A terminal assembly for a wire end connector

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of electric connector manufacturing, in particular to a terminal assembly machine for a wire end connector, which comprises a sliding base, a terminal strip moving mechanism, a terminal inserting mechanism, a left / right terminal cutting mechanism and a power unit, all of which are provided with synchronous driving force by the power unit to cooperatively complete the full-process automatic assembly of terminal moving from the strip, preliminary insertion, cutting and final pressing. The terminal strip moving mechanism is responsible for moving the terminal strip, and under the action of the power unit, the moving action is accurately synchronized with the moving action of the insulating base, so that the terminal is preliminarily inserted into the insulating base; subsequently, the power unit drives the left / right terminal cutting mechanism to cooperatively act, so that the terminal is accurately separated from the strip and stably retained in the insulating base; finally, the power unit continues to drive the terminal inserting mechanism to further press the cut terminal into position. The single power unit accurately synchronizes the speed control and action time sequence of each mechanism, effectively avoids the deviation or separation of the terminal from the base during assembly, and optimizes the assembly fit of the terminal and the insulating base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical connector manufacturing technology, and in particular to a terminal assembly machine for wire connectors. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of automated assembly of online connectors, the assembly of terminals and insulating bases requires multiple processes such as "terminal material transfer - alignment - insertion - cutting". The rationality of process sequence and the synchronization of mechanism drive are the key to ensuring product yield and production efficiency.

[0003] Currently, while mainstream automated equipment can complete the aforementioned processes, its core design still suffers from the following problems: 1) Most equipment employs a "press-in first, cut later" process. This means that after initial insertion, the terminals are directly pressed into place by the terminal insertion mechanism, and then the terminal cutting mechanism cuts the terminal strip. Under this process, the impact force during cutting can easily cause the pressed-in terminals to shift or even detach from the insulating base, requiring additional correction steps. This not only increases the production cycle but also results in a high product defect rate. 2) The terminal strip transfer mechanism, terminal insertion mechanism, and left / right terminal cutting mechanism mostly rely on independent power modules, lacking unified synchronous control. This can lead to speed deviations between the terminal strip transfer and the insulating base alignment, causing initial insertion misalignment. Furthermore, it causes a disconnect between the timing of the cutting mechanism and the preceding insertion mechanism, further exacerbating the terminal misalignment problem. Moreover, the maintenance cost of independent power modules is high, and the calibration of multiple module parameters is complex, making it difficult to adapt to rapid production changes for different connector specifications.

[0004] In summary, technical personnel are urgently needed to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a terminal assembly machine for wire connectors, which aims to solve the problems of unreasonable process sequence in existing designs, terminal misalignment and separation caused by the use of a press-fit-then-cut process, alignment deviation and timing disconnect caused by the core mechanism relying on an independent power module drive and lacking synchronous control, as well as high equipment maintenance costs and difficulty in adapting to wire connector specification switching.

[0006] This invention relates to a terminal assembly machine for wire connectors, comprising a sliding base, a terminal strip transfer mechanism, a terminal insertion mechanism, a left-side terminal cutting mechanism, a right-side terminal cutting mechanism, and a power unit. The terminal strip transfer mechanism, terminal insertion mechanism, left-side terminal cutting mechanism, and right-side terminal cutting mechanism are all mounted on the sliding base and are all synchronously driven by the power unit to achieve automated terminal assembly. The terminal strip transfer mechanism is used to transfer the terminal strip, and its movement is synchronized with the transfer of the insulating base under the driving force from the power unit. After the terminal strip is aligned with the insulating base, the terminal strip transfer mechanism initially inserts the terminal into the insulating base. After the initial insertion, the power unit drives the left-side and right-side terminal cutting mechanisms to work together to detach the terminal from the terminal strip and retain it in the insulating base. Subsequently, the power unit drives the terminal insertion mechanism to further press the cut terminal into place.

[0007] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the power unit includes a left-mounted support frame, a right-mounted support frame, a left-mounted bearing, a right-mounted bearing, a transmission shaft, a left-mounted cam transmission mechanism, a left-mounted eccentric wheel transmission mechanism, a right-mounted eccentric wheel transmission mechanism, and a right-mounted cam transmission mechanism; the left-mounted support frame and the right-mounted support frame are both fixedly installed on the sliding base and arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction; the left-mounted bearing and the right-mounted bearing are respectively mounted on the left-mounted support frame and the right-mounted support frame, and the two cooperate to load the transmission shaft; the left-mounted cam transmission mechanism, the left-mounted eccentric wheel transmission mechanism, and the right-mounted eccentric wheel transmission mechanism are... Both the right-side cam transmission mechanism and the left-side cam transmission mechanism are driven by a transmission shaft and move synchronously with the rotation of the transmission shaft. The left-side cam transmission mechanism is connected to the left-side terminal cutting mechanism to drive the left-side terminal cutting mechanism to perform the cutting action. The left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism is connected to the terminal insertion mechanism to drive the terminal insertion mechanism to perform the pressing action. The right-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism is connected to the terminal strip transfer mechanism to drive the terminal strip transfer mechanism to perform the initial insertion action of the terminal. The right-side cam transmission mechanism is connected to the right-side terminal cutting mechanism to drive the right-side terminal cutting mechanism to perform the cutting action.

[0008] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the left-position cam transmission mechanism and the right-position cam transmission mechanism have the same design structure; the left-position cam transmission mechanism includes a cylindrical irregular cam disk, a left-position follower wheel group, and a right-position follower wheel group; the cylindrical irregular cam disk is sleeved and fixed to the transmission shaft, and its outer peripheral wall is provided with an irregular contour surface that undulates in the circumferential direction; the left-position follower wheel group and the right-position follower wheel group are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the cylindrical irregular cam disk, and at least one of them is in contact with the cylindrical irregular cam disk; during the process of the cylindrical irregular cam disk performing circumferential rotational motion with the transmission shaft, the irregular contour surface applies a lateral thrust to the left-position follower wheel group or the right-position follower wheel group, so that the left-position follower wheel group and the right-position follower wheel group perform reciprocating motion synchronously, and the two cooperate to drive the left-position terminal cutting mechanism to perform terminal cutting action.

[0009] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the left-position terminal cutting mechanism includes a first sliding seat, a first blade holder, an upper cutting blade, a lower cutting blade, an upper elastic element, and a lower elastic element; the first sliding seat is mounted on a sliding base and slides in the left-right direction, while simultaneously being driven to the left and right follower wheel sets; the first blade holder is driven to the first sliding seat and, due to the lateral thrust from the first sliding seat, performs a reciprocating motion in the left-right direction; both the upper and lower cutting blades are mounted on the first blade holder and are arranged side-by-side along the height direction; wherein, the upper elastic element is mounted on the first blade holder and the upper cutting blade... Between the blades, the upper cutting blade and the first blade holder form a non-rigid connection; the lower elastic element is installed between the first blade holder and the lower cutting blade, forming a non-rigid connection between the lower cutting blade and the first blade holder; before the first blade holder moves to align with the terminal strip to be cut and officially performs the cutting action, the upper and lower cutting blades are simultaneously approached by the drag force from the first blade holder, and elastically pressed against the same side of the terminal strip under the elastic force of the upper and lower elastic elements respectively; subsequently, in coordination with the right-side terminal cutting mechanism, the terminals on the terminal strip are cut off from the terminal strip body by the cutting force applied simultaneously on both sides.

[0010] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the first cutter holder includes a base body and an elastic element mounting base; the base body is directly connected to the first sliding base; the elastic element mounting base is fixed as a whole with the base body as the mounting base; along its height direction, the elastic element mounting base is simultaneously formed with an upper mounting hole for inserting an upper elastic element and a lower mounting hole for inserting a lower elastic element; on the side facing the elastic element mounting base, the upper cutting blade is formed with an upper insertion hole for inserting an upper elastic element, and the lower cutting blade is formed with a lower insertion hole for inserting a lower elastic element.

[0011] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the right-positioned terminal cutting mechanism includes a second sliding seat, a second blade holder, and a right-positioned cutting blade; the second sliding seat is mounted on a sliding base and is directly driven by a right-positioned cam transmission mechanism; the second blade holder is driven and transmitted to the second sliding seat, and performs a reciprocating motion in the left and right directions due to the lateral thrust from the second sliding seat; the right-positioned cutting blade is mounted on the second blade holder and is fixed as one piece.

[0012] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the left-positioned eccentric wheel transmission mechanism and the right-positioned eccentric wheel transmission mechanism have the same design structure; the left-positioned eccentric wheel transmission mechanism includes an eccentric wheel, a front follower wheel group, and a rear follower wheel group; the eccentric wheel is sleeved and fixed to the transmission shaft, wherein the axis of the eccentric wheel has a preset eccentric distance with the axis of the transmission shaft, and performs eccentric motion synchronously with the circumferential rotation of the transmission shaft; the front follower wheel group and the rear follower wheel group are respectively arranged on the front and rear sides of the rim of the eccentric wheel, and at least one of them is in contact with the eccentric wheel; during the process of the eccentric wheel performing circumferential rotational motion with the transmission shaft, by applying a lateral thrust to the front follower wheel group or the rear follower wheel group, the front follower wheel group and the rear follower wheel group perform reciprocating motion synchronously, and the two cooperate to drive the terminal insertion mechanism to perform pressing action.

[0013] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the terminal insertion mechanism includes a third sliding seat and a push rod; the third sliding seat is mounted on a sliding base and is simultaneously connected to the front follower wheel group and the rear follower wheel group for transmission; the push rod is mounted on the third sliding seat; during the process of the third sliding seat performing reciprocating sliding motion in the front-back direction, the push rod moves synchronously with it: when the third sliding seat slides towards the terminal strip, the push rod can approach the terminal that has been cut, and its end presses against the top of the terminal, further pressing the terminal into the preset mounting position of the insulating adhesive base; when the third sliding seat slides away from the terminal strip, the push rod moves away synchronously with it, returning to the initial position, preparing for the next pressing action.

[0014] As a further improvement to the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the terminal insertion mechanism further includes a fourth sliding seat and a rear elastic member; the fourth sliding seat rests on top of the third sliding seat and slides freely relative to the third sliding seat in the front-back direction, and serves as the direct mounting base for the push rod; the rear elastic member is installed between the third sliding seat and the fourth sliding seat and is arranged along the sliding direction of the fourth sliding seat; when the third sliding seat slides towards the terminal strip, causing the fourth sliding seat and the push rod to approach the terminal that has been cut, the end of the push rod first contacts the top of the terminal, and as the third sliding seat continues to slide, the fourth sliding seat slides in the opposite direction relative to the third sliding seat and compresses the rear elastic member; the rear elastic member generates elastic force during the compression process, which is transmitted to the push rod through the fourth sliding seat, causing the push rod to apply an elastic pressing force to the terminal; when the third sliding seat slides away from the terminal strip, the rear elastic member releases the elastic force, pushing the fourth sliding seat and the push rod to reset, preparing for the next elastic pressing action.

[0015] As a further improvement of the technical solution disclosed in this invention, the terminal strip transfer mechanism includes a fifth sliding seat and a terminal strip alignment component; the fifth sliding seat is mounted on a sliding base and is directly driven by a right-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism; the terminal strip alignment component is mounted on the fifth sliding seat and is fixed as one piece; along its height direction, the terminal strip alignment component has a terminal strip passage groove formed on it for the terminal strip to pass through freely.

[0016] In practical applications, the wire-end connector terminal assembly machine disclosed in this invention can achieve at least the following beneficial technical effects, specifically: 1) After the terminal is initially inserted into the insulating base by the terminal strip transfer mechanism, the left and right terminal cutting mechanisms work together to precisely cut it from the terminal strip and stably retain it in the insulating base. Then, the terminal insertion mechanism performs the subsequent pressing action. In this way, on the one hand, it ensures that the cutting process only acts on the terminal strip and does not generate additional impact force on the initially positioned terminal, effectively preventing the terminal from shifting or detaching from the insulating base during assembly; on the other hand, the terminal pressing action is connected after the cutting, further optimizing the assembly fit while maintaining the stable posture of the terminal. From the process logic level, this ensures the assembly accuracy of the wire connector, thereby significantly reducing the product defect rate. 2) A single power unit serves as the core drive source, synchronously controlling the movements of four core components: the terminal strip transfer mechanism, the terminal insertion mechanism, the left-side terminal cutting mechanism, and the right-side terminal cutting mechanism. On one hand, the power unit can precisely adjust the speed matching between the terminal strip transfer mechanism and the insulating adhesive base transfer, ensuring synchronous alignment and providing a precise positional basis for initial terminal insertion. On the other hand, it can strictly control the timing of key actions such as cutting and pressing, ensuring that each mechanism operates in an orderly manner according to the process of "transfer-alignment-initial insertion-cutting-pressing," avoiding delays or misalignments. Furthermore, a single power unit eliminates the need for multi-module parameter calibration, simplifying equipment control logic, reducing operational difficulty, and minimizing the risk of downtime due to multiple power source failures, thus improving equipment operational stability. 3) The terminal strip transfer mechanism, terminal insertion mechanism, left-side terminal cutting mechanism, and right-side terminal cutting mechanism all use a sliding base as a unified mounting foundation, forming independent and standardized modular units. Each module is connected to the power unit via a transmission mechanism, giving the equipment strong flexibility and adaptability. That is, when different specifications of wire connectors need to be produced, only the compatible module needs to be replaced, without large-scale modifications to the power unit and the overall equipment structure, significantly shortening the changeover cycle and meeting the needs of multi-category production. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention 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 the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the terminal assembly machinery for the wire connector disclosed in this invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram from another perspective of the terminal assembly machinery for the wire connector disclosed in this invention.

[0020] Figure 3 This is also a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the terminal assembly machinery for the wire connector disclosed in this invention (with part of the left-side terminal cutting mechanism and part of the terminal strip transfer mechanism hidden).

[0021] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the terminal strip transfer mechanism in the terminal assembly machinery for wire connectors disclosed in this invention.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram from one perspective of the terminal insertion mechanism in the terminal assembly machinery for wire connectors disclosed in this invention.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram from another perspective of the terminal insertion mechanism in the terminal assembly machinery for wire connectors disclosed in this invention.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the left-side terminal cutting mechanism in the terminal assembly machine for the wire connector disclosed in this invention.

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The front view.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the right-side terminal cutting mechanism in the terminal assembly machine for the wire connector disclosed in this invention.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the power unit in the terminal assembly machine for the wire connector disclosed in this invention.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the power unit in the terminal assembly machine for the wire connector disclosed in this invention, from another perspective.

[0029] 1-Sliding base; 2-Terminal strip transfer mechanism; 21-Fifth sliding base; 22-Terminal strip alignment component; 221-Terminal strip passing groove; 3-Terminal insertion mechanism; 31-Third sliding base; 32-Push rod; 33-Fourth sliding base; 34-Rear elastic element; 4-Left terminal cutting mechanism; 41-First sliding base; 42-First cutter holder; 421-Base body; 422-Elastic element mounting base; 43-Upper cutting blade; 44-Lower cutting blade; 45-Upper elastic element; 46-Lower elastic element; 5-Right terminal cutting mechanism; 51-Second sliding seat; 52-Second blade holder; 53-Right-positioned cutting blade; 6-Power unit; 61-Left-positioned support frame; 62-Right-positioned support frame; 63-Left-positioned bearing; 64-Right-positioned bearing; 65-Drive shaft; 66-Left-positioned cam transmission mechanism; 661-Cylindrical irregular cam disk; 662-Left-position follower wheel assembly; 663-Right-position follower wheel assembly; 67-Left-positioned eccentric wheel transmission mechanism; 671-Eccentric wheel; 672-Front-position follower wheel assembly; 673-Rear-position follower wheel assembly; 68-Right-positioned eccentric wheel transmission mechanism; 69-Right-positioned cam transmission mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. Figures 1-3The diagram shows the structure of the connector terminal assembly machine disclosed in this invention. It is mainly composed of a sliding base 1, a terminal strip transfer mechanism 2, a terminal insertion mechanism 3, a left-side terminal cutting mechanism 4, a right-side terminal cutting mechanism 5, and a power unit 6. The terminal strip transfer mechanism 2, terminal insertion mechanism 3, left-side terminal cutting mechanism 4, and right-side terminal cutting mechanism 5 are all mounted on the sliding base 1, and all four are synchronously driven by the power unit 6, working together to achieve automated terminal assembly. This structural approach solves the problem of disjointed process sequences and poor synchronization caused by independent control of multiple power modules in traditional equipment, laying the foundation for precise coordination in subsequent stages.

[0031] As described above, the power unit 6 is the core driving source for the synchronous operation of the equipment. For example... Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown, the power unit 6 mainly consists of several parts, including a left support frame 61, a right support frame 62, a left bearing 63, a right bearing 64, a drive shaft 65, a left cam drive mechanism 66, a left eccentric wheel drive mechanism 67, a right eccentric wheel drive mechanism 68, and a right cam drive mechanism 69. The left support frame 61 and the right support frame 62 are both fixedly installed on the sliding base 1 and are arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction, providing stable mounting support for the power unit 6. The left bearing 63 and the right bearing 64 are respectively mounted on the left support frame 61 and the right support frame 62, with their inner rings tightly fitting with the outer ring of the drive shaft 65, working together to load the drive shaft 65 and ensure the coaxiality accuracy of the drive shaft 65 during circumferential rotation. The left-mounted cam drive mechanism 66, the left-mounted eccentric wheel drive mechanism 67, the right-mounted eccentric wheel drive mechanism 68, and the right-mounted cam drive mechanism 69 are all connected by keys and fixed to the drive shaft 65, moving synchronously with the rotation of the drive shaft 65 to achieve precise power transmission.

[0032] It is worth noting that the correspondence between each transmission mechanism and the actuator is clear. Specifically, the left cam transmission mechanism 66 is connected to the left terminal cutting mechanism 4 to drive the left terminal cutting mechanism 4 to perform the cutting action; the left eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 67 is connected to the terminal insertion mechanism 3 to drive the terminal insertion mechanism 3 to perform the pressing action; the right eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 68 is connected to the terminal strip transfer mechanism 2 to drive the terminal strip transfer mechanism 2 to perform the initial insertion action of the terminal; and the right cam transmission mechanism 69 is connected to the right terminal cutting mechanism 5 to drive the right terminal cutting mechanism 5 to cooperate with the left terminal cutting mechanism 4 to perform the cutting action. By driving multiple mechanisms in linkage through a single transmission shaft 65, the equipment control logic is simplified and the operation difficulty is reduced. It also reduces the risk of downtime caused by multiple power source failures, significantly improves the stability of equipment operation, and ensures precise timing of each process, avoiding action delays or misalignments.

[0033] As Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown, the left-positioned cam drive mechanism 66 and the right-positioned cam drive mechanism 69 have the same design structure. Taking the left-positioned cam drive mechanism 66 as an example, it includes a cylindrical irregular cam disk 661, a left-position follower wheel set 662, and a right-position follower wheel set 663. The cylindrical irregular cam disk 661 is sleeved and fixed to the drive shaft 65, and its outer peripheral wall has an irregular contour surface (not shown in the figure) that undulates circumferentially. The curve accuracy of the irregular contour surface is ensured by high-precision machining. The left-position follower wheel set 662 and the right-position follower wheel set 663 are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the cylindrical irregular cam disk 661 through brackets, and both contain at least one high-precision bearing. At least one set of the left-position follower wheel set 662 and the right-position follower wheel set 663 is in contact with the cylindrical irregular cam disk 661. During the process of the cylindrical irregular cam disk 661 performing circumferential rotational motion with the transmission shaft 65, the irregular contour surface applies a lateral thrust to the left follower wheel set 662 or the right follower wheel set 663, converting the rotational motion into linear motion. This causes the left follower wheel set 662 and the right follower wheel set 663 to synchronously perform reciprocating motion in the left and right directions. The two work together to drive the left terminal cutting mechanism 4 to perform terminal cutting action. The transmission method ensures that the cutting action is responsive and the displacement is accurate, providing a guarantee for subsequent collaborative operation with the right terminal cutting mechanism 5.

[0034] Similarly, Figures 1-3 As shown, the left-side terminal cutting mechanism 4 serves as the left-side cutting execution component and cooperates with the left-side cam transmission mechanism 66. Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, the left-position terminal cutting mechanism 4 includes a first sliding seat 41, a first blade holder 42, an upper cutting blade 43, a lower cutting blade 44, an upper elastic element 45, and a lower elastic element 46. The first sliding seat 41 is mounted on the sliding base 1 via a linear guide pair and slides in the left-right direction, while simultaneously being driven by the left follower wheel set 662 and the right follower wheel set 663. The first blade holder 42 is driven by the first sliding seat 41 and, due to the lateral thrust from the first sliding seat 41, performs a reciprocating motion in the left-right direction, achieving high displacement accuracy. Both the upper cutting blade 43 and the lower cutting blade 44 are mounted on the first blade holder 42 and are arranged side-by-side along the height direction. The blades are made of high-strength, wear-resistant material and are heat-treated to ensure stable cutting performance.

[0035] Both the upper elastic element 45 and the lower elastic element 46 are made of high-quality elastic components. The upper elastic element 45 is installed between the first cutter holder 42 and the upper cutting blade 43, so that the upper cutting blade 43 and the first cutter holder 42 form a non-rigid connection. The lower elastic element 46 is installed between the first cutter holder 42 and the lower cutting blade 44, so that the lower cutting blade 44 and the first cutter holder 42 form a non-rigid connection. When the first cutter holder 42 moves to align with the position to be cut of the terminal strip and before the formal cutting action is performed, the upper cutting blade 43 and the lower cutting blade 44 are driven by the drag force from the first cutter holder 42 and synchronously approach the terminal strip. Under the elastic force of the upper elastic element 45 and the lower elastic element 46, they are elastically pressed against the same side of the terminal strip. Then, in coordination with the right-side terminal cutting mechanism 5, the terminals on the terminal strip are cut off from the main body of the terminal strip by the cutting force applied synchronously on both sides. In this way, the cutting process is ensured to act only on the terminal strip and will not exert additional impact on the terminals that have been initially inserted into the insulating base. This effectively prevents the terminals from shifting or falling off the insulating base during assembly and provides a stable terminal posture for subsequent pressing processes.

[0036] like Figure 7 As shown, the first tool holder 42 includes a base body 421 and an elastic element mounting seat 422. The base body 421 is made of lightweight and high-strength material and is formed by high-precision machining. It is directly connected to the first sliding seat 41 for transmission. The elastic element mounting seat 422 is based on the base body 421 and is fixed as a whole by a reliable connection method to ensure connection strength. Along its height direction, the elastic element mounting base 422 is simultaneously formed with an upper mounting hole (not shown in the figure) for mounting the upper elastic element 45 and a lower mounting hole (not shown in the figure) for mounting the lower elastic element 46; facing the side of the elastic element mounting base 422, the upper cutting blade 43 is formed with an upper insertion hole (not shown in the figure) for mounting the upper elastic element 45, while the lower cutting blade 44 is formed with a lower insertion hole (not shown in the figure) for mounting the lower elastic element 46. The depth of the insertion hole is sufficient to reserve space for the compression of the elastic element. The structural design ensures that the upper elastic element 45 and the lower elastic element 46 are installed firmly and function reliably, further ensuring the stability and accuracy of the cutting action.

[0037] Similarly, Figures 1-3 As shown, the right-side terminal cutting mechanism 5 and the left-side terminal cutting mechanism 4 are arranged symmetrically. Figure 9As shown, the right-side terminal cutting mechanism 5 includes a second sliding seat 51, a second blade holder 52, and a right-side cutting blade 53. The second sliding seat 51 is mounted on the sliding base 1 via a linear guide pair and is directly driven by the right-side cam transmission mechanism 69. The second blade holder 52 is fixed to the second sliding seat 51 and performs a reciprocating motion in the left-right direction due to the lateral thrust from the second sliding seat 51. The right-side cutting blade 53 is mounted on the second blade holder 52 and is fixed to it by screws. Its blade parameters are consistent with those of the cutting blade of the left-side terminal cutting mechanism 4, ensuring that the cutting actions on both sides are synchronized and the cutting effect is uniform. This avoids terminal deformation or displacement due to uneven cutting force on one side and further ensures the stability of the terminal remaining in the insulating adhesive base after cutting.

[0038] like Figure 10 , Figure 11 As shown, the left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 67 and the right-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 68 have the same design structure. Taking the left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 67 as an example, it includes an eccentric wheel 671, a front follower wheel set 672, and a rear follower wheel set 673. The eccentric wheel 671 is sleeved and fixed to the transmission shaft 65, wherein there is a preset eccentricity between its axis and the axis of the transmission shaft 65 (the eccentricity can be designed according to the stroke requirements of the actuator), and it performs eccentric motion synchronously with the circumferential rotation of the transmission shaft 65; the front follower wheel set 672 and the rear follower wheel set 673 are respectively arranged on the front and rear sides of the rim of the eccentric wheel 671 through brackets, and at least one of them is in contact with the rim of the eccentric wheel 671. During the process of the eccentric wheel 671 performing circumferential rotational motion with the transmission shaft 65, the eccentric rotational motion is converted into linear motion by applying a lateral thrust to the front follower wheel group 672 or the rear follower wheel group 673. This causes the front follower wheel group 672 and the rear follower wheel group 673 to synchronously perform reciprocating motion in the front-rear direction. The two work together to drive the terminal insertion mechanism 3 to perform the pressing action. The transmission method ensures that the pressing action stroke is accurate and the force is controllable, providing a guarantee for the accurate pressing of the terminal to the preset position of the insulating adhesive base.

[0039] like Figure 5 , Figure 6As shown, the terminal insertion mechanism 3, as a press-fitting actuator, cooperates with the left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 67. It includes a third sliding seat 31, a push rod 32, a fourth sliding seat 33, and a rear elastic element 34. The third sliding seat 31 is mounted on the sliding base 1 via a linear guide pair, and is simultaneously connected to the front follower wheel set 672 and the rear follower wheel set 673. The fourth sliding seat 33 rests on top of the third sliding seat 31 via another set of linear guide pairs, sliding freely relative to the third sliding seat 31 in the front-rear direction, and serves as the direct mounting base for the push rod 32. The push rod 32 is made of high-strength, wear-resistant material and is bolted to the fourth sliding seat 33. The rear elastic element 34 is also made of high-quality elastic material, installed in a spring seat between the third sliding seat 31 and the fourth sliding seat 33, and arranged along the sliding direction of the fourth sliding seat 33, having an initial pre-compression.

[0040] During the reciprocating sliding motion of the third sliding seat 31 along the front-back direction, the components work together: when the third sliding seat 31 slides towards the terminal strip, it drives the fourth sliding seat 33 and the push rod 32 to approach the terminal that has been cut. The end of the push rod 32 first contacts the terminal. As the third sliding seat 31 continues to slide, the fourth sliding seat 33 slides in the opposite direction to the third sliding seat 31 and compresses the rear elastic member 34. The rear elastic member 34 generates elastic force during the compression process, which is transmitted to the push rod 32 through the fourth sliding seat 33, so that the push rod 32 applies an elastic pressing force to the terminal. The elastic pressing method avoids the terminal deformation that may be caused by rigid pressing. At the same time, since the pressing action is connected after the cutting, the terminal maintains a stable posture, which can further optimize the assembly fit between the terminal and the insulating base. From the perspective of process logic and execution accuracy, it can jointly ensure the assembly accuracy of the wire connector and reduce the product defect rate. When the third sliding seat 31 slides away from the terminal strip, the rear elastic element 34 releases the elastic force, pushing the fourth sliding seat 33 and the push rod 32 back to the initial position, preparing for the next pressing action.

[0041] like Figure 4As shown, the terminal strip transfer mechanism 2 is used to transfer terminal strips, and it includes a fifth sliding seat 21 and a terminal strip straightening component 22. The fifth sliding seat 21 is mounted on the sliding base 1 via a linear guide pair, and is directly driven by the right-hand eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 68, allowing it to slide freely in the front-to-back direction. The terminal strip straightening component 22 is mounted on the fifth sliding seat 21 and is fixed together with bolts to ensure synchronous movement with the fifth sliding seat 21. Along its height direction, the terminal strip straightening component 22 has a terminal strip passage groove 221 formed on it for the terminal strip to pass through freely. The size of the passage groove 221 matches the thickness of the terminal strip, ensuring smooth transfer of the terminal strip and lateral straightening to prevent deviation during transfer. Driven by the power unit 6, the terminal tape transfer mechanism 2 and the insulating base transfer action are synchronized, thus ensuring accurate alignment between the two and providing a precise positional basis for the initial insertion of the terminal into the insulating base, avoiding misalignment due to alignment deviation. After the terminal tape and the insulating base are aligned, the terminal tape transfer mechanism 2 initially inserts the terminal into the insulating base, with the initial insertion depth leaving reasonable space for subsequent cutting and pressing.

[0042] Furthermore, the terminal strip transfer mechanism 2, terminal insertion mechanism 3, left-position terminal cutting mechanism 4, and right-position terminal cutting mechanism 5 all use the sliding base 1 as a unified mounting foundation, forming independent and standardized modular units. Each module is connected to the power unit 6 through a standardized transmission interface. The modular design gives the equipment strong flexibility and adaptability: when different specifications of wire connectors need to be produced, only the appropriate terminal strip straightening component 22, upper cutting blade 43, lower cutting blade 44, right-position cutting blade 53, and push rod 32 need to be replaced. There is no need for large-scale modifications to the power unit 6 and the overall equipment structure, which greatly shortens the production changeover cycle and effectively meets the industry's demand for multi-variety, small-batch production.

[0043] Based on the above-mentioned wire connector terminal assembly machinery, the insertion process steps for the wire connector terminals are as follows: S1. Material tape alignment and positioning: The terminal material tape passes through the terminal material tape passage groove 221 and is aligned by the limiting effect of the terminal material tape passage groove 221, correcting the material tape offset; at the same time, driven by the power unit 6, the terminal material tape transfer mechanism 2 and the insulating glue seat transfer action are synchronized, so that the aligned terminal material tape and the insulating glue seat insertion hole are precisely aligned, laying the positional foundation for the subsequent insertion process; S2. Initial Terminal Insertion: The right-hand eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 68 drives the fifth sliding seat 21 to move, causing the terminal strip alignment component 22 and the terminal strip to approach the insulating base, initially inserting the terminals on the strip into the insertion holes of the insulating base. The initial insertion depth leaves space for cutting and pressing to avoid interference with subsequent processes and the insulating base or terminals. S3. Double-sided synchronous cutting: The power unit 6 synchronously drives the left cam transmission mechanism 66 and the right cam transmission mechanism 69, which in turn drive the left terminal cutting mechanism 4 and the right terminal cutting mechanism 5 to operate. The cutting blades on both sides (including the upper cutting blade 43, the lower cutting blade 44 and the right cutting blade 53) synchronously approach the terminal strip and apply cutting force to cut the terminal from the strip body. During the cutting process, the upper elastic element 45 and the lower elastic element 46 belonging to the left terminal cutting mechanism 4 play a buffering role to prevent the terminal from shifting due to the cutting force and ensure cutting accuracy. S4. Elastic Press-fit Shaping: The left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism 67 drives the third sliding seat 31 of the terminal insertion mechanism 3 to move, causing the push rod 32 to approach the cut terminal. After the push rod 32 contacts the top of the terminal, the fourth sliding seat 33 slides relative to the third sliding seat 31 and compresses the rear elastic element 34. The elastic force generated by the rear elastic element 34 is transmitted to the terminal through the push rod 32, smoothly pressing the terminal into the preset position of the insulating adhesive base, completing the stable assembly; S5, Mechanism Reset Standby: Driven by the power unit 6, the terminal strip transfer mechanism 2, the terminal insertion mechanism 3, the left terminal cutting mechanism 4, and the right terminal cutting mechanism 5 are all reset to their initial positions; then, the terminal strip transfer mechanism 2 transfers the next section of terminal strip to be processed, the insulating rubber seat is transferred to the next station, and the equipment is ready to enter the next terminal insertion cycle.

[0044] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A terminal assembly machine for wire connectors, characterized in that, The system includes a sliding base, a terminal strip transfer mechanism, a terminal insertion mechanism, a left-side terminal cutting mechanism, a right-side terminal cutting mechanism, and a power unit. All four mechanisms—the terminal strip transfer mechanism, the terminal insertion mechanism, the left-side terminal cutting mechanism, and the right-side terminal cutting mechanism—are mounted on the sliding base and are synchronously driven by the power unit to achieve automated terminal assembly. The terminal strip transfer mechanism transfers the terminal strip and moves synchronously with the insulating base under the driving force of the power unit. After the terminal strip is aligned with the insulating base, the terminal strip transfer mechanism initially inserts the terminal into the insulating base. After initial insertion, the power unit drives the left-side and right-side terminal cutting mechanisms to work together to detach the terminal from the terminal strip and retain it in the insulating base. Subsequently, the power unit drives the terminal insertion mechanism to further press the cut terminal into place. The power unit includes a left support frame, a right support frame, a left bearing, a right bearing, a drive shaft, a left cam drive mechanism, a left eccentric wheel drive mechanism, a right eccentric wheel drive mechanism, and a right cam drive mechanism; the left support frame and the right support frame are both fixedly installed on the sliding base and are arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction; the left bearing and the right bearing are respectively mounted on the left support frame and the right support frame, and the two cooperate to load the drive shaft; The left-side cam drive mechanism, the left-side eccentric wheel drive mechanism, the right-side eccentric wheel drive mechanism, and the right-side cam drive mechanism are all driven by the drive shaft and move synchronously with the rotation of the drive shaft. Specifically, the left-side cam drive mechanism is connected to the left-side terminal cutting mechanism to drive the left-side terminal cutting mechanism to perform a cutting action; the left-side eccentric wheel drive mechanism is connected to the terminal insertion mechanism to drive the terminal insertion mechanism to perform a pressing action; the right-side eccentric wheel drive mechanism is connected to the terminal strip transfer mechanism to drive the terminal strip transfer mechanism to perform a preliminary terminal insertion action; and the right-side cam drive mechanism is connected to the right-side terminal cutting mechanism to drive the right-side terminal cutting mechanism to perform a cutting action.

2. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 1, characterized in that, The left-side cam drive mechanism and the right-side cam drive mechanism have the same design structure; the left-side cam drive mechanism includes a cylindrical irregular cam disk, a left-side follower wheel group, and a right-side follower wheel group; the cylindrical irregular cam disk is sleeved and fixed to the drive shaft, and its outer peripheral wall is provided with an irregular contour surface that undulates circumferentially; the left-side follower wheel group and the right-side follower wheel group are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the cylindrical irregular cam disk, and at least one of them is in contact with the cylindrical irregular cam disk; during the process of the cylindrical irregular cam disk performing circumferential rotational motion with the drive shaft, the irregular contour surface applies a lateral thrust to the left-side follower wheel group or the right-side follower wheel group, causing the left-side follower wheel group and the right-side follower wheel group to perform reciprocating motion synchronously, and the two cooperate to drive the left-side terminal cutting mechanism to perform terminal cutting action.

3. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 2, characterized in that, The left-position terminal cutting mechanism includes a first sliding seat, a first blade holder, an upper cutting blade, a lower cutting blade, an upper elastic element, and a lower elastic element. The first sliding seat is mounted on the sliding base and slides in the left-right direction, while being driven by the left and right follower wheel sets. The first blade holder is driven by the first sliding seat and performs a reciprocating motion in the left-right direction due to the lateral thrust from the first sliding seat. The upper and lower cutting blades are both mounted on the first blade holder and are arranged side-by-side along the height direction. The upper elastic element is installed between the first blade holder and the upper cutting blade, allowing the upper terminal to... The cutting blade forms a non-rigid connection with the first blade holder; the lower elastic element is installed between the first blade holder and the lower cutting blade, so that the lower cutting blade forms a non-rigid connection with the first blade holder; before the first blade holder moves to align with the terminal strip to be cut and officially performs the cutting action, the upper cutting blade and the lower cutting blade are synchronously approached by the drag force from the first blade holder, and elastically pressed against the same side of the terminal strip under the elastic force of the upper elastic element and the lower elastic element, respectively; subsequently, in coordination with the right-side terminal cutting mechanism, the terminals on the terminal strip are cut off from the main body of the terminal strip by the cutting force applied synchronously from both sides.

4. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first cutter holder includes a base body and an elastic element mounting base; the base body is directly connected to the first sliding base; the elastic element mounting base is fixed as a whole with the base body as the mounting base; along its height direction, the elastic element mounting base is simultaneously formed with an upper mounting hole for inserting the upper elastic element and a lower mounting hole for inserting the lower elastic element; on the side facing the elastic element mounting base, the upper cutting blade is formed with an upper insertion hole for inserting the upper elastic element, and the lower cutting blade is formed with a lower insertion hole for inserting the lower elastic element.

5. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 2, characterized in that, The right-positioned terminal cutting mechanism includes a second sliding seat, a second blade holder, and a right-positioned cutting blade; the second sliding seat is mounted on the sliding base and is directly driven by the right-positioned cam transmission mechanism; the second blade holder is driven and transmitted to the second sliding seat, and performs reciprocating motion in the left and right directions due to the lateral thrust from the second sliding seat; the right-positioned cutting blade is mounted on the second blade holder and is fixed as one piece.

6. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 1, characterized in that, The left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism and the right-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism have the same design structure; the left-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism includes an eccentric wheel, a front follower wheel group, and a rear follower wheel group; the eccentric wheel is sleeved and fixed to the transmission shaft, wherein the axis of the eccentric wheel has a preset eccentric distance from the axis of the transmission shaft, and performs eccentric motion synchronously with the circumferential rotation of the transmission shaft; the front follower wheel group and the rear follower wheel group are respectively arranged on the front and rear sides of the rim of the eccentric wheel, and at least one of them is in contact with the eccentric wheel; during the process of the eccentric wheel performing circumferential rotational motion with the transmission shaft, by applying a lateral thrust to the front follower wheel group or the rear follower wheel group, the front follower wheel group and the rear follower wheel group synchronously perform reciprocating motion, and the two cooperate to drive the terminal insertion mechanism to perform pressing action.

7. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 6, characterized in that, The terminal insertion mechanism includes a third sliding seat and a push rod. The third sliding seat is mounted on the sliding base and is simultaneously connected to the front follower wheel assembly and the rear follower wheel assembly. The push rod is mounted on the third sliding seat. During the reciprocating sliding motion of the third sliding seat in the front-back direction, the push rod moves synchronously with it. When the third sliding seat slides towards the terminal strip, the push rod approaches the cut terminal, and its end presses against the top of the terminal, further pressing the terminal into the preset mounting position of the insulating adhesive base. When the third sliding seat slides away from the terminal strip, the push rod moves away synchronously with it, returning to its initial position to prepare for the next pressing action.

8. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 7, characterized in that, The terminal insertion mechanism further includes a fourth sliding seat and a rear elastic element. The fourth sliding seat rests on top of the third sliding seat and slides freely relative to the third sliding seat in the front-back direction, serving as the direct mounting base for the push rod. The rear elastic element is installed between the third and fourth sliding seats and is arranged along the sliding direction of the fourth sliding seat. When the third sliding seat slides towards the terminal strip, causing the fourth sliding seat and the push rod to approach the cut terminal, the end of the push rod first contacts the terminal. As the third sliding seat continues to slide, the fourth sliding seat slides in the opposite direction relative to the third sliding seat and compresses the rear elastic element. The rear elastic element generates elastic force during compression, which is transmitted to the push rod through the fourth sliding seat, causing the push rod to apply an elastic pressing force to the terminal. When the third sliding seat slides away from the terminal strip, the rear elastic element releases the elastic force, pushing the fourth sliding seat and the push rod back to their original positions, preparing for the next elastic pressing action.

9. The terminal assembly machine for wire connectors according to claim 6, characterized in that, The terminal strip transfer mechanism includes a fifth sliding seat and a terminal strip alignment component; the fifth sliding seat is mounted on the sliding base and is directly driven by the right-side eccentric wheel transmission mechanism; the terminal strip alignment component is mounted on the fifth sliding seat and is fixed as a whole. Along its height direction, the terminal strip straightener has a terminal strip passage groove formed on it for the terminal strip to pass through freely.

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