A precision micro-tube automatic necking device for probes and a micro-tube processing method

Abstract

The present application belongs to the technical field of probe processing, and particularly relates to a precision micro-tube automatic necking device for probes and a micro-tube processing method. The precision micro-tube automatic necking device for probes comprises a feeding mechanism, a necking mechanism and a supporting assembly. The feeding mechanism comprises a forming tube providing a working space for micro-tube necking. The necking mechanism comprises a forming die head pressing against the head of the micro-tube. The supporting assembly comprises a supporting plate abutting against the tail of the micro-tube and a carrier preassembled on the outer circumferential part of the micro-tube. After the micro-tube is supported by the tail of the supporting plate, the circumferential part of the carrier and the pressing of the forming die head in the forming tube, the head of the micro-tube is formed to be necked. By setting the forming tube, the forming die head, the supporting plate and the carrier and other components adapted to the micro-tube to be necked, the end of the micro-tube for the probe is accurately necked, and the tail and the outer circumferential part of the micro-tube are stably supported during the necking process, so that the bending or local deformation of the tube body is avoided, and the overall dimensional accuracy and shape consistency of the micro-tube after processing are ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of probe processing, specifically relating to an automatic tapering device for precision microtubes used for probes and a microtube processing method. Background Technology

[0002] Test probes are widely used in mobile phones, automobiles, medical devices, and aerospace technology. As electronic devices become smaller and thinner, even smaller test probes are needed to meet market demands, thus placing higher demands on the precision of these probes. A typical test probe consists of three parts: a needle shaft, a needle tube, and a spring. The needle shaft and spring are assembled inside the needle tube, which is usually formed into a constricted structure using a riveting process. For example, patent application CN117825766A discloses a high-conductivity probe test holder and its manufacturing process. In this design, both ends of the loading cavity of the test probe are provided with limiting parts to prevent the needle tip from detaching from the support carrier. These limiting parts are constricted structures with a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the loading cavity. The constricted structure is formed by shaping the two ends of the support carrier using a constriction mold. Patent CN115184652B discloses a slender, stable-current test probe. One end of the probe rod is provided with a limiting annular platform, and the tail of the second needle tip is formed into a constricted shape by riveting, allowing for a sliding assembly between the probe rod and the second needle tip.

[0003] The necking process is a common and crucial technology in the field of microtube fabrication for probes. The necking accuracy, overall consistency, and functionality of the microtube directly affect the contact reliability, signal transmission quality, fluid control accuracy, and mass production efficiency of the probe. Patent application CN117505697A discloses an automatic capillary necking and expanding device. A capillary vibrating conveyor feeds the capillary into a feeding device, and a pushing device pushes the capillary into a necking and expanding mold. The mold moves the capillary between an automatic necking device and a necking and expanding / unloading device. The automatic necking and expanding device and the necking and expanding / unloading device push forward together, expanding and narrowing both ends of the capillary respectively. After expansion and narrowing are completed, the necking and expanding device continues to push forward, pushing the capillary out of the necking and expanding mold. This application realizes automatic feeding and automatic necking / expanding in an automated capillary necking and expanding device. However, the above processing method has obvious technical defects: during the stamping process, due to the concentrated force and lack of effective support or constraint, other parts of the microtube (such as non-narrowing areas) are easily subjected to extrusion or stretching, leading to problems such as tube deformation, uneven wall thickness, and even cracking. This not only reduces the dimensional accuracy and surface quality of the product, but may also affect its mechanical properties and service life, ultimately resulting in a decrease in product qualification rate and an increase in production costs. In addition, traditional stamping and necking processes have lower requirements for mold precision and processing parameters (such as stamping speed and pressure), and improper control may also exacerbate the risk of microtube deformation.

[0004] Therefore, existing microtube shrinking technology cannot meet the high-precision and high-quality shrinking requirements of microtubes for test probes. There is an urgent need in this field for a new process and automated equipment that can effectively avoid deformation of non-target areas of the microtubes for probes during the shrinking process, so as to improve processing accuracy and product consistency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address at least one of the aforementioned problems in the prior art, this invention provides an automatic necking device and microtube processing method for precision microtubes used for probes. By setting up components such as a forming tube, forming die, support plate, and carrier adapted to the microtube to be necked, and in conjunction with a detection mechanism, the device can accurately neck the end of the microtube and stably support the tail and outer periphery of the microtube during the necking process, avoiding bending or local deformation of the tube body during stamping. This allows for the smooth automation of loading, unloading, and recycling processes while ensuring the dimensional accuracy and microtube shape consistency of the necking process, providing a basic quality guarantee for subsequent probe products.

[0006] In a first aspect of the invention, an automatic necking device for precision microtubes used for probes is provided, comprising a feeding mechanism, a necking mechanism, and a support assembly, wherein:

[0007] The feeding mechanism includes a cartridge containing microtubes, a forming tube that provides working space for the microtubes to narrow, and a first drive assembly that pushes the microtubes from the cartridge into the forming tube.

[0008] The narrowing mechanism includes a forming die that presses against the head of the microtube and a second drive assembly that drives the forming die to move toward and / or away from the microtube.

[0009] The support assembly includes a support plate for abutting the tail end of the microtube and a carrier pre-installed on the outer periphery of the microtube;

[0010] After being supported at the tail end of the support plate, supported at the periphery of the carrier, and pressed against the head of the forming die in the forming tube, the microtube forms a head narrowing.

[0011] This invention provides stable support for the tail and outer periphery of the microtube during the necking process by setting up a support plate and carrier, preventing the tube body from bending or local deformation during stamping, and ensuring the overall dimensional accuracy and shape consistency of the microtube after necking. Secondly, the forming tube provides a stable working space, which, combined with the precise pressure of the forming die, ensures uniform necking of the microtube head, avoiding uneven wall thickness or cracking, and significantly improving product yield.

[0012] The feeding mechanism utilizes a cartridge box and a first drive component to achieve automatic feeding and positioning of microtubes. Combined with the second drive component, it controls the precise movement of the forming die head, reducing manual intervention, improving processing efficiency, and making it suitable for mass production.

[0013] Preferably, an automatic feeding mechanism is provided upstream of the feeding mechanism, including a carrier assembly unit and a feeding unit. The carrier assembly unit is used to fit a carrier onto one end of each microtube to be narrowed. The feeding unit uses vibration to feed the microtubes with the carrier attached, with the carrier end as the tail and the other end as the head, uniformly onto the feeding mechanism. Alternatively, the carrier assembly unit can be integrated into the equipment of the previous microtube processing step, i.e., the microtube is already fitted with a carrier when it is output after the previous processing step. Furthermore, based on the loading of the carrier, the magazine and first drive assembly of the feeding mechanism primarily contact the carrier before the narrowing operation, thereby avoiding scratches or damage to the surface of the microtube and improving product quality.

[0014] Compared to traditional stamping processes, this equipment uses multi-directional support and precise force application to avoid deformation or damage caused by uneven force on micro-tubes during processing, thereby reducing scrap rates and saving production costs.

[0015] Preferably, the magazine has a feed trough for the microtubes to move side by side;

[0016] A forming tube is located at the end of the material trough, and a positioning cavity for forming microtubes is formed inside the forming tube;

[0017] The first drive assembly is connected to the magazine to drive the microtube to move within the feed trough.

[0018] The feed trough on the magazine provides a directional movement channel for the microtubes, ensuring their orderly delivery to the forming station and avoiding misalignment or jamming issues caused by manual feeding, thus improving automated production efficiency. Secondly, the positioning cavity of the forming tube seamlessly connects with the feed trough, allowing the microtube to directly enter the preset forming position after movement, avoiding secondary positioning errors and ensuring dimensional consistency during the necking process. Finally, the first drive component is linked with the magazine, achieving precise transfer of the microtube from the feed trough to the positioning cavity through mechanical pushing, reducing manual intervention and minimizing the risk of friction or deformation during transport.

[0019] Preferably, the end of the forming die has a forming cavity of a preset shape so that the head of the microtube is formed into a preset constricted shape after being pressed.

[0020] The second drive component is connected to the forming die head to control the movement of the forming die head.

[0021] The pre-shaped forming cavity at the end of the forming die head precisely controls the final surface shape and size of the microtube necking. In conjunction with the support plate and carrier, the forming die head applies uniform pressure to the microtube head, preventing tube displacement or twisting and further ensuring the accuracy of the necking shape. Secondly, by changing forming dies of different shapes or sizes, the necking shape (such as conical, spherical, stepped, etc.) can be quickly adjusted to adapt to diverse product needs and improve equipment versatility. Finally, the second drive component precisely controls the moving speed and pressure of the forming die head, reducing manual intervention and preventing microtube deformation or breakage due to excessive impact, thus improving processing stability and product yield.

[0022] Preferably, the constriction mechanism further includes a support mold head that supports the inner wall of the microtube opening, and a third drive component that drives the support mold head to enter and exit from the tail of the microtube.

[0023] The support mold head cooperates with the forming mold head to position and press the head of the microtube from both the inside and outside, so that the head of the microtube forms a preset constricted shape.

[0024] During the necking process, the support die head supports the microtube opening from within, effectively resisting the pressure of the forming die head on the microtube head, preventing collapse or wrinkling of the necked area, and ensuring the integrity and dimensional accuracy of the necked shape. Secondly, the third drive component precisely controls the advance and retreat sequence of the support die head, extending in for positioning before necking and withdrawing promptly after extrusion, ensuring both support effectiveness and avoiding interference with microtube transport, thus achieving continuous automated production. Finally, the support die head can also be changed to different shapes or sizes to cooperate with the forming die head, quickly adjusting the necking shape from both the inside and outside. Through the above solutions, this invention provides continuous and stable internal support for special processes such as deep necking or irregular necking, breaking through the limitations of traditional processes on necking depth or shape, and expanding the range of processing capabilities.

[0025] Preferably, the narrowing mechanism further includes a vibration component connected to the forming die head, so that the forming die head generates high-frequency vibration when it presses against the head of the microtube.

[0026] Using the above technical solution, firstly, high-frequency vibration induces microscopic plastic flow in the microtube material during the necking process, effectively reducing forming resistance and avoiding material accumulation or cracking caused by traditional static stamping, thus significantly improving forming quality. Secondly, vibration energy is converted into internal heat energy of the material, generating a localized temperature rise effect, which can improve material plasticity without additional heating, making it particularly suitable for precision machining of temperature-sensitive materials. Finally, vibration promotes grain reorganization of the material, significantly reducing residual stress inside the workpiece, avoiding stress cracking or deformation problems during subsequent use of the product, and improving product reliability.

[0027] Preferably, the necking mechanism further includes a heating component for heating the tip of the microtube. More preferably, the heating component includes at least one of a resistance heater and an electromagnetic induction heater disposed in the forming die. The heating component, used in conjunction with the vibration component, helps to reduce the deformation threshold of the microtube and improves the necking operation.

[0028] Preferably, a first clearance hole is provided at a first preset position of the support plate, and the support mold head is movably accommodated in the first clearance hole;

[0029] The third drive assembly is fixed to the support plate and connected to the support mold head to drive the support mold head to extend out from the first clearance hole, enter and exit the microtube from the tail end of the microtube, and abut against the inner wall of the microtube opening when the end narrows.

[0030] Preferably, the automatic tapering device for precision microtubes used for probes further includes a feeding mechanism, which comprises a fourth drive assembly, a high-pressure air nozzle, a microtube recovery tube, and a carrier recovery tube, wherein:

[0031] The fourth drive component is connected to the forming tube and carries the forming tube to the first preset position, the second preset position and / or the third preset position of the support plate;

[0032] The high-pressure nozzle is capable of introducing high-pressure gas into the forming tube to blow the microtube out of the forming tube; preferably, a high-pressure pipeline that supplies high-pressure gas to the high-pressure nozzle is fixed on the fourth drive assembly, the high-pressure pipeline moves with the fourth drive assembly and provides pulsed high-pressure gas in a controlled manner.

[0033] The support plate has a second clearance hole at a second preset position that allows a microtube to pass through, and a third clearance hole at a third preset position that allows a carrier to pass through;

[0034] The microtube recovery tube is connected to the second clearance hole of the support plate to receive the microtube;

[0035] The vehicle recovery pipe communicates with the third clearance hole of the support plate to receive the vehicle.

[0036] Using the above technical solution, firstly, the fourth drive component precisely controls the switching of the formed tube between three preset stations, and in conjunction with the high-pressure air nozzle for air blowing and feeding, the entire process is automated, significantly accelerating the microtube processing. Secondly, the directional airflow generated by the high-pressure air nozzle can instantly separate the microtube from the carrier, avoiding surface scratches caused by mechanical gripping. Finally, the invention enables automatic sorting and recycling of workpieces and carriers, reducing post-processing collection and sorting work and improving processing continuity.

[0037] Preferably, the automatic reduction device for precision microtubes for probes further includes a positioning detection mechanism connected to the fourth drive assembly for detecting at least one of the following:

[0038] At the first preset position, the coaxiality of the support mold head, microtube, forming tube and forming mold head is detected;

[0039] At the second preset position, the coaxiality of the forming tube and the second clearance hole is detected;

[0040] At the third preset position, the coaxiality of the forming tube and the third clearance hole is detected.

[0041] Using the above technical solution, firstly, the coaxiality of the support die head, microtube, forming tube, and forming die head is checked at the first preset position to avoid misalignment leading to eccentricity in the necking or uneven wall thickness, thus ensuring processing accuracy. Secondly, the coaxiality of the forming tube and the recovery hole is checked at the second and third preset positions respectively to ensure unobstructed material feeding paths for the microtube and carrier, preventing jamming or collisions.

[0042] Preferably, the automatic reduction device for precision microtubes for probes further includes a control system, which is electrically or signal-connected to the first drive component, the second drive component, the third drive component, the fourth drive component, the positioning detection mechanism, the vibration component, the heating component, and the high-pressure air nozzle, and controls the operation of the first drive component, the second drive component, the third drive component, the fourth drive component, the positioning detection mechanism, the vibration component, the heating component, and the high-pressure air nozzle.

[0043] In a second aspect of the invention, a microtube processing method using the aforementioned automatic microtube narrowing device for probes is also provided, comprising the following steps:

[0044] S1. Move the forming tube to the first preset position of the support plate. The first drive component pushes the micro tube from the cartridge box into the forming tube. The micro tube passes through the tail support of the support plate and the periphery support of the carrier in the forming tube.

[0045] S2. The second drive component drives the forming die head to move toward the microtube. After the microtube passes the head of the forming die head and is pressed, the head narrows.

[0046] S3. Move the forming tube to the second preset position of the support plate and recycle the microtube;

[0047] S4. Move the forming tube to the third preset position of the support plate and reclaim the carrier;

[0048] Move the forming tube back to the first preset position of the support plate and repeat the above steps.

[0049] Preferably, in the preferred embodiment of the above processing method, step S2 further includes:

[0050] The support mold head, which is driven and cooperates with the forming mold head, enters the microtube from the tail end and positions and presses the head of the microtube from both the inside and outside.

[0051] The vibration component is used to make the forming die head vibrate at high frequency when it presses against the head of the microtube, so that the head of the microtube forms a preset constriction shape.

[0052] Drive the forming die head and support die head to reset. Attached Figure Description

[0053] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0054] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic reduction device for precision microtubes used in probes according to the present invention.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the magazine box of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding mechanism and the necking mechanism of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the molding die head of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the supporting mold head of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the forming die head, supporting die head, and forming tube before necking in this invention;

[0060] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the forming die head, supporting die head, and forming tube after the necking process of this invention.

[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the probe microtube before it is narrowed.

[0062] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the microtube for the probe of the present invention after narrowing.

[0063] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding mechanism of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 11 for Figure 10 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A in the middle.

[0065] List of reference numerals

[0066] 1. Microtubes;

[0067] 2. Feeding mechanism; 21. Magazine box; 211. Material trough; 22. Forming tube; 231. Feeding plate; 232. Slide table linear motor;

[0068] 3. Narrowing mechanism; 31. Forming die head; 311. Forming cavity; 32. Second drive assembly; 33. Supporting die head; 331. Protrusion; 35. Vibration assembly; 361. Heating wire; 362. Heat insulation layer;

[0069] 4. Support assembly; 41. Support plate; 411. First clearance hole; 412. Second clearance hole; 413. Third clearance hole; 42. Carrier;

[0070] 5. Feeding mechanism; 511. Carrying plate; 5111. Arc-shaped clearance hole; 512. Clamping plate; 52. High-pressure air nozzle;

[0071] 61. Ruler; 7. Control system. Detailed Implementation

[0072] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figures 1-11 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] To address technical issues such as non-target area deformation, insufficient shrinking precision leading to low yield, and low automation during the microtube shrinking process, referencing Figures 1-3The present invention provides an automatic shrinking device for precision microtubes for probes, including a frame, a feeding mechanism 2, a shrinking mechanism 3, a support assembly 4, a feeding mechanism 5, a positioning and detection mechanism, and a control system 7. The frame supports and secures various functional modules, including the feeding mechanism 2, the necking mechanism 3, the support assembly 4, the unloading mechanism 5, the positioning and detection mechanism, and the control system 7, ensuring structural stability and processing accuracy during high-speed operation. The feeding mechanism 2 automatically feeds and precisely positions the microtubes 1, ensuring they are transported to the forming station in an orderly manner and positioned within the forming tube 22. The necking mechanism 3 precisely presses and shapes the head of the microtube 1 using the forming die 31, forming a preset necking shape. The support assembly 4 provides stable support for the tail and outer periphery of the microtube 1 using the support plate 41 and the carrier 42, respectively, preventing tube deformation during processing. The unloading mechanism 5 automatically separates and sorts the processed microtubes 1 from the carrier 42, achieving automated and efficient unloading. The positioning and detection mechanism precisely controls the position movement of the forming tube 22, ensuring accurate positioning at each processing station. The control system 7 coordinates the collaborative work of all mechanisms to achieve automated processing, improving production efficiency and accuracy.

[0076] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the frame is constructed by welding / bolting a high-strength alloy steel or aluminum alloy frame, and has a horizontal layout. It includes the following components: a base with anti-vibration pads or anchor bolts at the bottom for overall equipment fixation, reducing the impact of processing vibration on accuracy; columns and beams forming the main frame of the machine, providing rigid support, and internal wiring channels for laying air, electrical, and signal lines; and a mounting platform with precision-machined flat mounting surfaces on the beams and columns for fixing and supporting core components such as the magazine 21 of the feeding mechanism 2, the various drive components of the necking mechanism 3, and the support plate 41.

[0077] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the feeding mechanism 2 includes a magazine 21, a forming tube 22, and a first driving assembly. The magazine 21 is used for orderly storage and directional conveying of the microtubes 1; the forming tube 22 provides a working space for precise positioning and necking of the microtubes 1, which are fitted with a carrier 42 at their tail ends; the first driving assembly accurately feeds the microtubes 1 from the magazine 21 into the forming tube 22 through mechanical pushing.

[0078] Specifically, in the demonstration implementation, an automatic feeding mechanism (not shown) upstream of the feeding mechanism 2 is equipped with a carrier 42 pre-fitted onto each microtube 1 to be processed. The carrier 42 provides a point of leverage for the microtube 1 during feeding and feeding, and provides peripheral support for the microtube 1 when it narrows. The magazine cassette 21 is made of aluminum alloy and is formed into a long strip. A material groove 211 is opened on one side of the magazine cassette 21. The width of the material groove 211 matches the outer diameter of the carrier 42. The opening of the material groove 211 narrows to match the outer diameter of the microtube 1, so that the microtube 1 with the carrier 42 can be locked in the material groove 211 and ensure that the microtube 1 maintains a stable posture during parallel conveying. Furthermore, the inner wall of the material groove 211 is hard chrome plated to reduce the coefficient of friction and avoid scratches on the surface of the microtube 1.

[0079] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the initial position of the forming tube 22 is located at the end of the material groove 211. A positioning cavity for microtube forming is formed within the forming tube 22. The forming tube 22 is precision-machined from high-strength alloy steel, and its inner surface is mirror-polished. Furthermore, a feed inlet is provided on the side of the forming tube 22 near the magazine cassette 21, and the feed inlet matches the groove on that side of the magazine cassette 21, facilitating the smooth entry of the microtube 1 into the forming tube 22. Furthermore, a fitting clearance of 0.02-0.05 mm is maintained between the inner diameter of the forming tube 22 and the outer diameter of the carrier 42.

[0080] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the first driving component is connected to the magazine cassette 21 to drive the microtube 1 to move within the material groove 211. This component specifically includes a material guide plate 231 and a sliding linear motor 232. The material guide plate 231 is connected to the sliding linear motor 232, which drives the material guide plate 231 to move in a specific direction, thereby pushing the microtube 1 from the magazine cassette 21 into the forming tube 22. Furthermore, the material guide plate 231 is made of hard aluminum alloy, and its working end has a claw that can extend into the material groove 211 and slide against the bottom of the groove 211. Even further, the claw's end is inlaid with a polyurethane wear-resistant block to reduce wear against the bottom of the material groove 211, and an anti-slip rubber block is adhered to the side of the claw to protect the workpiece. Furthermore, the slide-table linear motor 232 includes a slide rail fixed on the frame, a linear motor fixed on the slide rail for providing power, and a slide table slidably disposed on the slide rail and connected to the linear motor via a lead screw. One end of the feeding plate 231 is fixed to the slide table by bolts, so that when the linear motor works, the slide table drives the feeding plate 231 to move, thereby pushing the micro tube 1 from the cartridge box 21 into the forming tube 22.

[0081] It should be explained that the first driving component is not unique. For example, in addition to the combination of the material feeding plate 231 and the slide table linear motor 232, the first driving component can also use a cylinder to directly drive the material feeding plate 231, or a stepper motor plus belt drive to drive the material feeding plate 231, as long as the material feeding plate 231 can complete the material feeding process.

[0082] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the narrowing mechanism 3 includes a forming die 31, a second driving assembly 32, a supporting die 33, a third driving assembly, a vibration assembly 35, and a heating assembly. The forming die 31 is used to press against the head of the microtube 1; the second driving assembly 32 is used to drive the forming die 31 to move towards and / or away from the microtube 1; the supporting die 33 is used to support the inner wall of the microtube 1's opening; the third driving assembly is used to drive the supporting die 33 to enter and exit from the tail of the microtube 1; the vibration assembly 35 is used to cause the forming die 31 to generate high-frequency vibration when pressing against the head of the microtube 1; and the heating assembly is used to heat the forming die 31 when pressing against the head of the microtube 1.

[0083] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the forming die 31 is sintered from cemented carbide, and its working end has a forming cavity 311 of a preset shape, for example... Figure 4 The middle part is hemispherical, so that the microtube 1 forms a hemispherical constriction shape after being pressed.

[0084] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the second drive component 32 uses a servo-driven electric cylinder as its power core and achieves precise linear motion control through a high-precision encoder. The output end of the second drive component 32 is directly fixedly connected to the molding die head 31, so that the second drive component 32 can directly control the movement of the molding die head 31.

[0085] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the shape of the working end of the supporting mold head 33 ( Figure 5 The shape of the support mold 33 (which is hemispherical in the middle) matches the shape of the forming cavity 311 of the forming mold 31. The support mold 33 and the forming mold 31 cooperate to position and press the head of the microtube 1 from both the inside and outside, so that the head of the microtube 1 forms a preset constriction shape. Furthermore, in order to standardize the size and shape of the constriction of the microtube 1, a rod-shaped protrusion 331 is formed at the center of the working end of the support mold 33, and a corresponding insertion port is formed on the forming mold 31. The protrusion 331 is inserted into the insertion port. Before the microtube 1 constricts, the protrusion 331 is gradually inserted into the insertion port. As the distance between the forming mold 31 and the support mold 33 gradually shortens, the head of the microtube 1 gradually deforms and forms the final constriction around the protrusion 331.

[0086] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the third drive component uses a servo-driven electric cylinder as its power core and achieves precise linear motion control through a high-precision encoder. The output end of the third drive component is directly and fixedly connected to the support mold head 33, enabling the third drive component to directly control the movement of the support mold head 33. Furthermore, the support mold head 33 and the forming mold head 31 are coaxially arranged, allowing them to complete the pressing and forming of the microtube 1 in the forming tube 22 without additional positioning.

[0087] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the working end of the forming die 31 has a cavity, and the vibration component 35 is specifically a vibrator. The vibrator is fixedly installed in the cavity of the forming die 31 and can cause the forming die 31 to generate high-frequency vibration. Under high-frequency vibration, the head of the microtube 1 generates microscopic plastic flow during the narrowing process, which can effectively reduce the forming resistance and avoid material accumulation or cracking caused by traditional static stamping, thus significantly improving the forming quality. Furthermore, the working end of the forming die 31 is detachable, specifically through a threaded connection, which allows the forming die 31 to be replaced with forming cavities 311 of different shapes, and also allows the forming die 31 to open its working end cavity to replace and adjust the vibrator. Correspondingly, the working end of the supporting die 33 is also set to be detachable to keep the forming die 31 and the supporting die 33 matched.

[0088] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the heating assembly comprises a heating wire 361 and a heat insulation layer 362. The heating wire 361 is fixed to the cavity wall of the forming die 31, specifically located on the side near the forming cavity 311. The heat insulation layer 362 is applied to the outside of the heating wire 361, thus isolating the heating wire 361 from the vibrator. During the narrowing process of the microtube 1, the heating assembly heats the working end of the forming die 31, thereby locally heating the head of the microtube 1. The heated microtube 1 exhibits enhanced fluidity, a more uniform narrowing shape, and reduces defects such as uneven wall thickness or surface wrinkles.

[0089] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the support component 4 includes a support plate 41 and the carrier 42 mentioned above. The support plate 41 provides tail support for the microtube 1, and the carrier 42 provides peripheral support for the microtube 1. In conjunction with the forming die 31 and the support die 33 mentioned above, during the narrowing process of the microtube 1, the forming die 31 presses against the head of the microtube 1, while the support die 33, the carrier 42, and the support plate 41 respectively support the inner wall of the microtube opening, the outer periphery of the tube, and the tail of the tube. This effectively prevents deformation of non-target areas of the microtube 1 during the narrowing process, improving processing accuracy and product consistency. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, a first clearance hole 411 is provided on the first preset position of the support plate 41, and the support mold head 33 can enter the interior of the microtube 1 through the first clearance hole 411 and abut against the inner wall of the opening of the microtube 1 when the microtube narrows. The third driving component is fixed on the support plate 41 to control the support mold head 33 to enter and exit from the forming tube 22.

[0090] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the feeding mechanism 5 includes a fourth drive component, a high-pressure air nozzle 52, a micro-tube 1 recovery tube, and a carrier 42 recovery tube. The fourth drive component controls the precise movement of the forming tube 22 between multiple preset stations, thereby automating the processing, feeding, and carrier 42 recovery process. The high-pressure air nozzle 52 rapidly blows the processed micro-tube 1 out of the forming tube 22 by injecting high-pressure gas, achieving contactless and efficient feeding. The micro-tube 1 recovery tube receives and guides the micro-tube 1 blown out of the forming tube 22, transporting it orderly to a collection device or the next process. The carrier 42 recovery tube recovers the carrier 42 used to fix the micro-tube 1, enabling the recycling of the carrier 42 and reducing production costs.

[0091] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the fourth drive component includes a carrier plate 511 and a slide-table linear motor. The structure of the slide-table linear motor is as described above and will not be repeated here. The carrier plate 511 is vertically arranged and fixedly connected to the moving end of the slide-table linear motor. A clamping plate 512 is provided on one side of the carrier plate 511, and the forming tube 22 is fixed to one side of the carrier plate 511 via the clamping plate 512. Furthermore, the clamping plate 512 is connected to the carrier plate 511 by multiple bolts to facilitate adjustment of the forming tube 22. Furthermore, grooves suitable for engaging the forming tube 22 are formed on the carrier plate 511 and the clamping plate 512 to prevent displacement of the forming tube 22. In the initial position, the carrier plate 511 can move the forming tube 22 to the first preset position, so that the forming tube 22 can receive the micro tube 1 from the magazine 21. At the same time, in this position, one side outlet of the forming tube 22 corresponds to the first clearance opening on the support plate 41. The first drive component directly drives the forming die head 31, and the second drive component 32 directly drives the support die head 33 to enter and exit the forming tube 22, completing the narrowing of the micro tube 1.

[0092] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, a fifth drive assembly is provided on the rear side of the support plate 41. The fifth drive assembly includes a servo motor and a connecting rod. The servo motor is fixed to the rear side of the support plate 41, and the output shaft of the servo motor is perpendicular to the support plate 41. One end of the connecting rod is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the servo motor. The connecting rod is parallel to the support plate 41 and perpendicular to the output shaft of the servo motor. When the servo motor is working, it can drive the free end of the connecting rod to perform circular motion. Furthermore, the high-pressure air nozzle 52 is located on the side of the support plate 41 away from the fifth drive assembly. An arc-shaped clearance hole 5111 is provided on the support plate 41. The free end of the connecting rod is fixedly connected to the high-pressure air nozzle 52, so that the servo motor can drive the high-pressure air nozzle 52 to perform circular motion in the arc-shaped clearance hole 5111, and allow the high-pressure air nozzle 52 to enter and exit from the feed port of the forming tube 22. The outlet of the high-pressure air nozzle 52 is set towards the support plate 41. When the high-pressure air nozzle 52 enters the forming tube 22, the high-pressure air nozzle 52 can blow air into the forming tube 22, thereby blowing out the micro tube 1 and the carrier 42 in the forming tube 22 step by step or simultaneously.

[0093] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, a second clearance hole 412 and a third clearance hole 413 are respectively provided at the second and third preset positions of the support plate 41. The first clearance hole 411, the second clearance hole 412, and the third clearance hole 413 are located on the same horizontal line, and their diameters increase sequentially, so that the first clearance hole 411, the second clearance hole 412, and the third clearance hole 413 allow the support die head 33, the microtube 1, and the carrier 42 to pass through respectively. In conjunction with the above, the fourth drive assembly can connect to the forming tube 22 and carry the forming tube 22 to the first, second, and / or third preset positions of the support plate 41, thereby sequentially completing the processes of microtube 1 necking, microtube 1 unloading, and carrier 42 unloading.

[0094] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, the microtube 1 recovery tube is connected to the second clearance hole 412 of the support plate 41 to receive the microtube 1. The high-pressure air nozzle 52 blows air into the forming tube 22, so that under the action of unilateral air pressure and the limitation of the diameter of the second clearance hole, the narrowed microtube 1 is separated from the carrier 42 and blown into the microtube 1 recovery tube, while the carrier 42 remains in the forming tube 22.

[0095] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, the carrier 42 recovery tube is connected to the third clearance hole 413 of the support plate 41 to receive the carrier 42. The high-pressure air nozzle 52 blows air into the forming tube 22, so that under the action of unilateral air pressure, the carrier 42 is separated from the forming tube 22 and blown into the carrier 42 recovery tube.

[0096] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the positioning detection mechanism is used to detect at least one of the following:

[0097] At the first preset position, the coaxiality of the support mold head 33, micro tube 1, forming tube 22 and forming mold head 31 is detected;

[0098] At the second preset position, the coaxiality of the forming tube 22 and the second clearance hole 412 is detected;

[0099] At the third preset position, the coaxiality of the forming tube 22 and the third clearance hole 413 is detected.

[0100] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, the positioning detection mechanism adopts a high-precision grating ruler, which works in conjunction with the linear motor of the fourth drive component. The ruler body 61 of the grating ruler is horizontally mounted on the support plate 41 along the moving path of the forming tube 22. The reading head of the grating ruler is fixed on the carrier plate 511. The position signal is fed back to the controller of the linear motor in real time through the reading head, so as to realize the high-precision position switching of the forming tube 22 by the fourth drive component.

[0101] Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, the control system 7 is a computer with an operation panel and a display screen for controlling the operation of other mechanisms and displaying their working status. Furthermore, the control system 7 is electrically connected to the first drive assembly, the second drive assembly 32, the third drive assembly, the fourth drive assembly, the positioning detection mechanism, the vibration assembly 35, the heating assembly, and the high-pressure air nozzle 52, and controls the operation of the first drive assembly, the second drive assembly 32, the third drive assembly, the fourth drive assembly, the positioning detection mechanism, the vibration assembly 35, the heating assembly, and the high-pressure air nozzle 52.

[0102] In a second aspect of the invention, a microtube processing method using the aforementioned automatic microtube narrowing device for probes is also provided, comprising the following steps:

[0103] S1. The fourth drive assembly moves the forming tube 22 to the first preset position of the support plate 41. The first drive assembly pushes the micro tube 1 from the magazine 21 into the forming tube 22. The micro tube 1 passes through the tail support of the support plate 41 and the periphery support of the carrier 42 in the forming tube 22.

[0104] S2. The second drive component drives the forming die head 31 to move toward the microtube 1. The third drive component drives the support die head 33, which cooperates with the forming die head 31, to enter the microtube 1 from the tail end of the microtube 1 and position and press the head of the microtube 1 from both the inside and outside.

[0105] The vibration component 35 is used to generate high-frequency vibration when the forming die head is pressed against the head of the microtube. The heating component is used to heat the head of the microtube 1. With the double-sided pressing of the forming die head 31 and the support die head 33, the head of the microtube 1 is formed into a preset constricted shape.

[0106] The driving molding head 31 and the supporting mold head 33 are reset;

[0107] S3. Under the positioning of the positioning detection mechanism, the fourth drive component moves the forming tube 22 to the second preset position of the support plate 41, the fifth drive component moves the high-pressure nozzle into the forming tube 22, the high-pressure nozzle 52 introduces high-pressure gas into the forming tube 22, and blows the micro tube 1 from the forming tube 22 into the micro tube recovery tube, the high-pressure nozzle 52 is closed and reset by the fifth drive component.

[0108] S4. Under the positioning of the positioning detection mechanism, the fourth drive component moves the forming tube 22 to the third preset position of the support plate 41, the fifth drive component moves the high-pressure air nozzle 52 into the forming tube 22, the high-pressure air nozzle 52 introduces high-pressure gas into the forming tube 22, and blows the carrier 42 from the forming tube 22 into the carrier recovery tube, the high-pressure air nozzle 52 closes and is reset by the fifth drive component.

[0109] Under the positioning and detection mechanism, the fourth drive component moves the forming tube 22 back to the first preset position of the support plate 41, and repeats the above steps to perform the next micro-tube narrowing operation.

[0110] 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. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and variations to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if these modifications and variations of the invention fall within the scope of the invention's technical solutions and their equivalents, the invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An automatic tapering device for precision microtubes used for probes, characterized in that, It includes a feeding mechanism, a necking mechanism, a support assembly, and a discharging mechanism, wherein: The feeding mechanism includes a cartridge containing microtubes, a forming tube that provides working space for the microtubes to narrow, and a first drive assembly that pushes the microtubes from the cartridge into the forming tube. The narrowing mechanism includes a forming die head that presses against the head of the microtube and a second driving component that drives the forming die head to move toward and / or away from the microtube; the narrowing mechanism also includes a supporting die head that supports the inner wall of the microtube opening and a third driving component that drives the supporting die head to enter and exit from the tail of the microtube; the supporting die head cooperates with the forming die head to position and press against the head of the microtube from both inside and outside, so that the head of the microtube forms a preset narrowing shape; The support assembly includes a support plate for abutting the tail end of the microtube and a carrier pre-installed on the outer periphery of the microtube; a first clearance hole is provided at a first preset position of the support plate, and the support mold head is movably accommodated in the first clearance hole; After being supported at the tail end of the support plate, supported at the periphery of the carrier, and pressed against the head of the forming die in the forming tube, the microtube forms a head narrowing. The feeding mechanism includes a fourth drive assembly, a high-pressure air nozzle, a micro-tube recovery tube, and a carrier recovery tube, wherein: The fourth drive component is connected to the forming tube and carries the forming tube to the first preset position, the second preset position and / or the third preset position of the support plate; A high-pressure nozzle is used to introduce high-pressure gas into the forming tube to blow the microtube out of the forming tube. The support plate has a second clearance hole at a second preset position that allows a microtube to pass through, and a third clearance hole at a third preset position that allows a carrier to pass through; The microtube recovery tube is connected to the second clearance hole of the support plate to receive the microtube; The vehicle recovery pipe communicates with the third clearance hole of the support plate to receive the vehicle.

2. The automatic tapering device for precision microtubes for probes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The magazine has a feed trough for the microtubes to move side by side; A forming tube is located at the end of the material trough, and a positioning cavity for forming microtubes is formed inside the forming tube; The first drive assembly is connected to the magazine to drive the microtube to move within the feed trough.

3. The automatic tapering device for precision microtubes for probes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the forming die has a forming cavity of a preset shape so that the head of the microtube is formed into a preset constricted shape after being pressed. The second drive component is connected to the forming die head to control the movement of the forming die head.

4. The automatic tapering device for precision microtubes for probes according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The third drive assembly is fixed to the support plate and connected to the support mold head to drive the support mold head to extend out from the first clearance hole, enter and exit the microtube from the tail end of the microtube, and abut against the inner wall of the microtube opening when the end narrows.

5. The automatic tapering device for precision microtubes for probes according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, It also includes a positioning detection mechanism connected to the fourth drive component, for detecting at least one of the following: At the first preset position, the coaxiality of the support mold head, microtube, forming tube and forming mold head is detected; At the second preset position, the coaxiality of the forming tube and the second clearance hole is detected; At the third preset position, the coaxiality of the forming tube and the third clearance hole is detected.

6. The automatic tapering device for precision microtubes for probes according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The narrowing mechanism also includes a vibration component connected to the forming die head, so that the forming die head generates high-frequency vibration when it presses against the head of the microtube.

7. A microtube fabrication method using the automatic reduction device for precision microtubes for probes according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Move the forming tube to the first preset position of the support plate. The first drive component pushes the micro tube from the cartridge box into the forming tube. The micro tube passes through the tail support of the support plate and the periphery support of the carrier in the forming tube. S2. The second drive component drives the forming die head to move toward the microtube. After the microtube passes the head of the forming die head and is pressed, the head narrows. S3. Move the forming tube to the second preset position of the support plate and recycle the microtube; S4. Move the forming tube to the third preset position of the support plate and reclaim the carrier; Move the forming tube back to the first preset position of the support plate and repeat the above steps.

8. The microtube fabrication method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The necking mechanism also includes a vibration component connected to the forming die head, so that the forming die head generates high-frequency vibration when it presses against the head of the microtube; Step S2 also includes: The drive and forming die head, which cooperates with the support die head, enter the microtube from the tail end to position and press the head of the microtube from both the inside and outside. The vibration component is used to make the forming die head vibrate at high frequency when it presses against the head of the microtube, so that the head of the microtube forms a preset constriction shape. Drive the forming die head and support die head to reset.

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