Code printing method and system for mixing multiple processes in flexible production line

Abstract

The invention discloses a coding method and system for mixing multiple processes in a flexible production line, and belongs to the technical field of flexible production of automobile manufacturing. The method comprises the steps of code scanning, judgment, switching, code printing and detection, the whole process is unmanned, multi-process compatibility of laser, machinery and the like is achieved through a process database and machine head quick change, code printing parameters of all vehicle types are preset in the database, a machine head quick change interface is designed in a standardized mode and adapts to code printing machine heads of different manufacturers, and the requirement for quick change of the multiple vehicle types is met. According to the invention, the coding technology is automatically judged, the coding equipment is switched, parameters are automatically called for coding, and the coding quality is automatically detected and judged. And unmanned coding operation is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of flexible manufacturing technology in automobile manufacturing, specifically to an integrated coding method and system that adapts to multiple vehicle models and multiple coding processes (laser coding, mechanical coding, etc.), for the purpose of automating and flexibly coding the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the vehicle body, and is particularly suitable for flexible production lines that produce multiple vehicle models on the same line. Background Technology

[0002] In flexible automotive production lines, the VIN code marking requirements for different car models vary significantly: for example, Model A requires laser marking on the front crossbeam of the floor, Model B requires mechanical marking on the lower mounting plate, and Model C requires mechanical marking on the front crossbeam of the floor.

[0003] Existing technologies mainly meet the requirements through the following two solutions, but both have obvious drawbacks: A. Multi-station coding solution For different coding processes and locations, multiple independent coding stations (such as laser coding stations and mechanical coding stations) are set up on the production line. The car body flows through the corresponding station to complete the coding according to the car model.

[0004] B. Offline Captcha Solving Solution The car body parts are first sent offline to a fixed coding station to complete the VIN code coding, and then transferred to the production line for subsequent processes such as welding and assembly.

[0005] However, multi-station coding solutions require repeated investment in coding equipment (such as laser coding machines and mechanical coding machines) and supporting devices, increasing equipment investment for a single production line by 60%-80%; at the same time, each station requires 8-12㎡ of space, increasing the overall production line space by 30-50㎡, resulting in a significant increase in production and space costs.

[0006] When switching vehicle models, the multi-marking station solution requires adjustment of the conveyor line path and station parameters, which takes 1-2 hours and cannot meet the "rapid model changeover" requirements of flexible production lines. The offline marking solution adds parts storage and transfer links, increasing logistics time by 20-30 minutes per vehicle, and the marking area is easily damaged due to collisions during transfer, increasing the defect rate by 1.5%-2%.

[0007] Offline coding solutions require dedicated personnel to handle parts transfer, coding operations, and quality checks, increasing labor costs by 50%. Furthermore, offline coding data is disconnected from the production line execution system, which can easily lead to errors in VIN code entry, omissions, and other issues, making subsequent traceability difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a coding method and system for a flexible production line that integrates multiple processes.

[0009] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides a coding method in a flexible production line, comprising the following steps: Obtain the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded; If the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded is consistent with the current production vehicle model information configured on the production line, the coding head information required for the vehicle body to be coded is determined based on the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded. If the coding head information required for the vehicle body to be coded is consistent with the current coding head information currently mounted on the robot, the robot is controlled to use the current coding head to coded the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded; otherwise, the current coding head is replaced with the target coding head required for the vehicle body to be coded, and the VIN code is coded on the vehicle body to be coded.

[0010] Preferably, obtaining the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded includes the following steps: When the vehicle body to be coded is transported to the coding station, the vehicle body barcode is scanned by a barcode scanner to obtain the vehicle model information and vehicle tracking code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded; Based on the vehicle tracking code, obtain the VIN code to be printed from the production execution system.

[0011] Preferably, before obtaining the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded, the method further includes: The vehicle body to be marked is transported to the marking station via a conveyor line; When the front of the vehicle body to be marked triggers the entrance sensor located at the entrance of the marking station, the conveyor line is controlled to decelerate. When the rear end of the vehicle body to be coded triggers the entrance sensor located at the entrance of the coding station, the conveyor speed of the control line is reduced to 0, and the vehicle body to be coded is fixed.

[0012] Preferably, obtaining the VIN code to be printed from the production execution system based on the vehicle tracking code specifically includes the following steps: The production order database in the production execution system is queried based on the vehicle tracking code to match the corresponding VIN code to be printed.

[0013] Preferably, if the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be marked is consistent with the current production vehicle model information configured on the production line, the marking head information required for the vehicle body to be marked is determined based on the vehicle model information, including: Obtain the current production vehicle model information from the industrial control computer on the production line, and use this information as the vehicle model configuration for the production line; Extract the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be marked, and compare the vehicle model information to be marked with the vehicle model information configured on the production line; if they match, determine the marking head information required for the vehicle body to be marked based on the vehicle model information to be marked.

[0014] Preferably, the coding head information required for the vehicle body to be coded is determined based on the vehicle model information, specifically including the following steps: Based on the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded, retrieve the required coding parameters for the current vehicle model from the vehicle model coding process database; Based on the coding parameters, determine the coding head information required for the current vehicle model.

[0015] Preferably, replacing the current coding head with the target coding head required for the vehicle body to be coded, and coding the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded, specifically includes the following steps: When the coding head information required for the current vehicle model is inconsistent with the coding head information currently mounted on the robot, a coding head switching command is generated; According to the head switching command, the robot is controlled to carry the current coding head back to the head storage position; Based on the coding head information required for the current vehicle model, identify the target coding head from all coding heads in the head storage location; Control the robot to remove the current coding head and install the target coding head; Based on the coding parameters, robot motion commands are generated to control the robot to complete the coding of the VIN code through the target coding head.

[0016] Preferably, after controlling the robot to remove the current coding head and install the target coding head, the method further includes: After the target coding head is installed, the robot is controlled to carry the target coding head to the first test platform. When the target coding head is a laser head, the deviation between the actual laser power of the laser head and its preset laser coding power standard value is detected and calibrated; when the target head is a mechanical head, the deviation between the actual mechanical impact force of the mechanical head and its preset mechanical force standard value is detected and calibrated. Move the target coding head to the reference coordinate area, detect and calibrate the deviation between the actual head positioning coordinates and the preset reference coordinates; When all deviation values ​​are within the preset deviation range, the target coding head passes the test; After passing the test, the VIN code is printed using the target coding head.

[0017] Preferably, the coding parameters are retrieved, and the robot is controlled to complete the coding of the VIN code through the coding head according to the coding parameters, specifically including the following steps: Retrieve the coding parameters for the current vehicle model; Based on the coding parameters of the current vehicle model, robot motion instructions are generated to control the robot to complete the coding of the VIN code.

[0018] The present invention also provides a coding system for a flexible production line, including a production line industrial control computer, a robot controller, a coding industrial control computer, a data processing and storage device, a car body to be coded, a conveyor line, at least two different types of coding heads, a barcode scanning camera and a robot body; The production line industrial control computer is communicatively connected to the control system of the conveyor line, the coding industrial control computer, and the production execution system; the production line industrial control computer can receive the execution progress signal fed back by the coding industrial control computer; the production line industrial control computer controls the conveyor line to transport the car body to be coded to the coding station according to the execution progress signal; the production line industrial control computer can obtain the VIN code to be coded from the production execution system; The barcode scanner is located at the entrance of the barcode printing station and is used to scan the vehicle body barcode to obtain vehicle model information and VIN code; The data processing and storage device stores and records vehicle model information, coding parameters, and VIN codes. Based on the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded, the data processing and storage device determines the coding head information required for the current vehicle model. It is also used to determine whether the vehicle model information is consistent with the vehicle model information configured on the production line, and whether the coding head information required for the current vehicle model is consistent with the coding head information currently mounted on the robot. The production execution system obtains the VIN code to be printed based on vehicle model information and VIN code; The coding industrial control computer is used to control the coding head to code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded; The robot controller is used to replace the coding head currently mounted on the robot body with the coding head required for the current vehicle model.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: This invention replaces multiple independent workstations with a single-station and multi-head compatibility approach. It adopts a design that allows for the replacement of coding heads, enabling different coding head requirements to be adapted to the same coding workstation. This eliminates the need to repeatedly invest in multiple coding equipment sets, significantly reducing equipment and space costs.

[0020] This invention enables model changeover through a replaceable coding head, eliminating the need to adjust the conveyor line path. It only requires automatic head switching based on vehicle model information, thus avoiding the time-consuming switching between multiple workstations.

[0021] This invention automatically identifies and codes vehicle model information and VIN code after the system obtains them, eliminating the need for dedicated personnel to handle parts transfer, coding operations, and quality checks, thus saving labor costs and avoiding errors caused by manual input errors or omissions. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the coding method of the present invention, which combines multiple processes in a flexible production line. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the coding device for the flexible production line of the present invention, which integrates multiple processes. In the picture: 1-Production line industrial control computer, 2-Robot controller, 3-Coding industrial control computer, 4-Data processing and storage device, 5-Production execution system, 6-Car body to be marked, 7-Conveyor line, 8-First coding head, 9-Second coding head, 10-Third coding head, 11-Dust processor, 12-Coding camera, 13-Robot body, 14-First test stand, 15-Second test stand. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention can be practiced in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0025] The terminology used in one or more embodiments of this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the one or more embodiments of this specification. The singular forms “a,” “described,” and “the” as used in one or more embodiments of this specification and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used in one or more embodiments of this specification refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0026] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used to describe various information in one or more embodiments of this specification, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, first may also be referred to as second without departing from the scope of one or more embodiments of this specification, and similarly, second may also be referred to as first. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to a determination."

[0027] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings: To better illustrate the technical effects of the present invention, the present invention provides the following specific embodiments to illustrate the above technical process: This invention provides a coding method for a flexible production line that combines multiple processes, comprising the following steps: Obtain the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded; If the vehicle model information of the car body to be coded is consistent with the vehicle model information configured on the production line, determine the coding head information required for the current vehicle model based on the vehicle model information of the car body to be coded. If the coding head information required for the current vehicle model is consistent with the coding head information currently mounted on the robot, control the current coding head to print the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded; otherwise, replace the coding head currently mounted on the robot with the coding head required for the current vehicle model and print the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded.

[0028] Among them, the flexible production line is an automobile production line that can accommodate the co-production of multiple car models; The robot is an industrial robotic arm installed at the coding station. The robot is equipped with a replaceable coding head, which is used to code the VIN code.

[0029] Different coding heads are used to implement different coding processes. In flexible production lines, due to the situation of changing production models, the coding process required for the new model is different from that before the change. In this case, it is necessary to automatically switch the coding head.

[0030] For example, the coding head currently mounted on the robot in the above embodiments can be a machine coding head, which achieves coding on the vehicle body to be coded through laser etching or mechanical imprinting processes; the coding head required for the vehicle body to be coded can be a laser coding head, which achieves coding on the vehicle body to be coded through laser coding processes. Various coding head structures and corresponding coding processes can refer to existing technologies.

[0031] In the above embodiments, by using a robot with a switchable machine head, multiple processes can be compatible with a single workstation, thereby reducing costs and improving changeover efficiency. In some embodiments, obtaining the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded specifically includes the following steps: When the vehicle body to be coded is transported to the coding station, the vehicle body barcode is scanned by a barcode scanner to obtain the vehicle model information and vehicle tracking code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded; Based on the vehicle tracking code, obtain the VIN code to be printed from the production execution system.

[0032] Specific application examples are as follows: Among them, the barcode scanning camera is an industrial-grade barcode scanning device with high-speed image recognition function installed at the entrance of the barcode printing station. Its function is to accurately scan the pre-set body barcode of the body when the body to be printed is transported to the station, quickly capture and parse the vehicle model information and body tracking code, and generate the basic scanning information used to associate the VIN code and determine the printing process. It is a key device connecting the body transport and the preparation of printing data.

[0033] For example, in the above embodiments, when the vehicle body to be coded arrives at the coding station along the conveyor line, the industrial-grade barcode scanner installed at the station entrance will automatically align with the pre-set vehicle body barcode on the vehicle body to be coded. The vehicle body barcode contains vehicle model information and vehicle body tracking code. The camera quickly extracts these two pieces of information through image analysis and generates scan data containing vehicle model information and vehicle body tracking code. Subsequently, the system uploads the tracking code to the production execution system. The production execution system matches the corresponding production order according to the tracking code and retrieves the VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded from the order data.

[0034] In the above embodiments, by using a robot with a switchable machine head, multiple processes can be compatible with a single workstation, thereby reducing costs and improving changeover efficiency. The design of automatically acquiring vehicle model information and linking the vehicle tracking code with the production execution system to match the VIN code by scanning the camera not only avoids the manual input of vehicle model information and VIN code, but also reduces the data preparation time for a single vehicle and eliminates errors caused by manual input errors or omissions.

[0035] In some embodiments, before obtaining the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded, the method further includes: The vehicle body to be marked is transported to the marking station via a conveyor line; When the front of the vehicle body to be marked triggers the entrance sensor located at the entrance of the marking station, the conveyor line is controlled to decelerate. When the rear end of the vehicle body to be coded triggers the entrance sensor located at the entrance of the coding station, the conveyor speed of the control line is reduced to 0, and the vehicle body to be coded is fixed.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the flexible production line includes a conveyor line for transporting car bodies to be marked, with marking stations set up on the conveyor line. Photoelectric sensors (i.e., entrance sensors and exit sensors) are installed at both the entrance and exit of the marking station, and a barcode scanning camera is also installed at the entrance of the marking station. The production line industrial control computer 1 is installed in a control cabinet next to the marking station, close to the conveyor line and the robot body, and is connected to the production execution system, the marking industrial control computer, the conveyor line and the photoelectric sensors via data cables. When the conveyor line 7 transports the vehicle body 6 to be marked to the preset marking station, the production line industrial control computer 1 detects the vehicle body passing by through the entrance sensor and obtains the vehicle body arrival signal. When the front end of the vehicle body triggers the entrance sensor set at the entrance of the marking station, the production line industrial control computer 1 controls the conveyor line to decelerate. When the rear end of the vehicle body triggers the entrance sensor set at the entrance of the marking station, the production line industrial control computer 1 controls the conveyor line to reduce its conveying speed to 0. The piston rods of the pneumatic clamping mechanisms on both sides of the marking station extend to fix the vehicle body to be marked. At the same time, the production line industrial control computer 1 controls the barcode scanner 12 to scan the vehicle model information and the vehicle body tracking code. The scanned information containing the vehicle model information and the vehicle body tracking code is transmitted to the marking industrial control computer 3 in real time through the OPCUA (OPC Unified Architecture) protocol.

[0037] In the above embodiments, the inlet and outlet sensors trigger the control of the conveyor line to decelerate and stop, and the pneumatic clamps fix the vehicle body to prevent the coding position from shifting or the characters from being crooked; the entire process of conveying, positioning and scanning is automatically linked, without the need for manual intervention, and the process intervals are reduced.

[0038] In some embodiments, obtaining the VIN code to be printed from the production execution system based on the vehicle tracking code specifically includes the following steps: The production order database in the production execution system is queried based on the vehicle tracking code to match the corresponding VIN code to be printed.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the coding industrial control computer controls the coding head to code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded. The coding industrial control computer 3 extracts the vehicle model information and the vehicle tracking code from the scanned information and sends an association request between the vehicle tracking code and the vehicle model information to the production execution system 5. The production execution system matches the VIN code to be coded in the production order database according to the vehicle tracking code. The VIN code is a 17-bit standard code and is fed back to the coding industrial control computer 3. At the same time, the data processing and storage device 4 records the association data of the vehicle tracking code, VIN code and vehicle model.

[0040] The aforementioned associated data is used to support the accurate execution of the entire coding process and facilitate subsequent traceability.

[0041] In the above embodiments, the vehicle tracking code is used as the unique identifier to query the production order database, combined with vehicle model information, to avoid VIN code mismatch or omission; subsequent investigation of coding issues can be carried out by quickly retrieving full-process information through the tracking code or VIN code, improving traceability efficiency.

[0042] In some embodiments, if the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be marked is consistent with the current production vehicle model information configured on the production line, the marking head information required for the vehicle body to be marked is determined based on the vehicle model information, including: Obtain the current production vehicle model information from the industrial control computer on the production line, and use this information as the vehicle model configuration for the production line; Extract the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be marked, and compare the vehicle model information to be marked with the vehicle model information configured on the production line; if they match, determine the marking head information required for the vehicle body to be marked based on the vehicle model information to be marked.

[0043] Specific application examples are as follows: In a further embodiment, the coding industrial control computer 3 compares the extracted vehicle model information with the vehicle model information of the current production line configuration transmitted by the production line industrial control computer 1. The vehicle model information may include the vehicle platform code, body configuration version, and body material type, etc., and the comparison fields include vehicle platform, body configuration, etc. If they match: Start the code-solving preparation process.

[0044] If there is a discrepancy: the coding control computer sends an alarm signal to the production line control computer, the conveyor line stops running, and the human-machine interface displays "vehicle model mismatch". After manual confirmation, the coding is triggered again.

[0045] In the above embodiments, by comparing vehicle model information, it is ensured that the vehicle body entering the workstation is consistent with the currently compatible vehicle model of the production line, so as to avoid the subsequent call of the wrong coding head due to vehicle model mismatch, and reduce the waste of materials and time; if the vehicle model does not match, an alarm is immediately triggered and the conveyor line is suspended to prevent abnormal vehicle bodies from entering the coding process and causing equipment failure or coding scrap.

[0046] In some embodiments, determining the coding head information required for the vehicle body to be coded based on the vehicle model information specifically includes the following steps: Based on the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded, retrieve the required coding parameters for the current vehicle model from the vehicle model coding process database; Based on the coding parameters, determine the coding head information required for the current vehicle model.

[0047] In a further embodiment, the coding industrial control computer 3 calls the vehicle coding process database in the data processing and storage device 4 to query the coding process requirements corresponding to the current vehicle model. The coding process requirements include the machine head type, coding position coordinates, process parameters, etc. If the coding head mounted on the robot body 13 meets the process requirements: proceed directly to the coding parameter retrieval stage; If the coding head currently mounted on the robot body 13 does not meet the process requirements, the coding head currently mounted on the robot needs to be replaced. The coding parameters include: the position of the VIN code on the vehicle body, the tool parameters for laser or mechanical coding, the strength parameters of laser power / mechanical force, and the character size parameters.

[0048] Select a suitable coding head based on the tool and intensity parameters in the coding parameters. For example, if the tool parameter in the coding parameters is laser and the intensity parameter is laser power of 80W, then directly select a laser coding head with a laser power of 80W or higher as the required coding head.

[0049] The vehicle marking process database of this invention pre-sets marking parameters and process requirements for each vehicle model. The quick-change interface for the marking head adopts a standardized design, adapting to marking heads from different manufacturers and meeting the needs of rapid model changeover for multiple vehicles. For example: Model A has a cold-rolled steel body, and its marking parameters require laser marking as the tool parameter and a power of 50-100W as the force parameter; Model B has an aluminum alloy body, and its marking parameters require laser marking as the tool parameter and a power of 100-150W as the force parameter; Model C has a high-strength steel body, and its marking parameters require mechanical marking as the tool parameter and a mechanical force of 150-200N as the force parameter.

[0050] This invention determines the required coding head by using coding head information, which can adapt to the coding needs of various car models, reduce site and equipment investment, and improve production line flexibility.

[0051] In the above embodiments, the corresponding coding parameters are retrieved from the preset database based on the vehicle model information, and the appropriate machine head is determined according to the parameters to avoid process mismatch caused by manual selection deviation and ensure coding quality; preset parameters for multiple vehicle models can quickly switch machine heads without adjusting the production line layout, meeting the rapid model changeover requirements of multi-vehicle co-production.

[0052] In some embodiments, replacing the current coding head with the target coding head required for the vehicle body to be coded, and coding the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded, specifically includes the following steps: When the coding head information required for the current vehicle model is inconsistent with the coding head information currently mounted on the robot, a coding head switching command is generated; According to the head switching command, the robot is controlled to carry the current coding head back to the head storage position; Based on the coding head information required for the current vehicle model, identify the target coding head from all coding heads in the head storage location; Control the robot to remove the current coding head and install the target coding head; Based on the coding parameters, robot motion commands are generated to control the robot to complete the coding of the VIN code through the target coding head.

[0053] In a further embodiment: If the coding head information required for the current vehicle model is inconsistent with the coding head information currently mounted on the robot: the coding industrial control computer 3 sends a coding head switching command to the robot controller 2. The coding head switching command includes the type of coding head to be switched. After receiving the coding head switching command, the robot confirms the required coding head from all the coding heads in the coding head storage position according to the coding head information required for the current vehicle model. The robot carries the current coding head back to the corresponding empty coding head storage position, removes the old coding head through the quick-change interface at the end of the robot arm, and then, according to the pre-stored... The robot arm is moved to the storage position of the coding head, and the required coding head is installed on the robot arm through the quick-change interface. For example, the head switching command includes: switching from laser head A to mechanical head B. After receiving the command, the robot arm moves to the head storage position of the currently vacant laser head A, removes laser head A, moves to the head storage position of mechanical head B, and installs mechanical head B on the robot. The method of changing the coding head through the quick-change connector can refer to existing technology.

[0054] In some embodiments, after controlling the robot to remove the current coding head and install the target coding head, the method further includes: After the target coding head is installed, the robot is controlled to carry the target coding head to the first test platform. When the target coding head is a laser head, the deviation between the actual laser power of the laser head and its preset laser coding power standard value is detected and calibrated; when the target head is a mechanical head, the deviation between the actual mechanical impact force of the mechanical head and its preset mechanical force standard value is detected and calibrated. Move the target coding head to the reference coordinate area, detect and calibrate the deviation between the actual head positioning coordinates and the preset reference coordinates; When all deviation values ​​are within the preset deviation range, the target coding head passes the test; After passing the test, the VIN code is printed using the target coding head.

[0055] In a further embodiment: After the switch is completed, the robot carries the switched coding head to the first test bench 14 to initialize the coding head, including: when the coding head is a laser head, detecting and calibrating the power until the deviation between the actual laser power of the laser head and its preset laser coding power standard value is ≤±5%; when the coding head is a mechanical head, detecting and calibrating the impact force until the deviation between the actual mechanical impact force of the mechanical head and its preset mechanical force standard value is ≤±5%; moving the target coding head to the reference coordinate area of ​​the first test bench 14, detecting and calibrating the head positioning coordinates until the deviation between the actual head positioning coordinates and the preset reference coordinates is ≤±0.3mm, and after the initialization is qualified, a feedback signal is sent to the coding industrial control computer.

[0056] In the above embodiments, the present invention automatically identifies and codes the vehicle model information and VIN code after the system obtains them, eliminating the need for dedicated personnel to be responsible for parts transfer, coding operations and quality inspection, saving labor costs, and avoiding errors caused by manual input errors or omissions.

[0057] In some embodiments, the coding parameters of the VIN code to be coded are retrieved, and the robot is controlled to complete the coding of the VIN code through the coding head according to the coding parameters. Specifically, this includes the following steps: Retrieve the coding parameters for the current vehicle model from the vehicle model coding process database; Based on the coding parameters of the current vehicle model, robot motion instructions are generated to control the coding head to complete the coding of the VIN code.

[0058] The coding parameters include: the position of the VIN code on the vehicle body, the tool parameters for laser or mechanical coding, the strength parameters of laser power / mechanical force, and the character size parameters. Robot motion commands include head positioning commands, coding trajectory commands, parameter adjustment commands, and reset commands.

[0059] In a further embodiment, the coding industrial control computer 3 retrieves coding parameters from the database based on the current vehicle model. For example, the coding parameters for vehicle model A include: floor front crossbeam X=1500mm, Y=900mm, Z=600mm, laser power 80W, and coding depth 0.2mm. Based on the floor front crossbeam parameters, a robot motion command is generated. The robot carries the coding head to the coding position and performs VIN coding according to the laser power and coding depth. Laser coding takes 2-3 seconds per character, while mechanical coding takes 1-2 seconds per character. After coding is completed, the head synchronously sends a coding completion signal to the coding industrial control computer, robot controller, and production execution system. The coding completion signal includes the actual coding parameters and a timestamp. The data processing and storage device records the vehicle model information, coding parameters, and VIN code for this coding.

[0060] In the above embodiments, the coding parameters are directly converted into robot motion commands to avoid misalignment and ensure coding accuracy; after coding, vehicle information, coding parameters and VIN code are recorded to facilitate subsequent investigation and review.

[0061] In some embodiments, the following steps are also included: The coding industrial control computer triggers the quality inspection process: The barcode scanner 12 performs a second scan of the VIN code to verify the character clarity and contrast. The character clarity needs to be ≥0.1mm and the contrast needs to be ≥3:1. The data is then compared with the VIN code to be printed fed back by the production execution system. If the inspection is successful: the coding control computer 3 sends a "release signal" to the production line control computer 1, the conveyor line 7 is unlocked, and the car body enters the next process; If the inspection fails: the coding control computer sends a "failure alarm" and uploads the vehicle ID and failure type to the production execution system. The conveyor line transfers the vehicle to the rework area, and the data processing and storage device marks the coding as "failure" for subsequent traceability. Failure types include illegible characters and incorrect code values.

[0062] In the above embodiments, the character clarity and contrast are verified by secondary scanning, and the VIN code data is compared. The double verification ensures that the coding quality meets the standards and reduces the flow of unqualified products into subsequent processes.

[0063] The present invention also provides a coding system for multiple processes in a flexible production line, which is used to realize a coding method for multiple processes in a flexible production line. The system includes a production line industrial control computer 1, a robot controller 2, a coding industrial control computer 3, a data processing and storage device 4, a production execution system 5, a conveyor line 7, a first coding head 8, a second coding head 9, a third coding head 10, a barcode scanner 12, and a robot body 13. The production line industrial control computer 1 is communicatively connected to the control system of the conveyor line 7, the coding industrial control computer 3, and the production execution system 5; the production line industrial control computer 1 can receive the execution progress signal fed back by the coding industrial control computer 3; the production line industrial control computer 1 controls the conveyor line 7 to transport the car body to be coded to the coding station according to the execution progress signal; the production line industrial control computer 1 can obtain the VIN code to be coded from the production execution system 5.

[0064] The barcode scanning camera 12 is set at the entrance of the barcode printing station and is used to scan the vehicle body barcode to obtain vehicle model information and VIN code; The data processing and storage device 4 stores and records the coding parameters and VIN code. The data processing and storage device 4 determines the coding head information required for the current vehicle model based on the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded. It is also used to determine whether the vehicle model information is consistent with the vehicle model information configured on the production line, and whether the coding head information required for the current vehicle model is consistent with the coding head information currently mounted on the robot. The production execution system 5 obtains the VIN code to be printed based on the vehicle model information and VIN code; The coding industrial control computer 3 is used to control the coding head to code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded; The robot controller 2 is used to replace the coding head currently mounted on the robot body with the coding head required for the current vehicle model.

[0065] In a further embodiment, the coding system consists of the following components: Figure 2 As shown, this system is a flexible coding system, which includes the following core components: The production line industrial control computer 1 is used to control the operation of the conveyor line 7, obtain the vehicle body arrival signal, and communicate and coordinate with the coding industrial control computer 3 and the production execution system 5. Robot controller 2 is used to receive instructions from coding industrial control computer 3 and control the movement of the robot body. The positioning accuracy of the robot movement is ±0.5mm, and the coding head can be switched. The coding industrial control computer 3, as the core control unit, processes the scanning data, matches the coding process, retrieves parameters, and triggers quality inspection. The data processing and storage device 4 stores a coding process database for each vehicle model. This coding process database includes information such as machine head type, parameters, and position coordinates, as well as information for storing coding records and test results, and supports data backup and traceability. Production Execution System 5 is used to provide VIN codes to be printed based on vehicle body tracking codes and to receive printing completion signals; Vehicle body 6, to be coded, is the object to be coded. The vehicle body has preset vehicle model information and vehicle tracking code; the vehicle model information includes vehicle model and configuration information. Conveyor line 7 is used to transport the car body to the coding station. The positioning accuracy is ±1mm, and it supports emergency stop and station locking. The first coding head 8, the second coding head 9, and the third coding head 10 are used to adapt to coding needs of different tools / models: for example, the first coding head 1 is a laser coding head with a power of 50-150W and a coding depth of 0.1-0.3mm; the second coding head 9 is a mechanical coding head with an impact force of 50-200N and a character height of 2-5mm; and the third coding head 10 is a laser coding head with a power of 100-200W.

[0066] The smoke and dust processor 11 is used to process the smoke and dust generated by laser marking, with a purification efficiency of ≥95%, avoiding pollution of the marking area and workshop environment. The barcode scanning camera 12 is used to scan the vehicle body barcode, with a recognition distance of 300-500mm and a recognition rate of ≥99.9%. It transmits the vehicle model and tracking code to the barcode printing industrial control computer 3. The first test stand 14 is used for calibration of the machine head before coding. Specifically, it tests the laser power of the laser coding machine head and the mechanical impact force of the mechanical coding machine head before coding, and ensures that the parameter deviation is ≤±5% by calibrating using existing technology. The second test platform 15 is used for quality re-inspection after coding. Specifically, after coding is completed, the VIN code is photographed by the shooting device on the second test platform 15, and the clarity and contrast of the VIN code characters are verified by the recognition device. The clarity needs to be ≥0.1mm and the contrast needs to be ≥3:1.

[0067] This invention features fully automated and collaborative control, enabling scanning, judgment, switching, coding, and detection—all done without human intervention. The coding industrial control computer 3 serves as the core, collaborating in real-time with the production line industrial control computer 1, the production execution system 5, and the robot controller 2. Data interaction latency is ≤50ms, requiring no manual intervention. Simultaneously, the dust processor 11 addresses laser coding contamination issues, the first test bench 14 ensures the accuracy of the machine head, and the second test bench 15 enhances detection reliability, forming a closed-loop control system.

[0068] In the several embodiments provided by this invention, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules, units, or units is merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units, modules, or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0069] The units may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units can be one or more physical units, meaning they can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0070] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of the present invention can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0071] In particular, according to embodiments disclosed in this invention, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments of this disclosure include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a computer-readable medium, the computer program containing program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via a communication component, and / or installed from a removable medium. When the computer program is executed by a central processing unit (CPU), it performs the functions defined in the methods of this invention. It should be noted that the computer-readable medium described above in this invention can be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium, or any combination of the two. The computer-readable storage medium can be, for example, but not limited to, an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any combination thereof.

[0072] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0073] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method of counting in a flexible production line, characterized in that, The method comprises the following steps: Obtain the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded; If the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded is consistent with the current production vehicle model information configured on the production line, determine the coding head information required by the vehicle body to be coded according to the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded; If the coding head information required by the vehicle body to be coded is consistent with the current coding head information currently carried by the robot, control the current coding head currently carried by the robot to code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded; otherwise, replace the current coding head with the target coding head required by the vehicle body to be coded, and code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Obtaining the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded comprises the following steps: When the vehicle body to be coded is conveyed to the coding station, scan the vehicle body barcode through the code scanning camera to obtain the vehicle model information and vehicle body tracking code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded; According to the vehicle body tracking code, obtain the VIN code to be coded from the production execution system.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, Before obtaining the vehicle model information and VIN code corresponding to the vehicle body to be coded, the method further comprises: Convey the vehicle body to be coded to the coding station through the conveying line; When the front end of the vehicle body to be coded triggers the entrance sensor arranged at the entrance of the coding station, control the conveying line to slow down; When the rear end of the vehicle body to be coded triggers the entrance sensor arranged at the entrance of the coding station, control the conveying speed of the conveying line to be 0 and fix the vehicle body to be coded.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein, The method of obtaining the VIN code to be coded from the production execution system according to the vehicle body tracking code comprises the following steps: According to the vehicle body tracking code, query the production order database in the production execution system to match the corresponding VIN code to be coded.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, If the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded is consistent with the current production vehicle model information configured on the production line, determine the coding head information required by the vehicle body to be coded according to the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded, comprising: Obtain the current production vehicle model information from the production line industrial computer as the vehicle model information configured on the production line; Extract the vehicle model information to be coded of the vehicle body to be coded, and compare the vehicle model information to be coded with the vehicle model information configured on the production line; if they are consistent, determine the coding head information required by the vehicle body to be coded according to the vehicle model information to be coded.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determine the coding head information required by the vehicle body to be coded according to the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded, comprising the following steps: According to the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded, retrieve the required coding parameters of the corresponding current vehicle model from the vehicle model coding process database; According to the coding parameters, determine the coding head information required by the current vehicle model.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, Replace the current coding head with the target coding head required by the vehicle body to be coded, and code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded, comprising the following steps: When the coding head information required by the current vehicle model is inconsistent with the coding head information currently carried by the robot, generate a head switching instruction; According to the head switching instruction, control the robot to return to the head storage position with the current coding head; According to the coding head information required by the current vehicle model, confirm the target coding head required from all coding heads in the head storage position; Control the robot to remove the current coding head, and install the target coding head; According to the coding parameters, generate robot motion instructions to control the robot to complete the VIN code coding through the target coding head.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, After controlling the robot to remove the current coding head and install the target coding head, it further includes: After the installation of the target coding head is completed, control the robot to carry the target coding head to move to the first test bench; When the target coding head is a laser head, detect and calibrate the deviation value of the actual laser power of the laser head from the preset laser coding power standard value, and when the target head is a mechanical head, detect and calibrate the deviation value of the actual mechanical impact force of the mechanical head from the preset mechanical force standard value; Move the target coding head to the reference coordinate area, detect and calibrate the deviation value of the actual head positioning coordinates from the preset reference coordinates; When the deviation values are within the preset deviation range, the target coding head is tested qualified; After testing qualified, complete the VIN code coding through the target coding head.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, Through the target coding head, the VIN code coding is completed, which specifically includes the following steps: Retrieve the coding parameters of the current vehicle model; According to the coding parameters of the current vehicle model, generate robot motion instructions to control the robot to complete the VIN code coding.

10. A dosing system in a flexible production line for implementing the dosing method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that: It includes a production line industrial computer, a robot controller, a coding industrial computer, a data processing and storage device, a vehicle body to be coded, a conveying line, at least two different types of coding heads, a code scanning camera and a robot body; The production line industrial computer is in communication connection with the control system of the conveying line, the coding industrial computer and the production execution system; the production line industrial computer can receive the execution progress signal fed back by the coding industrial computer; the production line industrial computer controls the conveying line to convey the vehicle body to be coded to the coding station according to the execution progress signal; the production line industrial computer can obtain the VIN code to be coded from the production execution system; The code scanning camera is arranged at the entrance of the coding station and is used to scan the vehicle body barcode to obtain the vehicle model information and the VIN code; The data processing and storage device stores and records the vehicle model information, the coding parameters and the VIN code; the data processing and storage device determines the coding head information required by the current vehicle model according to the vehicle model information of the vehicle body to be coded; It is also used to judge whether the vehicle model information is consistent with the vehicle model information configured by the production line, and whether the coding head information required by the current vehicle model is consistent with the coding head information currently carried by the robot; The production execution system obtains the VIN code to be coded based on the vehicle model information and the VIN code; The coding industrial computer is used to control the coding head to code the VIN code on the vehicle body to be coded; The robot controller is used to replace the coding head currently carried by the robot body with the coding head required by the current vehicle model.

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