the second support plate 24, and the third track 25 and the fourth track 26 are perpendicular to each other. The drive assembly 42 further includes a third drive member 423 and a fourth drive member 424. The third drive member 423 is used to drive the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the third track 25, and the fourth drive member 424 is used to drive the fourth track 26 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction, thereby driving the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction.

[0037] In this embodiment, the rack and pinion track 2 also includes a second support plate 24, a third track 25, and a fourth track 26, along with a first sliding seat 61 and a driving mechanism for the third and fourth driving components 423 and 424. Through the synergistic effect of the multi-layered track system and the driving components 42, the clamping column 41 can independently reciprocate along the first and second horizontal directions on the second side 12, thereby providing a higher degree of freedom for the positioning and clamping of the car hood. Specifically, the third track 25 is disposed on the second side 12 of the bracket 1, the second support plate 24 is slidably connected to the third track 25 via a slider 6, the first sliding seat 61 is fixedly disposed on the second support plate 24, and the fourth track 26 slides in cooperation with the groove on the first sliding seat 61. The fourth track 26 is also disposed on the second support plate 24, and the third track 25 and the fourth track 26 maintain a perpendicular relationship. This multi-layered track design significantly enhances the spatial mobility of the device, enabling the clamping column 41 to move not only along the third track 25 in the second horizontal direction, but also in the first horizontal direction through the sliding cooperation of the fourth track 26. The drive assembly 42 includes a third drive member 423 and a fourth drive member 424. The third drive member 423 is responsible for driving the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the third track 25. The fourth drive member 424 indirectly drives the clamping column 41 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction by driving the fourth track 26 to move along the first horizontal direction. The advantage of this drive method is that by distributing the drive function to different drive members, the device can achieve higher precision motion control.

[0038] It is worth noting that the second side 12 can be an adjacent side or both sides of the first side 11. That is, the second side 12 can be multiple sides of the bracket 1 adjacent to the first side 11, and the layout on these multiple sides is consistent. In practical applications, this multi-sided layout design can better adapt to car hoods of different shapes and sizes. For example, when processing hoods with complex curved surfaces or irregular shapes, the positions of the clamping posts 41 and positioning posts 31 can be flexibly adjusted on the tracks on different sides to achieve omnidirectional positioning and clamping of the workpiece. The track layout on the second side 12 connects to a single clamping post 41. Multiple second support plates 24 and corresponding tracks and driving components can be set to allow multiple clamping posts 41 to be independently arranged on the second side 12, thereby meeting the positioning and clamping requirements of complex workpieces.

[0039] In one embodiment, the rack and pinion track 2 further includes a third support plate 27 and a fifth track 28. The third support plate 27 is slidably connected to the third track 25 via a slider 6. A second sliding seat 62 is fixedly disposed on the third support plate 27. The fifth track 28 is slidably engaged with a groove on the second sliding seat 62. One end of the fifth track 28 is connected to the positioning post 31. The driving assembly 42 further includes a fifth driving member 425, which is used to drive the fifth track 28 to reciprocate along a first horizontal direction, thereby driving the positioning post 31 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction.

[0040] In this embodiment, the rack and pinion track 2 further includes a third support plate 27, a fifth track 28, and a fifth drive member 425. The third support plate 27 is slidably connected to the third track 25 via a slider 6, and the third support plate 27 can move along the direction of the third track 25 (i.e., the second horizontal direction). A second sliding seat 62 is fixedly disposed on the third support plate 27, and the fifth track 28 is slidably engaged with the groove on the second sliding seat 62. One end of the fifth track 28 is connected to the positioning post 31. The fifth drive member 425 is used to drive the fifth track 28 to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction, thereby driving the positioning post 31 to achieve precise reciprocating movement in the first horizontal direction. Through the cooperation of the fifth track 28 and the fifth drive member 425, the positioning post 31 is provided with additional degrees of freedom of movement on the second side 12 of the bracket 1, enabling the positioning post 31 to move in the vertical direction and achieve positioning in the first horizontal direction. In practical applications, the positioning post 31 first moves to a designated position in the first horizontal direction, aligning with the edge of the car hood or a specific positioning point, and then the pushing component 32 abuts against the workpiece in the vertical direction to complete the positioning. The clamping column 41 clamps the workpiece horizontally via the movement of the third rail 25 and the fourth rail 26, ensuring its stability during machining or assembly. This collaborative design effectively improves positioning and clamping efficiency while reducing the complexity of equipment operation.

[0041] It is worth noting that the movement of the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 on the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the bracket 1 is both independent and coordinated. On the first side 11 of the bracket 1, the positioning column 31 and the clamping column 41 can move along the first horizontal direction on the first track 22 with the help of the first driving member 421. At the same time, the clamping column 41 can move along the second horizontal direction on the second track 23 with the help of the second driving member 422, thus achieving initial positioning and clamping adjustment. On the second side 12 of the bracket 1, the third support plate 27 can move along the second horizontal direction on the third track 25. With the cooperation of the second sliding seat 62, the fifth track 28 can move along the first horizontal direction with the help of the fifth driving member 425, thereby driving the positioning column 31 to move. The third driving member 423 can drive the clamping column 41 to move along the second horizontal direction on the third track 25. The fourth driving member 424 drives the fourth track 26 to move along the first horizontal direction, indirectly driving the clamping column 41 to move in that direction. This design allows the positioning post 31 and clamping post 41 to perform independent and precise motion control in multiple directions according to the shape and size characteristics of different parts of the car hood. For example, for a car hood with an irregular shape and complex curved surface, the positioning post 31 can first move to a suitable position in the first horizontal direction to align with the key positioning point of the hood, and then abut in the vertical direction; the clamping post 41 can be flexibly adjusted in two horizontal directions according to the position of the edge of the hood to achieve all-round positioning and clamping, ensuring the stability of the car hood in subsequent processing or inspection, and improving the quality and efficiency of the entire production process.

[0042] In one embodiment, multiple position sensors 71 are provided on the sides of both the second support plate 24 and the third support plate 27, and the fourth track 26 and the fifth track 28 are respectively provided with sensing plates 72 corresponding to the position sensors 71. The system also includes a display screen 8 electrically connected to the control mechanism 5. The display screen 8 is used to display the real-time operating status and position information of the positioning mechanism 3 and the clamping mechanism 4, as well as a human-machine interface.

[0043] In this embodiment, multiple position sensors 71 are provided on the sides of both the second support plate 24 and the third support plate 27. The position sensors 71 are devices capable of detecting the position of an object, sensing changes in the target object's position through optical, electromagnetic, or mechanical means. The fourth track 26 is provided with sensing plates 72 corresponding to the position sensors 71 on the second support plate 24, and the fifth track 28 is provided with sensing plates 72 corresponding to the position sensors 71 on the third support plate 27. The sensing plates 72 serve as the detection targets of the sensors. The sensing plates 72 are components with specific physical properties, such as metal sheets or magnetic materials, capable of being recognized by the sensors and triggering signal output. Through this design, the specific positions of the fourth track 26 and the fifth track 28 can be monitored in real time, thereby indirectly obtaining the horizontal movement status of the clamping column 41 and the positioning column 31. The position sensor 71 detects the position information of the sensing element 72 and transmits the data to the control mechanism 5. The control mechanism 5 then adjusts the output of the drive component 42 based on this data, such as controlling the running speed and direction of the third drive component 423, the fourth drive component 424, or the fifth drive component 425. This achieves precise control of the clamping column 41 and the positioning column 31, improving the intelligence level of the equipment and enabling it to adaptively adjust positioning and clamping actions in complex working environments. For example, during the positioning process of a car hood, the position sensor 71 can detect whether the hood has reached the predetermined position. If not, the control mechanism 5 can adjust the movement trajectory of the clamping column 41 or the positioning column 31 through the drive component 42 until the ideal positioning state is achieved.

[0044] The display screen 8 is used to display the real-time operating status and position information of the positioning mechanism 3 and the clamping mechanism 4, and provides a human-machine interface. Operators can understand the operating status of the equipment in real time through an intuitive visual interface, such as the current position, movement speed, and whether the preset positioning target has been reached for the positioning column 31 and clamping column 41. It can directly present the position data detected by the sensors, enabling operators to quickly determine whether the equipment is working properly. Operators can input commands through the human-machine interface, such as setting the movement distance of the positioning column 31 or clamping column 41, adjusting the movement speed, or switching working modes. The display screen 8 can be an LCD, a touch screen, or other visualization technology. Its electrical connection with the control mechanism 5 is usually achieved through a data cable or a wireless communication module. The control mechanism 5 is responsible for processing the data from the position sensor 71 and sending the processed information to the display screen 8 for presentation. The interactive interface on the display screen 8 can include graphical buttons, parameter input boxes, or status indicator lights, facilitating intuitive operation by the operator. For example, the operator can input the clamping force parameter of the clamping column 41 through the touch screen, or check whether the positioning column 31 is correctly abutting the workpiece through the interface.

[0045] Reference Figure 7This application also proposes a method for positioning a car hood, applied to the car hood positioning device described in any of the above claims, comprising the following steps: S1: Start the control mechanism and control the pushing component to drive multiple positioning columns to move vertically upward to a preset initial height, which is greater than the maximum thickness of the car hood workpiece. S2: The car hood workpiece is placed on the top of the positioning post. The control mechanism generates a control signal based on the position information fed back by the sensor and transmits it to the pushing component. The pushing component pushes each positioning post to adjust its displacement in the vertical direction according to the control signal, so that the bottom surface of the car hood workpiece remains horizontal. S3: The control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the preset clamping parameters and transmits it to the drive assembly. The drive assembly drives the clamping column to move horizontally according to the clamping control signal until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, thus completing the clamping operation of the car hood workpiece.

[0046] In steps S1-S3, the control mechanism determines the initial height value based on a preset program or operator-input parameters. This height value is based on the design specifications and thickness range of the car hood workpiece. The control mechanism generates a corresponding control signal and transmits it to the pushing component, which can be a motor, cylinder, or hydraulic device. Based on the signal, the pushing component drives the positioning column to move vertically along the rack and pinion track until the preset height is reached. The car hood workpiece is placed on the top of the positioning column, at which point the flexible contact head of the positioning column contacts the bottom surface of the workpiece. The flexible material can adapt to the surface shape of the workpiece, reducing local stress concentration. The control mechanism receives data from the sensors, such as the tilt angle of the workpiece's bottom surface relative to the horizontal plane or the relative height difference between the positioning columns, and calculates the required displacement adjustment amount through the signal processing unit. For example, if the sensor detects that one side of the workpiece is lower, the control mechanism will generate a signal instructing the pushing component to drive the positioning column on the corresponding side to further adjust upwards or downwards until the bottom surface of the workpiece reaches a horizontal state. Based on preset clamping parameters, the control mechanism generates a clamping control signal and transmits it to the driving component, driving the clamping column to move horizontally until it abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, completing the clamping operation. For example, the first and second driving components drive the clamping column to move along the first and second horizontal directions, respectively. The third and fourth driving components drive the clamping column to move precisely in multiple directions. Position sensors and induction plates provide real-time position feedback, enabling the clamping column to accurately align with the workpiece side. Clamping parameters include clamping force and clamping column movement speed, which are preset according to the workpiece material, size, and clamping requirements. For example, for an aluminum alloy front cover, a smaller clamping force is required to avoid deformation, and a moderate movement speed is needed to balance efficiency and accuracy. The control mechanism compares the preset parameters with the real-time data fed back by the sensors through the signal processing unit, generating a clamping control signal. The driving components drive the clamping column to move horizontally along the rack and pinion track (e.g., the third or fourth track) until the clamping column is tightly abutted against the workpiece side, completing the clamping operation.

[0047] In one embodiment, the step of the control mechanism generating a clamping control signal and transmitting it to the drive component according to preset clamping parameters includes: Obtain the preset clamping parameters corresponding to the car hood workpiece, the preset clamping parameters including the clamping force and the clamping column moving speed; The displacement sensor and pressure sensor of the clamping mechanism collect real-time position and contact status data of the side of the car hood workpiece to generate workpiece status data. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism compares the workpiece status data with the preset clamping parameters, calculates the deviation between the workpiece side position and the preset target position and the deviation of the contact pressure, and generates parameter deviation values. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the parameter deviation value. The clamping control signal is used to correct the moving speed and / or clamping force of the clamping column and drive the clamping column to move horizontally along the rack track until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, thus completing the clamping operation.

[0048] In this embodiment, the control mechanism acquires preset clamping parameters corresponding to the car hood workpiece. The acquisition of these preset clamping parameters can be pre-set by the storage unit within the control mechanism based on the size, shape, and material of different car hood workpiece models. Real-time position and contact state data of the car hood workpiece's side are collected by displacement and pressure sensors in the clamping mechanism. Specifically, during clamping, the displacement sensor detects the distance between the clamping pin and the workpiece side, while the pressure sensor monitors the pressure applied when the clamping pin contacts the workpiece. These sensors work together to generate workpiece state data including position and contact state. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism compares the real-time acquired clamping pin position with a preset target position to calculate the position deviation. For example, if the clamping pin is not fully in contact with the workpiece side, the position deviation may manifest as a distance difference between the clamping pin and the target position. Simultaneously, the contact pressure data collected by the pressure sensor is compared with a preset clamping force to generate a pressure deviation value. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the parameter deviation value to correct the clamping pin's moving speed and / or clamping force. The drive assembly includes multiple drive components (such as the first to fifth drive components), each capable of controlling the movement direction and speed of the clamping column on different tracks. For example, when a positional deviation indicates that the clamping column is too far from the side of the workpiece, the control signal instructs the first or third drive component to accelerate the horizontal movement of the clamping column; conversely, when a pressure deviation indicates that the clamping force is too large, the control signal reduces the output power of the drive components to reduce the pressure of the clamping column on the workpiece. The clamping control signal drives the clamping column to move horizontally along the rack and pinion track until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece. When the clamping column finally contacts the side of the workpiece, the pressure sensor detects that the contact pressure has reached a preset value, and the position sensor confirms that the clamping column has reached the target position. The control mechanism then stops the drive signal, completing the clamping operation.

[0049] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A car hood positioning device, characterized in that, include: A bracket (1) is provided with multiple rack tracks (2); The positioning mechanism (3) is set on the rack and pinion track (2). The positioning mechanism (3) includes multiple positioning columns (31) and a pushing component (32). One end of the positioning column (31) is connected to the pushing component (32), and the other end is used to abut against the workpiece. The pushing component (32) is used to push the positioning column (31) to reciprocate in the vertical direction. A clamping mechanism (4) is provided on the rack track (2). The clamping mechanism (4) includes multiple clamping columns (41) and a drive assembly (42). The output end of the drive assembly (42) meshes with the tooth surface of the rack track (2) and is used to drive the clamping columns (41) or positioning columns (31) to reciprocate in the horizontal direction. The control mechanism (5) is electrically connected to the positioning mechanism (3) and the clamping mechanism (4) and is used to control the operation of the positioning mechanism (3) and the clamping mechanism (4).

2. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positioning post (31) includes a post (311), a guide sleeve (312) and a flexible contact head (313). The guide sleeve (312) is fitted over one end of the post (311) and the output end of the pushing component (32). The flexible contact head (313) is located at the other end of the post (311).

3. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The positioning post (31) also includes an elastic buffer. The helical spring of the elastic buffer is provided with a pre-compression structure. The helical spring is embedded in the connecting cavity between the main body of the post (311) and the flexible contact head (313) to absorb the impact force during pushing.

4. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rack and pinion track (2) includes a first support plate (21), a first track (22), and a second track (23). The first track (22) is disposed on the first side (11) of the bracket (1). The first support plate (21) is slidably connected to the first track (22) through a slider (6). The second track (23) is disposed on the first support plate (21), and the first track (22) and the second track (23) are perpendicular to each other. The drive assembly (42) includes a first drive member (421) and a second drive member (422). The first drive member (421) is used to drive the positioning column (31) and the clamping column (41) to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction on the first track (22). The second drive member (422) is used to drive the clamping column (41) to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the second track (23). The positioning column (31) is disposed on the first support plate (21) at one end away from the first track (22).

5. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rack and pinion track (2) further includes a second support plate (24), a third track (25) and a fourth track (26). The third track (25) is disposed on the second side (12) of the bracket (1). The second support plate (24) is slidably connected to the third track (25) through a slider (6). A first sliding seat (61) is fixedly disposed on the second support plate (24). The fourth track (26) is slidably engaged with the groove on the sliding seat. The fourth track (26) is disposed on the second support plate (24), and the third track (25) and the fourth track (26) are perpendicular to each other. The drive assembly (42) further includes a third drive member (423) and a fourth drive member (424). The third drive member (423) is used to drive the clamping column (41) to reciprocate along the second horizontal direction on the third track (25). The fourth drive member (424) is used to drive the fourth track (26) to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction, thereby driving the clamping column (41) to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction.

6. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rack and pinion track (2) also includes a third support plate (27) and a fifth track (28). The third support plate (27) is slidably connected to the third track (25) via a slider (6). A second sliding seat (62) is fixedly provided on the third support plate (27). The fifth track (28) is slidably engaged with the groove on the second sliding seat (62). One end of the fifth track (28) is connected to the positioning post (31). The drive assembly (42) further includes a fifth drive member (425), which is used to drive the fifth track (28) to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction, thereby driving the positioning column (31) to reciprocate along the first horizontal direction.

7. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second support plate (24) and the third support plate (27) are each provided with a plurality of position sensors (71), and the fourth track (26) and the fifth track (28) are respectively provided with sensing plates (72) corresponding to the position sensors (71).

8. The automotive hood positioning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a display screen (8) electrically connected to the control mechanism (5), the display screen (8) being used to display the operating status and position information of the positioning mechanism (3) and the clamping mechanism (4) in real time, as well as the human-machine interface.

9. A method for positioning a car hood, used to control the car hood positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Including the following steps: The control mechanism is activated, and the push component is controlled to drive multiple positioning columns to move vertically upward to a preset initial height, which is greater than the maximum thickness of the car hood workpiece. The car hood workpiece is placed on the top of the positioning post. The control mechanism generates a control signal based on the position information fed back by the sensor and transmits it to the pushing component. The pushing component pushes each positioning post to adjust its displacement in the vertical direction according to the control signal, so that the bottom surface of the car hood workpiece remains horizontal. The control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the preset clamping parameters and transmits it to the drive assembly. The drive assembly drives the clamping column to move horizontally according to the clamping control signal until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, thus completing the clamping operation of the car hood workpiece.

10. The method for positioning a car hood according to claim 9, characterized in that, The step of the control mechanism generating a clamping control signal and transmitting it to the drive component according to preset clamping parameters includes: Obtain the preset clamping parameters corresponding to the car hood workpiece, the preset clamping parameters including the clamping force and the clamping column moving speed; The displacement sensor and pressure sensor of the clamping mechanism collect real-time position and contact status data of the side of the car hood workpiece to generate workpiece status data. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism compares the workpiece status data with the preset clamping parameters, calculates the deviation between the workpiece side position and the preset target position and the deviation of the contact pressure, and generates parameter deviation values. The signal processing unit of the control mechanism generates a clamping control signal based on the parameter deviation value. The clamping control signal is used to correct the moving speed and / or clamping force of the clamping column and drive the clamping column to move horizontally along the rack track until the clamping column abuts against the side of the car hood workpiece, thus completing the clamping operation.

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