Automatic testing equipment for acoustics

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of acoustic testing, and particularly discloses acoustic automatic testing equipment which comprises a rack, and a testing device, a product processing device, a moving device and a central control device which are arranged on the rack, the testing device comprises a shielding box, a radio frequency installation assembly installed in the shielding box, an audio analyzer located outside the shielding box and a wireless communication comprehensive tester. The product processing device comprises a bearing platform movably arranged on the rack and an electrical interface module arranged on the bearing platform, the bearing platform is used for limiting a to-be-tested acoustic product, and the to-be-tested acoustic product is electrically connected with the central control device and the testing device through the electrical interface module; the motion device is used for driving the bearing platform to reciprocate so that the to-be-tested acoustic product is matched with the shielding box for use; the central control device is electrically connected with the testing device, the product processing device and the moving device and used for controlling the devices to work cooperatively to execute the testing process of the acoustic product to be tested.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of acoustic testing, and discloses an automatic testing device for acoustics. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the prior art, when verifying the performance of a terminal product with both acoustic and wireless communication functions, multiple independent test stations and a large amount of manual operation are usually relied on. For example, audio testing needs to be manually connected with instruments in an anechoic chamber or a simple soundproof environment, and wireless radio frequency testing needs to be manually placed in a shielded box and aligned with an antenna.

[0003] However, this discrete testing mode has many disadvantages. First, the testing process is fragmented, inefficient, and involves a lot of manual intervention. The product needs to be repeatedly loaded and unloaded and docked, which cannot meet the high requirements of modern production lines for rhythm and consistency. Second, the testing environment is uncontrollable, and external electromagnetic interference and acoustic background noise can easily affect the accuracy and repeatability of the test results. In addition, manual operation cannot guarantee that the position and posture of the product and the test probe and antenna are completely consistent each time, which introduces human error and reduces the reliability and comparability of the test data. SUMMARY

[0004] In order to overcome the shortcomings and deficiencies in the prior art, the purpose of the present application is to provide a solution that can integrate multiple types of testing, achieve full-process automation, and ensure a highly consistent testing environment.

[0005] To achieve the above purpose, the automatic testing device for acoustics of the present application comprises a rack, a testing device, a product handling device, a motion device, and a central control device arranged on the rack. The testing device comprises a shielded box, a radio frequency mounting assembly installed in the shielded box, an audio analyzer located outside the shielded box, and a wireless communication comprehensive tester. The product handling device comprises a load platform movably arranged on the rack and an electrical interface module arranged on the load platform. The load platform is used to limit the acoustic product to be tested, and the acoustic product to be tested is electrically connected with the central control device, the testing device through the electrical interface module. The motion device is used to drive the load platform to move back and forth so that the acoustic product to be tested can be used with the shielded box. The central control device is electrically connected with the testing device, the product handling device, and the motion device to control the devices to work together to perform the testing process of the acoustic product to be tested.

[0006] Further, the radio frequency installation assembly comprises a first guide arranged in the shielding box, an antenna coupling arranged at a free end of the first guide, and a test microphone; the antenna coupling is electrically connected with the wireless communication comprehensive tester through an external radio frequency cable, so as to receive a wireless signal of the acoustic product to be tested and transmit the signal to the wireless communication comprehensive tester; the test microphone and the audio analyzer are electrically connected with the central control device through the electrical interface module; the test microphone is used to collect audio emitted by the acoustic product to be tested and transmit the audio to the audio analyzer for testing.

[0007] Further, the product processing device further comprises a jig tray arranged on the bearing platform for placing the acoustic product to be tested, a probe connecting mechanism arranged at the bottom of the jig tray, a power plug mechanism arranged at one side of the jig tray, and a pressing mechanism used in cooperation with the jig tray.

[0008] The probe connecting mechanism comprises a first linear actuator, a probe plate arranged at an output end of the first linear actuator, and a QA probe arranged on the probe plate for contacting a test point of the acoustic product to be tested; the power plug mechanism comprises a second linear actuator and a power plug arranged at an output end of the second linear actuator; and the pressing mechanism comprises a first rotary actuator and a flexible pressing block arranged at an output end of the first rotary actuator.

[0009] Further, the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator are both telescopic air cylinders, and the first rotary actuator is a rotary air cylinder.

[0010] Further, the first rotary actuator is provided with two first rotary actuators respectively located at left and right sides of the jig tray.

[0011] Further, the product processing device further comprises a positioning needle and a micro switch arranged on the jig tray; the positioning needle is provided with a plurality of positioning needles which are distributed at equal intervals on the jig tray for pre-positioning the acoustic product to be tested; the micro switch is electrically connected with the central control device; a triggering end of the micro switch extends upward and protrudes from a bearing surface of the jig tray; when the acoustic product to be tested is placed in position, the triggering end is pressed down; the micro switch sends an in-position signal of the acoustic product to be tested to the central control device; and the central control device controls the test device and the motion device to cooperate to execute a test process.

[0012] Further, the motion device comprises a lifting driving mechanism; the bearing platform is reciprocally moved on the rack via the lifting driving mechanism; the lifting driving mechanism is used to drive the bearing platform to ascend or descend into or out of the interior of the shielding box in a vertical direction; a first wave-absorbing material layer is arranged around the bearing platform; and a second wave-absorbing material layer is arranged on an inner wall of the shielding box; when the bearing platform ascends into the shielding box, the first wave-absorbing material layer and the second wave-absorbing material layer enclose a closed test cavity.

[0013] Furthermore, the cables required for each device in the testing equipment are all housed within a hollowed-out rectangular sheet metal part to facilitate bundled guidance.

[0014] Furthermore, the motion device also includes a horizontal drive mechanism. The carrier platform is reciprocated on the frame via the horizontal drive mechanism. The horizontal drive mechanism is used to drive the carrier platform to move horizontally into or out of a preset work position below the shielding box, so that the carrier platform can cooperate with the loading action of the acoustic product to be tested.

[0015] Furthermore, both the lifting drive mechanism and the horizontal drive mechanism are composed of cylinders, slider modules, and cable chains.

[0016] Furthermore, the central control device includes an electrical control box mounted on a rack, a distribution panel inside the electrical control box, a switch module electrically connected to the distribution panel, and an adapter module; the distribution panel is used to connect to an external power source to supply power to the testing device, product processing device, motion device, and central control device; the input end of the adapter module is electrically connected to the testing device, and the output end of the adapter module is electrically connected to the electrical interface module through an integrated wiring harness.

[0017] Furthermore, the electrical control box is also equipped with a universal socket module that is electrically connected to the distribution panel. It has multiple universal sockets for providing power to various devices.

[0018] Furthermore, the central control device also includes a movable robotic arm mounted on the frame, a main control computer mounted at the free end of the movable robotic arm, and a PLC controller mounted in the electrical control box; the main control computer is electrically connected to the adapter module in the electrical control box via a cable, so as to communicate with the PLC controller, the audio analyzer, and the wireless communication tester through the adapter module.

[0019] Furthermore, the frame is provided with a first working chamber, a second working chamber and a third working chamber in sequence from bottom to top in the vertical direction; a mounting frame is provided in the first working chamber, the audio analyzer and the wireless communication tester are mounted on the mounting frame, the carrying platform is driven by a motion device to move between the second working chamber and the third working chamber, and the shielding box is located in the third working chamber.

[0020] Furthermore, the mounting bracket is a multi-layer sheet metal frame.

[0021] Furthermore, the third chamber is equipped with an air source processor module and a throttle valve module, which are used in conjunction with the pneumatic actuators of the whole machine.

[0022] A testing method for an automated acoustic testing device includes the following steps:

[0023] S1, Product Pre-processing: The motion device drives the carrier platform to move out, and the acoustic product to be tested is placed on the carrier platform of the product processing device for pre-positioning. The acoustic product to be tested is then electrically connected to the input terminal of the electrical interface module.

[0024] S2, Product Transfer Sealing: The motion device drives the carrier platform to move to the bottom of the shielded box and rises vertically, so that the carrier platform carries the acoustic product to be tested into the shielded box and cooperates with the shielded box to form a sealed test chamber.

[0025] S3, Electrical Connection: Connect the output of the electrical interface module of the product processing device to the central control device and the testing device via an integrated cable;

[0026] S4, Automated Test Execution: The central control device regulates the operation of the audio analyzer and wireless communication tester of the test equipment to perform acoustic performance testing and wireless communication performance testing on the acoustic product under test.

[0027] S5, Product unloading: After the test is completed, disconnect the electrical connection between each device, use the motion device to drive the load-bearing platform to be lowered out of the shielded box and moved horizontally out.

[0028] The core principle of the technical solution provided by this invention lies in the construction of a highly integrated and automated closed testing system.

[0029] This system integrates the testing environment, product handling, precision motion, and control logic through a layered modular design. Its working principle is as follows: the motion device drives the support platform to perform a combined "horizontal movement" and "vertical lifting" motion, automatically and precisely delivering the product under test, fixed on it, into a fixed shielded box located at the top of the rack. Through the dynamic coordination between the platform and the absorbing material on the box, a pure electromagnetic shielding and acoustic testing chamber is quickly formed.

[0030] During and after this process, the product handling device automatically completes the precise positioning of the product, electrical probe contact, safe power supply, and lateral flexible clamping. The central control device, acting as the "brain," coordinates the sequence of movements and synchronously schedules the audio analyzer and wireless communication tester in the testing device. Through pre-set test antennas, test microphones, and QA probes, it performs parallel automated tests on the product's audio performance (such as playback quality and recording effect) and wireless communication performance (such as Wi-Fi / Bluetooth RF indicators). Finally, it automatically resets and removes the product, completing a full test cycle.

[0031] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0032] (1) It has achieved full automation of the entire process from product positioning, environmental enclosure, test execution to material unloading, which greatly improves testing efficiency, reduces reliance on manual labor, and meets the needs of modern intelligent manufacturing.

[0033] (2) Through the design of the dynamically sealed shielded cavity, a stable, clean and repeatable laboratory-level testing environment is provided for radio frequency and audio testing, which fundamentally ensures the high accuracy and high consistency of test data.

[0034] (3) The modular and integrated design is adopted, and the complex test resources and motion mechanism are arranged in layers, which makes maintenance convenient. Furthermore, the equipment is more flexible in adapting to different models of products through replaceable fixtures and interface modules.

[0035] (4) Multiple interlocking mechanisms, such as microswitches and sequential pneumatic control, are introduced to improve the safety and reliability of equipment operation. Overall, this equipment provides an efficient and reliable industrial-grade solution for one-stop, high-reliability performance testing of complex intelligent hardware. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the automated acoustic testing equipment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the shielding box of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the product processing device of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the product processing device of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the positional structure of the motion device of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the central control device of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the test method for the automated acoustic test equipment of the present invention.

[0043] The reference numerals in the figures include:

[0044] 100. Frame; 101. First working chamber; 102. Second working chamber; 103. Third working chamber; 2. Product handling device; 3. Motion device; 11. Shielding box; 111. Second absorbing material layer; 12. RF mounting assembly; 121. First guide; 122. Antenna coupler; 123. Test microphone; 13. Audio analyzer; 14. Wireless communication test instrument; 21. Support platform; 211. First absorbing material layer; 22. Electrical interface module; 23. Fixture tray; 24. Probe connection mechanism; 241. First linear driver; 24 2. Probe board; 243. QA probe; 25. Power plug-in mechanism; 251. Second linear actuator; 252. Power plug; 26. Clamping mechanism; 261. First rotary actuator; 262. Flexible clamping block; 27. Positioning pin; 28. Micro switch; 31. Lifting drive mechanism; 32. Horizontal drive mechanism; 33. Air source processor module; 34. Throttle valve module; 40. Mounting bracket; 41. Electrical control box; 42. Distribution panel; 43. Switch module; 44. Adapter module; 45. Movable robotic arm; 46. Main control computer; 47. PLC controller. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art, the present invention will be further described below with reference to embodiments and accompanying drawings. The content mentioned in the embodiments is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0046] Please see Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the present invention discloses an automated acoustic testing device. Its frame 100 serves as the supporting skeleton for the entire device, assembled from high-strength aluminum profiles and sheet metal parts, exhibiting excellent rigidity and stability. The testing device, product handling device 2, motion device 3, and central control device are all integrated onto this frame 100. The testing device includes a shielded enclosure 11, which is a five-sided cavity made of conductive metal (such as steel plate), with an opening only at the bottom. An RF mounting assembly 12 is installed inside the shielded enclosure 11, while an audio analyzer 13 (e.g., Audio Precision APx series) and a wireless communication tester 14 (in this embodiment, Rohde & Schwarz's CMW500) are installed as independent rack-mounted instruments within the first working chamber 101 at the lower part of the frame 100. They are electrically connected to the RF mounting assembly 12 inside the shielded enclosure 11 via cables.

[0047] Specifically, the product handling device 2's support platform 21 is a movable frame with guide rails and a mounting base plate, on which a fixture tray 23 and an electrical interface module 22 are integrated.

[0048] The motion device 3 consists of cylinders, linear modules, and a cable chain system, which drive the motion of the carrying platform 21. The central control device is centered around an industrial PLC (Siemens S7-1200 series) and includes an electrical control box 41, a distribution panel 42, and a human-machine interface (the main control computer 46 installed on the mobile robotic arm 45). It is interconnected with all actuators, sensors, and testing instruments of the equipment via industrial Ethernet (such as Profinet) and digital I / O signal lines to form a centralized control automation system.

[0049] Specifically, when the equipment is in operation, the operator only needs to place the smart speaker to be tested into the fixture tray 23. The subsequent positioning, conveying, environmental enclosure, electrical connection, test execution and unloading are all automatically completed by the central control device according to the preset program.

[0050] Compared to the discrete testing mode that relies on multiple independent workstations and manual operation in existing technologies, this solution achieves full-process, automated, one-stop testing of products with both acoustic and wireless functions through integrated design, which greatly improves testing efficiency and process consistency.

[0051] Specifically, in this embodiment, the "first guide 121" of the radio frequency mounting assembly 12 is a multi-directionally adjustable antenna bracket, which consists of a slide bar with a scale and a rotating arm, allowing for millimeter-level fine position adjustment and rotation angle fine adjustment on the Y-axis, and can be fixed with locking screws after adjustment.

[0052] Specifically, the "antenna coupler 122" is the test antenna fixed to the free end of the first guide 121. Its type can be selected according to test requirements, such as a tapered log-periodic antenna, a horn antenna, or a patch antenna, for radiating or receiving specific wireless signals. This antenna passes through a feedthrough (not shown in the figure) on the wall of the shielded enclosure 11 via a low-loss RF coaxial cable (such as an SMA interface) and is directly connected to the RF port of the wireless communication test instrument 14 located on the lower layer of the rack 100.

[0053] Specifically, a high-precision measuring microphone as a test microphone 123 is also fixedly installed at the free end of the first guide member 121, such as a 1 / 2-inch condenser microphone conforming to the IEC 61672 standard, which is also connected to the input channel of the audio analyzer 13 through a preamplifier and an audio cable.

[0054] Both the audio analyzer 13 and the wireless communication tester 14 are connected to an industrial Ethernet switch (not shown in the figure) managed by a central control unit via their standard communication interfaces (such as GPIB, LAN or USB) to enable the interaction of commands and data.

[0055] Compared to the existing technology of manually placing and aligning the antenna inside the shielding box 11, this solution ensures the absolute repeatability of the test antenna's spatial position through a preset and locked antenna bracket. At the same time, the built-in test microphone 123 provides a stable and consistent pickup point for acoustic testing. The combination of these two features eliminates test errors caused by differences in manual placement.

[0056] Specifically, in this embodiment, the jig tray 23 of the product processing device 2 is a contour carrier flexibly customized according to the shape of the shell of the smart speaker to be tested. It is made of engineering plastic or bakelite and has metal inserts embedded inside to increase strength.

[0057] Specifically, the first linear actuator 241 of the probe connection mechanism 24 is a pen-shaped cylinder, vertically inverted on the lower frame of the support platform 21. Its piston rod extends upward, and its end is fixed to the probe plate 242 by a connecting plate. The probe plate 242 is a printed circuit board (PCB) or a precision machined board, on which multiple high-life spring probes (i.e., QA probes 243) are soldered. The arrangement of these probes corresponds precisely in the vertical direction to the test points reserved on the bottom PCB of the acoustic product under test (smart speaker).

[0058] Specifically, the power plug-in mechanism 25 is mounted on the side bracket of the support platform 21, and its second linear actuator 251 is also a horizontally mounted cylinder, with a standard DC power plug 252 (such as a 5521 interface) fixed to the end of its piston rod via an insulating mounting base.

[0059] The first rotary driver 261 of the clamping mechanism 26 is a 90-degree oscillating rotary cylinder, and a flexible pressure block 262 made of silicone or polyurethane is mounted on its output shaft. The working surface of the pressure block is preferably designed as an arc or slope to adapt to the contour of the side of the product.

[0060] After the carrier platform 21 carries the product to the test position, the first linear actuator 241 pushes the probe plate 242 to rise, so that the QA probe 243 can reliably contact the product test point; the second linear actuator 251 pushes the power plug 252 to be horizontally inserted into the product's power socket; the rotary cylinder drives the flexible pressure block 262 to rotate at a certain angle, applying a flexible clamping force from the side of the product to prevent the product from shifting during the test.

[0061] Compared to existing technologies that require manual cable plugging and unplugging and product fixing, this solution uses a series of pneumatic actuators to automatically, reliably, and non-destructively complete all physical connections and fixations between the product and the testing system, achieving zero manual intervention in the connection process and ensuring consistency in each connection.

[0062] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first linear actuator 241 and the second linear actuator 251 are preferably compact guide cylinders with magnetic ring inductive switches, so that the PLC can accurately sense the end position of their stroke. The first rotary actuator 261 is preferably a thin rotary cylinder with an adjustable angle bolt, so as to accurately set and limit the swing angle of the pressure block and avoid overpressure damage to the product.

[0063] Compared to complex drives such as motors and lead screws, using standard pneumatic components as linear and rotary actuators has advantages such as low cost, high speed, easy maintenance, and strong overload resistance, making it very suitable for high-frequency, high-reliability repetitive actions on production lines.

[0064] Specifically, in this embodiment, to ensure the product's force balance and stability, two first rotary actuators 261 are provided. These two rotary cylinders are symmetrically mounted on the columns on the left and right sides of the support platform 21 or fixture tray 23. Their output shafts are arranged opposite each other, driving their respective flexible pressure blocks 262 to rotate and press simultaneously from the left and right sides of the product towards the center, thereby uniformly applying lateral clamping force, effectively preventing the product from twisting or tilting on one side during testing, and ensuring the stability of the QA probe 243 contact. Compared to single-point or asymmetrical clamping, this dual-side synchronous clamping design provides a better positioning and retention effect.

[0065] Specifically, in this embodiment, the bearing surface of the jig tray 23 is provided with four cylindrical positioning pins as positioning needles 27, which cooperate with the positioning holes on the bottom or side of the product shell to achieve the initial positioning of the product and restrict the movement and rotation of the product in the horizontal plane.

[0066] Preferably, the micro switch 28 is embedded in a corner of the fixture tray 23, with its metal contact rod (trigger end) slightly protruding about 1-2 mm from the tray's bearing surface. When the product is placed in the fixture tray 23 and pressed against the positioning pin 27, its housing presses down on the contact rod, changing the state of the internal contacts of the micro switch 28 and generating a high / low level signal. This signal line is connected to the digital input module of the central control device PLC. The PLC continuously scans this input point, and only when it detects a valid "product in place" signal does its internal program allow subsequent "start test" commands to take effect, sequentially activating the horizontal drive mechanism 32, the lifting drive mechanism 31, etc.

[0067] If the product is removed or not placed properly, this signal disappears, and the PLC will immediately stop or prohibit any potentially dangerous movement. Compared to methods relying on manual buttons or visual confirmation, this solution achieves inherent safety through interlocking of hardware sensor signals and PLC control logic, eliminating equipment collisions or test failures caused by no-load operation or misoperation.

[0068] Specifically, in this embodiment, the lifting drive mechanism 31 of the motion device 3 includes at least two long-stroke pen-shaped cylinders or slide cylinders, which are vertically mounted on the bottom frame within the second working chamber 102 of the frame 100. The top end of the piston rod of the cylinder is rigidly connected to the bottom frame of the support platform 21, driving the entire platform to move vertically. To achieve smooth guidance, a guide pair consisting of a linear optical axis and a linear bearing is preferably provided.

[0069] On the outer frame of the support platform 21, the portion that will enter the shielding box 11 after it rises is covered with block-shaped absorbing material, forming the first absorbing material layer 211. The inner walls (top surface and four sides) of the shielding box 11 are fully covered with the same absorbing material, forming the second absorbing material layer 111.

[0070] When the lifting drive mechanism 31 pushes the carrying platform 21 to the highest point, the wave-absorbing material layer on the periphery of the platform is precisely inserted into or attached to the opening at the bottom of the shielding box 11, and the two together form a sealed hexahedral cavity (i.e., test cavity) that is electrically continuously shielded and acoustically highly absorbent.

[0071] Absorbing materials can effectively absorb radio frequency energy from hundreds of MHz to several GHz and provide an acoustic environment close to a free field for audio testing. Compared to making the entire large shielded box 11 movable, this solution adopts a dynamic sealing method of "fixed box + lifting platform", which greatly reduces the weight and complexity of moving parts, keeping the core shielded box 11 and internal antenna fixed, thereby ensuring the long-term stability and consistency of the radio frequency testing environment.

[0072] Specifically, in this embodiment, to keep the inside of the equipment tidy and protect the cables, all power cables, signal cables, air pipes, etc., connecting to moving parts (such as the support platform 21) are categorized, stored, and passed through several engineering plastic cable trays. These cable trays themselves are placed and fixed inside a specially designed "hollowed-out rectangular sheet metal part," which is essentially an open cable tray or cable management system with multiple cable routing holes and mounting edges. It is arranged along the platform's movement path (horizontally and vertically), neatly bundling, guiding, and supporting all the cable bundles, preventing them from tangling, drooping, or being crushed by moving parts.

[0073] Compared to messy, flying wires, this solution uses cable trays and cable chains for systematic cable management, which greatly improves the reliability, safety, and aesthetics of the equipment, and also facilitates later inspection and maintenance.

[0074] Specifically, in this embodiment, the horizontal drive mechanism 32 of the motion device 3 is typically composed of a rodless cylinder or a cylinder-driven linear slide module, which is horizontally mounted at the bottom of the second working chamber 102 of the frame 100. The support platform 21 is mounted on the horizontal drive mechanism 32 via a slider.

[0075] The function of the horizontal drive mechanism 32 is to move the carrying platform 21 (along with the product on it) horizontally and linearly from the "loading position" outside the frame 100, which is convenient for operators to load and unload, to the "test preparation position" inside the frame 100, directly below the shielding box 11. The position of this preset station is precisely adjusted to ensure that when the platform stops here, the center of the jig tray 23 on it is perfectly aligned with the center of the opening of the shielding box 11 in the horizontal plane, preparing for subsequent vertical and precise lifting.

[0076] Compared to methods that require operators to manually push the product in or use other complex conveying devices, this solution achieves seamless connection of the product from the external loading area to the internal testing area through automated horizontal drive, which is a key link in the fully automated process.

[0077] Specifically, in this embodiment, the core power components of both the lifting drive mechanism 31 and the horizontal drive mechanism 32 are preferably cylinders, due to their rapid operation and simple maintenance. To improve the smoothness and precision of the movement, the cylinders are used in conjunction with a precision "slider module" (i.e., a combination of linear guide rail and slider), with the guide rail bearing the lateral force and providing high-rigidity guidance. Meanwhile, all cables and air pipes connecting the motion platform must be properly protected; therefore, this embodiment preferably uses a "drag chain" (cable protection chain). One end of the drag chain is fixed to the frame 100, and the other end moves with the platform. Its internal cavity precisely accommodates all moving wire harnesses, allowing them to smoothly extend and retract with the bending of the drag chain, avoiding wear and fatigue.

[0078] Compared to simple designs that use motor drives and neglect cable management, this solution adopts a combination of "cylinder + slider module + cable chain", which meets the requirements of fast and precise linear motion while ensuring high reliability and long service life of the equipment in long-term operation.

[0079] Specifically, in this embodiment, the electrical control box 41 of the central control device is a standard industrial control cabinet installed in the first working chamber 101 of the rack 100. The internal distribution panel 42 is equipped with a main air switch, a filter, multiple switching power supplies for different voltage levels (such as 24VDC, ±15VDC, 220VAC), and corresponding circuit breakers and relays.

[0080] The “switch module 43” refers not only to the power switch, but more importantly, to an industrial management Ethernet switch, which is responsible for building the device’s internal local area network.

[0081] "Adapter module 44" is an assembly of one or more terminal blocks and connectors installed in the electrical control box 41. It brings together the scattered cables from the audio analyzer 13, wireless communication tester 14, switch and PLC to several high-density, mis-insertion-proof connectors (such as D-Sub and M-series circular connectors).

[0082] These connectors are then connected to the electrical interface module 22 on the support platform 21 via an "integrated harness" that bundles power lines, network cables, control lines, audio lines, etc. This way, when the platform moves, only this integrated harness needs to move with it, achieving "one-wire connectivity" for all electrical connections.

[0083] Compared to the connection method of running separate wires for each signal and having scattered interfaces, this solution greatly simplifies wiring, reduces the failure rate, and allows the carrier platform 21 module to be quickly separated from the host as a whole, which is convenient for maintenance and replacement, through the centralized transfer and integrated wiring harness design in the electrical control box 41.

[0084] Preferably, in this embodiment, to facilitate powering temporarily connected instruments (such as oscilloscopes and multimeters) during debugging or maintenance, a "universal socket module" is installed on the distribution panel 42 of the electrical control box 41. This module is a standard industrial socket bar, providing multiple AC 220V sockets conforming to the national standard, and its power supply is controlled by an independent circuit breaker within the electrical control box 41. This eliminates the need for technicians to run temporary power from a distance, improving both convenience and safety.

[0085] Compared to devices that do not have a reserved expansion power interface, the universal socket module in this solution reflects a user-friendly and expandable design.

[0086] Specifically, in this embodiment, the movable robotic arm 45 of the central control device is a cantilever support frame or balance arm with multiple joints, and its base is fixed to the side of the frame 100. The main control computer 46 (industrial touch screen all-in-one computer) is installed at the free end of the robotic arm, and the operator can easily pull and rotate the screen to a comfortable operating and viewing angle.

[0087] The PLC controller 47 inside the electrical control box 41 is the core of the logic control, responsible for processing all sensor input signals (such as microswitches 28) and driving all actuators (such as cylinder solenoid valves). The main control computer 46 runs dedicated test sequence software, which is connected to the industrial Ethernet switch inside the electrical control box 41 via a network cable. In this way, the main control software can send control commands to the PLC, read status, and also communicate directly with the audio analyzer 13 and the wireless communication tester 14 through the switch to send test instructions and acquire test data.

[0088] The PLC and the main control computer 46 exchange data efficiently via industrial Ethernet protocols (such as Profinet, Ethernet / IP) or Modbus TCP.

[0089] Compared to solutions that involve fixed installation of the control computer and inconvenient operation, the mobile robotic arm 45 design in this solution greatly enhances the flexibility of human-machine interaction; while the networked architecture of the main control computer 46—switch—PLC—test instrument enables centralized and efficient management of control and test data flow.

[0090] Specifically, in this embodiment, the rack 100 is structurally divided into three layers. The first working chamber 101 (the lowest layer) is a closed compartment with a door and a cooling fan, and is equipped with a robust multi-layer sheet metal mounting rack 40 to support the heavier audio analyzer 13, wireless communication tester 14, and electrical control box 41, providing a stable mounting platform and a good heat dissipation environment for these precision instruments.

[0091] The second working chamber 102 (intermediate layer) is an open or semi-open space without a front door. The horizontal drive mechanism 32 and the lifting drive mechanism 31 are installed here. The carrying platform 21 performs the initial stage of horizontal movement and vertical lifting within this layer.

[0092] The third working chamber 103 (uppermost layer) is also a closed or semi-closed structure, where the fixed shielding box 11 is installed. After the carrying platform 21 is raised vertically, its upper part will carry the product into the interior of the shielding box 11 in this layer.

[0093] This vertical partitioned layout of "instrument at the bottom, motion in the middle, and testing at the top" achieves separation of static and dynamic elements: precision instruments that are susceptible to vibration are placed in the bottom static area, moving mechanisms are placed in the middle layer, and testing environments that require absolute stability are placed in the top layer. Each functional area does not interfere with the others, which is an important structural guarantee for the high precision and high reliability of the equipment.

[0094] Specifically, in this embodiment, the mounting bracket is designed as a multi-layer sheet metal frame to accommodate different sizes of 100-type instruments and facilitate cable routing. It is assembled by welding or bolting channel steel, angle steel, or custom sheet metal parts to form two to three mounting planes, each equipped with standard 100-type mounting holes or shock-absorbing slide rails.

[0095] The audio analyzer 13 and the wireless communication tester 14 can be arranged vertically on different layers, with ample space for heat dissipation and cable routing between the layers. This structure not only provides stable support but also ensures a well-organized internal layout, allowing all instrument cables to be neatly routed from the back of the bracket and connected to the electrical control box 41.

[0096] Specifically, in this embodiment, in the third working chamber 103 (the chamber where the shielding box 11 is installed), in addition to the shielding box 11 body, the "air source processor module 33" and the "throttle valve module 34" that serve the pneumatic system of the whole equipment are also centrally installed.

[0097] The air source processor module 33 includes a filter, a pressure reducing valve, and an oil mist lubricator for purifying, stabilizing, and lubricating the air source to supply the various actuator cylinders. The throttle valve module 34 includes multiple individually adjustable speed control valves (usually exhaust throttle type), which are connected to the solenoid valve exhaust ports of each cylinder to precisely adjust the extension and retraction speed of each cylinder, thereby controlling the smoothness and impact of actions such as lifting and lowering of the support platform 21 and moving of the insertion head, achieving stable and precise positioning.

[0098] Installing the pneumatic auxiliary module closer to the upper layer where there are more actuators can shorten the air pipe length, improve the air circuit response speed, and reduce pressure loss. Compared with the scheme of remotely or distributed installation of pneumatic processing units, the centralized layout of this scheme optimizes air circuit performance and facilitates centralized adjustment and maintenance.

[0099] Specifically, in this embodiment, an automated testing method based on the aforementioned device has the following detailed process:

[0100] In step S1 (product preprocessing), the operator first starts the equipment via the main control computer 46 interface or button. The horizontal drive mechanism 32 moves, moving the support platform 21 to the "loading position" outside the rack 100. The operator places the smart speaker to be tested into the fixture tray 23, and uses the positioning pin 27 to complete the pre-positioning. At this time, the product casing presses down the contact rod of the micro switch 28, the PLC detects the "product in place" signal, and the interface indicates that it is ready.

[0101] During this step, the product was not connected to any test interface.

[0102] Step S2 (Product Transfer and Sealing): After operator confirmation, a start command is issued. First, the horizontal drive mechanism 32 drives the carrier platform 21 to move horizontally inward, precisely reaching the "test preparation position" directly below the shielded box 11. Then, the lifting drive mechanism 31 activates, pushing the carrier platform 21 vertically upward. The platform carries the product through the bottom opening of the shielded box 11 until the first absorbing material layer 211 around the platform is tightly bonded to the second absorbing material layer 111 on the inner wall of the shielded box 11, forming a complete sealed test chamber. At this point, the product is in the standard test position inside the shielded box 11.

[0103] In step S3 (electrical connection), when the platform rises to its position or reaches a preset intermediate position (controlled by the PLC program), a series of electrical connection actions are automatically executed in sequence: the first linear driver 241 (cylinder) of the probe connection mechanism 24 is activated, pushing the probe plate 242 upward, so that all QA probes 243 on the plate reliably contact the corresponding test points on the bottom PCB of the smart speaker; then, the first rotary drivers 261 (rotary cylinders) on the left and right sides are activated, driving the flexible pressure block 262 to rotate, flexibly pressing the product housing from both sides; finally, the second linear driver 251 of the power plug-in mechanism 25 is activated, pushing the power plug 252 horizontally into the power socket of the product to power on the product.

[0104] At this point, the product is secured and a complete electrical connection is established with the testing system.

[0105] In step S4 (automated test execution), the main control software of the central control unit first sends initialization and calibration commands to the audio analyzer 13 and the wireless communication tester 14 via the industrial network. Subsequently, a parallel test sequence is executed: for audio testing, the main control software controls the audio analyzer 13 to inject digital or analog test audio signals into the product through specific pins in the QA probe 243 and controls the product to play them; simultaneously, the test microphone 123 inside the shielded box 11 collects the sound emitted by the product's speaker in real time and transmits it back to the audio analyzer 13 for analysis, obtaining parameters such as frequency response curves and total harmonic distortion.

[0106] For wireless testing, the main control software controls the wireless communication tester 14 to communicate with the product's wireless module through the test antenna inside the shielded box 11, simulating a base station or Wi-Fi router, and testing its radio frequency indicators such as transmit power, receive sensitivity, and throughput. All test data is uploaded to the main control computer 46 in real time and compared with preset standards for interpretation.

[0107] Step S5 (Product Unloading): After all tests are completed, the main control software records the results. Then, the connections are disconnected in reverse order: the cylinder of the power plug-in mechanism 25 retracts, unplugging the power plug 252; the rotary cylinder retracts, releasing the flexible pressure block 262; the cylinder of the probe connection mechanism 24 retracts, separating the QA probe 243 from the product. Next, the lifting drive mechanism 31 descends, and the carrying platform 21 carries the product out of the shielded box 11; finally, the horizontal drive mechanism 32 moves, moving the platform to the external loading position. The operator can then remove the tested product, and the equipment is ready for the next cycle.

[0108] Compared to existing manual testing methods, which suffer from fragmented steps, low efficiency, and poor consistency, this method uses precise automated sequence control to seamlessly connect the processes of loading and unloading, positioning, environment construction, connection, testing, and reset, forming an efficient, stable, and repeatable closed-loop testing process that perfectly meets the stringent requirements of the production line for testing cycle time and quality consistency.

[0109] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation and application scope based on the ideas of the present invention. The content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated testing device for acoustic applications, characterized in that: The device includes a rack (100) and a testing device, a product handling device (2), a motion device (3), and a central control device mounted on the rack (100). The testing device includes a shielded box (11), a radio frequency mounting assembly (12) installed inside the shielded box (11), an audio analyzer (13) located outside the shielded box (11), and a wireless communication tester (14). The product handling device (2) includes a support platform (21) movably mounted on the rack (100) and an electrical interface module (22) mounted on the support platform (21). The support platform (21) is used to limit the acoustic product under test. The acoustic product under test is electrically connected to the central control device and the testing device via the electrical interface module (22). The motion device (3) is used to drive the support platform (21) to move back and forth so that the acoustic product under test can be used in conjunction with the shielding box (11); the central control device is electrically connected to the testing device, the product processing device (2) and the motion device (3) to control the cooperation of each device to perform the testing process of the acoustic product under test.

2. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 1, characterized in that: The radio frequency mounting assembly (12) includes a first guide (121) disposed in a shielded box (11), an antenna coupler (122) disposed at the free end of the first guide (121), and a test microphone (123). The antenna coupler (122) is electrically connected to the wireless communication tester (14) via an external radio frequency cable to receive the wireless signal of the acoustic product under test and transmit it to the wireless communication tester (14). The test microphone (123) and the audio analyzer (13) are both electrically connected to the central control device via an electrical interface module (22). The test microphone (123) is used to collect the audio emitted by the acoustic product under test and transmit it to the audio analyzer (13) for testing.

3. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 1, characterized in that: The product processing device (2) further includes a fixture tray (23) for placing the acoustic product to be tested on the support platform (21), a probe connection mechanism (24) at the bottom of the fixture tray (23), a power plug-in mechanism (25) on the support platform (21) located on one side of the fixture tray (23), and a clamping mechanism (26) used in conjunction with the fixture tray (23). The probe connection mechanism (24) includes a first linear driver (241), a probe plate (242) disposed at the output end of the first linear driver (241), and a QA probe (243) disposed on the probe plate (242) for contacting the test point of the acoustic product under test. The power plug-in mechanism (25) includes a second linear driver (251) and a power plug (252) disposed at the output end of the second linear driver (251). The clamping mechanism (26) includes a first rotary driver (261) and a flexible clamping block (262) disposed at the output end of the first rotary driver (261).

4. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 3, characterized in that: The product processing device (2) also includes positioning pins (27) and micro switches (28) set on the fixture tray (23). There are multiple positioning pins (27), which are evenly distributed on the fixture tray (23) for pre-positioning the acoustic product to be tested. The micro switch (28) is electrically connected to the central control device. The trigger end of the micro switch (28) extends upward and protrudes from the bearing surface of the fixture tray (23). When the acoustic product to be tested is placed in place, the trigger end is pressed down, and the micro switch (28) sends the presence signal of the acoustic product to be tested to the central control device. The central control device regulates the testing device and the motion device (3) to cooperate in executing the testing process.

5. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 1, characterized in that: The motion device (3) includes a lifting drive mechanism (31). The carrying platform (21) is reciprocated on the frame (100) via the lifting drive mechanism (31). The lifting drive mechanism (31) is used to drive the carrying platform (21) to rise or fall vertically into or out of the shielding box (11). A first absorbing material layer (211) is provided around the carrying platform (21), and a second absorbing material layer (111) is provided on the inner wall of the shielding box (11). When the carrying platform (21) rises into the shielding box (11), the first absorbing material layer (211) and the second absorbing material layer (111) form a sealed test cavity.

6. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 1, characterized in that: The motion device (3) also includes a horizontal drive mechanism (32). The carrier platform (21) is reciprocated on the frame (100) via the horizontal drive mechanism (32). The horizontal drive mechanism (32) is used to drive the carrier platform (21) to move horizontally into or out of the preset work position below the shielding box (11) so that the carrier platform (21) can cooperate with the loading action of the acoustic product to be tested.

7. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 1, characterized in that: The central control device includes an electrical control box (41) mounted on a frame (100), a distribution panel (42) mounted inside the electrical control box (41), a switch module (43) electrically connected to the distribution panel (42), and an adapter module (44). The distribution panel (42) is used to connect to an external power source to supply power to the testing device, the product processing device (2), the motion device (3), and the central control device. The input end of the adapter module (44) is electrically connected to the testing device, and the output end of the adapter module (44) is electrically connected to the electrical interface module (22) through an integrated wiring harness.

8. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 7, characterized in that: The central control device also includes a movable robotic arm (45) mounted on the frame (100), a main control computer (46) mounted on the free end of the movable robotic arm (45), and a PLC controller (47) mounted in the electrical control box (41). The main control computer (46) is electrically connected to the adapter module (44) in the electrical control box (41) via a cable, so as to communicate with the PLC controller (47), the audio analyzer (13), and the wireless communication tester (14) through the adapter module (44).

9. The automated testing equipment for acoustic applications according to claim 1, characterized in that: The frame (100) is provided with a first working chamber (101), a second working chamber (102) and a third working chamber (103) in a vertical direction from bottom to top; the first working chamber (101) is provided with a mounting frame (40), the audio analyzer (13) and the wireless communication tester (14) are mounted on the mounting frame (40), the carrying platform (21) is driven by the motion device (3) to move between the second working chamber (102) and the third working chamber (103), and the shielding box (11) is located in the third working chamber (103).

10. A testing method for an automated acoustic testing device, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1, Product pre-processing: The motion device (3) drives the carrier platform (21) to move out, and the acoustic product to be tested is placed on the carrier platform (21) of the product processing device (2) for pre-positioning, and the acoustic product to be tested is electrically connected to the input terminal of the electrical interface module (22). S2, Product transfer sealing: The motion device (3) drives the carrier platform (21) to move to the bottom of the shielding box (11) and rise vertically, so that the carrier platform (21) carries the acoustic product to be tested into the shielding box (11) and cooperates with the shielding box (11) to form a sealed test chamber; S3, Electrical connection: The output terminal of the electrical interface module (22) of the product processing device (2) is electrically connected to the central control device and the testing device via an integrated cable; S4, Automated test execution: The audio analyzer (13) and wireless communication tester (14) of the test device are controlled by the central control device to perform acoustic performance test and wireless communication performance test on the acoustic product under test. S5, Product unloading: After the test is completed, disconnect the electrical connection between each device, use the motion device (3) to drive the bearing platform (21) to descend out of the shield box (11) and move it horizontally out.

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