A vertical assembly apparatus for a shock absorber fork bracket

Abstract

The application discloses a vertical assembly equipment for a front fork support of a shock absorber, which comprises a shock absorber positioning device, a front fork support positioning device, a tightening device, a spreading component and a top platform; the shock absorber positioning device is used for supporting the shock absorber and making the mounting part of the shock absorber face upward; the front fork support positioning device is used for positioning the front fork support, making the shock absorber connecting part of the front fork support face downward and the side opening of the front fork support face backward; the tightening device comprises a tightening gun and a stop component which are oppositely arranged and are used for aligning and tightening the connecting part; the spreading component is arranged behind the front fork support positioning device, and the spreading part of the spreading component can be inserted into the side opening to spread the shock absorber connecting part; a corresponding device is arranged on the top platform, and the top platform is connected with a lifting driving mechanism and can drive the whole to lift, so that the spread connecting part is sleeved on the shock absorber mounting part. The equipment realizes the automation and accurate control of the assembly process, and improves the assembly quality, efficiency and data traceability.

Description

A vertical assembly device for a shock absorber fork bracket Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of shock absorber manufacturing technology, and in particular to a vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket. Background Technology

[0002] In the suspension system of automobiles, motorcycles and other vehicles, the fork bracket of the shock absorber is a key component that connects the shock absorber to the vehicle body, and its assembly quality directly affects the vehicle's driving safety and comfort. Figure 2 shows the fully assembled shock absorber assembly, including shock absorber A and fork bracket B. The structure of fork bracket B is shown in Figure 1. Shock absorber A has a mounting part A1 for mounting the fork bracket. The two opposite ends of fork bracket B are shock absorber connection part B1 and vehicle body connection part B2, respectively. Shock absorber connection part B1 has a through-hole connecting cavity B11 with a side opening. Shock absorber connection part B1 has two opposite tightening walls B12. The side opening B111 is located between the two tightening walls B12. The side opening B111 is used to provide assembly allowance when shock absorber connection part B1 is fitted onto mounting part A1. After the fitting is completed, high-strength bolts C are installed on the two tightening walls B12 and tightened to eliminate the assembly allowance, thereby achieving tight fitting of shock absorber connection part B1 onto mounting part A1.

[0003] Currently, the assembly of the shock absorber fork bracket with the above-mentioned structure mainly involves manual tightening (using a wrench or power tool) after the two major components are connected and high-strength bolts are installed. This assembly method relies on the operator's experience, and the torque fluctuates greatly (the error can reach ±20% or more), which can easily lead to some bolts being overtightened or undertightened, resulting in uneven stress on the bracket, which may cause deformation or stress concentration. At the same time, the assembly efficiency is low, with a single component taking ≥60 seconds to assemble, and it is difficult to trace the tightening data. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an assembly device for a shock absorber fork bracket that is stable to assemble and has high assembly efficiency.

[0005] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows:

[0006] A vertical assembly device for a shock absorber fork bracket includes:

[0007] A shock absorber positioning device is used to position and support the shock absorber and to ensure that the mounting part of the shock absorber faces upward.

[0008] A fork support positioning device is used to position the fork support and to position the shock absorber connection of the fork support downward and its side opening backward.

[0009] The tightening device includes a tightening gun and a stop assembly arranged at intervals. The tightening gun is located on one side of the front fork bracket positioning device and is used to align the head of the nut or bolt mounted on the shock absorber connection. The stop assembly is located on the other side of the front fork bracket positioning device and is used to align and stop the corresponding bolt or nut. The tightening gun and the stop assembly are driven by a drive component to move closer or further apart from each other.

[0010] The spreading assembly is located behind the front fork bracket positioning device. The spreading assembly includes a spreading actuator for fitting into the side opening of the front fork bracket. The spreading actuator has a first spreading part and a second spreading part that can move relative to each other. After the spreading actuator is inserted into the side opening, the first spreading part and the second spreading part can be driven to move away from each other, thereby spreading the side opening open and expanding the connecting cavity.

[0011] The top platform, fork bracket positioning device, tightening device and spreading component are all set on the top platform. The top platform is connected to a lifting drive mechanism for driving its lifting and lowering, so as to drive the fork bracket positioning device, tightening device and spreading component to lift and lower synchronously, so that the spread shock absorber connection part is sleeved downward onto the shock absorber mounting part.

[0012] The shock absorber positioning device includes a positioning tray, on which a positioning seat for positioning and supporting the shock absorber is provided, and the positioning seat is detachably mounted on the positioning tray.

[0013] It also includes a support base for supporting the positioning tray, on which the positioning tray can be detachably placed.

[0014] The shock absorber positioning device also includes an angle adjustment mechanism, which is used to adjust the attitude of the shock absorber before the top platform, along with the fork bracket positioning device, tightening device, and spreading assembly, descends, so that the mounting part of the shock absorber matches and is installed at a predetermined angle with the shock absorber connection part of the fork bracket.

[0015] The angle adjustment mechanism includes:

[0016] The mounting bracket can be lifted and lowered on the equipment frame via a lifting drive;

[0017] The support base is rotatably mounted on the mounting bracket;

[0018] A rotary drive component, which is connected to the support base in a transmission manner, is used to drive the support base to rotate;

[0019] The supporting base is provided with a clearance portion for the support seat to pass through upwards;

[0020] The lifting drive has a lowered clearance position and an upper working position; when in the clearance position, the positioning tray rests on the support base; when in the working position, the mounting bracket rises, causing the support seat to move upward through the clearance part and lift the positioning tray, separating the positioning tray from the support base and forming a torque-transmitting connection with the lower part of the positioning tray, thereby driving the support seat to rotate the positioning tray and the shock absorber on it through the rotation drive component.

[0021] A support mechanism is also provided between the mounting frame and the equipment frame to support and lock the mounting frame after it is raised;

[0022] The support mechanism includes two support blocks that can move toward each other or in opposite directions, and two support walls are provided at the bottom of the mounting frame. When the mounting frame is raised, the two support blocks move toward each other and are supported under the corresponding support walls.

[0023] It also includes a clamping mechanism for clamping and securing the main body of the shock absorber on the positioning seat after the angle adjustment mechanism has completed the angle adjustment of the shock absorber and before the top platform begins to descend.

[0024] The fork bracket positioning device can move back and forth relative to the top platform.

[0025] The fork bracket positioning device includes:

[0026] The positioning part is provided with a retractable positioning pin and a first driver for driving the positioning pin to extend and retract; when the front fork bracket is placed in a preset position, the positioning pin is controlled to automatically extend and insert into the connecting hole of the vehicle body connection part of the front fork bracket; after the front fork bracket and the shock absorber are assembled, the positioning pin is controlled to automatically retract.

[0027] The clamping part is used to limit and clamp the front fork bracket from the rear and front.

[0028] The clamping part includes:

[0029] The limiting component has a limiting part for abutting against a specific position at the rear end of the fork bracket;

[0030] The clamping assembly includes a second driver and a pressure plate driven by the second driver for clamping the front end of the fork bracket from the front.

[0031] The first and second support parts are respectively positioned vertically and vertically, and can be inserted together into the side opening of the front fork bracket;

[0032] The first support section is connected to a linear drive mechanism, which can move left and right in the horizontal direction; the front end of the second support section is provided with a relief groove to avoid bolts and prevent interference.

[0033] In actual operation, after the actuator is inserted into the side opening, the linear drive mechanism drives the first opening part to move away from the second opening part. Through the relative separation of the upper and lower contact parts, the side opening is horizontally opened, thereby expanding the connecting cavity.

[0034] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this invention are as follows: Through a fully automated and integrated design encompassing precise positioning, automatic opening, collaborative fitting, and servo tightening, it systematically solves the core problems of inaccurate torque control, unstable assembly quality, low production efficiency, and lack of data traceability inherent in traditional manual assembly. It not only significantly improves product assembly quality and production efficiency but also provides a reliable hardware foundation for building digital and automated intelligent manufacturing units through modular and flexible design. Specifically:

[0035] (1) An automatic tightening device (servo tightening gun + active stop component) is adopted to replace the traditional manual tightening that relies entirely on human labor. It can accurately control the torque and avoid over-tightening or under-tightening caused by differences in human operation. Furthermore, key parameters such as torque and angle during the tightening process can be recorded and stored in real time, enabling full-process traceability and analysis of assembly quality.

[0036] (2) The design incorporates a multi-axis collaborative positioning and execution system, including shock absorber angle adjustment, precise positioning of the fork bracket, automatic insertion of the extension part, and synchronous lifting and sleeve connection of the top platform. This system enables high-precision automatic alignment and assembly, effectively improving the reliability and efficiency of assembly. The assembly efficiency can be increased by at least 100%. Among them, the angle adjustment mechanism and precise mechanical positioning ensure that the shock absorber mounting part and the fork bracket connection part are perfectly matched in terms of spatial angle and position. This system has good versatility and allows the entire set of equipment to be adapted to the assembly of different types of shock absorbers and fork brackets. The extension part can precisely control the opening amount of the connection part, and the top platform can smoothly press down to achieve sleeve connection, avoiding damage to components caused by brute force or misalignment.

[0037] (3) The multiple independent processes such as positioning, spreading, alignment, fitting, and tightening are integrated into one equipment platform—the top platform. The design of interchangeable parts (such as detachable positioning seats and limit plates) and the ability to integrate with the production line are introduced to form an integrated and flexible intelligent assembly unit. The time spent on handling and waiting for workpieces between multiple workstations is eliminated, further shortening the production cycle. The support base can be seamlessly connected with the automated conveyor line, making it easy to integrate into the production line of a modern intelligent factory. By replacing a few parts such as positioning seats and limit plates, it can be adapted to the production of different models of products, enhancing the flexibility of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of one type of front fork bracket in this invention;

[0039] Figure 2 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the fully assembled shock absorber assembly in this invention;

[0040] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the overall three-dimensional structure of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 is an enlarged structural diagram of point F in Figure 3;

[0042] Figure 5 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the front fork bracket being positioned and installed on the shock absorber positioning device in this invention.

[0043] Figure 6 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the positioning tray and the angle adjustment mechanism in the present invention when they are in the avoidance position.

[0044] Figure 7 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the angle adjustment mechanism in the present invention when it is in the working position;

[0045] Figure 8 is a partial schematic diagram of the structure of the expansion component in this invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0047] As shown in the figure, a vertical assembly device for a shock absorber front fork bracket includes:

[0048] The shock absorber positioning device 1 is used to position and support the shock absorber A, and to make the mounting part A1 of the shock absorber A face upward.

[0049] The fork bracket positioning device 2 is used to position the fork bracket B and make the shock absorber connection part B1 of the fork bracket B face downward and its side opening B111 face backward.

[0050] The tightening device includes a tightening gun 3 and a stop assembly 4 arranged at intervals opposite to each other. The tightening gun 3 is located on one side of the front fork bracket positioning device 2 and is used to align the head of the nut D or bolt C mounted on the shock absorber connection part B1. The stop assembly 4 is located on the other side of the front fork bracket positioning device 2 and is used to align and stop the corresponding bolt C or nut D. The tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 are driven to move closer or further apart from each other by a driving component (not shown in the figure).

[0051] The spreading assembly 5 is located behind the front fork bracket positioning device 2. The spreading assembly includes a spreading actuator for fitting into the side opening B111 of the front fork bracket B. The spreading actuator has a first spreading part 51 and a second spreading part 52 that can move relative to each other. After the spreading actuator is inserted into the side opening B111, the first spreading part 51 and the second spreading part 52 can be driven to move away from each other, thereby spreading the side opening B111 open and expanding the connecting cavity B11.

[0052] The top platform 6, the fork bracket positioning device 2, the tightening device and the spreading component 5 are all set on the top platform 6. The top platform 6 is connected to a lifting drive mechanism 61 for driving its lifting and lowering, so as to drive the fork bracket positioning device 2, the tightening device and the spreading component 5 to lift and lower synchronously, thereby causing the spread shock absorber connection part B1 to be sleeved downward onto the installation part A1 of the shock absorber A.

[0053] In this specific embodiment, the driving component used to drive the tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 to move closer or further apart is a servo electric cylinder or a precision cylinder in conjunction with a linear movement mechanism.

[0054] In this specific embodiment, the shock absorber positioning device 1 includes a positioning tray 11, on which a positioning seat 12 for positioning and supporting the shock absorber A is provided. The positioning seat 12 is detachably mounted on the positioning tray 11. The detachable design of the positioning seat 12 allows the same equipment to adapt to different models and sizes of shock absorbers A by quickly replacing positioning seats 12 of different specifications. This greatly enhances the versatility of the equipment and the flexibility of the production line, eliminating the need for dedicated equipment for each product, reducing equipment investment costs, and shortening changeover time. Simultaneously, as the component that directly contacts the shock absorber A, the positioning seat 12 can be designed and manufactured with high precision for specific products. The detachable connection ensures consistent positioning accuracy for each installation, avoiding accuracy degradation caused by direct adjustment or wear. Furthermore, damaged or worn positioning seats 12 can be replaced individually, making maintenance convenient and cost-effective.

[0055] In this specific embodiment, a support base 10 for supporting the positioning tray 11 is also included, and the positioning tray 11 is detachably placed on the support base 10.

[0056] In this specific embodiment, the shock absorber positioning device 1 further includes an angle adjustment mechanism 7, which is used to adjust the posture of the shock absorber A before the top platform 6 descends with the fork bracket positioning device 2, tightening device and spreading assembly 5, so that the mounting part A1 of the shock absorber A matches and is installed with the shock absorber connection part B1 of the fork bracket B at a predetermined angle.

[0057] In this specific embodiment, the angle adjustment mechanism 7 includes:

[0058] Mounting bracket 71 is flexibly mounted on equipment rack E via lifting drive 72;

[0059] The support base 73 is rotatably mounted on the mounting bracket 71;

[0060] The rotary drive component 74 is connected to the support base 73 for driving the support base 73 to rotate;

[0061] The supporting base 10 is provided with a clearance portion 101 for the support seat 73 to pass through upward;

[0062] The lifting drive 72 has a lowered clearance position and an upper working position; when in the clearance position, the positioning tray 11 rests on the support base 10; when in the working position, the mounting bracket 71 rises, causing the support seat 73 to move upward through the clearance portion 101 and lift the positioning tray 11, separating the positioning tray 11 from the support base 10 and forming a torque-transmitting connection with the lower part of the positioning tray 11, thereby driving the support seat 73 to rotate the positioning tray 11 together with the shock absorber A on it through the rotation drive component 74.

[0063] The aforementioned angle adjustment mechanism 7 has clearly defined avoidance and working positions, and achieves spatial passage through the avoidance part 101. In the avoidance position, the mechanism descends completely, allowing the support base 10 to freely carry and transport the workpiece, with zero interference from the material flow process during angle adjustment. In the working position, the mechanism rises, passes through the avoidance part 101, actively grabs and lifts the workpiece to remove it from the conveying platform, and then performs rotational adjustment. This resolves the contradiction between fixed adjustment mechanisms hindering workpiece flow and the inability to stably adjust flowing workpieces, achieving physical decoupling and temporal parallelism between the positioning adjustment process and the material conveying process in a fully automated production line. The torque of the rotary drive component 74 is directly and seamlessly transmitted to the positioning tray 11 through the support seat 73, avoiding slippage, lag, or accuracy loss that may occur through friction or indirect transmission. The rigid connection ensures the stability of the shock absorber A during rotation, allowing it to be precisely controlled to a predetermined angle, laying the foundation for subsequent high-precision fitting. Furthermore, this design can withstand the weight of the workpiece and the tray, and provides sufficient support rigidity during adjustment. In the working position, the support seat 73 and the lower part of the positioning tray 11 form a torque-transmitting connection, resulting in direct power transmission, a compact structure, and efficient and reliable operation. Employing a combined action of "direct lifting" and "rotation in place," all adjustments are completed within the same vertical cylindrical space, eliminating the need for additional horizontal movement mechanisms and resulting in a compact equipment layout. Both lifting and rotation are directly controlled by corresponding drives, ensuring fast response and accurate positioning. "Lifting and separating" and "forming a connection" are natural results of the mechanism's upward movement, requiring no additional complex clamping or locking steps, thus ensuring high reliability.

[0064] In this specific embodiment, the lifting driver 72 is a lifting drive cylinder, and the rotary drive component 74 is a servo motor. The cylinder provides linear motion, with fast start-stop speed and strong power, enabling it to quickly lift or lower the heavy mounting bracket 71 and workpiece into position, shortening auxiliary time. The servo motor provides rotary motion, with a wide speed range, smooth low-speed operation, and strong overload capacity, enabling it to drive the load rotation smoothly and accurately. It also has a self-locking function, allowing it to hold at any position without the need for an additional braking mechanism. The combination of the two results in a rapid lifting and precise rotation of the entire adjustment mechanism, with a short overall cycle time and good dynamic performance.

[0065] In this specific embodiment, the support base 10 is a movable conveying platform. When the angle adjustment mechanism 7 is in the clearance position, the conveying platform carries and fixes the positioning pallet 11. When angle adjustment is required, the conveying platform remains stationary, and the angle adjustment mechanism 7 rises to the working position. After assembly, the conveying platform, carrying the positioning pallet 11 and the shock absorber A with the front fork bracket B assembled, moves away from the workstation and flows to the next workstation. Designing the support base 10 as a movable conveying platform (such as a conveyor line or AG docking station) upgrades this assembly equipment from an "island-like" workstation to an intelligent module in an automated production line. It can automatically receive materials, accurately position them, perform assembly, and automatically deliver finished products, realizing the automatic flow of workpieces between workstations. This significantly reduces manual handling and waiting time, providing a key technical foundation for building a high-efficiency, unmanned continuous flow production line.

[0066] In this specific embodiment, a positioning post 731 is provided on the support base 73 protruding upwards, and a corresponding positioning hole 111 is provided on the positioning tray 11 for the positioning post 731 to extend into for positioning and installation. The positioning structure is simple and the positioning and installation are stable.

[0067] In this specific embodiment, a support mechanism is also provided between the mounting frame 71 and the equipment frame E for supporting and locking the mounting frame 71 after it is raised;

[0068] The support mechanism includes two support blocks 75 that can move toward each other or away from each other, and two support walls 712 are provided at the lower part of the mounting frame 71. When the mounting frame 71 is raised, the two support blocks 75 move toward each other and are supported under the corresponding support walls 712.

[0069] The aforementioned support mechanism provides a rigid mechanical lock after the mounting frame 71 is raised, through two opposing support blocks 75. It has multiple core advantages: First, it achieves intrinsic safety, absolutely preventing the frame from falling even if the lifting power fails; second, it provides a stable reference with zero drift for high-precision angle adjustment and assembly, completely eliminating the risk of elastic deformation of the pneumatic system; at the same time, this design ensures that the lifting cylinder is only subjected to force at the moment of action, greatly reducing its long-term pressure holding load and wear, and extending the service life of key components.

[0070] In this specific embodiment, the opposing or backward movement of the two support blocks 75 is achieved by a servo electric cylinder or a precision cylinder in conjunction with a linear guide mechanism.

[0071] In this specific embodiment, a clamping mechanism 8 is also included, which is used to clamp and fix the main body of the shock absorber A on the positioning seat 12 after the angle adjustment mechanism 7 has completed the angle adjustment of the shock absorber A and before the top platform 6 begins to descend.

[0072] In this specific embodiment, the clamping mechanism 8 is located behind the shock absorber positioning device 1. The mounting base (not shown in the figure) supporting the clamping mechanism 8 is fixed to the equipment frame E. To achieve the goal of first avoiding obstacles and then clamping, the main body of this mechanism is designed to move back and forth as a whole. Specifically, it includes:

[0073] The horizontal drive unit, usually a cylinder or servo electric cylinder, is fixed on the mounting base, and its push rod axis is set along the front-to-back direction (the direction of approaching / moving away from the shock absorber A);

[0074] The movable frame is connected to the push rod of the horizontal drive unit to drive it to perform forward and backward linear motion;

[0075] The clamping execution unit includes:

[0076] A pair of opposing jaws 83, the inner contour of which matches the cylindrical surface or specific shape of the main body (rigid outer cylinder) of the shock absorber A, which is usually lined with a scratch-resistant soft material.

[0077] The gripper drive, typically a double-acting cylinder or electric gripper, is used to drive a pair of grippers 83 to perform synchronized clamping and opening actions.

[0078] During the loading and angle adjustment phase of shock absorber A, the clamping mechanism 8 retracts to a clearance position, providing ample space for the placement and rotation of shock absorber A and ensuring zero interference. After the angle adjustment mechanism 7 completes its work, the clamping mechanism 8 moves forward to the predetermined working position, so that a pair of grippers 83 are precisely positioned on both sides of the main body of shock absorber A. The gripper drive activates, driving the pair of grippers 83 to close synchronously, firmly gripping the main body of shock absorber A from both sides and completely fixing it. Throughout the entire process of the top platform 6 descending, engaging, tightening, and resetting, the clamping mechanism 8 remains in a clamping state. After all assembly actions are completed, the grippers 83 first open, and then the entire clamping mechanism 8 retracts to the rear clearance position, making room for the transfer or removal of the next workpiece.

[0079] In this specific embodiment, the fork support positioning device 2 can move back and forth relative to the top platform 6. This achieves spatial separation between the assembly station and the loading / avoidance station. In the "front position," the device is in the open loading area, facilitating safe and convenient placement and positioning of the fork support B by manual labor or a robotic arm. After completion, it moves to the "rear position," entering the assembly work area and precisely aligning with the shock absorber A in front to perform subsequent spreading, fitting, and tightening actions. This stroke separation effectively avoids interference between the loading operation and the shock absorber A below and the tightening device above, ensuring both operational safety and efficiency, and ensuring that all executing components work in an orderly manner within a compact space, optimizing equipment layout and cycle time.

[0080] In this specific embodiment, the fork support positioning device 2 is driven to move back and forth as a whole by a servo electric cylinder or a precision cylinder in conjunction with a linear guide mechanism.

[0081] In this specific embodiment, the front fork bracket positioning device 2 includes:

[0082] The positioning part is provided with a retractable positioning pin 21 and a first driver 22 for driving the positioning pin 21 to extend and retract; when the front fork bracket B is placed in a preset position, the positioning pin 21 is controlled to automatically extend and insert into the connection hole B21 of the vehicle body connection part B2 of the front fork bracket B; after the front fork bracket B and the shock absorber A are assembled, the positioning pin 21 is controlled to automatically retract.

[0083] The clamping part is used to limit and clamp the fork bracket B from the rear and front.

[0084] The clamping part includes:

[0085] The limiting component has a limiting part for abutting against a specific position at the rear end of the fork bracket B;

[0086] The clamping assembly includes a second driver 24 and a pressure plate 25 driven by the second driver 24 for clamping the front end of the fork bracket B from the front.

[0087] The aforementioned front fork bracket positioning device 2 achieves high-precision, fully automatic, and reliable clamping through a coordinated design of positioning, limiting, and clamping. The automatic telescopic positioning pin 21 of the positioning unit utilizes the existing holes in the vehicle body connection part B2 for precise positioning, ensuring a consistent reference and minimal error. The limiting and clamping components of the clamping unit form stable constraints from both the rear and front directions, effectively preventing workpiece displacement or wobbling during subsequent assembly. The entire process is automatically completed by the actuator without manual intervention, ensuring not only the consistency and reliability of the assembly but also significantly improving clamping efficiency and automation levels, providing a solid foundation for subsequent high-precision assembly processes.

[0088] In this specific embodiment, the limiting part includes a limiting plate 23, and a limiting protrusion 231 is provided on the limiting plate 23.

[0089] In this specific embodiment, the limiting part is detachable to adapt to limiting different types of front fork brackets B.

[0090] In this specific embodiment, the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 are respectively arranged vertically and vertically, and can be inserted together into the side opening B111 of the front fork bracket B.

[0091] The first expansion part 51 is connected to a linear drive mechanism, which can move left and right in the horizontal direction; the front end of the second expansion part 52 is provided with a relief groove 521 to avoid bolts and prevent interference.

[0092] In actual operation, after the actuator is inserted into the side opening B111, the linear drive mechanism drives the first opening part 51 to move away from the second opening part 52. Through the relative separation of the upper and lower contact parts, the side opening B111 is horizontally opened, thereby expanding the connecting cavity B11. The avoidance groove 521 is used to avoid the bolt C pre-assembled on the tightening wall B12 of the fork bracket B, so that the second opening part 52 can be inserted between the two tightening walls B12 of the fork bracket B without interference, and the first opening part 51 can be directly inserted without the bolt C.

[0093] In this specific embodiment, the spreading component 5 is driven by a cylinder to move back and forth, so as to achieve the overall forward and backward movement.

[0094] In this specific embodiment, the position of the spreading component 5 can be adjusted up and down to adapt to the tightening wall B12 set at different height positions on different front fork bracket B products.

[0095] In this specific embodiment, the tightening gun 3 preferably adopts a servo electric tightening shaft, which has precise torque and angle control functions, mainly including:

[0096] Tighten the shaft body, with a sleeve 31 at the front end that matches the head of the nut D or bolt C;

[0097] The first linear drive mechanism, typically a servo electric cylinder or a precision pneumatic cylinder, is used to drive the entire tightening gun 3 forward or backward in the horizontal direction.

[0098] Stop component 4 is an actuator with active drive and precise alignment functions, including:

[0099] The stop shaft has a stop sleeve 41 at its front end that matches the shape (usually hexagonal head) of the bolt C or nut D, which is used to hold the fastener in place to prevent it from rotating.

[0100] The second linear drive mechanism, which is opposite to and synchronously arranged with the first linear drive mechanism, is used to drive the stop shaft to move in the horizontal direction.

[0101] Under the control of the equipment's control system, the tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 work together in a precise timing sequence as follows:

[0102] Step 1: Synchronous alignment and clamping. After the front fork bracket B is positioned and the shock absorber connection part B1 on it is opened and sleeved onto the mounting part A1 of the shock absorber A, the control system simultaneously starts the first and second linear drive mechanisms. The tightening gun 3 and the stop component 4 move towards each other until the corresponding sleeves are accurately sleeved onto the fasteners (such as the head of bolt C and nut D).

[0103] Step 2: Tightening is performed. The stop assembly 4 maintains axial clamping pressure and locks the rotational freedom of its stop shaft. At the same time, the tightening gun 3 starts to rotate and tightens the bolt C-nut D pair to the process requirements with the preset torque and angle program.

[0104] Step 3: Synchronous retraction. After tightening is completed, the tightening gun 3 stops rotating, and the two linear drive mechanisms move in opposite directions synchronously, so that the tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 retract together to the initial safe position, making room for the next cycle or the top platform 6 to rise.

[0105] The overall assembly process is as follows:

[0106] Phase 1: Workpiece Preparation and Positioning

[0107] (1) Loading and angle pre-adjustment of shock absorber A: The positioning tray 11 carrying shock absorber A is sent to the assembly station by the conveying platform and is precisely positioned and paused; the angle adjustment mechanism 7 is started, the mounting frame 71 is lifted and locked, the support seat 73 lifts the tray and shock absorber A, and the servo motor drives it to rotate to the required angle; then, the clamping mechanism 8 moves forward to clamp the main body of shock absorber A.

[0108] (2) Loading and clamping of front fork bracket B: The front fork bracket B is placed on the front fork bracket positioning device 2 by manual or robotic arm. The positioning pin 21 on the positioning part automatically extends and inserts into the connecting hole B21 of the vehicle body connecting part B2 of the front fork bracket B. The rear end is abutted by the limiting plate 23 and the front end is pressed by the pressure plate 25 to complete the clamping. At this time, the front fork bracket positioning device 2 is located at the front loading position.

[0109] Phase Two: Pre-assembly and Alignment

[0110] (3) Bolt C pre-installation and opening: The operator or auxiliary equipment inserts the high-strength bolt C into the mounting hole B121 of the front fork bracket B tightening wall B12 and pre-tightens the nut D (not tightened); the front fork bracket positioning device 2 moves back to the assembly position; the opening actuator of the opening assembly 5 moves forward as a whole, and its corresponding first opening part 51 and second opening part 52 are simultaneously inserted into the side opening B111 between the two tightening walls B12; then, the linear drive mechanism drives the first opening part 51 to move away from the second opening part 52 (generally horizontally), and through the relative movement of the two, the connecting cavity B11 on the front fork bracket B is expanded;

[0111] (4) System ready: The two drive cylinders of the tightening device are activated, causing the tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 to move in opposite directions, making enough assembly space available;

[0112] Third stage: Connecting and final tightening

[0113] (5) Synchronous connection: The lifting drive mechanism 61 of the top platform 6 is started, driving the top platform 6 and all the components integrated on it to descend synchronously and smoothly; the expanded shock absorber connection part B1 is precisely connected downward to the mounting part A1 of the shock absorber A which has been adjusted in angle.

[0114] (6) Retraction of the expansion component 5: After the sleeve is completed, the entire expansion component 5 is pulled back by the cylinder, which drives the expansion actuator to exit between the two tightening walls B12, thereby releasing the expansion force on the shock absorber connection part B1.

[0115] (7) Tightening execution: The two drive cylinders of the tightening device move synchronously, driving the tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 to move towards each other, so that the corresponding sleeves are accurately fitted into the head of bolt C and nut D respectively; the stop assembly 4 locks nut D or bolt C, and the tightening gun 3 rotates according to the preset program to tighten the bolt C-nut D pair to the specified torque.

[0116] (8) Reset of actuator: After tightening, the tightening gun 3 and the stop assembly 4 retract; the clamping assembly and the positioning part are released; the clamping mechanism 8 is released and retracts; the angle adjustment mechanism 7 drives the positioning tray 11 to rotate back to the initial angle position, the support block 75 of the angle adjustment mechanism 7 is retracted, the mounting frame 71 is lowered, so that the assembled assembly falls back to the conveying platform.

[0117] Phase 4: Finished Product Circulation

[0118] (9) Offline and transfer: The conveying platform restarts and transports the positioning pallet 11, which carries the assembled shock absorber A-fork bracket B assembly, to the next station (such as the inspection or packaging station), while preparing for the next workpiece to be assembled.

Claims

1. A vertical assembly device for a shock absorber front fork bracket, characterized in that, include: A shock absorber positioning device is used to position and support the shock absorber, ensuring the mounting part of the shock absorber faces upwards; a front fork bracket positioning device is used to position the front fork bracket, ensuring the shock absorber connection part of the front fork bracket faces downwards and its side opening faces rearwards; a tightening device includes a tightening gun and a stop assembly arranged at intervals opposite each other. The tightening gun is located on one side of the front fork bracket positioning device and is used to align the head of the nut or bolt mounted on the shock absorber connection part. The stop assembly is located on the other side of the front fork bracket positioning device and is used to align and stop the corresponding bolt or nut; the tightening gun and the stop assembly are driven by a drive component to move closer or further apart; a spreading assembly is located behind the front fork bracket positioning device. The spreading assembly includes a spreading actuator for fitting into the side opening of the fork bracket. The spreading actuator has a first spreading part and a second spreading part that can move relative to each other. After the spreading actuator is inserted into the side opening, the first spreading part and the second spreading part can be driven to move away from each other, thereby spreading the side opening and expanding the connecting cavity. The top platform, the fork bracket positioning device, the tightening device and the spreading assembly are all set on the top platform. The top platform is connected to a lifting drive mechanism for driving its lifting and lowering, so as to drive the fork bracket positioning device, the tightening device and the spreading assembly to lift and lower synchronously, thereby allowing the spread shock absorber connecting part to be sleeved downward onto the shock absorber mounting part.

2. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 1, characterized in that... The shock absorber positioning device includes a positioning tray, on which a positioning seat for positioning and supporting the shock absorber is provided, and the positioning seat is detachably mounted on the positioning tray.

3. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 2, characterized in that... It also includes a support base for supporting the positioning tray, on which the positioning tray can be detachably placed.

4. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 3, characterized in that... The shock absorber positioning device also includes an angle adjustment mechanism, which is used to adjust the attitude of the shock absorber before the top platform, along with the fork bracket positioning device, tightening device, and spreading assembly, descends, so that the mounting part of the shock absorber matches and is installed at a predetermined angle with the shock absorber connection part of the fork bracket.

5. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 4, characterized in that... The angle adjustment mechanism includes: a mounting bracket, which is movably mounted on the equipment frame via a lifting drive; a support base, which is rotatably mounted on the mounting bracket; a rotary drive component, which is connected to the support base for driving the support base to rotate; a support base having a clearance portion for the support base to pass through upwards; the lifting drive component having a lowering clearance position and an upward working position; when in the clearance position, the positioning tray rests on the support base; when in the working position, the mounting bracket rises, causing the support base to move upwards through the clearance portion, lifting the positioning tray and separating it from the support base, and forming a torque-transmitting connection with the lower part of the positioning tray, thereby driving the support base to rotate along with the positioning tray and the shock absorber on it via the rotary drive component.

6. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 5, characterized in that... A support mechanism is also provided between the mounting frame and the equipment frame to support and lock the mounting frame after it is raised; the support mechanism includes two support blocks that can move towards or away from each other, and two support walls are provided at the bottom of the mounting frame; when the mounting frame is raised, the two support blocks move towards each other and are supported under the corresponding support walls.

7. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 4, characterized in that... It also includes a clamping mechanism for clamping and securing the main body of the shock absorber on the positioning seat after the angle adjustment mechanism has completed the angle adjustment of the shock absorber and before the top platform begins to descend.

8. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber fork bracket as described in claim 1, characterized in that... The fork bracket positioning device can move back and forth relative to the top platform.

9. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber front fork bracket as described in claim 1, characterized in that... The fork support positioning device includes: a positioning part, which is provided with a retractable positioning pin and a first actuator for driving the positioning pin to extend and retract; when the fork support is placed in a preset position, the positioning pin is controlled to automatically extend and insert into the connecting hole of the vehicle body connection part of the fork support; after the fork support and the shock absorber are assembled, the positioning pin is controlled to automatically retract; a clamping part, which is used to limit and press the fork support from the rear and the front; the clamping part includes: a limiting component, which has a limiting part for abutting against a specific position at the rear end of the fork support; a pressing component, which includes a second actuator and a pressure plate driven by the second actuator, for pressing the front end of the fork support from the front.

10. The vertical assembly equipment for a shock absorber fork bracket as described in claim 1, characterized in that... The first and second expansion parts are respectively arranged vertically and vertically, and can be inserted into the side opening of the front fork bracket together; the first expansion part is connected to a linear drive mechanism, which can move left and right in the horizontal direction; the front end of the second expansion part is provided with a relief groove to avoid bolts and prevent interference; in specific operation, after the expansion actuator is inserted into the side opening, the linear drive mechanism drives the first expansion part to move away from the second expansion part, and through the relative separation of the upper and lower contact parts, the side opening is horizontally expanded, thereby expanding the connecting cavity.

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