Liquid coating apparatus and capping method

Abstract

A liquid coating device (100) is provided with: a coating unit (1) that coats a liquid on an object (200); a support member (30) configured to extend in an extension direction; a deformable member that is deformable in an intersecting direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member; and supporting the coating unit at one end of the supporting member. A cover member (41) that covers at least a part of the coating part; a pressing member (46) that presses the coating portion against the cover member in the intersecting direction of the support member; and a drive mechanism (47) that drives the pressing member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to a liquid coating apparatus and a capping method. Background Technology

[0002] In a liquid coating apparatus for applying liquid to an object, at least a portion of the coating portion is covered by a cover member in order to prevent the coating portion supplied with liquid from drying out, or to protect or clean the coating portion.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-137548) discloses a structure in which a head fixed to the front end of a robotic arm is moved onto a cover member, and the head approaches the cover member in the normal direction of the nozzle surface to seal the cover.

[0004] Furthermore, when the coating section is cantilevered by a support member, during the sealing of the coating section, the support member may deform due to the pressing pressure and reaction force when the coating section is pressed against the cover member. In this case, due to the deformation of the support member, a gap may be created between the coating section and the cover member, which may prevent the coating section from making good contact with the cover member. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to suppress the formation of gaps between the coating part and the cover part.

[0007] Solution to the problem

[0008] In one aspect of the invention, a liquid coating apparatus is provided, comprising: a coating portion for coating a liquid onto an object; a support member configured to extend in an extension direction; deformable in an intersecting direction intersecting the extension direction of the support member; and supporting the coating portion at one end of the support member; a cover member for covering at least a portion of the coating portion; a pressing member for pressing the coating portion against the cover member in the intersecting direction of the support member; and a drive mechanism for driving the pressing member.

[0009] In another aspect of the invention, a liquid coating apparatus is provided, comprising: a coating section for coating a liquid onto an object; a cover member for covering at least a portion of the coating section; a support member configured to: extend in an extending direction; deformable in an intersecting direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member; and support the cover member at one end of the support member; a pressing member for pressing the cover member against the coating section in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member; and a drive mechanism for driving the pressing member.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, a capping method is provided, comprising: covering at least a portion of a coating portion for applying liquid to an object with a capping member; supporting the coating portion at one end of a support member extending in an extension direction; moving the coating portion to a position opposite to the capping member; and pressing the coating portion or the support member to press the coating portion against the capping member in an intersecting direction that intersects the extension direction of the support member.

[0011] Effects of the present invention

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, gaps between the coating portion and the cover component can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0013] A more complete understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure and its many incidental advantages and features can be readily obtained and understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] [ Figure 1 ]

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of a liquid coating apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] [ Figure 2 ]

[0017] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a more specific structure of the liquid supply unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] [ Figure 3 ]

[0019] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the coating portion according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] [ Figure 4 ]

[0021] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the coating portion according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] [ Figure 5 ]

[0023] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the support structure of the coating portion according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] [ Figure 6 ]

[0025] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a schematic structure of the maintenance and recovery section according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] [ Figure 7 ]

[0027] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the maintenance and restoration actions according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] [ Figure 8 ]

[0029] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the maintenance and restoration actions according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] [ Figure 9 ]

[0031] Figure 9 This is a reference diagram used to illustrate issues related to capping.

[0032] [ Figure 10 ]

[0033] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the maintenance and recovery section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] [ Figure 11 ]

[0035] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and restoration section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] [ Figure 12 ]

[0037] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and restoration section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] [ Figure 13 ]

[0039] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and restoration section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] [ Figure 14 ]

[0041] Figure 14 This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and restoration section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] [ Figure 15 ]

[0043] Figure 15 This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and restoration section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] [ Figure 16 ]

[0045] Figure 16This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and restoration section according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] [ Figure 17 ]

[0047] Figure 17 This diagram shows an example of pressing a pressing component onto a coating section.

[0048] [ Figure 18 ]

[0049] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the structure of the maintenance and recovery section according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] [ Figure 19 ]

[0051] Figure 19 This diagram illustrates the sealing operation of the maintenance and recovery section according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] [ Figure 20 ]

[0053] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the structure of the maintenance and recovery section according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] [ Figure 21 ]

[0055] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing the structure of the maintenance and recovery section according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] [ Figure 22 ]

[0057] Figure 22 This is a diagram showing the structure of the maintenance and recovery section according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] [ Figure 23 ]

[0059] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing the structure of the maintenance and recovery section according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] [ Figure 24 ]

[0061] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the coating section rotating during capping.

[0062] [ Figure 25 ]

[0063] Figure 25 It means in Figure 24 The diagram shows the state in which the coating part is pressed against the cover part by the pressing component.

[0064] [ Figure 26 ]

[0065] Figure 26 This diagram shows an example of multiple coating sections being provided on a support component.

[0066] [ Figure 27 ]

[0067] Figure 27 It means in Figure 26 The diagram shows the state in which the coating part is pressed against the cover part by the pressing component.

[0068] [ Figure 28 ]

[0069] Figure 28 The diagram shows an example of a cover component supported by a cantilever, which supports the coating section at its free end.

[0070] [ Figure 29 ]

[0071] Figure 29 It means in Figure 28 The diagram shows the state in which the cover component is pressed against the coating section by the pressing component.

[0072] [ Figure 30 ]

[0073] Figure 30 This diagram illustrates an example of a coating equipment that includes a small first coating section and a large second coating section.

[0074] [ Figure 31 ]

[0075] Figure 31 It means in Figure 30 The example shows a plan view of the second coating section being sealed.

[0076] [ Figure 32 ]

[0077] Figure 32 It means in Figure 30 The example shows a side view of the second coating section being sealed.

[0078] [ Figure 33 ]

[0079] Figure 33 This diagram shows an example of a support member extending vertically and pressing the coating portion and cover member horizontally.

[0080] [ Figure 34 ]

[0081] Figure 34This is a diagram showing an example where the coating section is a coating roller.

[0082] [ Figure 35 ]

[0083] Figure 35 This is a three-dimensional view of the maintenance and recovery section of the coating roller.

[0084] [ Figure 36 ]

[0085] Figure 36 This diagram shows the state in which the coating roller is pressed against the cover component by the pressing component.

[0086] The accompanying drawings are intended to illustrate embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting its scope. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale. Furthermore, throughout several views, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar parts. Detailed Implementation

[0087] In describing the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, specific terminology has been used for clarity. However, the disclosure of this specification is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology chosen, and it should be understood that each particular component includes all technical equivalents that have similar functionality, operate in a similar manner, and achieve similar results.

[0088] Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0089] In the following description, embodiments of the present invention will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings illustrating embodiments of the present invention, components, constituent elements, etc., that have the same function or shape are labeled with the same reference numerals as long as they can be distinguished, and their descriptions will be omitted after the initial description.

[0090] <Overall Structure of the Liquid Coating Apparatus>

[0091] First, refer to Figure 1 The overall structure of the liquid coating apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0092] As an example of a liquid coating apparatus, a coating device 100 is shown here, which coats a car body, which is the object 200, by applying a liquid. The object 200 can be, in addition to the car body, the fuselage of an aircraft, the hull of a ship, or other three-dimensional structures.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the coating equipment 100 of the first embodiment of the present invention includes four coating robots 2.

[0094] The painting robot 2 includes, for example, a base 10 disposed on the ground; a first arm 11 disposed on the base 10; a second arm 12 connected to the first arm 11; and a head unit 13 disposed at the front end of the second arm 12. The first arm 11 and the second arm 12 of the painting robot 2 are robot arms that are rotatably and swingably connected to each other via joints. By driving rotation or swinging, they function as a movement mechanism to move the head unit 13 to a desired position. In addition to a robotic arm, the movement mechanism that moves the head unit 13 can also be a linear actuator or the like, which moves the head unit 13 in a straight line in one direction, two mutually orthogonal directions, or three directions.

[0095] Specifically, the first arm 11 is configured to be able to move relative to the base portion 10 towards Figure 1 It can rotate in the direction of arrow A and swing in the direction of arrow B. The second arm 12 is configured to be able to rotate relative to the front end of the first arm 11. Figure 1 It can rotate in the direction of arrow C and swing in the direction of arrow D. The head unit 13 can rotate relative to the front end of the second arm 12. Figure 1 The painting robot 2 is installed in a manner that allows it to rotate in the direction of arrow E and swing in the direction of arrow F. The number of painting robots 2 is not limited to four; it can also be one, two, three, or more than five.

[0096] The head unit 13 includes a coating section 1 for applying liquid and a position detection section 3 for detecting the position of the object 200. The coating section 1 has multiple nozzles for discharging liquid. The position detection section 3 is integrally mounted with the coating section 1 at the front end of the second arm 12. The position detection section 3 may include, for example, a stereo camera that detects the three-dimensional position information of three or more feature points on the object 200. The stereo camera may include multiple cameras. The position detection section 3 acquires a distance image of the object 200 by triangulation based on the parallax between images captured by the multiple cameras.

[0097] In addition to the coating robot 2, the coating equipment 100 of the first embodiment of the present invention also includes a liquid supply unit 4, a maintenance and recovery unit 40, and a control unit 5.

[0098] The liquid supply unit 4 includes a liquid storage unit 6 and an air supply unit 7. The liquid storage unit 6 is, for example, a tank that stores liquids 8 such as paint. The air supply unit 7 is, for example, a compressor that supplies air to the liquid storage unit 6. When air is supplied from the air supply unit 7 to the liquid storage unit 6, the interior of the liquid storage unit 6 is pressurized. The liquid 8 in the liquid storage unit 6 is supplied to the coating unit 1, where it is discharged as droplets from the nozzle of the coating unit 1. In addition to droplets, the coating unit 1 can also discharge liquid in a linear fashion. Figure 1The diagram only shows the path of supplying liquid 8 from the liquid storage unit 6 to one coating unit 1, but the same applies to supplying liquid 8 from the liquid storage unit 6 to all coating units 1. Alternatively, multiple liquid storage units 6 can be prepared to hold liquids of different colors or types, allowing for switching between supplying different colored or type liquids to each coating unit 1.

[0099] The maintenance and recovery unit 40 has a capping mechanism and a cleaning mechanism for maintaining and restoring the function of the coating unit 1. The maintenance and recovery unit 40 is provided for each coating robot 2. When no further coating is performed after coating, or when the liquid is switched to a different color or type for coating, the maintenance and recovery unit 40 performs maintenance and recovery operations after the previous coating is completed. Specifically, the nozzle surface of the coating unit 1 is capped, and residual liquid adhering to the coating unit 1 is rinsed with cleaning fluid. As a result, nozzle clogging caused by the drying of residual liquid can be prevented, and residual liquid can be prevented from adhering to the object when switching liquids for coating.

[0100] In addition to the pre-input shape data of the object 200 and the image data for painting, the control unit 5 also controls the actions of each painting robot 2 and the discharge actions of each coating unit 1 based on the position information of the object 200 detected by each position detection unit 3. As a result, the head unit 13 moves along the shape of the object 200, applying liquid from the coating unit 1 to the surface of the object 200. Furthermore, the control unit 5 also controls the operation of the maintenance and recovery unit 40. Figure 1 The diagram only shows the signal lines from the control unit 5 to one painting robot 2, one coating unit 1, and one maintenance and recovery unit 40, as well as the signal lines from one position detection unit 3 to one control unit 5. However, the control unit 5 controls the operation of all painting robots 2, all coating units 1, and all maintenance and recovery units 40, and receives detection signals from all position detection units 3.

[0101] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a more specific structure of the liquid supply unit 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] like Figure 2 As shown, the liquid supply unit 4, in addition to the liquid storage unit 6 and the air supply unit 7, also includes multiple air conditioners 9. The air conditioners 9 are installed in the air flow path 111 connecting the air supply unit 7 and the multiple liquid storage units 6. The air conditioners 9 regulate the air pressure supplied from the air supply unit 7 to each liquid storage unit 6. Each of the multiple liquid storage units 6 is individually connected to each coating unit 1 via the air flow path 112. Therefore, by pressurizing the interior of each liquid storage unit 6, liquid 8 is supplied from each liquid storage unit 6 to each coating unit 1. Alternatively, the liquid storage units 6 may not be provided for each coating unit 1, and a single liquid storage unit may be provided for all coating units 1.

[0103] <Structure of the coating section>

[0104] Next, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The structure of the coating section 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the coating section 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the coating section 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] like Figure 3 As shown, the coating section 1 includes a housing 20 and a supply port 21 and a recovery port 22 provided in the housing 20.

[0106] like Figure 4 As shown, multiple discharge modules 23 are arranged in one or more rows within the housing 20. Each discharge module 23 includes a nozzle plate 25, a nozzle valve 26, a piezoelectric element 27, and a liquid flow path 28. The nozzle plate 25 is provided with nozzles 24 to discharge liquid from each discharge module 23. The nozzles 24 can be opened via the nozzle valve 26. The piezoelectric element 27 is a drive unit that opens and closes the nozzle valve 26 by extending or retracting it when a voltage is applied. The liquid flow path 28 is interconnected among the discharge modules 23 to form a common flow path. The liquid flow path 28 is also connected to a supply port 21 and a recovery port 22.

[0107] When liquid is supplied into the housing 20 from the supply port 21 with the valve at the recovery port 22 closed, the liquid flows into the liquid flow path 28 and is pressurized. At this time, when no voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 27, the nozzle 24 is closed by the nozzle valve 26. The nozzle 24 does not eject droplets. When voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 27, the nozzle valve 26 is activated, opening the nozzle 24. Liquid is discharged from the nozzle 24. Liquid that does not discharge from the nozzle 24 is discharged to the outside through the recovery port 22.

[0108] <Support structure for coating section>

[0109] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the support structure of the coating section 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] like Figure 5As shown, the coating section 1 is supported by a support member 30, which has a cantilever supporting the coating section at its free end. The support member 30 is mounted on the front end of the second arm 12 of the coating robot 2 and supports the coating section 1. Here, "cantilever support" means that one end 30a of the support member 30 is fixed to the second arm 12, and the free end 30b of the support member 30, opposite to one end 30a, holds the coating section 1 in its current state. The support member 30 is a rectangular or other plate-shaped member that extends relatively long from the end 30a fixed to the second arm 12 toward the free end 30b. The support member 30 may also be other shapes, such as a rod, instead of a plate. In addition, a communication board 31 for transmitting electrical signals to the coating section 1 and a pipe 32 for supplying liquid to the coating section 1 are connected to the coating section 1.

[0111] As described above, in the first embodiment of this example, since the coating section 1 is supported by the support member 30, it is possible to effectively coat objects 200 with complex structures, such as vehicle bodies. Specifically, because the coating section 1 protrudes from the front end of the second arm 12 via the plate-shaped support member 30, interference with the object 200 can be avoided even if the object 200 has a complex structure, and it can access the object 200 from confined spaces. Therefore, coating can be performed effectively even in locations where it is difficult to coat.

[0112] <Structure of the Maintenance and Recovery Department>

[0113] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the schematic configuration of the maintenance and recovery unit 40 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 In the diagram, the X-arrow indicates the horizontal direction, and the Z-arrow indicates the vertical direction.

[0114] like Figure 6 As shown, the maintenance and recovery unit 40 includes a cover member 41, a cleaning mechanism 42, a drying mechanism 43, etc. The cover member 41 has a concave cover body 50 and a sealing portion 51 provided along the entire edge of the opening 50a of the cover body 50.

[0115] The sealing part 51 is formed of an elastomer such as rubber. A cleaning mechanism 42 and a drying mechanism 43 are disposed within the cover body 50. The cleaning mechanism 42 has a cleaning nozzle 52 for discharging cleaning fluid. The drying mechanism 43 has a drying nozzle 53 for blowing out dry air such as hot air. The dry air can be cold air or hot air. Additionally, a waste liquid flow path 54 is provided at the bottom of the cover body 50 for discharging cleaning fluid from inside the cover body 50 into a waste liquid tank.

[0116] In the case of maintaining and restoring the function of the coating section 1 through the maintenance and restoration section 40, firstly, as Figure 7As shown, the coating robot 2 is driven to move the coating section 1 upwards towards the cover member 41. As a result, the nozzle surface 15 of the coating section 1 ( Figure 4 The nozzle plate 25 is positioned opposite the opening 50a of the cover member 41. In this case, on the nozzle surface 15, in relation to... Figure 7 Eight nozzles 24 are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the paper surface, and two rows of nozzles 24 (nozzle rows) are arranged on the left and right sides in a direction orthogonal to the paper surface. Next, as... Figure 8 As shown, the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 are brought close together, and the cover member 41 is brought into contact with the nozzle surface 15. At least a portion of the nozzle surface 15 is covered by the cover member 41. Furthermore, the cover member 41 is pressed against the coating section 1, and the sealing portion 51 of the cover member 41 is in close contact with the nozzle surface 15. Thus, a seal is formed between the nozzle surface 15 and the cover member 41. Then, in this state, cleaning fluid is sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 52 to clean the nozzle surface 15 and the nozzle 24. Then, dry air is blown from the drying nozzle 53 to dry the nozzle surface 15 and the nozzle 24. Thus, the function of the coating section 1 is maintained and restored. Additionally, the cleaning fluid inside the cover member 41 is discharged into the waste liquid tank through the waste liquid flow path 54.

[0117] <Problems during capping>

[0118] On the other hand, as in the first embodiment of this example, in the structure where the coating section 1 is supported by a support member 30 having a cantilever supporting the coating section 1 at its free end, the coating section 1 can be brought close to the object 200 for good coating. However, there is a problem that the support member 30 is prone to deformation in the direction intersecting the length direction. Therefore, as Figure 9 As shown, when the coating part 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, the support member 30 deforms in the direction of arrow K in the figure due to the reaction force when the coating part 1 is pressed and the pressing force of the cover member 41 on the coating part 1. As a result, if a gap is generated between the coating part 1 and the cover member 41, the cleaning fluid may leak to the outside when it is sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 52.

[0119] Furthermore, such a gap between the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 is also a problem in structures where cleaning fluid is not sprayed. For example, in a structure where the nozzle surface 15 and the nozzle 24 are moisturized by the cover member 41, when a gap is formed between the coating section 1 and the cover member 41, the nozzle surface 15 or the nozzle 24 is prone to drying, and the paint or other liquid remaining on the nozzle surface 15 or the nozzle 24 may solidify, potentially leading to poor liquid discharge.

[0120] Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to suppress the gap generated between the coating part 1 and the capping member 41 and to ensure a good seal between the coating part 1 and the capping member 41, the following capping structure and capping method are proposed. Hereinafter, the capping structure and capping method of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0121] <Sealing structure according to the first embodiment of the present invention>

[0122] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the maintenance and recovery section 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 In the diagram, the X and Y arrows represent any horizontal directions that are orthogonal to each other, and the Z arrow represents a vertical direction that is orthogonal to each of the horizontal directions X and Y.

[0123] like Figure 10 As shown, the maintenance and restoration unit 40 includes, in addition to the cover member 41, a cover retainer 44, a support platform 45, a pressing member 46, and a drive mechanism 47.

[0124] The cover retainer 44 has a plate-shaped portion 44a for mounting the cover retainer 44 and a frame 44b integrally formed with the plate-shaped portion 44a. In this case, the cover member 41 is mounted to the plate-shaped portion 44a via a pair of elastic members 48 such as springs. Therefore, the cover member 41 is held so that it can be moved relative to the cover retainer 44. Figure 10 The arrow P indicates elastic displacement. Additionally, the frame 44b houses various pipes for supplying cleaning fluid and drying air to the cleaning nozzle 52 and drying nozzle 53 within the cover component 41.

[0125] The support platform 45 has: a frame 45a, a frame 44b that houses the cover holder 44; and a columnar portion 45b integrally formed with the frame 45a. A pressing member 46 is mounted on the columnar portion 45b.

[0126] The pressing member 46 is an arm-shaped or strip-shaped component formed by bending at a predetermined angle. Here, the pressing member 46 is formed as a bend, but it can also be unbent. The pressing member 46 is mounted such that it can rotate around a rotation axis 60 supported by a columnar portion 45b of the support platform 45, and can move towards... Figure 10 The arrow Q rotates. Specifically, the portion 460 of the pressing member 46 at one end in the length direction is fixed to the rotation axis 60, and the portion 461 of the pressing member 46 at the other end in the length direction can swing about the rotation axis 60.

[0127] In addition to the pressing member 46, a cover retainer 44 is also mounted on the rotating shaft 60. Specifically, the portion 440 of the plate-shaped part 44a of the cover retainer 44, located at one end relative to the center in the length direction, is fixed to the rotating shaft 60. Therefore, the portion 441 of the cover retainer 44, located at the other end relative to the center in the length direction, can be rotated about the rotating shaft 60. Figure 10 The arrow R swings in the direction of the arrow.

[0128] The drive mechanism 47 has a rotating shaft 60 that supports the pressing member 46 and the cap retainer 44 for rotation. In the first embodiment of this example, a rotary actuator that is driven by air pressure is used as the drive mechanism 47. When using a liquid that is not flammable by electric sparks or the like, an electric actuator or the like can be used as the drive mechanism 47.

[0129] The drive mechanism 47 has a rotating shaft 60 and a frame 47a that rotatably holds the rotating shaft. The frame 47a of the drive mechanism 47 is fixed to the columnar portion 45b of the support platform 45. On the other hand, the rotating shaft 60 is supported by the frame 47a and can rotate freely relative to the columnar portion 45b. Furthermore, the rotating shaft 60 includes two shafts that respectively hold the pressing member 46 and the cover retainer 44, and can drive them to rotate in opposite directions. Therefore, the pressing member 46 and the cover member 41 are configured to rotate in opposite directions.

[0130] Additionally, a return spring 61 is installed at one end of the rotating shaft 60 to return the pressing member 46 to its original position. Furthermore, a stop part 62 is provided on the columnar portion 45b of the support platform 45 to stop the returning pressing member 46 in its original position.

[0131] <Sealing Method of the First Embodiment of the Invention>

[0132] Next, the sealing operation of the maintenance and recovery section 40 of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0133] When sealing the coating section 1, such as Figure 11 As shown, firstly, the coating section 1 is moved upwards towards the cover member 41, and the nozzle surface 15 of the coating section 1 is positioned opposite the opening 50a of the cover member 41.

[0134] like Figure 12 As shown, with the coating section 1 positioned above the cover member 41, the front end (the portion 461 on the other end side) of the pressing member 46 is positioned above the coating section 1, waiting in a position away from the movement path of the coating section 1 and the support member 30, so as not to interfere with the coating section 1 and the support member 30. In addition, the cover retainer 44 is held in a state of tilting downward relative to the horizontal direction by its own weight.

[0135] When from Figure 12 When the drive mechanism 47 is driven in the state shown, as Figure 13As shown, the pressing member 46 rotates counterclockwise, with its front end (the portion 461 on the other end side) approaching the support member 30. Here, the drive mechanism 47 drives not only the pressing member 46 to rotate but also the cover holder 44. In this case, the cover holder 44 rotates in the opposite direction to the rotation of the pressing member 46, thus lifting its front end (the portion 441 on the other end side) upwards. However, since the rotation axis 60 supporting the cover holder 44 can rotate freely relative to the columnar portion 45b of the support platform 45, even if the front end of the cover holder 44 wants to rise, the cover holder 44 will rotate downwards due to its own weight. Therefore, the cover holder 44 does not appear to rotate and remains in its original position. Thus, only the pressing member 46 performs the rotational action.

[0136] Then, as Figure 14 As shown, when the front end of the pressing member 46 (the portion 461 on the other end) contacts the upper surface of the support member 30, the front end of the cover holder 44 (the portion 441 on the other end) is lifted. That is, when the pressing member 46 contacts the support member 30, the cover holder 44 is temporarily supported by the support member 30 via the pressing member 46, and thus the cover holder 44 is lifted by the driving force of the drive mechanism 47.

[0137] Therefore, as Figure 15 As shown, the cover member 41 contacts the nozzle surface 15 of the coating section 1. After the cover member 41 contacts the nozzle surface 15 of the coating section 1, the pressing member 46 further presses the support member 30 downwards, pressing the coating section 1 against the cover member 41. Since the pressing force of the pressing member 46 is set to be greater than the elastic force of the elastic member 48 applying force to the cover member 41, the coating section 1 resists the elastic force of the elastic member 48 and is pressed against the cover member 41. Thus, the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 are in close contact, and the nozzle surface 15 is covered by the cover member 41.

[0138] Subsequently, by stopping the drive of the drive mechanism 47, the nozzle surface 15 is held in a capping state, and the capping action is completed. Furthermore, during the period when the pressing member 46 presses the coating section 1 against the capping member 41, and during the period when the capping member 41 is pressed relative to the coating section 1, the first arm 11 and the second arm 12 of the coating robot 2, which are the moving mechanisms for moving the coating section 1, remain stationary without being driven. Therefore, the capping action can be performed stably without any positional shift of the coating section 1 relative to the capping member 41. Thus, the moving mechanism stops the movement of the coating section 1, the pressing member 46 presses the coating section 1 against the capping member 41, and the capping member 41 presses against the coating section 1.

[0139] As described above, in the first embodiment of the present invention, when the coating portion 1 is capped, the pressing member 46 presses the coating portion 1 against the capping member 41. As a result, a tight seal between the coating portion 1 and the capping member 41 is well ensured. That is, in the first embodiment of this invention, as... Figure 16 As shown, even if the support member 30 is deformed due to the pressing of the coating part 1 and the cover member 41, the coating part 1 can be pressed against the cover member 41 in a direction that intersects the extending direction (length direction) of the support member 30 by the pressing member 46. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of gaps between the coating part 1 and the cover member 41.

[0140] In particular, in the first embodiment of this example, as Figure 11 As shown, since the support member 30 is formed as a plate with a thickness direction (arrow T direction) smaller than its length direction (arrow L direction) and width direction (arrow W direction) (T < W < L), the support member 30 is prone to deform in the thickness direction when the cover member 41 is pressed onto the coating part 1 along the thickness direction of the support member 30.

[0141] However, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, by pressing the coating portion 1 towards the thickness direction of the support member 30 by the pressing member 46, the gap between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be suppressed, and the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be well sealed. As a result, the possibility of cleaning fluid leaking from between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be reduced, and the reliability of the maintenance and recovery function can be improved. In addition, even in the maintenance and recovery portion 40 where cleaning fluid is not sprayed, by applying this embodiment, the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be well sealed, thus suppressing the drying of the nozzle surface 15 and the nozzle 24 and preventing adverse conditions such as poor liquid spraying.

[0142] The pressing object of the pressing member 46 is not limited to the support member 30, but can also be... Figure 17 The coating portion 1 is shown. In this case, it is preferable that the pressing member 46 is pressed at a position along the length of the support member 30 closer to the front end (opposite to the support member 30 side) than the central portion m of the coating portion 1. As a result, it is possible to more effectively suppress the formation of gaps between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41. On the other hand, as in the first embodiment of the present invention, when the pressing member 46 is pressed against the support member 30, since the pressing member 46 does not press against the coating portion 1, it has the advantage of being able to avoid damage or breakage of the coating portion 1 caused by the pressing member 46 being pressed.

[0143] Furthermore, in the first embodiment of this example, the pressing member 46 and the cover retainer 44 are driven by the same drive mechanism 47. That is, since both members are driven by one drive mechanism 47, the size and cost can be reduced compared to using separate drive mechanisms to drive each member. In addition, the driving of the pressing member 46 and the cover retainer 44 is not limited to the case where one drive mechanism 47 is used; different drive mechanisms can also be used.

[0144] Alternatively, to release the sealing state of the coating section 1, the pressing force of the pressing member 46 and the pressing force of the capping member 41 can be released by depressurizing the rotary actuator of the drive mechanism 47. When the pressing force of the pressing member and the pressing force of the capping member are released, the pressing member 46... Figure 10 The pressing member 46 rotates in the opposite direction to the pressing direction due to the force of the return spring 61. The cover member 41 rotates downward by its own weight. As a result, the pressing member 46 and the cover member 41 separate from the coating section 1, and the capping state of the coating section 1 is released. In addition, the pressing member 46 remains in its original position because it abuts against the stop part 62.

[0145] The method for returning the pressing member 46 to its original position is not limited to using the return spring 61; the driving force of a rotary actuator can also be used. That is, the rotary actuator can be rotated in the opposite direction to the rotation direction during cap sealing to return the pressing member 46 to its original position. In this case, since the return spring 61 is not required, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost can be lowered.

[0146] <Structure of other embodiments>

[0147] Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the parts that differ from the first embodiment of the present invention, and descriptions of the same parts will be omitted as appropriate.

[0148] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the structure of the maintenance and recovery unit 40 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] In a second embodiment of the invention, a roller 49 is provided at the front end of the pressing member 46 in a rotatable manner.

[0150] In this case, such as Figure 19As shown, when the pressing member 46 rotates close to the support member 30, the front roller 49 is pressed against the support member 30. Therefore, since the coating section 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, the gap between the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the rotatable roller 49 is pressed, scratches and damage to the support member 30 can be prevented, improving reliability. Because the outer circumferential surface of the roller 49 has a predetermined width, pressing can be performed over a wider range than in the above embodiment. The roller 49 can also be pressed against the coating section 1 instead of the support member 30.

[0151] Next, Figure 20 This illustrates the structure of the maintenance and recovery unit 40 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] In the third embodiment of this example, a cylinder 64 is used as the drive mechanism 47 for driving the pressing member 46. As described above, a linear drive mechanism such as a cylinder 64 can also be used as the drive mechanism 47.

[0153] The pressing component 46 is integrally mounted to the front end of the rod 65 of the cylinder 64. Therefore, by... Figure 20 The up-down direction of the drive rod 65 causes the pressing member 46 to be pressed against or away from the coating section 1. When the coating section 1 is facing the cover member 41, the pressing member 46 is pressed against the coating section 1 by the drive of the cylinder 64, thereby pressing the coating section 1 against the cover member 41.

[0154] As described above, in the third embodiment of this example, since the coating portion 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, gaps between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be suppressed, ensuring a good seal between them. Furthermore, when pressing the coating portion 1 against the cover member 41, it is preferable to arrange the cylinder 64, the coating portion 1, and the cover member 41 in a row. As a result, the coating portion 1 can be effectively pressed against the cover member 41. Additionally, the pressing member 46 can also be pressed against the support member 30.

[0155] Next, Figure 21 This illustrates the structure of the maintenance and recovery unit 40 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, a robotic arm 66 that holds the pressing member 46 is used as the drive mechanism 47. The robotic arm 66 has multiple joints 67 and the like that are capable of rotational drive.

[0157] In this case, the pressing member 46 is pressed against the coating section 1 by driving the robotic arm 66, thereby pressing the coating section 1 against the cover member 41. As a result, in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the generation of a gap between the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 can also be suppressed, and the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 can be well and tightly connected. In addition, the pressing member 46 can be pressed against the support member 30.

[0158] Next, Figure 22 This illustrates the structure of the maintenance and recovery unit 40 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] In a fifth embodiment of the invention, the pressing member 46 is composed of a cam member 68, which is driven to rotate by a drive mechanism 47. The cam member 68 has cam surfaces 68a at different distances from the rotation center O.

[0160] In this case, when the cam component 68 rotates, the cam surface 68a presses against the coating portion 1, causing the coating portion 1 to press against the cover component 41. At this time, it is preferable that the cam component 68, the coating portion 1, and the cover component 41 are arranged in a row so that the coating portion 1 can effectively press against the cover component 41.

[0161] As described above, in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, since the coating portion 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, the generation of a gap between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be suppressed, and the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41 can be well and tightly connected. In addition, the cam member 68 can be pressed against the support member 30.

[0162] Next, Figure 23 This illustrates the structure of the maintenance and recovery unit 40 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0163] In the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the cover component 41 is driven by a cylinder 69 in the vertical direction. As described above, the cylinder 69, which is a linear drive mechanism, can be used as a drive mechanism 47 to drive the cover component 41.

[0164] In this case, the cover member 41 is pushed upward by the rod 70 of the cylinder 69, thereby pressing the cover member 41 against the coating section 1. In addition, in order to effectively press the cover member 41 against the coating section 1, it is preferable to arrange the cylinder 69, the coating section 1 and the cover member 41 in a row.

[0165] <Examples of other liquid coating devices>

[0166] This invention can also be applied to liquid coating apparatuses with the following structures.

[0167] Figure 24This diagram illustrates an example of the coating section 1 rotating during capping. In this case, the coating section 1 presses against the capping member 41 to seal the cap by rotating around a rotation axis J located on the base end side of the support member 30. However, when the coating section 1 is pressed against the capping member 41, a gap may sometimes occur between the coating section 1 and the capping member 41 if the support member 30 deforms.

[0168] Therefore, in such a structure, it is also preferable to use... Figure 25 The pressing member 46 is arranged as shown to press the coating part 1 against the cover member 41. As a result, gaps between the coating part 1 and the cover member 41 can be suppressed, and the coating part 1 and the cover member 41 can be well sealed.

[0169] In addition, such as Figure 26 As shown in the example, multiple coating portions 1 may also be provided on the support member 30. In this case, when each coating portion 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, a gap may be generated between the coating portion 1 disposed on the front end side of the support member 30 and the cover member 41.

[0170] Therefore, in such a structure, it is also preferable to use... Figure 27 As shown, a pressing member 46 is provided to press each coating part 1 against each cover member 41, so as to suppress the generation of gaps between each coating part 1 and each cover member 41.

[0171] In addition, such as Figure 28 As illustrated in the example, the present invention can also be applied to a structure in which the cover member 41 is supported by a support member 30 having a cantilever supporting the coating portion 1 at its free end. In this case, when the coating portion 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, the support member 30 deforms, creating a gap between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41.

[0172] Therefore, it is preferable that the present invention also applies in such a structure, such as Figure 29 As shown, a pressing member 46 is provided to press the cover member 41 against the coating section 1. That is, as long as the structure includes a first member supported by the support member 30 and a second member pressed against the first member, the present invention can be applied to either the coating section 1 or the cover member 41, which are the first and second members, respectively. Figure 29 In the example case, when the coating portion 1 is pressed against the cover member 41, the pressing member 46 is pressed against the cover member 41. Thus, the cover member 41 is pressed against the coating portion 1 in a direction intersecting the extending direction (length direction) of the support member 30, suppressing the formation of a gap between the coating portion 1 and the cover member 41. Alternatively, the pressing member 46 can also be pressed against the support member 30. Furthermore, it is also possible to provide... Figure 10 The elastic member 48 shown in the figure presses the coating part 1 onto the cover member 41.

[0173] like Figure 30 As shown, the present invention can also be applied to a structure having a small first coating section 1A and a large second coating section 1B. In this case, the first coating section 1A consists of a single coating section 1, and the second coating section 1B consists of an assembly of multiple coating sections 1. The first coating section 1A and the second coating section 1B are integrally mounted to the front end of the robot arm (second arm 12) of the coating robot 2 via a support member 30. However, the second coating section 1B is mounted closer to the base end of the support member 30 (on the robot arm side) than the first coating section 1A. Furthermore, when the first coating section 1A and the second coating section 1B are mounted on the robot arm, their nozzle surfaces 15A and 15B are configured to face different directions. In this case, the nozzle surfaces 15A and 15B are configured to face mutually orthogonal directions. In addition, the direction of the nozzle surfaces 15A and 15B is not limited to mutually orthogonal directions, and they can also be configured in intersecting directions other than orthogonal, such as in the case of an inclined plane.

[0174] As mentioned above, in Figure 30 In the structure, the nozzle surfaces 15A and 15B of the first coating section 1A and the second coating section 1B are arranged in mutually orthogonal or intersecting directions. Therefore, when the robotic arm of the coating robot 2 is stationary, the sealing action of the nozzle surfaces 15A and 15B is performed at different time intervals. First, as Figure 31 As shown, after the second coating section 1B is pressed onto the large second cover member 41B to seal it, the small first cover member 41A is removed from... Figure 32 The first coating section 1A is pressed against the small cover part 41A, thereby sealing the first coating section 1A. At this time, the action of sealing the first coating section 1A with the small cover part 41A is similar to... Figures 12-15 The sealing action in the first embodiment of the present invention shown is the same, therefore, the description is omitted.

[0175] When the first coating section 1A is capped, the first coating section 1A is pressed against the first cover member 41A by the pressing member 46. Therefore, the gap between the first coating section 1A and the first cover member 41A is suppressed, resulting in a good capping. Furthermore, when the first coating section 1A is capped, the robotic arm of the coating robot 2 remains stationary without being driven, thus maintaining the relative position of the second coating section 1B and the second cover member 41B effectively. The second cover member 41B caps the second coating section 1B before the first cover member 41A caps the first coating section 1A.

[0176] Thus, the present invention can also be applied to a structure having a second coating part 1B and a second cover part 41B that are pressed in a direction intersecting the pressing direction of the first coating part 1A and the first cover part 41A. That is, the present invention can also be applied to a structure having a third part (e.g., the second coating part 1B) integrally disposed with the first part (e.g., the first coating part 1A), and a fourth part (e.g., the second cover part 41B) pressed between the first part and the second part (e.g., the first cover part 41A) in a direction intersecting the pressing direction. Alternatively, the first part can be the first cover part 41A, the third part can be the second cover part 41B integrally disposed, the second part can be the first coating part 1A, and the fourth part can be the second coating part 1B.

[0177] In addition, such as Figure 33 As shown, the present invention can also be applied to a structure in which the support member 30 extends in the vertical direction Z and the coating part 1 and the cover member 41 are pressed in the horizontal direction X. Even with such a structure, when the cover is sealed, a gap may occur between the coating part 1 and the cover member 41 if the support member 30 deforms. Therefore, it is preferable to use the present invention to suppress the generation of gaps.

[0178] like Figure 34 As shown, the present invention can also be applied to a structure in which a coating roller 71 is provided at the front end of a robotic arm 72 via a support member 30. In this case, since the coating roller 71 is supported by a support member 30 including a cantilever at the free end of the cantilever, the support member 30 may deform when the coating roller 71 is pressed against a cover member or the like, creating a gap between the two members.

[0179] Therefore, it is preferable to also apply the present invention to this configuration. For example, as Figure 35 As shown, an upper cover member 80 covering the coating roller 71 is provided on the side of the pressing member 46. When the coating roller 71 is covered, as... Figure 36 As shown, the support member 30 is pushed in by the pressing member 46. At this time, the upper cover member 80 includes a recess 80a to prevent interference with the support member 30. Furthermore, the coating roller 71 is disposed on the cover member 41, and the support frame 73 of the coating roller 71 contacts the sealing portion 51 of the cover member 41. Here, although the support frame 73 of the coating roller 71 does not cover the sides and top of the coating roller 71, the upper cover member 80 covers the sides and top of the coating roller 71 by the movement of the pressing member 46, thereby sealing the coating roller 71. As described above, during sealing, the pressing member 46 pushes in the support member 30, and the coating roller 71 presses against the cover member 41, thereby suppressing the formation of gaps between the support frame 73 of the coating roller 71 and the cover member 41 pressing against the coating roller 71, ensuring a good seal between the two components.

[0180] This invention is also applicable to, for example, painting on automobile bodies for purposes other than coloring or design. For example, automobile body painting processes include primers for ensuring adhesion to the vehicle substrate and for rust prevention, intermediate coats for ensuring impact resistance and durability, and topcoats for coloring, design, etc. The painting equipment of this invention can be used for primer or intermediate coat painting, in addition to topcoat painting. After the topcoat, when there is a painting process for applying a protective layer (e.g., a clear coat) to achieve gloss and protection of the coating, the painting equipment according to this invention can be used for the process of applying the protective layer. Furthermore, when applying a peelable protective layer to protect the coated surface on an automobile during transport or in the factory, the painting equipment according to this embodiment can also be used to apply the protective layer. The peelable protective layer can be any layer, as long as it adheres to the coating surface of the vehicle body to chemically or physically protect the coating portion from dust, metal powder, oil, salt, acid, and ultraviolet radiation, and is preferably formed from a material comprising, for example, primarily an acrylic copolymer agent.

[0181] This invention is also applicable to liquid coating apparatus for purposes other than painting. For example, marking apparatus for applying liquid to an object to mark specific areas can be listed.

[0182] This invention is not limited to liquid coating apparatuses that discharge liquid onto three-dimensional objects such as vehicle bodies or building materials, but can also be applied to liquid coating apparatuses that coat planar objects such as sheets or plates. In addition to mechanisms related to the transport of the object and pretreatment equipment, the "liquid coating apparatus" of this invention may also include, for example, post-treatment equipment.

[0183] If we summarize the various aspects of the present invention described above, the present invention includes at least the following aspects:

[0184] Aspect 1

[0185] According to aspect 1, a liquid coating apparatus includes: a coating section supported by a support member, the support member including a cantilever supporting the coating section at a free end, the coating section coating a liquid onto an object; a cover member covering at least a portion of the coating section; a pressing member pressing the coating section against the cover member in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member; and a drive mechanism driving the pressing member.

[0186] Aspect 2

[0187] According to aspect 2, a liquid coating apparatus includes: a coating section for coating a liquid onto an object; a cover member supported by a support member, the support member including a cantilever supporting the coating section at a free end of a cantilever and covering at least a portion of the coating section; a pressing member for pressing the coating section onto the cover member in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member; and a drive mechanism for driving the pressing member.

[0188] Aspect 3

[0189] According to aspect 3, the liquid coating apparatus of aspect 1 further includes an elastic member to press the cover member against the coating portion.

[0190] Aspect 4

[0191] According to aspect 4, in the liquid coating apparatus of aspect 3, the pressing force of the pressing member is greater than the elastic force that presses the cover member against the coating portion.

[0192] Aspect 5

[0193] According to aspect 5, in any of aspects 1, 3, and 4, the pressing member presses the coating portion or the support member by rotating, thereby pressing the coating portion against the cover member. After the pressing member presses the coating portion or the support member, the cover member rotates and is pressed against the coating portion.

[0194] Aspect 6

[0195] According to aspect 6, in any of aspects 1, 3 to 5 of the liquid coating apparatus, the drive mechanism causes the pressing member to rotate and the cover member to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby bringing the pressing member and the cover member closer to each other.

[0196] Aspect 7

[0197] According to aspect 7, in any of aspects 1, 3 to 6, the liquid coating apparatus further includes a moving mechanism for moving the coating portion, wherein the moving mechanism is not driven and remains stationary during the period when the pressing member is driven to press the coating portion against the cover member, and during the period when the cover member is driven to press the coating portion against the coating portion.

[0198] Aspect 8

[0199] According to aspect 8, the liquid coating apparatus of any of aspects 1, 3 to 7 further includes: a second coating section integrally disposed with the coating section; and a second cover member pressed against the second coating section in a direction intersecting the pressing direction between the coating section and the cover member, wherein after the second cover member is pressed against the second coating section, the cover member is pressed against the coating section, and the coating section is pressed toward the cover member.

[0200] Aspect 9

[0201] According to aspect 9, in any of aspects 1, 3 to 8, the liquid coating apparatus has a support member that is a plate-shaped member, and the pressing member is pressed against the plate-shaped member to press the coating portion against the cover member.

[0202] Aspect 10

[0203] According to aspect 10, in any of aspects 1 to 9 of the liquid coating apparatus, the drive mechanism includes a linear drive mechanism that drives the pressing member in a linear direction.

[0204] Aspect 11

[0205] According to aspect 11, in any of aspects 1 to 9 of the liquid coating apparatus, the drive mechanism includes a robotic arm having a plurality of joints and holding the pressing member.

[0206] Aspect 12

[0207] According to aspect 12, in any of aspects 1 to 9 of the liquid coating apparatus, the pressing member includes a cam member that is driven to rotate by the drive mechanism.

[0208] Aspect 13

[0209] According to aspect 13, a capping method is provided, in which a capping member covers at least a portion of a coating portion on an object to which a liquid is applied, the capping method comprising: positioning the coating portion supported by a support member having a cantilever supporting the coating portion at a free end against the capping member; pressing the coating portion or the support member with a pressing member, thereby pressing the coating portion against the capping member in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member.

[0210] The above embodiments are illustrative and do not limit the invention. Therefore, many additional modifications and variations are possible based on the above teachings. For example, within the scope of the invention, elements and / or features of different illustrative embodiments can be combined with and / or substituted for each other.

[0211] This patent application is based on and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-155833, filed with the Japan Patent Office on September 21, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0212] List of reference numerals

[0213] 1 Coating section

[0214] 2 Painting Robot

[0215] 11 First arm (moving mechanism)

[0216] 12 Second arm (moving mechanism)

[0217] 30 Support components

[0218] 41. Cover component

[0219] 46 Pressing component

[0220] 47 Drive mechanism

[0221] 48. Elastic components

[0222] 64 cylinders (linear drive mechanism)

[0223] 66 robotic arms

[0224] 68 Cam assembly

[0225] 100 Coating equipment (liquid coating device)

[0226] 200 objects

[0227] List of cited references

[0228] Patent documents

[0229] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-137548

Claims

1. A liquid coating apparatus, comprising: The coating section applies the liquid to the object. Support components, configured as follows: Extends in the direction of extension; It can deform in an intersecting direction that intersects the extending direction of the support member; and The coating portion is supported at one end of the support member; A cover component that covers at least a portion of the coating portion; The pressing member presses the coating portion against the cover member in the cross direction of the support member; and A drive mechanism drives the pressing component.

2. A liquid coating apparatus, comprising: The coating section applies the liquid to the object. A cover component that covers at least a portion of the coating portion; Support components, configured as follows: Extends in the direction of extension; It can deform in an intersecting direction that intersects the extending direction of the support member; and The cover component is supported at one end of the support component; The pressing member presses the cover member against the coating portion in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the support member; and A drive mechanism drives the pressing component.

3. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an elastic member for pressing the cover member against the coating portion.

4. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 3, in, The elastic member presses the cover member against the coating portion with elastic force, and The pressing component presses the cover component onto the coating portion with a pressing force greater than the elastic force.

5. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, in, The pressing member presses one of the coating portion and the support member by rotating, thereby pressing the coating portion onto the cover member, which in turn causes the cover member to rotate and press the cover member onto the coating portion.

6. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, in, The driving mechanism causes the pressing component to rotate in one direction and the cover component to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby bringing the pressing component and the cover component closer to each other.

7. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, It further includes a moving mechanism for moving the coating section. in, The moving mechanism stops the movement of the coating part and drives the pressing member to press the coating part toward the cover member, so that the cover member presses against the coating part.

8. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The second coating section is mounted together with the coating section at one end of the support member; and The second cover component is pressed against the second coating portion in a direction intersecting the aforementioned intersecting direction. in, The second cover component is pressed against the second coating portion, thereby pressing the cover component toward the coating portion and pressing the coating portion onto the cover component.

9. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, in, The support component includes a plate component, and The pressing member presses the plate member in the intersecting direction, thereby pressing the coating portion onto the cover member.

10. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, in, The driving mechanism includes a linear driving mechanism that drives the pressing component in a straight direction.

11. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, in, The drive mechanism includes a robotic arm having multiple joints and holding the pressing component.

12. The liquid coating apparatus according to claim 1, in, The pressing component includes a cam component that is driven to rotate by the drive mechanism.

13. A sealing method, comprising: A cover member covers at least a portion of the coating section, the coating section being used to apply liquid to an object; The coating portion is supported at one end of a support member extending in the extension direction; Move the coating section to a position opposite to the cover component; and Press the coating portion or the support member to press the coating portion onto the cover member in an intersecting direction that intersects the extending direction of the support member.

Images