Automatic circulation type polishing device for chain machining

Abstract

The invention discloses an automatic circulation type polishing device for chain machining, and relates to the related technical field of chain machining, the automatic circulation type polishing device comprises a rack of the device and a polishing wheel used for polishing the surface of a chain, the rack is provided with a supply unit, a driving unit, a collecting unit and a recycling unit, the supply unit is filled with polishing paste, and the recycling unit is filled with polishing paste; the feeding unit is installed on the end face of the machine frame and used for coating a chain with polishing paste, the driving unit is installed on the end face of the machine frame and used for controlling the chain, the collecting unit is installed on the end face of the machine frame and used for collecting redundant polishing paste on the chain, and the recycling unit is installed in the machine frame and used for guiding the polishing paste back into the feeding unit. The problems of extensive use of the polishing paste, serious waste, environmental pollution and unstable process quality caused by lack of automatic and uniform coating functions of the polishing paste and lack of an integrated system for effectively collecting, treating and recycling redundant polishing paste in the prior art are solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of chain processing, specifically to an automatic cyclic polishing device for chain processing. Background Technology

[0002] As an important mechanical transmission component, the manufacturing process of chains typically includes a pre-treatment process of deburring and rough polishing the unassembled chain parts (such as chain plates, pins, bushings, and rollers) to improve their basic surface condition. Following this, the assembled chain still requires overall polishing to further enhance its surface finish, corrosion resistance, and appearance consistency. Existing finished chain polishing equipment usually employs a process where a drive unit circulates the chain, causing it to pass through fixed flexible polishing wheels (such as cloth wheels or nylon wheels) for friction polishing. Its basic structure includes a frame, drive sprocket, polishing wheels, and a simple feeding component. Its function is to perform a final finishing process on the assembled chain through mechanical friction combined with polishing paste, aiming to achieve a uniform gloss and surface quality.

[0003] However, existing polishing devices for finished chains have significant drawbacks. First, they generally lack precise, adaptive quantitative control mechanisms for applying polishing paste, relying heavily on operator experience or simple brushing and dripping methods. This results in uneven coating distribution on the complex surfaces of the chain (especially in the inner holes of rollers and the gaps between chain links), poor polishing consistency, and significant waste of polishing paste. Second, and more importantly, the devices completely lack a systematic design for effectively collecting, processing, and recycling the large amounts of excess and waste polishing paste generated during processing. This leads to a huge one-time consumption of high-value polishing materials, high production costs, and the mixture of waste paste and metal shavings forming industrial waste, polluting the environment and adding additional costs for subsequent treatment. This "open-loop" consumption model of existing technology constitutes a significant shortcoming in terms of resource utilization efficiency and clean production, hindering the greening and automation upgrade of chain manufacturing processes. To address the aforementioned problems, an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing is provided. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing, in order to solve the problems mentioned in the background art, such as the lack of automatic and uniform application of polishing paste and the lack of an integrated system for effectively collecting, processing and recycling excess polishing paste during the polishing process, which leads to the extensive use of polishing paste, serious waste, environmental pollution and unstable process quality.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing, comprising a frame of the device and a polishing wheel for polishing the surface of the chain, wherein the frame is equipped with a supply unit, a drive unit, a collection unit and a recycling unit;

[0006] The supply unit is filled with polishing compound and is used to apply polishing compound to the chain.

[0007] The drive unit, mounted on the end face of the frame, is used to control the direction of the chain;

[0008] The collection unit, also mounted on the end face of the frame, is used to collect excess polishing compound from the chain;

[0009] The recycling unit, installed inside the frame and connected to the collection unit, is used to guide the recycled polishing paste back into the supply unit.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the supply unit includes a flow guide container, ball bearings, and a feed wheel. The flow guide container is fixedly connected to the end face of the frame, and polishing paste is filled inside the flow guide container. The ball bearings are rotatably mounted on the lower end of the flow guide container, and the feed wheel is rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame. The upper and lower ends of the feed wheel contact the ball bearings and the chain, respectively.

[0011] In a further embodiment, a scraper is fixedly installed on the end face of the frame, and the scraper contacts the chain to scrape off excess polishing compound from the chain.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the drive unit includes a drive wheel, a tension wheel, and a transmission wheel. The drive wheel, tension wheel, and transmission wheel are all rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame, and a first motor for controlling the rotation of the drive wheel is installed inside the frame. A chain meshes around the drive wheel, tension wheel, and transmission wheel.

[0013] In a further embodiment, a sliding plate is slidably mounted on the end face of the frame, a tensioning wheel is rotatably mounted on the end face of the sliding plate, a screw is rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame, and the sliding plate is threadedly connected to the screw.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the collection unit includes a collection trough, a swing arm, and a swing wheel. The collection trough is fixedly connected to the end face of the frame. The upper end of the chain passes through the upper end of the collection trough. The swing arm is rotatably mounted on the frame, with one end of the swing arm located inside the collection trough. The swing wheel is rotatably mounted on the end of the swing arm located inside the collection trough.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the swing arm includes a rotating frame, a telescopic arm, and a control frame. The rotating frame is rotatably mounted on the frame, and one end of the rotating frame is located in the collection trough. The control frame is fixedly connected to the end of the rotating frame located inside the frame.

[0016] A cam is rotatably mounted inside the frame and is located within the control frame. A second motor for driving the cam to rotate is installed inside the frame. A telescopic arm is slidably mounted at one end of the rotating frame located in the collection trough. A swing wheel is rotatably mounted at the lower end of the telescopic arm. A spring for applying elastic force to the telescopic arm is installed inside the rotating frame.

[0017] In a further embodiment, two guide wheels are rotatably installed inside the collection trough, and the upper end of the chain passes over one guide wheel, a swing wheel, and another guide wheel in sequence.

[0018] In a further embodiment, a hinged door is rotatably mounted on the end face of the collection tank, and the hinged door is connected to the side of the collection tank by a connector.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the recovery unit includes a guide pipe, a screw rod, and a filter box. The guide pipe is fixedly installed inside the frame and includes a horizontal pipe and a vertical pipe. Two screw rods are rotatably installed inside the horizontal pipe and the vertical pipe, respectively. A third motor for driving the vertical screw rod to rotate is installed inside the frame. A fourth motor is slidably installed on the frame. The output end of the fourth motor is slidably sleeved on one end of the horizontal screw rod. The filter box is fixedly connected between the horizontal pipe and the vertical pipe. A return pipe is connected between the upper end of the outer wall of the vertical pipe and the guide container.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0021] 1. This invention is an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing. By setting up a supply unit, a drive unit, a collection unit and a recycling unit, and integrating them on the frame to work together, it solves the problems of serious material waste, environmental pollution and poor process stability caused by uneven application of polishing paste and inability to recycle and reuse existing chain polishing devices.

[0022] 2. By setting up a recycling unit connected to the collection unit and guiding the collected polishing paste back into the supply unit, the problem of direct discharge of waste polishing paste and lack of closed-loop recycling capability in existing devices is solved, which leads to resource waste and high subsequent processing costs. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a front view of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0025] Figure 3 This invention proposes an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing. Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the flow guide container of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the frame of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the drive unit structure of an automatic cyclic polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the tension wheel structure of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the swing arm structure of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0031] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotating frame of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention.

[0032] Figure 10 The control frame and cam front view of an automatic cyclic polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0033] Figure 11 This is an overall side view of the frame of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0034] Figure 12 This invention proposes an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing. Figure 11 Enlarged view at point B in the middle;

[0035] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the recycling unit structure of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention;

[0036] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the guide tube structure of an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing proposed in this invention.

[0037] In the diagram: 1. Frame; 11. Polishing wheel; 12. Supply unit; 121. Flow guide container; 122. Ball bearing; 123. Feeding wheel; 13. Scraper; 2. Drive unit; 21. Drive wheel; 22. Tensioning wheel; 221. Sliding plate; 222. Screw; 23. Transmission wheel; 24. Guide wheel; 3. Collection unit; 31. Collection trough; 311. Flip door; 32. Swing arm; 321. Rotating frame; 322. Telescopic arm; 323. Spring; 324. Control frame; 325. Cam; 33. Swing wheel; 4. Recycling unit; 41. Flow guide pipe; 42. Screw rod; 43. Filter box; 44. Return pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] Please see Figures 1-14 This embodiment provides an automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing, including a frame 1 and a polishing wheel 11 for polishing the surface of the chain L. The frame 1, as the supporting skeleton of the entire device, has sufficient rigidity and stability to withstand various loads during operation. The polishing wheel 11 acts directly on the surface of the chain L, contacting and rubbing against the surface through high-speed rotation, thereby removing micro-burrs and improving surface finish. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, there are two polishing wheels 11, which are arranged vertically opposite each other and can be clamped together above and below the running path of the chain L. This clamping arrangement of the two polishing wheels 11 can simultaneously and uniformly polish multiple surfaces of the chain L, avoiding the unevenness caused by single-sided polishing. It is particularly suitable for precision chain L processing where high polishing consistency is required. The material of the polishing wheels 11 can be selected according to processing requirements. For example, nylon wheels made of nylon material with good elasticity and wear resistance can be used. When in contact with the chain L, the nylon wheel can produce appropriate flexible deformation to better conform to the contour of the chain L. Of course, other flexible polishing wheels 11 can also be used, such as flocked wheels, wool wheels, or polyurethane polishing wheels 11. Different polishing wheels 11 with different particle sizes of polishing paste can achieve different process requirements from rough polishing to mirror polishing. This modular design makes this device widely adaptable to various processes.

[0040] like Figure 1As shown, the frame 1 is equipped with a supply unit 12, a drive unit 2, a collection unit 3, and a recycling unit 4. These four functional units are arranged on the frame 1 according to the process flow of the chain L, forming a complete automated circulation system from coating, polishing, collection to recycling and regeneration. The supply unit 12 is responsible for storing and quantitatively supplying polishing paste to the chain L, and is the starting point of the circulation system. The drive unit 2 is installed on one end face of the frame 1 and is used to precisely control the direction, speed, and tension of the chain L to ensure that the chain L runs smoothly on the preset closed-loop path. The collection unit 3 is also installed on the end face of the frame 1, but is located downstream of the coating and polishing process. It is specifically used to intercept and collect excess polishing paste that has been scraped off the surface of the chain L or fallen off due to vibration and has not participated in effective polishing. The recycling unit 4 is installed inside the frame 1 and is sealed to the outlet of the collection unit 3 through a pipe. The core task of the recycling unit 4 is to physically transport, filter and purify the collected waste polishing paste mixed with metal shavings, and finally guide the usable paste back to the paste storage container of the supply unit 12, thereby realizing the closed-loop recycling of polishing paste resources. This circular design significantly reduces the consumption of polishing paste and the amount of waste generated from the source, which is in line with the concept of green manufacturing and significantly reduces the processing cost of a single product.

[0041] Specifically, such as Figure 4As shown, the supply unit 12 includes a flow guide container 121, ball bearings 122, and a feed roller 123. The flow guide container 121 is fixedly connected to the end face of the frame 1, and its hollow interior is used to fill a certain amount of viscous polishing paste. The flow guide container 121 is preferably designed as a bottle-shaped structure, with its lower end tapering to form a downward-facing bottle mouth. This structure facilitates the natural accumulation of polishing paste near the outlet under gravity. The ball bearings 122 are made of a high-gloss, wear-resistant material, such as stainless steel or ceramic. The ball bearings 122 are rotatably mounted inside the bottle mouth at the lower end of the flow guide container 121 via a precision ball socket, with part of the spherical surface of the ball bearings 122 protruding outside the bottle mouth while part of the spherical surface is immersed in the polishing paste inside the container. The ball socket design of the ball bearings 122 ensures that the ball bearings 122 can rotate flexibly without falling off the bottle mouth, while also having good sealing performance to prevent uncontrolled leakage of polishing paste. The feed roller 123 is rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame 1 via bearings and a shaft. Its mounting position is precisely calculated so that the upper circumferential surface of the feed roller 123 maintains pressure contact with the surface of the protruding ball bearing 122, while the lower circumferential surface of the feed roller 123 maintains pressure contact with the surface of the chain L passing below. When the drive unit 2 drives the chain L to move at a constant speed, the friction between the chain L and the feed roller 123 drives the feed roller 123 to rotate. The rotating feed roller 123 then drives the ball bearing 122 to rotate within its socket through contact friction. The rotation of the ball bearing 122 plays a crucial first-stage role in equalizing and metering the polishing paste adhering to the surface of the ball bearing 122, continuously and evenly carrying it out of the guide container 121 and transferring it to the surface of the feed roller 123 in contact with it. The feed roller 123 consists of an internal metal or hard plastic hub and an elastic sleeve tightly fitted around the hub, such as an oil-resistant rubber sleeve or a polyurethane sleeve with a hollow structure. This elastic sleeve has an interference fit with both the ball bearing 122 and the chain L, meaning that slight compressive deformation occurs at the contact point. This elastic deformation brings several beneficial effects: First, it increases the actual contact area, ensuring efficient transfer of polishing paste from the ball bearing 122 to the feed roller 123 and then from the feed roller 123 to the chain L, reducing paste loss during the transfer process; second, the elastic pressure can adapt to changes in the chain L's pitch and surface undulations, allowing the polishing paste to be pressed into the micro-recesses on the roller end faces and chain plate edges of the chain L, achieving more comprehensive and uniform coating; third, the flexible contact avoids damage to the chain L's surface that may be caused by rigid scratching. During the continuous rotation of the feed roller 123, the polishing paste film adhering to its surface is continuously carried to the contact area with the chain L and ultimately transferred to the moving chain L's surface, completing the automated and uniform coating process of the polishing paste, laying a solid foundation for subsequent high-quality polishing.

[0042] To precisely control the thickness of the polishing compound applied to the surface of chain L and avoid heat buildup, reduced polishing quality, or difficulties in subsequent cleaning due to excessive compound thickness, a scraper 13 is fixedly installed on the end face of the frame 1, downstream of the supply unit 12 and upstream of the polishing wheel 11. The scraper 13 is typically made of wear-resistant rubber. The lower end of the scraper 13 is aligned with the path traversed by chain L, allowing the chain L surface to glide across the lower end of the scraper 13 with a small gap or slight contact pressure. When chain L, coated with a relatively thick and unevenly distributed polishing compound, passes over the scraper 13, the scraper 13 acts like a scraper, precisely scraping off the excess compound beyond the expected thickness, leaving only a very thin and evenly distributed compound film on the surface of chain L. This precise quantitative control process is crucial for achieving stable and repeatable polishing results, as a uniform compound film means uniform frictional heat distribution and consistent abrasive cutting action during subsequent polishing, resulting in a uniform surface quality. Excess polishing paste scraped off by scraper 13 will fall directly into the collection tank 31 of collection unit 3 located directly below scraper 13 in clumps or strips under the action of gravity. This design realizes the immediate and fixed-point collection of waste paste after it is generated, effectively preventing paste from splashing and contaminating the equipment and working environment, keeping the processing area clean, and creating convenient conditions for subsequent centralized recycling and treatment.

[0043] Drive unit 2 is the core power and transmission module that ensures the continuous and stable operation of the entire device. Drive unit 2 includes a drive wheel 21, a tension wheel 22, and a transmission wheel 23. The drive wheel 21, tension wheel 22, and transmission wheel 23 are all rotatably mounted on the robust end panel of frame 1 via rolling bearings and bearing housings. Inside frame 1, a first motor is installed to control the rotation of drive wheel 21. This first motor typically drives the main shaft of drive wheel 21 directly via a coupling, thus providing controllable and stable traction power for the closed-loop cyclic motion of the entire chain L. Figure 6As shown, the chain L, as a flexible transmission component, correctly meshes with and surrounds the drive wheel 21, tension wheel 22, and transmission wheel 23 to form a closed loop transmission path with appropriate tension. The transmission wheel 23 serves to change the direction of the chain L and extend its path, while the core function of the tension wheel 22 is to manually adjust the tension of this loop path. Appropriate tension is crucial for the chain L transmission: insufficient tension will cause the chain L to slack, bounce during operation, or even fall off the sprocket; excessive tension will exacerbate the wear of the chain L's hinges, sprocket teeth, and bearings, increasing energy consumption. To address the problem of natural elongation of the chain L due to wear or temperature changes, and to ensure convenient tension adjustment during installation, this device is designed with a precise tension adjustment mechanism. Specifically, parallel guide rails are machined on the end face of the frame 1, and the sliding plate 221 is installed in conjunction with the rails to achieve precise linear sliding along a specific direction. The tension wheel 22 is mounted on the end face of the sliding plate 221 facing the chain L path via its own shaft and bearings. A slender screw 222 is rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame 1 via a guide rail, with the axis of the screw 222 strictly parallel to the sliding direction of the sliding plate 221. The sliding plate 221 is threadedly connected to the screw 222. When the operator rotates the screw 222 using a wrench or Allen wrench, the rotational motion drives the sliding plate 221 to move linearly via the thread because the screw 222 is axially fixed. By controlling the rotation direction of the screw 222, the sliding plate 221 can be driven to move towards or away from the drive wheel 21. When the tension wheel 22 moves away from the drive wheel 21, the chain L path is lengthened, and the tension increases; conversely, the tension decreases. This tensioning mechanism has the advantages of high adjustment accuracy, good self-locking, and stable tension without rebound after adjustment. It can maintain the chain L transmission system in optimal working condition for a long time, preventing polishing quality fluctuations or equipment failures caused by tension changes.

[0044] The collection unit 3 is the front end of the efficient waste polishing compound recovery system, and its design directly affects the recovery rate and workshop cleanliness. The collection unit 3 includes an open collection trough 31, an actively vibrating swing arm 32, and a follower swing wheel 33. The collection trough 31 is typically made of stainless steel or corrosion-resistant plastic and is fixedly connected to the end face of the frame 1, with its opening facing upwards, directly opposite the scraper 13 and the specifically designed vibration section of the chain L located above it. The collection trough 31 acts as a large funnel, collecting waste polishing compound from all sources, including the compound scraped off from the scraper 13 and the compound detached from the chain L by subsequent vibration. The upper part of the chain L needs to travel upwards and through a pre-reserved channel or opening above the collection trough 31. To guide the chain L into a specific overhang shape within the collection trough 31 area and provide stable support, two guide wheels 24 are rotatably mounted on the inner side walls of the collection trough 31 via short shafts and bearings. The installation height and horizontal position of the two guide wheels 24 are designed so that after the upper end of the chain L enters the collection groove 31 area, it first passes downwards around the upper part of the first guide wheel 24, then over the lower part of the balance wheel 33 located in the middle, and finally passes downwards around the upper part of the second guide wheel 24 before leaving the collection groove 31 area. In this way, the chain L naturally forms a downward arch within the collection groove 31, similar to an inverted "Ω" shaped loop. The swing arm 32 is the core component that generates active vibration. It is rotatably mounted on the frame 1 via a robust pivot seat, with one end (the actuating end) of the swing arm 32 extending into and suspended above the internal space of the collection groove 31. The balance wheel 33 is rotatably mounted at the end of the swing arm 32 at the actuating end via a bearing. The apex of the downward arched loop formed by the chain L precisely presses against the rim of the balance wheel 33. The balance wheel 33 is designed as a guide wheel with side grooves. The side grooves can better restrain the chain L, preventing it from slipping laterally during vibration, while maintaining low-friction rolling contact and reducing wear on the chain L.

[0045] The swing arm 32 features an ingenious structural design to achieve stable and controllable reciprocating oscillation. The swing arm 32 includes a rigid rotating frame 321, an axially extendable telescopic arm 322, a spring 323 providing a restoring force, and a control frame 324 for receiving driving force. The rotating frame 321 typically employs a U-shaped frame structure to balance strength and flexibility. Its top crossbeam is rotatably connected to the frame 1 via a pivot and bearings, allowing the entire rotating frame 321 to swing freely around this horizontal pivot. The lower part of the rotating frame 321, extending into the collection tank 31, is designed as a hollow tubular structure or has guide grooves. The control frame 324 is a rigidly cast rectangular frame, securely fixed to the end of the rotating frame 321 located inside the frame 1. Inside the frame 1, a cam 325 mechanism driven by a second motor is independently installed. Cam 325 is fixed to a rotating shaft driven by a second motor. Its profile (such as an eccentric wheel surface or a specific curved surface) is located precisely within the internal space of control frame 324, maintaining a small gap with the inner wall of control frame 324. When the second motor starts and drives cam 325 to rotate at a constant speed, the outer profile of cam 325 periodically presses outward against the two side walls of control frame 324, thereby applying a periodic thrust to control frame 324. Since control frame 324 is fixed to rotating frame 321, this force is converted into a torque that drives rotating frame 321 to oscillate back and forth around its mounting axis, thereby realizing the periodic oscillation of swing arm 32. To compensate for the initial tension difference after chain L is installed and to ensure that swing wheel 33 can closely fit chain L without impact or disengagement in any working state, the actuating end of rotating frame 321 extending into collection groove 31 is designed as a telescopic structure. Telescopic arm 322 is installed in the hole at the lower end of rotating frame 321 in a sliding fit manner, and can slide freely along its axial direction. The mounting shaft of the balance wheel 33 is fixed to the lower end of the telescopic arm 322. Inside the rotating frame 321, a spring 323 is installed. One end of the spring 323 rests against the thrust surface inside the rotating frame 321, and the other end rests against the top of the telescopic arm 322. The spring 323 is always compressed, thus applying a continuous downward elastic thrust to the telescopic arm 322. After the chain L is installed and tensioned, the operator can manually compress the telescopic arm 322 to overcome the elastic force of the spring 323 and retract it. Then, the chain L is passed around the bottom of the balance wheel 33. After releasing, the elastic force of the spring 323 will push the telescopic arm 322 and the balance wheel 33 upward to firmly press against the arched bottom of the chain L. This design makes the balance wheel 33 a "floating" driven wheel. It can effectively transmit the oscillation of the rotating frame 321 to the chain L and adapt to the displacement generated by the oscillation of the chain L, always maintaining good contact and avoiding the jamming or accelerated wear problems that may be caused by rigid connection. The strong oscillation of the balance wheel 33 can fling out excess polishing compound (especially polishing compound in the holes and grooves of chain components) adhering to the chain L and collect it in the collection groove 31.

[0046] To facilitate easy access to the interior of the collection trough 31 and the chain path L during equipment maintenance, chain L specification replacement, or chain threading operations, the end face of the collection trough 31 is designed to be openable. Specifically, a hinged door 311 is rotatably installed on the end face of the collection trough 31 via a pivot. The hinged door 311 can rotate outwards and open, completely exposing one side of the collection trough 31, providing ample operating space and greatly improving the maintainability and ease of operation of the equipment.

[0047] Recycling unit 4 is a crucial step in turning collected waste paste into valuable resources and achieving resource recycling. For example... Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, the recovery unit 4 includes an "L"-shaped guide pipe 41, two spiral rods 42 respectively placed in horizontal and vertical pipe sections, a filter box 43 for filtering impurities, and a return pipe 44 connected back to the supply end. The guide pipe 41 includes a horizontal pipe and a vertical pipe, which are firmly fixed inside the frame 1. The inlet of its horizontal pipe is sealed to the outlet at the bottom of the collection tank 31, and the vertical pipe extends upward. The two spiral rods 42, also known as augers, are the core actuators for conveying high-viscosity polishing paste. The horizontal spiral rod 42 is coaxially rotatably installed inside the horizontal pipe of the guide pipe 41, responsible for horizontally pushing the paste collected from the collection tank 31 towards the filter box 43. The vertical spiral rod 42 is coaxially rotatably installed inside the vertical pipe of the guide pipe 41, responsible for receiving the filtered paste and lifting it upward. A third motor is installed inside the frame 1, which drives the vertical spiral rod 42 to rotate through a coupling, providing it with stable lifting power. Considering the installation of chain L, the drive design of the horizontal helical rod 42 is detachable. Specifically, a motor mounting base that can slide slightly along the guide rail is installed on the frame 1, and the fourth motor is fixed on this mounting base. The output shaft of the fourth motor is connected to the shaft end of the horizontal helical rod 42 via a sliding key coupling. During normal operation, the fourth motor remains connected to the horizontal helical rod 42 and drives its rotation. When maintenance and disassembly of chain L are required, simply sliding the motor mounting base will disengage the output shaft of the fourth motor from the shaft end of the horizontal helical rod 42, greatly simplifying the maintenance and disassembly process. The filter box 43 is a sealed box that is fixedly connected to the corner connection between the end of the horizontal pipe section and the bottom of the vertical pipe section of the guide pipe 41, forming a transition chamber inside. The top or side of the filter box 43 is designed with an opening, into which a metal filter screen or porous filter plate with a specific aperture (e.g., 80 mesh to 200 mesh) is installed in a sealed insertion manner. The polishing paste pushed from the horizontal tube must be forced through this filter plate before entering the vertical tube. The filter plate plays a crucial role; it acts as a barrier, allowing the flowable polishing paste matrix and fine abrasives to pass through, while effectively intercepting larger metal chips, chain L wear particles, and other solid impurities that may be mixed in during the polishing process on the feed side of the filter box 43. These intercepted impurities can be periodically removed by opening the cleaning port of the filter box 43 or by directly removing the filter plate, thus ensuring the purity of the recycled polishing paste and preventing impurities from re-entering the polishing process and scratching the delicate surface of the chain L. The design of the screw 42 can be further optimized to improve conveying efficiency and stability. For example, the feed section of the horizontal screw 42 can use a larger pitch to quickly and loosely receive the paste flowing down from the collection trough 31, preventing blockage at the inlet; while its discharge section near the filter box 43 can use a smaller pitch to compress the paste, helping to squeeze out the air entrained in the paste and establish a certain conveying pressure, forcing the paste to pass tightly through the filter plate.The vertical screw 42 typically uses a uniform or gradually varying pitch to deliver the polishing paste upwards at a stable speed, overcoming gravity. The upper end of the vertical section of the guide pipe 41 is connected to the side wall or top inlet of the guide container 121 via a flexible or rigid return pipe 44. The polishing paste, after being filtered and lifted and restored to a clean state, flows smoothly back into the guide container 121 through the return pipe 44 under the combined action of the pushing force of the vertical screw 42 and its own gravity, replenishing the consumed paste and thus truly achieving a fully automatic closed-loop cycle of "collection, filtration, and backfilling." To ensure that the recovery system can quickly establish a stable paste delivery flow after initial startup or long-term shutdown, and to avoid the screw 42 spinning idly and failing to deliver the paste due to dryness or cavitation in the pipes, a certain amount of polishing paste can be manually pre-filled into the collection tank 31 before initial operation, until the paste fills the horizontal inlet section of the guide pipe 41 and the filter box 43. This pre-filling operation utilizes the viscosity and continuity of the polishing compound itself to form an effective "seal" and conveying medium between the blades of the screw rod 42 and the inner wall of the pipe, enabling the screw rod 42 to immediately grasp the compound and push it effectively after startup, significantly improving the reliability and efficiency of system startup.

[0048] The specific arrangement of polishing wheel 11 is as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, two polishing wheels 11 are located on either side of the running path of the chain L. The polishing wheels 11 are driven by independent motors to rotate at high speed, and their rotation direction can be the same as or opposite to the running direction of the chain L to produce different relative friction effects. A uniform polishing paste film pre-coated on the surface of the chain L, when passing through the polishing zone formed by the two polishing wheels 11, causes the abrasive particles in the polishing paste to perform micro-cutting and grinding on the surface of the chain L under the pressure and relative motion of the polishing wheels 11, thereby gradually removing microscopic surface unevenness and achieving the polishing purpose. The flexible material of the polishing wheels 11 ensures uniform pressure distribution, avoiding localized over-polishing or under-polishing.

[0049] The specific installation location of scraper 13 is as follows: Figure 3 As shown, it is located downstream of the feed wheel 123 and upstream of the polishing wheel 11, and at the edge of the opening in the collection groove 31. The cutting edge plane of the scraper 13 is slightly inclined to meet the chain L after applying paste at the optimal angle, achieving efficient scraping.

[0050] The specific travel path of chain L under the combined action of drive unit 2, guide wheel 24 and balance wheel 33 is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, this forms a complete processing loop.

[0051] The linkage relationship between the swing arm 32, the cam 325, and the control frame 324 is as follows: Figure 8As shown. The cam 325 rotates under the drive of the second motor, and its protruding part periodically pushes against the inner wall of the control frame 324, forcing the rotating frame 321 to swing back and forth with the swing wheel 33, thereby periodically hitting and vibrating the L-shaped section of the chain above.

[0052] The overall layout and connection relationship of recycling unit 4 are as follows: Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown. The paste at the bottom of the collection tank 31 flows into the horizontal guide pipe 41, is pushed to the filter box 43 by the horizontal screw rod 42, and after filtration, it enters the vertical guide pipe 41, is lifted by the vertical screw rod 42, and finally returns to the guide container 121 through the return pipe 44.

[0053] Compared to existing chain L-type polishing devices, which mostly adopt an extensive mode of open-type paste application, manual replenishment of polishing agent, and random disposal of waste paste, this invention adopts a fully integrated and automated pure mechanical circulation polishing system, creatively solving three major pain points that have long existed in the industry: high costs due to low utilization rate of polishing paste, environmental pressure caused by waste paste disposal, and poor stability caused by excessive reliance on worker operating skills in polishing quality. Specifically, this invention achieves micro-volume, uniform, and adaptive coating of polishing paste through the synergistic action of the ball bearings 122 and the elastic feeding wheel 123 in the supply unit 12, providing a prerequisite for high-quality polishing. The tensioning mechanism of the precisely adjustable screw 222 in the drive unit 2 ensures the long-term stability and reliability of the chain L drive, laying the foundation for continuous production. The dual action of static cleaning by the scraper 13 and dynamic vibration by the swing arm 32 in the collection unit 3 achieves nearly 100% efficient recovery of excess polishing paste, and the dynamic paste-throwing method is particularly adept at cleaning residual paste inside the chain L hinge, which is unmatched by traditional static collection. The combination of spiral conveying and online filtration in the recovery unit 4 purifies the recovered dirty paste in real time and automatically returns it to the feeding end, constructing a true "zero-waste" closed loop. The entire system is logically sound, with all units linked mechanically, eliminating the need for complex sensors and electronic control systems. This results in low manufacturing and maintenance costs, strong tolerance to environmental factors (such as oil, dust, and electromagnetic interference), and extremely high reliability. This device significantly reduces material and waste disposal costs in the chain polishing process, steadily improves the consistency of product polishing quality, and improves the working environment for frontline workers. It has significant economic, environmental, and social benefits, and provides an efficient and green technical equipment solution for the transformation and upgrading of the chain manufacturing industry.

[0054] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing, comprising a frame (1) and a polishing wheel (11) for polishing the surface of the chain, characterized in that: The frame (1) is equipped with a supply unit (12), a drive unit (2), a collection unit (3) and a recycling unit (4). The supply unit (12) is filled with polishing paste for applying polishing paste to the chain; The drive unit (2) is installed on the end face of the frame (1) and is used to control the direction of the chain; The collection unit (3) is also installed on the end face of the frame (1) to collect excess polishing paste on the chain; The recycling unit (4) is installed inside the frame (1) and connected to the collection unit (3) for guiding the recycled polishing paste back into the supply unit (12).

2. The automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supply unit (12) includes a flow guide container (121), a ball bearing (122) and a feed wheel (123). The flow guide container (121) is fixedly connected to the end face of the frame (1), and polishing paste is filled in the flow guide container (121). The ball bearing (122) is rotatably installed at the lower end of the flow guide container (121), and the feed wheel (123) is rotatably installed on the end face of the frame (1). The upper and lower ends of the feed wheel (123) respectively contact the ball bearing (122) and the chain.

3. The automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 2, characterized in that: A scraper (13) is fixedly installed on the end face of the frame (1). The scraper (13) contacts the chain and is used to scrape off excess polishing paste from the chain.

4. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 3, characterized in that: The drive unit (2) includes a drive wheel (21), a tension wheel (22) and a transmission wheel (23). The drive wheel (21), tension wheel (22) and transmission wheel (23) are rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame (1). A first motor for controlling the rotation of the drive wheel (21) is installed inside the frame (1). The chain meshes around the drive wheel (21), tension wheel (22) and transmission wheel (23).

5. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 4, characterized in that: A sliding plate (221) is slidably mounted on the end face of the frame (1), the tensioning wheel (22) is rotatably mounted on the end face of the sliding plate (221), the screw (222) is rotatably mounted on the end face of the frame (1), and the sliding plate (221) is threadedly connected to the screw (222).

6. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 5, characterized in that: The collection unit (3) includes a collection trough (31), a swing arm (32) and a swing wheel (33). The collection trough (31) is fixedly connected to the end face of the frame (1). The upper end of the chain passes through the upper end of the collection trough (31). The swing arm (32) is rotatably mounted on the frame (1), and one end of the swing arm (32) is located inside the collection trough (31). The swing wheel (33) is rotatably mounted on the end of the swing arm (32) located inside the collection trough (31).

7. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 6, characterized in that: The swing arm (32) includes a rotating frame (321), a telescopic arm (322), and a control frame (324). The rotating frame (321) is rotatably mounted on the frame (1), and one end of the rotating frame (321) is located in the collection trough (31). The control frame (324) is fixedly connected to the end of the rotating frame (321) located in the frame (1). A cam (325) is rotatably mounted inside the frame (1), and the cam (325) is located inside the control frame (324). A second motor for driving the cam (325) to rotate is installed inside the frame (1). The telescopic arm (322) is slidably mounted on one end of the rotating frame (321) located in the collection groove (31). The swing wheel (33) is rotatably mounted on the lower end of the telescopic arm (322). A spring (323) for applying elastic force to the telescopic arm (322) is installed inside the rotating frame (321).

8. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 7, characterized in that: Two guide wheels (24) are rotatably installed inside the collection trough (31), and the upper end of the chain passes over one guide wheel (24), the swing wheel (33) and the other guide wheel (24) in sequence.

9. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 8, characterized in that: The end face of the collection trough (31) is rotatably mounted with a flip door (311), and the flip door (311) is connected to the side of the collection trough (31) by a connector.

10. An automatic circulating polishing device for chain processing according to claim 9, characterized in that: The recycling unit (4) includes a guide pipe (41), a screw rod (42), and a filter box (43). The guide pipe (41) is fixedly installed in the frame (1). The guide pipe (41) includes a horizontal pipe and a vertical pipe. The two screw rods (42) are rotatably installed in the horizontal pipe and the vertical pipe, respectively. A third motor for driving the vertical screw rod (42) to rotate is installed in the frame (1). A fourth motor is slidably installed on the frame (1). The output end of the fourth motor is slidably sleeved on one end of the horizontal screw rod (42). The filter box (43) is fixedly connected between the horizontal pipe and the vertical pipe. A return pipe (44) is connected between the upper end of the outer wall of the vertical pipe and the guide container (121).

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