Box folding device and box packaging production line

Abstract

The invention provides a box body folding device and a box body packaging production line, the box body folding device is used for folding a cuboid paper box, an opening of the paper box comprises two opposite first cover plates and two opposite second cover plates, and the box body folding device comprises a conveying unit used for conveying the paper box; the opening unit comprises a standby working position and an opening working position, when the opening unit is located at the opening working position, the two second cover plates can be opened to preset positions, and when the opening unit is located at the standby working position, folding of the two second cover plates is not affected; a first plate folding unit and a second plate folding unit; a control module; the control module is configured as follows: when the opening unit moves to the opening working position, the first plate folding unit works; when the opening unit moves to the standby working position, the second plate folding unit works, and the technical problem that in the prior art, a second cover plate of a box body has adverse effects on folding of a first cover plate can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of box folding technology, specifically relating to a box folding device and a box packaging production line. Background Technology

[0002] In the manufacturing of large home appliances such as air conditioners, cardboard packaging is a key process before products leave the factory. Its degree of automation directly affects production efficiency and cost control. Moreover, home appliances such as air conditioner outdoor units are usually large in size and heavy in weight, and there are strict quality requirements for folding quality and sealing appearance. Therefore, the design and implementation of automation solutions for this process is crucial for cost reduction, efficiency improvement and quality standardization control in the product manufacturing process.

[0003] In the current carton sealing process, manual operation still plays a significant role. Workers need to manually fold each flap of the carton into place before applying the tape. On the one hand, manual operation is inefficient and labor-intensive, making it difficult to meet the operational needs of large-scale, high-speed production. On the other hand, manual operation is often subject to many uncontrollable factors, making it difficult to guarantee the consistency and accuracy of folding operations. Problems such as incomplete folding, flap misalignment, or angle deviation may occur, affecting the sealing quality.

[0004] When folding the existing box, the first side is folded first, then the second side. However, when folding the first side, it may be blocked by the second side, resulting in the box not being able to be folded in place and the first cover plate bending. This seriously affects the final sealing of the box and the protection of the items inside.

[0005] How to avoid the adverse effects of the second cover plate on the folding of the first cover plate is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the present invention provides a box folding device and a box packaging production line, which can solve the technical problem of the adverse effects of the second cover plate of the box on the folding of the first cover plate in the prior art.

[0007] This invention provides a box folding device for folding a rectangular cardboard box. The opening of the cardboard box includes two opposing first cover plates and two opposing second cover plates. The box folding device includes: A conveying unit for conveying the cartons; The opening unit includes a standby working position and an opening working position. When the opening unit is in the opening working position, it can open the two second cover plates to a preset position. When the opening unit is in the standby working position, it does not affect the folding of the two second cover plates. Folding the first plate unit and folding the second plate unit; A control module is configured such that: when the spreading unit moves to the spreading working position, the folding first plate unit operates; and when the spreading unit moves to the standby working position, the folding second plate unit operates.

[0008] In some embodiments, the spreading unit includes a spreading drive source, a second lead screw, and two guide blocks. The two guide blocks are movably mounted on the second lead screw. The spreading drive source can drive the two guide blocks to move along the second lead screw to move closer to or further away from each other. The two guide blocks are used to directly contact the two second cover plates of the carton.

[0009] In some embodiments, the direction of movement of the carton is a first direction, and the direction opposite to the first direction is a second direction; of the two first cover plates, one facing the first direction is the front cover plate, and the other is the rear cover plate; The first folding unit includes a pressure plate and a rotating part. The pressure plate has a downward-facing pressing edge that extends along the movement direction of the carton. The rotating part includes a standby working state and a folding working state. When the rotating part is in the standby working state, it is completely positioned above the carton. When the rotating part is in the folding working state, it rotates to fold the rear cover plate. The movement of the carton toward the first direction enables the pressing edge to press down on both the front and rear cover plates simultaneously.

[0010] In some embodiments, a guide edge is provided at one end of the pressing edge facing the second direction, and the guide edge gradually extends upward from the first direction to the second direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the pressing edge is straight, and when the pressing edge completely presses the first cover plate, the angle formed between the first cover plate and the pressing edge is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 45°.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second folding unit includes a left pressure rod and a right pressure rod extending along the direction of movement of the carton. The left pressure rod is connected to a left rotating rod via a left connecting arm, and the right pressure rod is connected to a right rotating rod via a right connecting arm. The left rotating rod and the right rotating rod can rotate simultaneously and in opposite directions.

[0013] In some embodiments, the conveying unit includes a centering guide assembly, which includes a left guide and a right guide respectively disposed on both sides of the carton; the centering guide assembly also includes a first lead screw, which has a left thread and a right thread respectively at its two ends, the left thread and the right thread having opposite directions of rotation, a left nut disposed on the left thread, a right nut disposed on the right thread, the left nut being connected to the left guide, and the right nut being connected to the right guide.

[0014] In some embodiments, the conveying unit includes a roller conveyor line comprising a plurality of rollers arranged side by side, with at least two adjacent rollers forming a gap; the left guide and the right guide are disposed above the roller conveyor line, and the left nut and the right nut are both disposed below the roller conveyor line; the left guide is connected to the left nut via a left connecting rod, and the right guide is connected to the right nut via a right connecting rod, with both the left and right connecting rods disposed within the gap.

[0015] In some embodiments, the box folding device further includes a frame, the frame being provided with a lifting unit, and the spreading unit, the first folding plate unit, and the second folding plate unit are all disposed on the lifting unit.

[0016] In some embodiments, the spreading unit is mounted on the lifting unit via an electric cylinder, which can drive the spreading unit to move up and down.

[0017] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a box packaging production line, including the aforementioned box folding device.

[0018] In this application, when folding the first cover of the carton, the two second cover plates are first opened. This avoids the second cover plates obstructing the first cover plate, thus preventing folding failures or jamming caused by obstruction, and improving the folding quality and efficiency of the carton. The folding process of the two end cover plates and the two second cover plates is completed by mechanical equipment without manual intervention, saving manpower, increasing automation, and correspondingly avoiding quality problems caused by human error, thus improving work quality and efficiency. This achieves reduced manpower and increased efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. The drawings described below are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can derive other embodiments based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the box folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 A diagram showing the result after removing the cardboard box; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the expansion unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first folding plate unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second folding plate unit according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the conveying unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] The attached figures are labeled as follows: 1. Carton; 2. First cover plate; 201. Front cover plate; 202. Rear cover plate; 3. Second cover plate; 4. Spreading unit; 401. Second servo motor; 402. Second lead screw; 403. Guide block; 404. Spreading cylinder; 405. Spreading base plate; 406. Spreading movable seat; 407. Coupling; 408. Spreading nut; 5. Folding first plate unit; 501. Pressure plate; 502. Guide edge; 503. Rotating part; 504. Swing arm cylinder; 505. Swing arm bracket; 506. Swing rod; 6. Folding second plate unit; 601. Left pressure rod; 602. Right pressure rod; 603. Left connecting arm; 604. Right connecting arm; 605. Left rotating rod; 606. Right rotating rod; 607. Bearing with seat. 608. Second plate folding cylinder; 609. Rotating connecting block; 610. Transmission gear; 611. Cylinder mounting seat; 7. Centering guide unit; 701. Conveying unit; 702. Left guide component; 703. Right guide component; 704. First lead screw; 705. First servo motor; 706. Roller conveyor; 707. Left nut; 708. Right nut; 709. Left connecting rod; 710. Right connecting rod; 711. First mounting plate; 712. Second mounting plate; 713. Guide roller; 714. Drive sprocket; 715. Idler sprocket; 716. Chain; 717. Driven sprocket; 8. Frame; 801. Electric cylinder; 802. Lifting bracket; 803. Floating joint; 804. Photoelectric sensor switch. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0023] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0024] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0025] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0026] In the manufacturing of large home appliances such as air conditioners, cardboard packaging is a key process before products leave the factory. Its degree of automation directly affects production efficiency and cost control. Moreover, home appliances such as air conditioner outdoor units are usually large in size and heavy in weight, and there are strict quality requirements for folding quality and sealing appearance. Therefore, the design and implementation of automation solutions for this process is crucial for cost reduction, efficiency improvement and quality standardization control in the product manufacturing process.

[0027] In the existing air conditioner outdoor unit folding and sealing process, manual operation is still heavily relied upon. Workers need to manually fold each of the carton's flaps into place before sealing. On the one hand, manual operation is inefficient and labor-intensive, making it difficult to meet the operational needs of large-scale, high-speed production. On the other hand, manual operation often involves many uncontrollable factors, making it difficult to guarantee the consistency and accuracy of folding operations. Problems such as incomplete folding, flap misalignment, or angle deviation may occur, affecting the sealing quality.

[0028] While some automated folding and sealing equipment exists, most suffer from limitations such as limited functionality, poor adaptability, low folding reliability, and inability to address the risk of the first and second sides of the carton obstructing each other, which hinders quality control. Furthermore, manual pre-folding is still required before use, resulting in low efficiency.

[0029] Therefore, developing an automatic carton folding device that can adapt to various carton specifications, fold precisely and efficiently, and be highly integrated with automated production lines is of significant practical importance for improving the automation level and packaging quality of air conditioner outdoor unit packaging. See also Figure 1-6 As shown, the present invention provides a box folding device for folding a rectangular cardboard box 1. The opening of the cardboard box 1 includes two opposing first cover plates 2 and two opposing second cover plates 3. The box folding device includes: Conveying unit 701 is used to convey the carton 1; The opening unit 4 includes a standby working position and an opening working position. When the opening unit 4 is in the opening working position, it can open the two second cover plates 3 to a preset position. When the opening unit 4 is in the standby working position, it does not affect the folding of the two second cover plates 3. Fold the first plate unit 5 and fold the second plate unit 6; The control module is configured such that when the spreading unit 4 moves to the spreading working position, and when the first folding plate unit 5 is working, the spreading unit 4 moves to the standby working position and the second folding plate unit 6 is working.

[0030] Before folding, the two second cover plates 3 and the two first cover plates 2 are basically open, but not fully open. Folding in this state would cause the first cover plate 2 to block the second cover plate 3, or vice versa. With the above-described configuration, when the carton 1 needs to be folded, it first moves via the conveyor unit 701. When it reaches the folding position, the opening unit 4, originally in the standby position, switches to the opening position. The opening unit 4 then opens the two second cover plates 3 to a preset position, preventing them from blocking the folding of the two first cover plates. Then, the first-plate folding unit 5 folds the two first cover plates 2. Next, the opening unit 4 moves back to the standby position, without affecting the folding of the second cover plates 3. Finally, the second-plate folding unit 6 folds the two second cover plates. After completing these steps, the carton 1 proceeds to the next process.

[0031] When the carton is rectangular, the first cover plate 2 can be used as a short cover plate, and the second cover plate can be used as a long cover plate.

[0032] A cuboid includes a cube.

[0033] With the above setup, when folding the first cover plate 2, the two second cover plates 3 are first opened. This avoids the second cover plates 3 obstructing the first cover plate 2, thus preventing folding failures or jamming caused by obstruction, and improving the folding quality and efficiency of the carton 1. The folding process of the two end cover plates and the two second cover plates 3 is completed by mechanical equipment without manual intervention, saving manpower, increasing automation, and correspondingly avoiding quality problems caused by human error, thus improving work quality and efficiency. This achieves reduced manpower and increased efficiency.

[0034] It should be noted that the folding point can be a fixed point or a distance. If the folding point is a point, the carton 1 stops moving at the folding point, completes the folding process, and then resumes its movement. If the folding point is a distance, the carton 1 continues to move without stopping during the folding process.

[0035] Preferred, such as Figures 1-3 As shown, the spreading unit 4 includes a spreading drive source, a second lead screw 402 and two guide blocks 403. The two guide blocks 403 are movably mounted on the second lead screw 402. The spreading drive source can drive the two guide blocks 403 to move along the second lead screw 402 to move closer to or further away from each other. The two guide blocks 403 are used to directly contact the two second cover plates 3 of the carton 1.

[0036] By setting a second lead screw 402, the rotation of the second lead screw 402 can drive the two guide blocks 403 to move closer or further apart, thus opening the two second cover plates 3. The setting of the lead screw is smooth and quiet, which is conducive to improving the folding efficiency of the carton 1 and also to optimizing the working environment.

[0037] By setting two guide blocks 403 specifically for contacting the second cover plate 3, it is easier to open the second cover plate 3. Specifically, the two guide blocks 403 are conical blocks, with the small end of the conical blocks facing downwards. The two guide blocks 403 can move up and down, preventing the guide blocks 403 from interfering with the movement of the carton 1 during the process of moving the carton 1 to the folding position before folding.

[0038] Specifically, during the movement of carton 1 to the folding position, guide block 403 is at its highest point and will not interfere with the movement of carton 1. When carton 1 reaches the folding position, guide block 403 moves downward and is positioned between the two second cover plates 3, opening the drive source (second servo motor 401) to control the rotation of the second lead screw. The second lead screw 402 rotates forward, causing the two guide blocks 403 to move in a direction away from each other, thus opening the two second cover plates 3. After the two second cover plates 3 are opened to the preset position, the first cover plate 2 is folded. After the first cover plate 2 is folded, the two guide blocks 403 move upward until they separate from the two second cover plates 3, facilitating the folding of the second cover plates 3. Through the above settings and operation, the opening process of the two second cover plates 3 is stable and efficient, improving the folding quality.

[0039] Furthermore, the distance by which the two guide blocks 403 move along the second lead screw 402 is adjustable to accommodate cartons 1 of different widths.

[0040] Furthermore, the expansion cylinder 404 is configured to control the guide block 403 to move up and down.

[0041] Open the second servo motor 401 of the drive source position.

[0042] The second lead screw 402 is provided with two spreading nuts 408, the threads of the two spreading nuts 408 are opposite, and two spreading movable seats 406 are respectively provided on the two spreading nuts 408.

[0043] Preferred, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the direction of movement of the carton 1 is the first direction, and the direction opposite to the first direction is the second direction; of the two first cover plates 2, one facing the first direction is the front cover plate 201, and the other is the rear cover plate 202; The first folding unit 5 includes a pressure plate 501 and a rotating part 503. The pressure plate 501 has a downward-facing pressing edge that extends along the movement direction of the carton 1. The rotating part 503 includes a standby working state and a folding working state. When the rotating part 503 is in the standby working state, it is completely positioned above the carton 1. When the rotating part 503 is in the folding working state, it rotates to fold the rear cover plate 202. The movement of the carton 1 toward the first direction allows the pressing edge to press down on both the front cover plate 201 and the rear cover plate 202.

[0044] The working process is as follows: Carton 1 moves in the folding position towards the first direction. The pressing edge of the pressure plate 501 presses against the front cover plate 201, causing it to bend towards the second direction to complete the fold. Then, the rotating part 503 switches from a standby state to a folding state, causing the rear cover plate 202 to bend towards the first direction to complete the fold. Because carton 1 continues to move towards the first direction, the folded rear cover plate 202 can be pressed down by the pressure plate 501 extending along the direction of movement of carton 1. This achieves the folding of both first cover plates 2 and keeps them folded, facilitating the subsequent folding of the second cover plate 3. Through the above settings, carton 1 is always in motion, improving the folding efficiency of the first cover plates 2 and the overall movement efficiency of carton 1.

[0045] Furthermore, the thickness of the pressure plate 501 is less than 2mm and it is located in the middle of the first cover plate 2. This ensures that while the pressure plate 501 is pressing down on the two first cover plates 2, the pressure plate 501 does not interfere with the folding of the two second cover plates 3.

[0046] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, a guide edge 502 is provided at one end of the pressing edge facing the second direction, and the guide edge 502 gradually extends upward from the first direction to the second direction.

[0047] By setting guide edge 502, a hypotenuse is formed, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the guide edge 502 facilitates the compression and bending of the front cover plate 201, reducing the force exerted by the pressure plate 501 on the carton 1 in the second direction, and effectively improving the stability of the carton 1's movement. The guide edge 502 also prevents the pressure plate 501 from directly compressing the front cover plate 201 with a right-angle plate, thus avoiding damage to the front cover plate 201 and improving the quality of the carton 1.

[0048] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the pressing edge is straight. When the pressing edge completely presses the first cover plate 2, the angle formed between the first cover plate 2 and the pressing edge is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 45°.

[0049] Specifically, the carton 1 also includes side panels. The second cover plate 3 and the first cover plate 2 of the carton 1 are both connected to the side panels. The side panel connected to the front cover plate 201 is the front side panel, and the side panel connected to the rear cover plate 202 is the rear side panel. In the working state, the upper edge of the front side panel is basically horizontal. The minimum distance between the upper edge of the front side panel and the pressing edge is L, where L1 < L < L2. Thus, the distance between the point of action of the pressing edge or guide edge 502 when pressing the front side edge and the connection between the front side edge and the front cover plate 201 is appropriate. This reduces the resistance when the front cover plate 201 is folded around the upper edge of the front side edge, and also allows the second cover plate 3 to press the first cover plate 2 to fold it completely into place when folded laterally. Furthermore, when the movement path of the carton 1 is horizontal, after the front cover plate 201 is pressed by the pressing plate 501, the angle between the front cover plate 201 and the horizontal plane is greater than 30° and less than 45°. With the above settings, when the second cover plate 3 is bent, it can squeeze the first cover plate 2, making the first cover plate 2 need to be folded. In this way, the resistance of the pressure plate 501 to the carton 1 is reduced, which is conducive to the smooth movement of the carton 1 and improves the folding efficiency of the carton 1.

[0050] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the second folding unit 6 includes a left pressure rod 601 and a right pressure rod 602 extending along the movement direction of the carton 1. The left pressure rod 601 is connected to the left rotating rod 605 via a left connecting arm 603, and the right pressure rod 602 is connected to the right rotating rod 606 via a right connecting arm 604. The left rotating rod 605 and the right rotating rod 606 can rotate simultaneously and in opposite directions.

[0051] Specifically, when the left and right rotating rods 605 and 606 rotate simultaneously, causing the left and right pressure rods 601 and 602 to move away from each other to a preset clearance position, the carton 1 can move to the folding position without interference from the left and right pressure rods 601 and 602. In the folding position, the left and right pressure rods 601 and 602 are located above the carton 1 and on its left and right sides. After the first cover plate 2 is folded, the left and right pressure rods 601 and 602 rotate simultaneously downwards and towards each other under the drive of the two rotating rods, pressing the two second cover plates 3 closer together, thereby completing the folding of the second cover plates 3. Furthermore, after the two second cover plates 3 are folded, a gap is formed between them, the width of which is greater than the thickness of the pressure plate 501. Thus, after the second cover plates 3 are folded, there will be no squeezing interference between the second cover plates 3 and the pressure plate 501, facilitating the movement of the carton 1 and the folding of the second cover plates 3, improving the quality and efficiency of folding the carton 1.

[0052] Furthermore, the left pressure rod 601 is parallel to the right pressure rod 602, and the left rotating rod 605 is parallel to the right rotating rod 606. This improves the stability and smoothness of the rotation of the two rotating rods, and enhances the stability of the second cover plate 3 during folding.

[0053] Secondly, the bending of the first side uses only one power source, which, compared with the traditional non-powered guide rod bending and dual-power direct push bending, combines the reliability and economy of the hinge.

[0054] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the conveying unit 701 includes a centering guide assembly, which includes a left guide 702 and a right guide 703 respectively disposed on both sides of the carton 1; the centering guide assembly also includes a first lead screw 704, the two ends of the first lead screw 704 are respectively provided with a left thread and a right thread, the left thread and the right thread have opposite directions of rotation, a left nut 707 is provided on the left thread and a right nut 708 is provided on the right thread, the left nut 707 is connected to the left guide 702 and the right nut 708 is connected to the right guide 703.

[0055] When the carton 1 moves on the conveying unit 701, the centering guide component enables the carton 1 to move along a preset path, which facilitates the folding of the first cover plate 2 and the second cover plate 3.

[0056] In this application, "left" and "right" refer to left and right when a person is facing the first direction; in this article, "both sides" also refers to the left and right "both sides" when a person is facing the first direction.

[0057] Specifically, since the left and right threads rotate in opposite directions, when the first lead screw 704 rotates, it drives the left nut 707 and the right nut 708 to move closer or further apart simultaneously. During centering of the carton 1, the first lead screw 704 rotates, causing the two nuts to move closer together. This movement in turn causes the two guide members (left guide member 702 and right guide member 703) to move closer together as well. The two guide members then press the carton 1 from both sides, positioning it in the middle of the two guide members. This achieves left-right position adjustment of the carton 1. Positioning the carton 1 in the middle left-right direction, as described above, allows the pressure plate 501 to press against the front cover 201 while simultaneously being positioned in the middle left-right direction, preventing interference with the folding of the two second cover plates 3. Furthermore, when folding the two second cover plates 3, the forces acting on them are the same, and the folding process is essentially identical, improving the folding efficiency and quality of the carton 1.

[0058] The first lead screw 704 is driven by the first servo motor 705.

[0059] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6As shown, the conveying unit 701 includes a roller conveyor 706, which includes a plurality of rollers arranged side by side, with at least two adjacent rollers forming a gap; the left guide 702 and the right guide 703 are disposed above the roller conveyor 706, and the left nut 707 and the right nut 708 are both disposed below the roller conveyor 706; the left guide 702 is connected to the left nut 707 via a left connecting rod 709, and the right guide 703 is connected to the right nut 708 via a right connecting rod 710, with the left connecting rod 709 and the right connecting rod 710 both disposed within the gap.

[0060] By setting roller line 706, such as Figure 1 As shown, carton 1 moves in the first direction on roller conveyor 706. By arranging the rollers, adjacent rollers do not completely contact each other. A gap is formed between two adjacent rollers, allowing the connecting rod of the connecting nut and guide to be inserted into the gap, and the rod can move left and right within the gap. This facilitates the operation of the first lead screw 704 below roller conveyor 706, driving the two guides on roller conveyor 706 without affecting the conveyor's transport of carton 1. Since the first lead screw 704 is located below roller conveyor 706, it does not occupy the space above roller conveyor 706, which helps reduce the need for components that fold the cover of carton 1.

[0061] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the box folding device also includes a frame 8, which is equipped with a lifting unit. The spreading unit 4, the first folding plate unit 5, and the second folding plate unit 6 are all mounted on the lifting unit.

[0062] By setting up a frame 8, on which a lifting unit is installed, the unfolding unit 4, the first folding plate unit 5, and the second folding plate unit 6 are all set on the lifting unit. On the one hand, this improves the integration of the box folding device; on the other hand, by setting up the lifting unit, the lifting and lowering of the unfolding unit 4, the first folding plate unit 5, and the second folding plate unit 6 can be controlled simultaneously, enabling the box folding device to fold boxes of different widths (left and right directions), thus improving the applicability of the box folding device.

[0063] The dimensions of the carton in the front-to-back direction (first and second directions) can be controlled by the rotation speed of the roller conveyor 706 in conjunction with the control program. The width of the carton in the left-to-right direction is within a certain range. If it is too wide, the control arm needs to be replaced, and the second and first control arms need to be adjusted. In addition, the centering guide assembly will center the carton. In summary, the carton folding device of this application can quickly fold rectangular cartons 1 within a large range.

[0064] Preferred, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the spreading unit 4 is mounted on the lifting unit via an electric cylinder 801, which can drive the spreading unit 4 to move up and down.

[0065] By setting up the electric cylinder 801, the entire expansion unit 4 can move up and down via the electric cylinder 801, effectively preventing the expansion unit 4 from obstructing the movement of the carton 1 when it is not expanding. The electric cylinder 801, in conjunction with the expansion cylinder 404, can adjust the vertical movement of the guide block 403 to a greater extent, thus increasing the range of dimensions of the carton 1 that it can adapt to in the height direction.

[0066] For details, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the electric cylinder 801 is mounted on the lifting bracket 802, and its lower part is connected to the opening base plate 405 of the opening unit 4 by the floating joint 803 and its mounting seat. When the carton 1 moves forward through the roller conveyor 706 into the folding position, the electric cylinder 801 and the opening cylinder 404 begin to descend. The opening movable seat 406 moves to both sides (moving away from each other) under the drive of the second servo motor 401, coupling 407, and second lead screw 402. The guide block 403 opens the left and right second cover plates 3 of the carton 1 outward to avoid them blocking the folding of the front and rear first cover plates 2. After sufficient spacing, the carton 1 continues to move forward (in the first direction). The arc-shaped portion of the guide edge 502 at the front end of the pressure plate 501 gradually presses down the front cover 201 of the carton 1. Once it enters the working range of the rear cover 202, the swing arm cylinder 504 extends, causing the rotating part 503 to rotate around the swing arm bracket 505 by a preset angle (e.g., 90 degrees). The swing rod 506 then strikes the rear first cover 2 of the carton 1, folding it down. After the carton 1 moves to the point where the pressure plate 501 is lowered, the pressure plate 501 will press the front and rear covers 202 together, thus completing the first side folding process. The second side folding assembly performs the second side folding process for the carton 1: Refer to... Figure 6 The second folding unit 6 consists of two rotating rods (left rotating rod 605 and right rotating rod 606) mounted on a bearing 607. A pressure rod is mounted on the rotating rod. The second folding cylinder 608, the rotating connecting block 609, the rotating rod, and the pressure rod form a linkage mechanism. The left rotating rod 605 and right rotating rod 606 are driven by a pair of meshing transmission gears 610, enabling symmetrical (opposite rotation directions) 90-degree rotation. The second folding unit 6 is mounted on the lifting bracket 802 of the lifting unit via a bearing 607 and a cylinder mounting seat 611. After the carton 1 completes the folding of its first front and rear sides and is fully inserted under the pressure plate 501, the second folding cylinder extends, pushing the rotating connecting block 609 to rotate the rotating rod. The two pressure rods then rotate 90 degrees, clamping down the second cover plates 3 on the left and right sides of the carton 1, thus completing the second folding process. The centering guide unit 7 adjusts the width and positions of different cartons 1: [Reference] Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 The centering guide unit 7 is fixed below the roller line 706 via the first mounting plate 711 and the second mounting plate 712. The guide members (left guide member 702 and right guide member 703) are mounted on the connecting plate and extend from the roller line 706 from the roller interval upwards. The guide members and the guide rollers 713 mounted on them will guide, clamp and position the carton 1. When the type of carton 1 changes and the clamping width of carton 1 needs to be adjusted, the first servo motor 705 drives the drive sprocket 714 to rotate, the idler sprocket 715 tensions the chain 716, and drives the driven sprocket 717 to rotate, causing the first lead screw 704 to rotate. The lead screw nuts (left nut 707 and right nut 708) are connected to the horizontal clamping movable block, which drives the connecting plate and the upper guide members (left guide member 702 and right guide member 703) to move left and right, thereby realizing the left and right width adjustment of the centering guide of carton 1. This adjustment method can adapt to the automatic folding of various models and specifications of cartons. After establishing a product database, one-click switching of folding can be achieved.

[0067] In this application, the first lead screw 704 and the second lead screw 402 are controlled by servo motors to control the movement of the folding device in the X, Y, and Z directions (three-dimensional spatial direction), which improves the switching efficiency and high-precision control of outer packaging box products of different sizes, including automatic adjustment for different folding heights, centering guidance for different carton widths, and fine adjustment of the opening distance of the opening device for different models of carton 1, so as to adapt to one-click switching of different products; The present invention also provides a box packaging production line, including the aforementioned box folding device.

[0068] The carton packaging production line of this application can standardize the bending position of the same carton 1. After automatic folding, it will directly connect to the sealing process, which is conducive to improving sealing efficiency and sealing quality, optimizing the cumbersome process in the outer packaging sealing process, reducing the overall cycle time of the automated production line, and helping to reduce costs and increase efficiency in the production process.

[0069] Furthermore, this box folding device can be used as an automatic folding device for the outer packaging carton 1 of a household air conditioner.

[0070] When carton 1 is delivered to the carton folding device, photoelectric sensor switch 804 transmits the carton 1 positioning signal to PLC. After retrieving the carton 1 specification parameters from the product library, the signal is transmitted to each servo motor. The frame 8 drives the lifting unit to automatically adjust the height, and the first lead screw drives the guide to automatically adjust the width to center the carton 1, realizing adaptive adjustment of carton 1 with different widths and sizes.

[0071] It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that, without conflict, the advantageous technical features of the above-mentioned methods can be freely combined and superimposed.

[0072] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention. The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the technical principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A box folding device for folding a rectangular cardboard box (1), the opening of the cardboard box (1) comprising two opposing first cover plates (2) and two opposing second cover plates (3), characterized in that, The box folding device includes: A conveying unit (701) is used to convey the carton (1); The expansion unit (4) includes a standby working position and an expansion working position. When the expansion unit (4) is located in the expansion working position, it can expand the two second cover plates (3) to a preset position. When the expansion unit (4) is located in the standby working position, it does not affect the folding of the two second cover plates (3). Fold the first plate unit (5) and fold the second plate unit (6); Control module; the control module is configured such that: when the spreading unit (4) moves to the spreading working position, the folding first plate unit (5) works; when the spreading unit (4) moves to the standby working position, the folding second plate unit (6) works.

2. The box folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening unit (4) includes an opening drive source, a second lead screw (402) and two guide blocks (403). The two guide blocks (403) are movably mounted on the second lead screw (402). The opening drive source can drive the two guide blocks (403) to move along the second lead screw (402) to move closer to or further away from each other. The two guide blocks (403) are used to directly contact the two second cover plates (3) of the carton (1).

3. The box folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The direction of movement of the carton (1) is the first direction, and the direction opposite to the first direction is the second direction; of the two first cover plates (2), one facing the first direction is the front cover plate (201), and the other is the rear cover plate (202); The first folding unit (5) includes a pressure plate (501) and a rotating part (503). The pressure plate (501) has a downward-facing pressing edge that extends along the movement direction of the carton (1). The rotating part (503) includes a standby working state and a folding working state. When the rotating part (503) is in the standby working state, it is completely above the carton (1). When the rotating part (503) is in the folding working state, it rotates to fold the rear cover plate (202). The movement of the carton (1) toward the first direction enables the pressing edge to press against the front cover plate (201) and the rear cover plate (202) at the same time.

4. The box folding device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The end of the pressing edge facing the second direction is provided with a guide edge (502), which gradually extends upward from the first direction to the second direction.

5. The box folding device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pressing edge is straight. When the pressing edge completely presses the first cover plate (2), the angle formed between the first cover plate (2) and the pressing edge is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 45°.

6. The box folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second folding unit (6) includes a left pressure rod (601) and a right pressure rod (602) extending along the movement direction of the carton (1). The left pressure rod (601) is connected to the left rotating rod (605) via a left connecting arm (603), and the right pressure rod (602) is connected to the right rotating rod (606) via a right connecting arm (604). The left rotating rod (605) and the right rotating rod (606) can rotate simultaneously and in opposite directions.

7. The box folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying unit (701) includes a centering guide assembly, which includes a left guide (702) and a right guide (703) respectively disposed on both sides of the carton (1); the centering guide assembly also includes a first lead screw (704), which has a left thread and a right thread respectively at both ends, the left thread and the right thread have opposite directions of rotation, a left nut (707) is disposed on the left thread, and a right nut (708) is disposed on the right thread, the left nut (707) is connected to the left guide (702), and the right nut (708) is connected to the right guide (703).

8. The box folding device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The conveying unit (701) includes a roller conveyor (706), which includes multiple rollers arranged side by side, with at least two adjacent rollers forming a gap; the left guide (702) and the right guide (703) are disposed above the roller conveyor (706), and the left nut (707) and the right nut (708) are both disposed below the roller conveyor (706); the left guide (702) is connected to the left nut (707) via a left connecting rod (709), and the right guide (703) is connected to the right nut (708) via a right connecting rod (710); the left connecting rod (709) and the right connecting rod (710) are both disposed within the gap.

9. The box folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The box folding device also includes a frame (8), which is equipped with a lifting unit. The spreading unit (4), the first folding plate unit (5), and the second folding plate unit (6) are all mounted on the lifting unit.

10. The box folding device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The spreading unit (4) is mounted on the lifting unit via an electric cylinder (801), which can drive the spreading unit (4) to move up and down.

11. A box packaging production line, characterized in that, Includes the box folding device according to any one of claims 1-10.

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