Automatic riveting equipment and method

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of material processing and riveting, in particular to automatic riveting equipment and method.The automatic riveting equipment comprises a first part feeding mechanism, a first part processing mechanism, a second part feeding mechanism, a second material belt conveying mechanism and a riveting mechanism; the machining mechanism is provided with a positioning and clamping device and a first part transferring device, a positioning assembly can position the first material belt, a clamping piece and a clamping and sucking piece can separate the first part from the first material belt, and the method completes riveting according to steps based on the equipment. The technical effects that automatic feeding, machining and riveting of the parts are achieved, the production efficiency and quality are improved, and the labor cost is reduced are achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of material processing and riveting technology, and in particular to an automated riveting device and method. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of electronic manufacturing, the riveting of connector terminals and clamping plates is a crucial process. With continuous technological advancements, the demand for connectors in precision electronic equipment is constantly increasing. As a vital component for electrical connections in precision equipment, the quality of the riveting directly affects the performance and stability of the entire device. Traditional manual riveting methods are no longer sufficient to meet the requirements of large-scale production and high precision; therefore, the application of automation technology in riveting operations has become an inevitable trend.

[0003] In existing technologies, the riveting operation between connector terminals and pressure plates is traditionally carried out manually. Workers rely on their experience and skills to rivet the connector terminals one by one onto the pressure plate using simple tools. While this method offers some flexibility, it is extremely inefficient, and due to human factors, riveting accuracy is difficult to guarantee, easily leading to problems such as riveting position deviation and uneven riveting force.

[0004] With the development of automation technology, some enterprises have begun to adopt automated riveting equipment. These devices typically consist of multiple mechanisms that use mechanical transmission and electrical control to transport, cut, and rivet connector terminals. However, in practical applications, these devices still have many problems in connector terminal positioning, removal from the strip, and riveting accuracy. For example, during connector terminal positioning, the lack of a precise positioning system can easily cause terminal misalignment, resulting in inaccurate riveting positions; when removing connector terminals from the strip, it is difficult to remove them accurately, or the removal process can easily damage the connector terminals; during riveting, it is difficult to precisely control the riveting force, which can easily lead to terminal damage or weak riveting. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, this application provides an automated riveting equipment and method. A first component feeding mechanism and a second component feeding mechanism respectively feed a first material strip and a second material strip. The first material strip is accurately positioned by a positioning clamping device. The clamping member and the clamping suction member move synchronously to separate and adsorb the first component. Then, the first component is transferred to the riveting mechanism by a transfer device, thereby realizing automated riveting of two components, improving work efficiency and positioning accuracy, reducing manual intervention, and ensuring stable riveting quality.

[0006] This application is achieved through the following technical solution: An automated riveting device, comprising: A first component feeding mechanism is used to store and convey a first material belt, on which a first component is carried; The first component processing mechanism is located at the discharge end of the first component feeding mechanism. The first component processing mechanism includes a positioning and clamping device and a first component transfer device. The positioning and clamping device includes a positioning component and a clamping member. The positioning component is used to position the first material strip. The top of the clamping member is used to abut against the bottom side of the first component. The first component transfer device includes a clamping and suction member. The clamping and suction member is used to abut against the top side of the first component. The clamping member and the clamping and suction member can move synchronously to separate the first component from the first material strip. The clamping and suction member is used to adsorb the first component. The second component feeding mechanism is used to store and convey the second material belt, on which the second material belt carries the second component; A riveting mechanism is provided at the discharge end of the second component feeding mechanism. The first component transfer device is used to transfer the first component to the riveting end of the riveting mechanism. The riveting mechanism is used to rivet the first component and the second component.

[0007] By adopting the above technical solution, multiple processes such as feeding, component separation, component transfer, positioning, and riveting are integrated to form a complete automated production line, significantly reducing manual intervention. Separating components through synchronous upper and lower clamping provides a more uniform force compared to unidirectional pushing or pulling, effectively preventing damage or deformation to components or material strips during separation and ensuring component integrity. Decomposing complex processes for specialized mechanisms and automating their integration enables high-speed, continuous production.

[0008] Optionally, the positioning component includes a base, an upper positioning base plate, and a lower positioning push plate. The upper positioning base plate is fixed on the base and located above the first material strip, and the lower positioning push plate is located below the first material strip. The lower positioning push plate can be relatively close to or away from the upper positioning base plate. The upper positioning base plate is provided with an upper positioning strip that can abut against the top side of the first material strip, and the lower positioning push plate is provided with a lower positioning strip at its top that can abut against the bottom side of the first material strip.

[0009] By employing the above technical solution and using an upper and lower clamping method, the first material strip can be firmly fixed, preventing it from slipping, warping, or vibrating during subsequent component separation. Stable clamping is a prerequisite for accurate component separation. Only when the material strip is accurately positioned and fixed can the clamping and suction components accurately act on the first component.

[0010] Optionally, the positioning assembly further includes an auxiliary positioning plate, which is disposed between the upper positioning base plate and the lower positioning push plate. The auxiliary positioning plate is slidably connected to the upper positioning base plate via guide posts. The top of the lower positioning push plate abuts against the bottom of the auxiliary positioning plate, so that the auxiliary positioning plate can be driven to rise or fall by the lower positioning push plate. The top of the auxiliary positioning plate is provided with a lifting plate, which can support the first material strip and the first component.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, the support plate provides a flat and stable support platform for the thin and soft strip, preventing the strip from sagging or deforming due to its own weight or during processing. Before the strip is clamped, the support plate gently lifts it, which helps to achieve more precise positioning and clamping later. The structural separation and coordination of the strip's "support" function (achieved by the support plate) and "clamping" function (achieved by the upper and lower positioning bars) makes the entire positioning action smoother and more reliable.

[0012] Optionally, the upper positioning base plate is further provided with an upper positioning block, which and the lifting plate can jointly clamp the first strip.

[0013] By adopting the above technical solution, compared with the "strip" contact mentioned above, the combination of "block" and "plate" provides a larger contact area, stronger clamping force, and better fixing effect. The upper positioning block can more precisely define the area where the strip is clamped, especially around the components, ensuring absolute stability in critical areas.

[0014] Optionally, the clamping member is fixed to the top side of the lower positioning push plate, and its top end slides through the auxiliary positioning plate and the lifting plate before abutting against the bottom end of the clamping and suction member.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, the movement of the clamping component is linked to the movement of the lower positioning push plate (and the auxiliary positioning plate). When the lower positioning push plate rises, it not only clamps the material strip but also simultaneously drives the clamping component to rise and press against the first component. A single drive source (driving the raising and lowering of the lower positioning push plate) simultaneously realizes the preparation or execution of both "material strip positioning" and "component ejection," simplifying the mechanical structure and control logic. This structural design ensures that while the material strip is being lifted and clamped, the clamping component of the ejection part also reaches the predetermined position synchronously, preparing for subsequent synchronous movement with the clamping and suction component.

[0016] Optionally, a buffer elastic element is provided between the lower positioning push plate and the lower positioning strip.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, excessive clamping force that may be caused by rigid contact, thus avoiding damage to the material strip, is avoided. The elastic element can absorb tolerances and vibrations, making the clamping force more uniform and gentle. For material strips with slight variations in thickness, the elastic element can provide a stable clamping force, enhancing the adaptability of the equipment.

[0018] Optionally, the first component processing mechanism further includes a strip cutting device, which includes a cutting seat, a cutting blade, a cutting drive assembly, and a recycling pipe. The cutting blade is slidably connected to the cutting seat, and the cutting blade has a cutting opening for the first strip to pass through. The cutting drive assembly is used to drive the cutting blade to move so that the cutting blade and the cutting seat are relatively misaligned to achieve cutting. The recycling pipe is located at the rear end of the cutting blade.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, waste material strips are automatically cut into small segments and collected, avoiding the problems of tangling and accumulation of long strips of waste, making the entire production process smoother. Timely handling of waste prevents it from interfering with the normal operation of equipment and maintains a clean production environment.

[0020] Optionally, both the first component feeding mechanism and the second component feeding mechanism include a feeding device. The feeding device includes a feeding needle assembly and a feeding needle position adjustment assembly. The feeding needle assembly includes a feeding needle, which is used to insert into or disengage from the feeding hole of the first material belt. The feeding needle position adjustment assembly is used to drive the feeding needle assembly to move along the conveying direction of the first material belt.

[0021] By adopting the above technical solution, step-feeding using a feeding hole is a very mature and precise method. It ensures that the feeding distance is completely consistent each time, thereby guaranteeing that each component can be accurately delivered to the processing station, which is the foundation for ensuring the reliable operation of automated equipment.

[0022] Optionally, the first component transfer device includes a three-axis mobile robot and a clamping distance adjustment assembly. The clamping distance adjustment assembly includes a first fixed base, a first sliding plate, and a mounting base. The first fixed base is mounted on the output end of the three-axis mobile robot. The first sliding plate is slidably connected to the first fixed base in a vertical direction. Multiple sliding grooves are formed on the first sliding plate. The multiple sliding grooves are inclinedly dispersed or inclinedly converged around the central sliding groove. The mounting base is slidably connected to the first fixed base in a horizontal direction. Multiple mounting bases are provided, and each mounting base is slidably connected to one of the sliding grooves. The clamping and suction component is mounted on the mounting base.

[0023] By adopting the above technical solution, the robotic arm can simultaneously grasp or place multiple first components, significantly improving transfer efficiency. By controlling the vertical position of the first sliding plate, the spacing between multiple gripping and picking components can be easily and precisely changed. This allows the equipment to adapt to components arranged at different intervals, or to place the grasped components at different intervals on the riveting station as needed. For example, components can be grasped from a closely packed strip and then placed at a larger interval for riveting, and vice versa. This function greatly enhances the versatility and adaptability of the equipment.

[0024] An automated riveting method, based on any of the above-mentioned automated riveting devices, includes the following steps: S1. Start the first component feeding mechanism to transport the first material belt horizontally into the first component processing mechanism; S2. The first strip of material is clamped and positioned by the positioning component; S3. The first component is clamped by the clamping member and the clamping suction member, and the first component is separated from the first material strip by the synchronous movement of the clamping member and the clamping suction member. S4. The clamping and suction member is used to pick up the first component, and the first component transfer device is used to transfer the first component to the riveting mechanism. S5. The second material strip is conveyed horizontally to the riveting mechanism using the second component feeding mechanism. S6. Start the riveting mechanism to rivet the first component and the second component.

[0025] By adopting the above technical solution, the first component feeding mechanism first feeds the first strip of material, which is then positioned by the positioning component, separated from the first component, and transferred to the riveting mechanism. Next, the second component feeding mechanism feeds the second strip of material, and finally, riveting is performed. The entire process is highly automated, reducing manual intervention, improving production efficiency, ensuring stable riveting quality, and reducing production costs.

[0026] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects: This application utilizes a first component feeding mechanism and a second component feeding mechanism to automatically store and transport material strips carrying components, reducing manual operation and improving production efficiency; a positioning and clamping device positions the first material strip, and a second material strip conveying mechanism transports the second material strip, improving the positioning accuracy of parts and ensuring riveting accuracy and consistency; a first component transfer device transfers the first component to the riveting mechanism, realizing the automation of parts separation and transfer, making the production process smoother and improving riveting quality; This application utilizes the cooperation of the upper positioning base plate and the lower positioning push plate of the positioning component, with the upper positioning strip and the lower positioning strip respectively abutting against the top and bottom sides of the first strip, to more accurately position the first strip. This application uses an auxiliary positioning plate that is slidably connected to the upper positioning base plate via guide posts. The lower positioning push plate drives it to rise or fall, and the support plate supports the first material strip and the first component, thereby further improving the positioning stability of the first material strip and the first component. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the feeding mechanism of the first component, which is mainly shown in Embodiment 1; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Enlarged diagram of A in the middle; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged cross-sectional view of some of the structures; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the main clamping and suction component shown in Embodiment 1 (the upper positioning substrate is hidden). Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning strip structure shown in Embodiment 1. Figure 6 This application mainly illustrates the structural diagram of the strip cutting device; Figure 7 This application mainly shows a structural schematic diagram of the first component transfer device; Figure 8 This application primarily shows a front view of the first component transfer device.

[0028] In the diagram: 1. First component feeding mechanism; 11. Material tray; 2. First material belt; 21. First component; 3. First component processing mechanism; 31. Positioning and clamping device; 311. Positioning assembly; 3111. Base; 3112. Upper positioning base plate; 3113. Lower positioning push plate; 3114. Upper positioning bar; 3115. Lower positioning bar; 3116. Auxiliary positioning plate; 3117. Guide post; 3118. Lifting plate; 3119. Upper positioning block; 3120. Positioning pin; 312. Clamping component; 32. First component transfer device; 321. Clamping and suction component; 322. Three-axis moving machine. 323. Manipulator; 323. Clamping gap adjustment assembly; 3231. First fixed base; 3232. First sliding plate; 3233. Mounting base; 3234. Slide rail; 33. Feeding device; 331. Feeding needle assembly; 3311. Feeding needle; 332. Feeding needle position adjustment assembly; 34. Strip cutting device; 341. Cutting seat; 342. Cutting blade; 3421. Cutting opening; 343. Cutting drive assembly; 344. Recycling pipe; 4. Second component feeding mechanism; 5. Second strip; 51. Second component; 6. Second strip conveying mechanism; 7. Riveting mechanism; 8. Buffer elastic element. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The following will be combined with the appendix Figure 1-8The technical solutions of the various embodiments of this application have been clearly and completely described. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. Example

[0030] Reference Figures 1-2 This application discloses an automated riveting device, including a first component feeding mechanism 1, a first component processing mechanism 3, a second component feeding mechanism 4, and a riveting mechanism 7. The first component feeding mechanism 1 is used to store and transport a first material belt 2, on which a first component 21 is carried. The first component processing mechanism 3 is located at the discharge end of the first component feeding mechanism 1.

[0031] Reference Figures 2-4 The first component processing mechanism 3 includes a positioning and clamping device 31 and a first component transfer device 32. The positioning and clamping device 31 includes a positioning component 311 and a clamping member 312. The positioning component 311 is used to position the first material strip 2. The top of the clamping member 312 is used to abut against the bottom side of the first component 21. The first component transfer device 32 includes a clamping and suction member 321. The clamping and suction member 321 is used to abut against the top side of the first component 21. The clamping member 312 and the clamping and suction member 321 can move synchronously to separate the first component 21 from the first material strip 2. The clamping and suction member 321 is used to adsorb the first component 21.

[0032] Reference Figures 1-3 The second component feeding mechanism 4 is used to store and transport the second material belt 5, which carries the second component 51; the riveting mechanism 7 is located at the discharge end of the second component feeding mechanism 4; the first component transfer device 32 is used to transfer the first component 21 to the riveting end of the riveting mechanism 7; and the riveting mechanism 7 is used to rivet the first component 21 and the second component 51.

[0033] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The first component feeding mechanism 1 includes a material tray 11 and a feeding device 33. The material tray 11 is typically circular and made of metal or plastic, used to store the wound first strip 2. The feeding device 33 includes a feeding needle 3311, a feeding needle assembly 331, and a feeding needle position adjustment assembly 332. The feeding needle 3311 is located at the output end of the feeding needle assembly 331, and the feeding needle assembly 331 is located at the output end of the feeding needle position adjustment assembly 332. The feeding needle assembly 331 drives the feeding needle 3311 to descend and pass through the feeding hole of the first strip 2. The feeding needle position adjustment assembly 332 drives the feeding needle assembly 331 to move horizontally, thereby moving the first strip 2 horizontally. After moving a certain distance, the feeding needle 3311 rises and resets, proceeding to the next stroke. Optionally, the feeding needle assembly 331 and the feeding needle position adjustment assembly 332 are a structure in which a cylinder drives a slider to move.

[0034] The second component feeding mechanism 4 is similar to the first component feeding mechanism 1, and will not be described in detail here.

[0035] Reference Figures 2-4 Preferably, the positioning component 311 includes a base 3111, an upper positioning substrate 3112 and a lower positioning push plate 3113. The upper positioning substrate 3112 is fixed on the base 3111 and located above the first material strip 2, and the lower positioning push plate 3113 is located below the first material strip 2. The lower positioning push plate 3113 can be relatively close to or away from the upper positioning substrate 3112.

[0036] Reference Figures 3-5 The upper positioning base plate 3112 is provided with an upper positioning strip 3114, which can abut against the top side of the first material strip 2. The lower positioning push plate 3113 is provided with a lower positioning strip 3115 at the top, which can abut against the bottom side of the first material strip 2.

[0037] The lower positioning push plate 3113 is located below the first material strip 2 and can be made of steel. The lower positioning push plate 3113 can move relatively close to or away from the upper positioning base plate 3112. Its movement can be driven by a cylinder. The piston rod of the cylinder is connected to the lower positioning push plate 3113, and the movement of the lower positioning push plate 3113 is achieved by the extension and retraction of the cylinder. The top of the lower positioning push plate 3113 is provided with a lower positioning strip 3115. The lower positioning strip 3115 can also be a rubber strip or a silicone strip. When the lower positioning push plate 3113 rises, the lower positioning strip 3115 and the upper positioning strip 3114 together clamp the first material strip 2 for positioning.

[0038] Preferably, a buffer elastic element 8 is provided between the lower positioning push plate 3113 and the lower positioning strip 3115. The buffer elastic element 8 can be a spring. When the buffer elastic element 8 is a spring, one end of the spring is fixed to the lower positioning push plate 3113, and the other end is connected to the lower positioning strip 3115. The spring has a certain elastic coefficient. When the lower positioning push plate 3113 rises and contacts the first material strip 2, the spring can act as a buffer, preventing the lower positioning strip 3115 from causing excessive impact on the first material strip 2, thus protecting the first material strip 2 and the first component 21.

[0039] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The positioning component 311 also includes an auxiliary positioning plate 3116, which is disposed between the upper positioning base plate 3112 and the lower positioning push plate 3113. The auxiliary positioning plate 3116 is slidably connected to the upper positioning base plate 3112 via a guide post 3117. The top of the lower positioning push plate 3113 abuts against the bottom of the auxiliary positioning plate 3116, so that the lower positioning push plate 3113 can drive the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 to rise or fall. The top of the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 is provided with a lifting plate 3118, which can support the first material strip 2 and the first component 21.

[0040] The guide post 3117 is generally a cylindrical metal rod with a hardened surface, giving it high hardness and wear resistance. The auxiliary positioning plate 3116 can be made of plastic or aluminum alloy. The top of the lower positioning push plate 3113 abuts against the bottom of the auxiliary positioning plate 3116. When the lower positioning push plate 3113 rises, it drives the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 to rise as well. The top of the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 is provided with a lifting plate 3118, which can be a steel plate, used to support the first material belt 2 and the first component 21. When the first material belt 2 needs to be conveyed, the lower positioning push plate 3113 descends, driving the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 to descend and clear the feeding space. The first material belt 2 moves horizontally. After moving to the preset position, the lower positioning push plate 3113 rises, driving the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 to rise. The lifting plate 3118 lifts the first material belt 2 and the first component 21, preparing for the next step of separating the first material belt 2 and the first component 21.

[0041] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 Optionally, a positioning pin 3120 is fixed on the top surface of the lower positioning push plate 3113. The top end of the positioning pin 3120 slides through the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 and then passes through the feeding hole of the first material belt 2 to further position the first material belt 2.

[0042] After positioning is completed, the lower positioning push plate 3113 and the clamping and suction member 321 rise or fall together to separate the first component 21 from the first material strip 2. After the first component 21 is separated, the clamping and suction member 321 transfers the first component 21.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 The first component processing mechanism 3 also includes a strip cutting device 34. The strip cutting device 34 includes a cutting seat 341, a cutting blade 342, a cutting drive assembly 343, and a recycling pipe 344. The cutting seat 341 is located at the discharge end of the positioning and clamping device 31. The cutting blade 342 is slidably connected to the cutting seat 341. The cutting blade 342 has a cutting opening 3421 for the first strip 2 to pass through. The cutting drive assembly 343 drives the cutting blade 342 to move so that the cutting blade 342 is relatively misaligned with the cutting seat 341 to achieve cutting. The recycling pipe 344 is located at the rear end of the cutting blade 342. Optionally, the cutting drive assembly 343 can be a cylinder, which drives the cutting blade 342 to move up and down to achieve segmentation of the first strip 2.

[0044] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first component transfer device 32 includes a three-axis mobile manipulator 322 and a clamping distance adjustment component 323. The clamping distance adjustment component 323 includes a first fixed base 3231, a first sliding plate 3232, and a mounting base 3233. The first fixed base 3231 is mounted on the output end of the three-axis mobile manipulator 322. The first sliding plate 3232 is slidably connected to the first fixed base 3231 in a vertical direction. Multiple sliding grooves 3234 are provided on the first sliding plate 3232. The multiple sliding grooves 3234 are inclinedly dispersed or inclinedly converged with the middle sliding groove 3234 as the center. The mounting base 3233 is slidably connected to the first fixed base 3231 in a horizontal direction. Multiple mounting bases 3233 are provided, and each mounting base 3233 is slidably connected to a sliding groove 3234. The clamping and suction component 321 is mounted on the mounting base 3233.

[0045] Preferably, the first fixed base 3231 is provided with a spacing adjustment cylinder. The output end of the spacing adjustment cylinder is connected to the first slide plate 3232. By driving the first slide plate 3232 to rise or fall, the spacing between adjacent clamping and suction members 321 can be adjusted, thereby enabling the simultaneous transfer of multiple first components 21.

[0046] Among them, reference Figure 4 and Figure 7 The clamping and suction member 321 is used to abut against the top side of the first component 21. A vacuum channel is provided inside the clamping and suction member 321, which can be connected to a vacuum system to achieve adsorption of the first component 21. The three-axis moving robot 322 can be a Cartesian coordinate robot, consisting of three mutually perpendicular linear motion axes, which can move accurately in three-dimensional space. Its driving method can be servo motor drive, which has high positioning accuracy.

[0047] Reference Figures 1-3 The riveting mechanism 7 is located at the discharge end of the second component feeding mechanism 4. The first component transfer device 32 transfers the first component 21 to the riveting end of the riveting mechanism 7. The riveting mechanism 7 can be a hydraulic riveting machine, which provides power through a hydraulic system to realize the riveting of the first component 21 and the second component 51.

[0048] The implementation principle of this embodiment is as follows: the first component processing mechanism 3 does not simply push or grab components, but adopts a three-step collaborative method: when the first material strip 2 is fed in, the lower support plate 3118 (driven by the lower positioning push plate 3113) first rises smoothly, providing a stable reference plane for the flexible material strip and preventing it from sagging or deforming. At the same time, the upper positioning bar 3114 and the lower positioning bar 3115 begin to pre-clamp the material strip. Subsequently, the upper positioning block 3119 and the support plate 3118 further move to firmly clamp the material strip from surface contact, completely eliminating any possibility of displacement of the material strip in the subsequent separation process, which is a prerequisite for achieving high-precision separation. The most critical step is that the clamping member 312 (pushing upward from bottom to top) fixed to the lower positioning push plate 3113 and the clamping suction member 321 (adsorbing downward from top to bottom) of the first component transfer device 32 move synchronously. This method of applying force simultaneously from above and below evenly distributes the separation force to the first component 21, achieving "peeling" rather than "tearing" or "breaking" of the component from the conveyor belt. This ensures clean and reliable separation without damaging the component itself or the connection points. The equipment integrates feeding, processing (positioning, separation), transfer, secondary positioning, and riveting into a smooth, automated production line. The first component transfer device 32 (such as a three-axis robot) not only handles precise transfer from the processing station to the riveting station, but its adjustable spacing design (such as the chute 3234 structure) also gives the equipment the flexibility to handle components of different specifications or arrangements, greatly improving the equipment's versatility and production efficiency. Example

[0049] This application also discloses an automated riveting method, which uses the automated riveting equipment in Embodiment 1, and includes the following steps: S1. Start the first component feeding mechanism 1 to convey the first material strip 2 horizontally into the first component processing mechanism 3. In this step, the feeding needle 3311 is inserted into the feeding hole of the first material strip 2, and the feeding needle position adjustment component 332 drives the feeding needle component 331 to move along the conveying direction of the first material strip 2, thereby conveying the first material strip 2 to the first component processing mechanism 3. The feeding needle 3311 can be made of metal, and the feeding needle position adjustment component 332 can be a lead screw and nut drive mechanism.

[0050] S2. The first strip 2 is clamped and positioned by the positioning component 311. The upper positioning strip 3114 of the positioning component 311 abuts against the top side of the first strip 2, and the lower positioning strip 3115 abuts against the bottom side of the first strip 2. The upper positioning block 3119 and the lifting plate 3118 jointly clamp the first strip 2. The upper positioning strip 3114 and the lower positioning strip 3115 can be metal strips, rubber strips, silicone strips, etc., and the upper positioning block 3119 and the lifting plate 3118 can be metal plates. The base 3111, the upper positioning base plate 3112, and the lower positioning push plate 3113 of the positioning component 311 cooperate with each other. The lower positioning push plate 3113 is raised by a driving device such as a cylinder, which drives the auxiliary positioning plate 3116 and the lifting plate 3118 to rise, thereby achieving the positioning of the first strip 2.

[0051] S3. The first component 21 is clamped by the clamping member 312 and the clamping suction member 321, and the first component 21 is separated from the first material strip 2 by the synchronous movement of the clamping member 312 and the clamping suction member 321. The clamping member 312 is fixed to the top side of the lower positioning push plate 3113, and its top end abuts against the bottom side of the first component 21. The clamping suction member 321 abuts against the top side of the first component 21. When separation is required, the clamping member 312 and the clamping suction member 321 rise synchronously to separate the first component 21 from the first material strip 2. The clamping member 312 can be a metal rod-shaped structure, and the clamping suction member 321 can be a device with a suction cup.

[0052] S4. The clamping and suction member 321 picks up the first component 21, and the first component transfer device 32 transfers the first component 21 to the riveting mechanism 7. The clamping and suction member 321 picks up the first component 21 by vacuum adsorption, and the three-axis moving robot 322 of the first component transfer device 32 moves in three directions to transfer the first component 21 to the riveting end of the riveting mechanism 7. The three-axis moving robot 322 consists of multiple links and joints and is driven by a motor and transmission mechanism.

[0053] S5. The second material strip 5 is conveyed horizontally to the riveting mechanism 7 using the second component feeding mechanism 4. The feeding device 33 of the second component feeding mechanism 4 is similar to that of the first component feeding mechanism 1. The feeding needle 3311 is inserted into the feeding hole of the second material strip 5, and the feeding needle position adjustment component 332 drives the feeding needle component 331 to move, conveying the second material strip 5 to the riveting mechanism 7.

[0054] S6. Start the riveting mechanism 7 to rivet the first component 21 and the second component 51. The riveting mechanism 7 can rivet the first component 21 and the second component 51 by means of a hydraulically or pneumatically driven punch.

[0055] The implementation principle of this embodiment is as follows: First, the material strip carrying the first component 21 is conveyed to the processing station, and it is firmly fixed by the multiple clamping (such as support and upper and lower clamping) of the positioning component 311, providing a precise reference for all subsequent operations. The key innovation of this method is non-destructive separation and transfer. It does not use simple pushing or pulling, but instead uses the synchronous coordinated movement of the lower clamping member 312 (pushing upward) and the upper clamping suction member 321 (suctioning downward) to separate the first component 21 from the material strip without damage, like "peeling". Subsequently, the clamping suction member 321 is used to suction the component, and it is precisely "delivered" to the riveting station by the transfer device (three-axis robot). In parallel with the processing of the first component 21, the method uses the feeding and conveying mechanism of the second component 51 to precisely convey and fix the second component 51 at the riveting station, creating an accurate "target position" for the arrival of the first component 21. After the first and second components 51 are precisely in place, the riveting mechanism 7 is activated to complete the final physical connection. Because the positioning at each step in the early stages is extremely precise, the final riveting quality (such as positional accuracy and riveting strength) is reliably guaranteed. Through a series of interconnected automated steps—"precise positioning, collaborative non-destructive separation, accurate transfer, target preparation, and precise riveting"—the problems of difficult component separation, easy damage, and inaccurate positioning in traditional technologies are solved, thereby achieving efficient and high-quality automated riveting production.

[0056] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An automated riveting device, characterized in that, include: First component feeding mechanism (1) is used to store and transport first material belt (2), on which first component (21) is carried; The first component processing mechanism (3) is located at the discharge end of the first component feeding mechanism (1). The first component processing mechanism (3) includes a positioning clamping device (31) and a first component transfer device (32). The positioning clamping device (31) includes a positioning component (311) and a clamping member (312). The positioning component (311) is used to position the first material strip (2). The top of the clamping member (312) is used to abut against the bottom side of the first component (21). The first component transfer device (32) includes a clamping suction member (321). The clamping suction member (321) is used to abut against the top side of the first component (21). The clamping member (312) and the clamping suction member (321) can move synchronously to separate the first component (21) from the first material strip (2). The clamping suction member (321) is used to adsorb the first component (21). The second component feeding mechanism (4) is used to store and transport the second material belt (5), on which the second component (51) is carried. The riveting mechanism (7) is located at the discharge end of the second component feeding mechanism (4). The first component transfer device (32) is used to transfer the first component (21) to the riveting end of the riveting mechanism (7). The riveting mechanism (7) is used to rivet the first component (21) and the second component (51).

2. The automated riveting equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positioning component (311) includes a base (3111), an upper positioning base plate (3112), and a lower positioning push plate (3113). The upper positioning base plate (3112) is fixed on the base (3111) and located above the first material strip (2). The lower positioning push plate (3113) is located below the first material strip (2). The lower positioning push plate (3113) can be relatively close to or away from the upper positioning base plate (3112). The upper positioning base plate (3112) is provided with an upper positioning strip (3114), which can abut against the top side of the first material strip (2). The lower positioning push plate (3113) is provided with a lower positioning strip (3115) at the top, which can abut against the bottom side of the first material strip (2).

3. The automated riveting equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The positioning component (311) further includes an auxiliary positioning plate (3116), which is disposed between the upper positioning base plate (3112) and the lower positioning push plate (3113). The auxiliary positioning plate (3116) is slidably connected to the upper positioning base plate (3112) through a guide post (3117). The top of the lower positioning push plate (3113) abuts against the bottom of the auxiliary positioning plate (3116) so that the auxiliary positioning plate (3116) can be driven to rise or fall by the lower positioning push plate (3113). The top of the auxiliary positioning plate (3116) is provided with a lifting plate (3118), which can support the first material strip (2) and the first component (21).

4. The automated riveting equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The upper positioning base plate (3112) is also provided with an upper positioning block (3119), and the upper positioning block (3119) and the lifting plate (3118) can jointly clamp the first strip (2).

5. An automated riveting device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The clamping member (312) is fixed to the top side of the lower positioning push plate (3113) and its top end slides through the auxiliary positioning plate (3116) and the lifting plate (3118) before abutting against the bottom end of the clamping and suction member (321).

6. An automated riveting device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A buffer elastic element (8) is provided between the lower positioning push plate (3113) and the lower positioning strip (3115).

7. An automated riveting device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first component processing mechanism (3) further includes a strip cutting device (34), which includes a cutting seat (341), a cutting blade (342), a cutting drive assembly (343), and a recycling pipe (344). The cutting blade (342) is slidably connected to the cutting seat (341). The cutting blade (342) has a cutting opening (3421) for the first strip (2) to pass through. The cutting drive assembly (343) is used to drive the cutting blade (342) to move so that the cutting blade (342) is relatively misaligned with the cutting seat (341) to achieve cutting. The recycling pipe (344) is located at the rear end of the cutting blade (342).

8. An automated riveting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first component feeding mechanism (1) and the second component feeding mechanism (4) both include a feeding device (33). The feeding device (33) includes a feeding needle assembly (331) and a feeding needle position adjustment assembly (332). The feeding needle assembly (331) includes a feeding needle (3311). The feeding needle (3311) is used to insert into or disengage from the feeding hole of the first material belt (2). The feeding needle position adjustment assembly (332) is used to drive the feeding needle assembly (331) to move along the conveying direction of the first material belt (2).

9. An automated riveting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first component transfer device (32) includes a three-axis mobile manipulator (322) and a clamping distance adjustment assembly (323). The clamping distance adjustment assembly (323) includes a first fixed base (3231), a first sliding plate (3232), and a mounting base (3233). The first fixed base (3231) is mounted on the output end of the three-axis mobile manipulator (322). The first sliding plate (3232) is slidably connected to the first fixed base (3231) in the vertical direction. 32) Multiple sliding grooves (3234) are provided on the surface. The multiple sliding grooves (3234) are inclined and dispersed or inclined and clustered around the central sliding groove (3234). The mounting base (3233) is slidably connected to the first fixed base (3231) in the horizontal direction. Multiple mounting bases (3233) are provided, and each mounting base (3233) is slidably connected to one of the sliding grooves (3234). The clamping and suction member (321) is installed on the mounting base (3233).

10. An automated riveting method, characterized in that, Based on the automated riveting equipment as described in any one of claims 1-9, the process includes the following steps: S1. Start the first component feeding mechanism (1) and transport the first material belt (2) horizontally into the first component processing mechanism (3); S2. The first strip (2) is clamped and positioned by the positioning component (311); S3. The first component (21) is clamped by the clamping member (312) and the clamping suction member (321), and the first component (21) is separated from the first material strip (2) by the synchronous movement of the clamping member (312) and the clamping suction member (321). S4. The first component (21) is picked up by the clamping and suction member (321), and the first component (21) is transferred to the riveting mechanism (7) by the first component transfer device (32). S5. The second material strip (5) is fed horizontally into the riveting mechanism (7) using the second component feeding mechanism (4); S6. Start the riveting mechanism (7) to rivet the first component (21) and the second component (51).

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