Machining device for seat chassis pipe fitting and control method of machining device

Abstract

The invention provides a machining device for a seat chassis pipe fitting. The machining device comprises a base and a machining device, the conveying mechanism is used for continuously conveying the long pipe fittings in the first direction; the cutting mechanism is arranged at the downstream of the conveying mechanism and is used for carrying out fixed-length cutting on the long pipe fitting conveyed to the station of the cutting mechanism to obtain a single-section pipe fitting; the bending mechanism is arranged at the downstream of the cutting mechanism and is used for bending and forming the end part of the single-section pipe fitting; and the transferring mechanism is used for transferring the cut single-section pipe fitting from the cutting mechanism to the bending mechanism. According to the device, the full-process continuous automatic production of the seat chassis pipe fittings is realized, the production efficiency is greatly improved, and extremely high machining precision and product consistency are ensured. A precise positioning system penetrating through the cutting and bending procedures is established, the structure is compact, and the automation degree and the intelligent degree are high. And a plurality of functional modules are highly integrated on the same base, so that the layout is reasonable, and the occupied area of equipment is saved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of tubular bending processing technology, specifically relating to a processing device and control method for seat chassis tubular components. Background Technology

[0002] In the production of seat chassis (such as the five-star base of an office chair), metal tubes need to be cut to a fixed length and one end needs to be bent at a specific angle. Traditional processing methods usually involve separate, independent equipment to complete the process in sections: first, a cutting machine (such as a band saw or laser cutter) cuts the long tube, and then the cut sections are transferred manually or by simple handling equipment to another tube bending machine or pressure bending machine for bending.

[0003] This traditional method has significant technical drawbacks: First, it suffers from slow production cycles and low efficiency. Material flow between processes relies on manual operation or asynchronous mechanical transfer, resulting in substantial waiting and handling time, hindering continuous automated production and limiting overall capacity. Second, processing accuracy is difficult to guarantee, leading to poor product consistency. After cutting, pipe fittings need to be repositioned on new equipment, and manual placement or secondary positioning easily introduces errors. More importantly, in the bending process, the lack of a precise benchmark established and maintained during the cutting stage makes it difficult to accurately reproduce the axial and circumferential positions of the fittings in the mold, directly increasing the dispersion of bending angles and positions, affecting the quality of subsequent welding and assembly. Third, the level of automation and intelligence is low. The entire process relies on manual coordination and monitoring, requiring a large workforce and posing safety hazards. Furthermore, the equipment layout is scattered, occupying a large area, and making centralized control and data traceability of the production process difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned defects or deficiencies in the prior art, a processing apparatus and control method for seat chassis tubular components are provided.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application proposes a processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components, comprising: Base; A conveying mechanism for continuously conveying long pipe fittings along a first direction; A cutting mechanism, located downstream of the conveying mechanism, is used to cut long pipes conveyed to its workstation to a fixed length to obtain single pipe sections. A bending mechanism, located downstream of the cutting mechanism, is used to bend the end of the single-section pipe fitting. A transfer mechanism is used to transfer the cut single-section pipe fitting from the cutting mechanism to the bending mechanism.

[0006] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the bending mechanism includes: A forming mechanism includes a fixed lower mold and an upper mold adjustable in a first direction, wherein a forming space is formed between the upper mold and the lower mold for placing the end of the pipe to be bent. A lateral clamping and transfer mechanism, comprising: A pair of clamping components, and a drive device for driving the clamping components to move; A pair of clamping components are distributed on opposite sides of the forming space along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction; When the driving device drives the clamping assembly to move to the first station, a pair of clamping assemblies limit the pipe placed on the lower mold from both sides in the second direction; The driving device is also used to drive the clamping assembly to move the formed pipe to the second station after the pipe is bent and formed, so as to remove the formed pipe from the forming space.

[0007] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the bending device further includes a pair of fixed limiting blocks, extending along a third direction and respectively located on both sides of the forming space along a second direction; each clamping component includes a movable base and a clamping actuator movably connected to the base; the clamping actuator interacts with the corresponding limiting block, such that when the base is driven to different work stations, the limiting block can force or allow the clamping actuator to present different working postures.

[0008] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the clamping actuator is movably connected to the base; an elastic element is provided between the clamping actuator and the base to provide a restoring force for the clamping actuator; the clamping actuator interacts with different parts on the limiting strip through the positioning part provided thereon, so that the clamping actuator presents at least three different working states in sequence as it moves with the base.

[0009] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the cutting device includes: A laser cutting head is used to perform cutting operations; An air blowing assembly, connected to the laser cutting head, is used to blow away the cutting slag; The clamping and fixing device includes cylinder assemblies located at both radial ends of the pipe fitting for clamping the pipe fitting from both sides during cutting to prevent the pipe fitting from moving along its axial direction. The clamping and fixing device includes: A frame, fixed to the base, having a hollow structure inside; The lifting drive module is movably disposed within the frame; A guide section, located on the lifting drive module and in the pipe conveying path, is used to radially guide the pipes passing through. An clearance space is formed within the hollow structure and between the guide area defined by the guide portion. The pipe is exposed within the clearance space, and the piston rod of the cylinder assembly acts on the exposed pipe within the clearance space. The lifting drive module includes a lifting cylinder and an integrated mounting base driven by the lifting cylinder; the integrated mounting base is installed inside the hollow structure of the frame; the guide portion is mounted on the integrated mounting base.

[0010] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the transfer mechanism is located at the bottom of the cutting mechanism, and includes: A slide cylinder is installed at the bottom of the frame, and the extension direction of its guide rod is the same as the pipe conveying direction. The sliding head is slidably connected to the guide rod of the slide cylinder; The protrusion is located at the top of the sliding head and extends into the clearance space; The protruding part is used to push the end of the cut single-section pipe fitting by the sliding head driven by the slide cylinder along the guide rod after the cutting is completed, so as to move it to the forming station of the bending mechanism along the pipe fitting conveying direction.

[0011] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the guide portion is an integral sleeve with guide holes at both ends for the pipe to pass through, an opening in the middle for accommodating the piston rod of the cylinder assembly, and a through gap at the bottom of the sleeve along the pipe conveying direction for the extension of the transfer mechanism to pass through. A sleeve portion is provided between the two guide holes of the guide portion, and the sleeve portion is coaxially fitted onto the outside of the pipe within the clearance space, with a gap between it and the outer wall of the pipe. Two brackets are provided on both sides of the outer wall of the sleeve portion; wherein the cylinder bodies of the first cylinder and the second cylinder are fixed to the corresponding brackets, with their piston rods facing the gap of the sleeve portion.

[0012] Secondly, this application proposes a control method for a processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components, implemented based on the processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components as described above, comprising the following steps: The transfer mechanism is controlled to transfer the cut single-segment pipe to the forming workpiece of the bending mechanism; During the transfer action performed by the transfer mechanism, the status information of the lateral clamping of the bending mechanism and the transfer mechanism is acquired in real time; the status information is used to characterize whether a pair of clamping components have completed the removal and release of the previous formed tube. Only when it is confirmed based on the status information that a pair of clamping components has been reset to a state ready to receive a new pipe fitting, the transfer mechanism is controlled to continue performing the transfer action until the single pipe fitting is placed in the forming station of the bending mechanism; If it is not confirmed that a pair of clamping components have been reset within the preset time window, the transfer mechanism is controlled to pause or retract, and the processing device is controlled to issue an alarm signal.

[0013] According to the technical solution provided in this application, during the bending process of the bending mechanism, the forming pressure data is collected in real time by a force sensor provided on the lower die or the upper die. Obtain the identification mark of the current single-segment pipe piece transferred to the forming station by the transfer mechanism; Based on the identification mark, query the historical forming data corresponding to the pipe fitting. The historical forming data includes the standard forming pressure curve collected during the historical bending process of the batch or specification of pipe fitting. The real-time collected molding pressure data is compared with the standard molding pressure curve to generate a comparison result; If the comparison results indicate that there is a pressure deviation between the pressure curve of the current bending process and the standard curve in the preset key deformation stage, then it is determined that the material properties or wall thickness of the current single-section pipe fitting have batch abnormalities. Based on the amplitude and characteristics of the pressure deviation, the pressing speed or holding time of the upper die is adjusted in real time during the remaining stroke of the bending process to compensate for the forming error caused by material abnormalities.

[0014] According to the technical solution provided in this application, the method further includes the following steps: After each bending process is completed, a corresponding process quality data pair is formed based on the collected forming pressure data and the offline measurement results of the final product, and updated to the process knowledge base; the process knowledge base stores the optimized bending process parameter set corresponding to pipe fittings of different material specifications; When processing new varieties or batches of pipe fittings, the transfer mechanism is first used to transfer one of the pipe fittings to the bending mechanism as a trial piece to perform a complete bending process, and the forming pressure data of the trial process is collected. The forming pressure data of the trial production process is input into the prediction model trained based on the process knowledge base. The prediction model outputs the prediction result of the final forming quality of the trial part and the recommended adjustment scheme of the bending process parameters. Based on the prediction results, it is determined whether the quality requirements are met, and based on the determination results, it is decided whether to adopt the recommended bending process parameter adjustment scheme to set the parameters for the bending process of subsequent pipe fittings in the same batch.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this application are as follows: I. It has achieved fully automated continuous production, greatly improving production efficiency. By integrating the four functional modules of conveying, cutting, transferring, and bending into one unit, and automatically connecting the cutting and bending stations through the transfer mechanism, it has completely eliminated manual intervention and material waiting time between processes. This has significantly shortened the production cycle from long pipes to bent and formed single pieces, realizing efficient and uninterrupted assembly line operations, and significantly improving equipment utilization and overall capacity.

[0016] Second, it ensures extremely high processing precision and product consistency. A precision positioning system was established throughout the cutting and bending processes. The cutting mechanism establishes a precise axial cutting length benchmark for the pipe fittings, and the transfer mechanism directly and accurately transfers the pipe fittings under this benchmark to the forming station of the bending mechanism, effectively avoiding secondary positioning errors. In particular, the active lateral limiting function of the bending mechanism itself, combined with the aforementioned precise transfer, ensures the absolute stability of the pipe fittings' position during the bending deformation process. This ensures that the bending arc, angle, and dimensions of each product remain highly consistent, significantly improving product qualification rate and assembly compatibility.

[0017] Third, the structure is compact, with a high degree of automation and intelligence. Multiple functional modules are highly integrated onto a single base, resulting in a rational layout and saving equipment floor space. A unified control system coordinates the actions of each mechanism, achieving fully automated operation from feeding, cutting, and transferring to bending and unloading. This reduces reliance on skilled operators, lowers labor intensity and labor costs, and improves operational safety. This integrated design also provides a convenient hardware foundation for subsequent integration with a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to achieve process parameter monitoring and production data traceability.

[0018] Fourth, it enables flexible production of small batches and multiple varieties. Since the cutting length, bending die, and process parameters can all be quickly adjusted through the control system, this integrated device can relatively flexibly adapt to the processing needs of different specifications of seat chassis tubing, shorten the debugging time when changing products, and enhance the flexibility of the production line. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular parts provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A top view of the processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular parts provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cutting mechanism and conveying mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the bending mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 A top view of the bending mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 Provided for the embodiments of this application Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of A.

[0020] The text labels in the image represent: 1. Conveying mechanism; 2. Cutting mechanism; 3. Transfer mechanism; 31. Guide rod; 32. Sliding head; 33. Extension part; 4. Bending mechanism; 41. Lower die; 42. Upper die; 43. Limiting block; 431. First clearance part; 432. Second clearance part; 433. Limiting constraint surface; 5. Base; 6. Lifting drive module; 61. Integrated mounting base; 62. Sleeve part; 63. Split frame; 8. Drop port. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0022] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0023] Example 1 As mentioned in the background section, this application proposes a processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components, such as... Figure 1-6 As shown, it includes: Base 5; Conveying mechanism 1 is used to continuously convey long pipes along a first direction; The cutting mechanism 2 is located downstream of the conveying mechanism 1 and is used to cut the long pipes conveyed to its workstation to a fixed length to obtain a single pipe section. The bending mechanism 4 is located downstream of the cutting mechanism 2 and is used to bend the end of the single-section pipe fitting. The transfer mechanism 3 is used to transfer the cut single-section pipe fitting from the cutting mechanism 2 to the bending mechanism 4.

[0024] Furthermore, the bending mechanism 4 includes: A forming mechanism includes a fixed lower mold 41 and an upper mold 42 adjustable in a first direction, wherein a forming space for placing the end of the tube to be bent is formed between the upper mold 42 and the lower mold 41. The lateral clamping and transfer mechanism 3 includes: A pair of clamping components, and a drive device for driving the clamping components to move; A pair of clamping components are distributed on opposite sides of the forming space along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction; When the driving device drives the clamping assembly to move to the first station, a pair of clamping assemblies limit the pipe placed on the lower mold 41 from both sides in the second direction; The driving device is also used to drive the clamping assembly to move the formed pipe to the second station after the pipe is bent and formed, so as to remove the formed pipe from the forming space.

[0025] Furthermore, the bending device also includes a pair of fixed limiting blocks 43, extending along a third direction and located on both sides of the forming space along a second direction; each clamping assembly includes a movable base and a clamping actuator movably connected to the base; the clamping actuator interacts with the corresponding limiting block 43, such that when the base is driven to different work stations, the limiting block 43 can force or allow the clamping actuator to present different working postures.

[0026] Furthermore, the clamping actuator is movably connected to the base; an elastic element is provided between the clamping actuator and the base to provide a restoring force for the clamping actuator; the clamping actuator interacts with different parts on the limiting strip 43 through the positioning part provided thereon, so that the clamping actuator presents at least three different working states in sequence as it moves with the base.

[0027] Specifically, the base 5, serving as the installation and load-bearing platform for the entire device, is typically welded from robust metal profiles, providing a stable foundation for all functional components.

[0028] The bending mechanism 4 is one of the key components of the device, mainly comprising a forming mechanism and a lateral clamping and conveying mechanism 3. The forming mechanism includes a fixed lower die 41 and an upper die 42 that can be adjusted along a first direction (such as the vertical direction), forming a forming space between them for placing the end of the pipe to be bent. The upper die 42 is driven by a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or a motor, and its downward pressing action cooperates with the lower die 41 to bend the pipe end into a preset shape.

[0029] The lateral clamping and transfer mechanism 3 is used to solve the problem of lateral movement of the pipe fitting during the bending process and to achieve automatic unloading. This mechanism includes a pair of clamping components and a drive device (such as a cylinder or linear module) to drive their movement. The pair of clamping components are arranged on both sides of the forming space along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction (such as the horizontal direction). The drive device can drive the clamping components to move along a third direction (such as the length direction of the pipe fitting).

[0030] The working process is as follows: After the pipe is placed in the lower die 41, the drive device drives the clamping assembly to move to the first station. At this time, the clamping assembly rigidly limits the pipe from both sides, effectively suppressing the lateral sliding and twisting of the pipe when the upper die 42 presses down, ensuring bending accuracy. After bending, the drive device drives the clamping assembly to carry the formed pipe to the second station (unloading station), and then the clamping assembly releases the workpiece, completing the automatic removal.

[0031] To further optimize the automation and reliability of the clamping and releasing actions, in a preferred embodiment, the bending mechanism 4 is further provided with a pair of fixed limiting blocks 43. The limiting blocks 43 extend along a third direction and are respectively disposed on both sides of the forming space. Each clamping assembly includes a movable base and a clamping actuator movably connected to it via a rotating shaft. An elastic element (such as a spring) is provided between the clamping actuator and the base to provide a restoring force to open it. The clamping actuator is provided with a positioning part (such as a protrusion).

[0032] Through the interaction between the positioning part of the clamping actuator and the side profile of the limiting block 43, the clamping actuator can be forced to automatically change its posture as the base moves. Specifically, the limiting block 43 has a recessed first clearance part 431 and a second clearance part 432 at the corresponding first and second work positions, and a continuous limiting constraint surface 433 between the two clearance parts.

[0033] When the clamping assembly is in the first working position, the positioning part is directly opposite the first clearance part 431, and the clamping actuator is in an open state under the action of the elastic element, which facilitates the insertion of the pipe and the formation of a snap-fit ​​after flattening. When the driving base moves to the second working position, the positioning part slides into the limiting constraint surface 433, which forces the clamping actuator to overcome the elastic force and retract inward, thereby clamping the formed pipe. When the positioning part moves to be opposite the second clearance part 432, the constraint disappears, and the clamping actuator resets and opens under the action of the elastic force, releasing the workpiece. The entire process requires only one linear drive input to automatically and sequentially complete the opening, clamping, and re-opening action cycle, which is ingenious in structure and highly reliable.

[0034] Specifically, the clamping actuator is movably connected to the base via a pivot or pin, allowing the clamping actuator to swing relative to the base. An elastic element, such as a spring, is provided between the clamping actuator and the base. This elastic element is configured such that when the clamping actuator swings away from its natural position under external force, the elastic element deforms and stores potential energy, thereby providing a restoring force that consistently drives the clamping actuator back to its natural position. This natural position is typically designed with the working end of the clamping actuator (i.e., the portion that contacts the pipe) in an open state.

[0035] The clamping actuator has a protrusion or pin as a positioning part. The positioning part extends from the side of the clamping actuator, and its movement trajectory is adjacent to the side of the fixed limiting block 43.

[0036] The side of the limiting block 43 is constructed into functional sections with different contours along its length direction (i.e., the third direction). These sections include at least: a first recessed area (corresponding to the first clearance part 431), a continuous straight constraint surface (limiting constraint surface 433), and a second recessed area (corresponding to the second clearance part 432).

[0037] When the drive unit moves the base carrying the clamping actuator, the positioning part moves accordingly and interacts with different parts of the side of the limiting strip 43 in sequence, thereby forcing the clamping actuator to exhibit different working states: First working state (open and snap-fit ​​state): When the substrate moves to the first station, the positioning part is exactly located in the first recessed area. At this time, the limiting strip 43 has no radial constraint on the positioning part, and the clamping actuator swings freely to its natural position under the restoring force of the elastic element, with the working end remaining open. This state facilitates the insertion of the tube into the forming space, and after the tube end is bent and formed into a flattened part, the concave contour of the open clamping actuator's working end can form a geometric snap-fit ​​with the flattened part.

[0038] Second working state (clamping state): When the base body is driven to move towards the second station, the positioning part slides out of the first recessed area and enters and maintains contact with the continuous flat constraint surface. This constraint surface applies a continuous radial thrust to the positioning part, pointing towards the center of the tube. This thrust forces the clamping actuator to overcome the restoring force of the elastic element and swing in the opposite direction, thereby causing the working end to retract inward and firmly clamp the already clamped formed tube.

[0039] Third working state (release state): When the substrate continues to move to the second station, the positioning part reaches and is opposite to the second recessed area. At this time, the radial thrust of the straight constraint surface on the positioning part disappears instantly. The potential energy stored in the compressed elastic element is immediately released, driving the clamping actuator to quickly swing back to its natural position, and the working end opens again, thereby releasing the clamped forming tube, and the tube is released from the discharge port 8 and the bending mechanism 4.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the cutting device includes: A laser cutting head is used to perform cutting operations; An air blowing assembly, connected to the laser cutting head, is used to blow away the cutting slag; The clamping and fixing device includes cylinder assemblies located at both radial ends of the pipe fitting for clamping the pipe fitting from both sides during cutting to prevent the pipe fitting from moving along its axial direction. The clamping and fixing device includes: A frame is fixed to the base 5, and the frame has a hollow structure. The lifting drive module 6 is movably disposed within the frame; The guide section is provided on the lifting drive module 6 and located in the pipe conveying path, and is used to radially guide the pipe passing through; An clearance space is formed within the hollow structure and between the guide area defined by the guide portion. The pipe is exposed within the clearance space, and the piston rod of the cylinder assembly acts on the exposed pipe within the clearance space. The lifting drive module 6 includes a lifting cylinder and an integrated mounting base 61 driven by the lifting cylinder; the integrated mounting base 61 is inserted into the hollow structure of the frame; the guide part is mounted on the integrated mounting base 61.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the transfer mechanism 3 is disposed at the bottom of the cutting mechanism 2, and includes: The slide cylinder is installed at the bottom of the frame, and the extension direction of its guide rod 31 is the same as the pipe conveying direction. The sliding head 32 is slidably connected to the guide rod 31 of the slide cylinder; The extension 33 is provided at the top of the sliding head 32 and extends into the clearance space; The protruding part 33 is used to push the end of the cut single-section pipe fitting by the sliding table cylinder along the guide rod 31 after the cutting is completed, so that it moves to the forming station of the bending mechanism 4 along the pipe fitting conveying direction.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the guide portion is an integral sleeve with guide holes at both ends for the pipe to pass through, an opening in the middle for accommodating the piston rod of the cylinder assembly, and a through gap at the bottom of the sleeve along the pipe conveying direction for the extension 33 of the transfer mechanism 3 to pass through. A sleeve portion 62 is provided between the two guide holes of the guide portion, coaxially sleeved on the outside of the pipe within the clearance space, with a gap between it and the outer wall of the pipe; two brackets 63 are provided on both sides of the outer wall of the sleeve portion 62; wherein the cylinder bodies of the first cylinder and the second cylinder are fixed on the corresponding brackets 63, with their piston rods facing the gap of the sleeve portion 62.

[0043] Specifically, the cutting mechanism 2 is located downstream of the conveying mechanism 1. Its core function is to perform laser fixed-length cutting on the continuously conveyed long pipe under clamping and fixing conditions, and to provide a single-section pipe blank with stable position for the subsequent bending process.

[0044] The cutting mechanism 2 mainly includes a laser cutting head, an air blowing assembly, and a crucial clamping and fixing device. The laser cutting head is mounted above the pipe via a mounting bracket and can move under the drive of the control system to emit a focused laser beam to complete the cut. The air blowing assembly is integrated with the cutting head and is used to spray high-pressure gas onto the cutting point to disperse the molten slag and assist the cutting process. However, it is precisely this necessary air blowing action that will generate an axial impact on the separated single segment of the pipe at the moment of cutting, causing its position to shift.

[0045] To address this issue, this device integrates a clamping and fixing mechanism. The device includes a frame fixed to a base 5, with a through-hole structure inside. A lifting drive module 6 is housed within this frame, primarily composed of a lifting cylinder. The cylinder body is fixed to the top of the frame, and the piston rod points vertically downwards. An integrated mounting base 61 is connected to the lower end of the piston rod, enabling precise vertical lifting and lowering movements within the hollow structure of the frame.

[0046] Furthermore, the guide section includes two sleeves, which are respectively installed at both ends of the integrated mounting base 61 along the pipe conveying direction. The inner diameter of the sleeves is larger than the outer diameter of the pipe, allowing the pipe to pass through.

[0047] Furthermore, the guide portion is an integral sleeve with guide holes formed at both ends for the pipe fitting to pass through, an opening in the middle for accommodating the piston rod of the cylinder assembly, and a slit at the bottom of the sleeve that runs through the pipe fitting conveying direction for the extension portion 33 of the transfer mechanism 3 to pass through.

[0048] Regarding the implementation of the two sleeves: In this embodiment, the guide part adopts a split design, specifically including two independent sleeves. These two sleeves are respectively fixedly installed at the front and rear ends of the integrated mounting base 61 along the pipe conveying direction (i.e., axial direction). Each sleeve has a through hole at its center, the inner diameter of which is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the steel pipe to be processed, allowing the long steel pipe to smoothly pass through the two sleeves in sequence, realizing radial positioning and guidance during the conveying process. The gap area between the two sleeves, that is, the part on the integrated mounting base 61 located within the hollow structure of the frame, naturally forms a clearance space. The pipe is exposed in this area, providing space for clamping and transfer operations. The piston rods of the cylinder assembly (first cylinder and second cylinder) extend horizontally into this clearance space from both radial sides, acting on the exposed pipe wall to clamp it.

[0049] Regarding the implementation of the integral sleeve: In another preferred embodiment, the lifting drive module 6 also includes a lifting cylinder and an integrated mounting base 61 driven by it. The guide portion in this embodiment is an integrally formed or integrally connected sleeve structure. This integral sleeve is fixedly mounted on the integrated mounting base 61. Its structural features include: precise guide holes formed at both ends of the sleeve, serving as a sleeve function for the pipe fitting to pass through, ensuring the coaxiality and stability of the pipe fitting's axial movement. The middle portion of the sleeve, corresponding to the clearance space area, has windows or openings on its sidewalls (usually radially on both sides). These openings are used to accommodate the piston rods of the cylinder assemblies (first cylinder and second cylinder), thereby enabling direct clamping of the pipe fitting located in this area inside the sleeve. The bottom of the sleeve has a slit extending along the pipe fitting conveying direction (i.e., axial direction). This slit extends from one end of the sleeve to the other, and its width allows the extension portion 33 of the transfer mechanism 3 to extend upward into the sleeve cavity and move along the length of this slit. When the lifting drive module 6 lowers the sleeve and integrated mounting base 61 to the low position (transfer preparation position), the cut and separated single-section pipe falls into the sleeve. At this time, the extension 33 of the transfer mechanism 3 can push the end of the pipe through the gap at the bottom, push it out of the sleeve horizontally, and transfer it to the downstream bending mechanism. The gap structure provides necessary clearance for the movement path of the extension 33, ensuring the smooth progress of the transfer action.

[0050] The transfer mechanism 3 is located at the bottom of the cutting mechanism 2 and is used to automatically transfer the cut and stabilized single-segment pipe fittings to the downstream bending mechanism 4. The transfer mechanism 3 includes a sliding cylinder, a sliding head 32, and an extension 33. The sliding cylinder is installed at the bottom of the frame, and the extension direction of its guide rod 31 is parallel to the pipe fitting conveying direction. The sliding head 32 is slidably connected to the guide rod 31. The extension 33 is a rod-shaped or block-shaped structure, fixed to the top of the sliding head 32, and extends upward into the clearance space of the frame; its top height is adapted to the lower surface of the single-segment pipe fitting.

[0051] The transfer process is as follows: After the cutting and clamping steps are completed, the piston rod of the cylinder assembly retracts, releasing the clamp on the pipe fitting. Subsequently, the lifting drive module 6 drives the integrated mounting base 61 to descend to a low position (defined as the transfer preparation station). This descent causes the single-section pipe fitting, originally supported by the sleeve part 62, to move down and finally settle into place, with its end directly aligned with the top of the protrusion 33. Next, the slide cylinder actuates, driving the sliding head 32 to move along the guide rod 31 towards the bending mechanism 4. The protrusion 33 presses against the end face of the single-section pipe fitting, smoothly pushing it away from the cutting station until it accurately enters the forming station of the bending mechanism 4.

[0052] The aforementioned lifting, clamping, cutting, and conveying movements are all controlled by the control system in a coordinated manner according to a preset timing logic, thereby achieving fully automated and high-precision connection from cutting to conveying.

[0053] Example 2 Based on Example 1, this example proposes a control method for a processing device for seat chassis tubular components, implemented using the processing device for seat chassis tubular components as described above, including the following steps: S1. Control the transfer mechanism 3 to transfer the cut single-section pipe to the forming process of the bending mechanism 4; S2. During the transfer action performed by the transfer mechanism 3, the lateral clamping of the bending mechanism 4 and the status information of the transfer mechanism 3 are acquired in real time; the status information is used to characterize whether a pair of clamping components have completed the removal and release of the previous formed tube. S3. Only when it is confirmed based on the status information that a pair of clamping components has been reset to the state of being ready to receive a new pipe fitting, control the transfer mechanism 3 to continue to perform the transfer action until the single pipe fitting is placed in the forming station of the bending mechanism 4. S4. If it is not confirmed that a pair of clamping components have been reset within the preset time window, the transfer mechanism 3 is controlled to pause or retract, and the processing device is controlled to issue an alarm signal.

[0054] Specifically, the status information is a set of data used to characterize the real-time operating phase of the lateral clamping and transfer mechanism 3 (i.e., a pair of clamping components) in the bending mechanism 4. In specific implementations, its sources include at least one of the following sensors: Position sensor: Installed at the start of the stroke, the first station and the second station of the drive device (such as a cylinder) to detect whether the base is in the corresponding position.

[0055] Attitude sensors: such as miniature angle sensors or proximity switches, are used to directly or indirectly detect whether the clamping actuator is in an "open" reset posture.

[0056] Feedback signals from the drive unit include magnetic switch signals from the cylinder or position signals from the servo motor. By combining these signals, the status information can clearly determine whether the clamping assembly is in a state of "clamping and limiting," "transferring the workpiece," "workpiece released and reset," or "fault and stall."

[0057] The implementation steps of the control method are as follows: The first step is for the control system to send a command to the drive unit (such as the solenoid valve of the slide cylinder) of the transfer mechanism 3 to initiate the action of transferring the cut single-section pipe fitting towards the bending mechanism 4.

[0058] The second step involves the control system continuously polling and reading the real-time signals of the various sensors at millisecond-level scanning cycles through its input module. Based on a preset logic algorithm (e.g., when the magnetic switch of the drive unit's return cylinder is ON, the base starting position sensor is ON, and the clamping actuator's opening position sensor is ON), the system comprehensively determines that "the clamping assembly has completed the removal and release of the previous workpiece and has been reset."

[0059] Third, the control system uses this determination result as a condition. Only when the condition is "true" (i.e., confirmed to have been reset) will the control system maintain or output subsequent signals, allowing the transfer mechanism 3 to continue its predetermined full stroke until the tube is accurately placed in the forming space of the lower mold 41. If the transfer mechanism 3 uses a stepper or servo drive, it can also be instructed to execute the high-speed transfer of the second half only after the condition is detected to be met.

[0060] Fourth, the system has an adjustable preset time window, for example, 3 seconds. This window starts timing when the transfer start signal is issued. If the system fails to confirm the "reset" status within this window, the fault handling procedure is immediately triggered: an emergency stop or reverse retraction command is sent to the drive unit of transfer mechanism 3; at the same time, the audible and visual alarm installed in the control cabinet or on site is triggered, and a specific fault message can be displayed on the human-machine interface (HMI), such as "Reset timeout for bending mechanism 4, please check".

[0061] This implementation method fundamentally eliminates the risk of serious mechanical collisions caused by fluctuations in the bending process cycle (such as workpiece adhesion or fluctuations in driving air pressure) that could result in the subsequent workpiece being fed in before the previous workpiece has been removed. By using the "ready state" of the bending mechanism 4 as a rigid interlocking condition for the final completion of the transfer action, a rigid safety coupling between processes is achieved. This greatly improves the reliability and safety of the fully automated production line, avoids equipment damage, workpiece scrap, and production interruption caused by interference, and ensures continuous and stable production.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, during the bending process performed by the bending mechanism 4, forming pressure data is collected in real time by a force sensor located on the lower die 41 or the upper die 42. Obtain the identification mark of the current single-segment pipe piece transferred to the forming station by the transfer mechanism 3; Based on the identification mark, query the historical forming data corresponding to the pipe fitting. The historical forming data includes the standard forming pressure curve collected during the historical bending process of the batch or specification of pipe fitting. The real-time collected molding pressure data is compared with the standard molding pressure curve to generate a comparison result; If the comparison results indicate that there is a pressure deviation between the pressure curve of the current bending process and the standard curve in the preset key deformation stage, then it is determined that the material properties or wall thickness of the current single-section pipe fitting have batch abnormalities. Based on the magnitude and characteristics of the pressure deviation, the pressing speed or holding time of the upper die 42 is adjusted in real time during the remaining stroke of the bending process to compensate for the forming error caused by material abnormalities.

[0063] Specifically, the molding pressure data is collected in real time by a high dynamic response force sensor (such as a strain gauge load cell or a piezoelectric force sensor) installed on the bottom of the lower die 41 or the punch of the upper die 42. The sensor converts the reaction force received by the upper die 42 when it is pressed down into an electrical signal, which is then processed by a transmitter and transmitted to the control system to form a continuous curve with time or displacement of the upper die 42 as the horizontal axis and pressure value as the vertical axis.

[0064] Identification mark: refers to the information carrier that uniquely corresponds to a single pipe fitting. Specifically, it can be a QR code or RFID tag affixed to the pipe fitting, which is read by a barcode scanner or reader along the transfer path; or it can be a virtual serial number automatically generated by the system for each pipe fitting that enters in sequence according to the production plan.

[0065] Historical forming data and standard forming pressure curves: Reference data stored in the control system database or host computer. For specifications that have been produced stably, the system selects the pressure curves from hundreds of qualified workpieces in the past during bending, and after filtering, alignment, and averaging, generates a standard forming pressure curve as a benchmark.

[0066] Critical deformation stages: These refer to sections of the pressure curve that have clear technological significance and are pre-defined in the system by process engineers. They typically include: (a) Contact stage: The upper die 42 begins to contact the fitting, and the pressure rises non-linearly from zero; (b) Main plastic deformation stage: The fitting bends, and the pressure rises sharply to its peak; (c) Pressure holding and shaping stage: The pressure is maintained near the peak or changes slowly. The system will focus on the pressure values, slopes, and their fit with the standard curve during these stages.

[0067] The remaining stroke of the bending process refers to the uncompleted movement distance from the moment the system determines "an anomaly exists" until the upper die 42 reaches the preset lower stop point. For servo presses, this stroke is precisely known; for cylinder drives, it can be acquired in real time by setting a displacement sensor.

[0068] The implementation steps of the control method are as follows: The first step involves collecting and storing signals from the force sensor in real time during the pipe bending process. Simultaneously, the pipe's identification mark is recorded by the system and linked to the pressure data.

[0069] The second step involves the system automatically retrieving the corresponding standard forming pressure curve from the historical database based on the identification identifier (such as the material code).

[0070] The third step involves the system synchronously comparing the real-time acquired pressure curve with the standard curve in the same time or displacement coordinate system. The comparison algorithm can calculate the root mean square error, correlation coefficient, or pressure difference at a specific point between the real-time curve and the standard curve during key deformation stages.

[0071] The fourth step involves the system making a judgment based on preset deviation thresholds. For example, if the real-time pressure value is consistently higher than the standard value by more than 15% in the main plastic deformation section, the system determines that the current pipe fitting material is "too hard" or the wall thickness is "too thick".

[0072] Fifth, once an anomaly is detected, the system takes immediate action. During the remaining bending stroke, if servo-driven, the speed command of the servo driver is adjusted to reduce the downward pressure of the upper die 42 in real time, allowing the material more time to flow and release stress. If cylinder-driven, the energizing time of the solenoid valve is automatically extended after reaching the lower dead center, thereby increasing the holding time to compensate for increased springback caused by the harder material. This adjustment is closed-loop and real-time, aiming to complete the correction within the current workpiece's forming cycle.

[0073] This implementation method overcomes the limitations of traditional bending processes that require high material consistency. It can sense microscopic fluctuations in material properties online and in real time, and perform precise process parameter compensation before the forming process ends, preventing potential dimensional deviations from arising in their infancy. This significantly improves the quality stability and consistency of products when faced with batch fluctuations in raw materials, reduces the scrap rate in post-production inspection, and achieves a quality management upgrade from "passive inspection" to "proactive prevention and control," which is of great value in ensuring the precision of mass-produced products.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the following steps: After each bending process is completed, a corresponding process quality data pair is formed based on the collected forming pressure data and the offline measurement results of the final product, and updated to the process knowledge base; the process knowledge base stores the optimized bending process parameter set corresponding to pipe fittings of different material specifications; When processing new varieties or batches of pipe fittings, the transfer mechanism 3 is used to transfer one of the pipe fittings to the bending mechanism 4 as a trial piece to perform a complete bending process, and the forming pressure data of the trial process is collected. The forming pressure data of the trial production process is input into the prediction model trained based on the process knowledge base. The prediction model outputs the prediction result of the final forming quality of the trial part and the recommended adjustment scheme of the bending process parameters. Based on the prediction results, it is determined whether the quality requirements are met, and based on the determination results, it is decided whether to adopt the recommended bending process parameter adjustment scheme to set the parameters for the bending process of subsequent pipe fittings in the same batch.

[0075] Specifically, a process quality data pair refers to a complete data record containing all sensor data (mainly pressure-time / displacement curves) for a specific workpiece throughout the entire bending process, as well as the final quality attribute data (such as bending angle α, end height H, and other key dimensions) measured after the workpiece is completed. These two parts are linked in the database using the same workpiece ID.

[0076] The process knowledge base is a structured database that not only stores raw process quality data pairs but also, through data mining, summarizes optimized bending process parameter sets for different material specifications (such as grade, outer diameter, and wall thickness) that can stably produce qualified products. This parameter set may include multiple adjustable parameters such as the upper die 42-second traverse speed, feed rate, holding pressure, and holding time.

[0077] The predictive model is a machine learning model trained on massive historical data from a process knowledge base. The input features of the model are usually multiple feature values ​​extracted from the pressure curve of the trial production process (such as maximum pressure, time to reach maximum pressure, area under the curve of the plastic section, etc.). The output of the model is the predicted value of the final quality (such as bending angle), as well as the suggested adjustment direction and magnitude of various process parameters to approach the target quality.

[0078] The implementation steps of the control method are as follows: The first step in regular production is that after each successful bending operation, the process pressure data is paired with the final quality inspection results (which can be manually entered through subsequent online visual measurement or randomized coordinate measuring machine measurement results), and added to the process knowledge base as a new "process quality data pair". The knowledge base will automatically reanalyze the data periodically (e.g., after every 1000 pieces produced) to update and optimize the recommended process parameter set for each specification.

[0079] The second step involves the operator selecting the new batch trial production mode on the production management interface and inputting or selecting the basic specifications of the new pipe fitting (such as material grade, diameter, and wall thickness). The system then initiates the intelligent trial production process. The control system first retrieves the process parameters of the existing specification most similar to the new specification from the knowledge base as initial parameters.

[0080] The third step involves the control system directing the transfer mechanism 3 to deliver a new batch of pipe fittings to the bending mechanism 4, and performing a complete bending process according to the initial parameters, while simultaneously collecting high-fidelity pressure data throughout the entire trial production process.

[0081] The fourth step involves the system inputting the trial production pressure data into the deployed prediction model. This model (e.g., based on a gradient boosting decision tree algorithm) quickly analyzes the data and outputs two key results: 1. Prediction result: e.g., "The predicted bending angle is 89.5°, with a confidence interval of 89.0°~90.0°." 2. Recommended solution: e.g., "It is recommended to reduce the feed rate by 8% and increase the holding time by 50 milliseconds to make the bending angle closer to the target value of 90.0°."

[0082] Fifth, the system compares the predicted results with the target quality requirements. If the predicted results fall within the acceptable range and meet the requirements, the operator can confirm that the initial parameters or the fine-tuning parameters recommended by the model can be directly used for mass production. If the prediction fails, the system can automatically adjust the parameters using the recommended scheme and prompt for a second round of trial production verification. Usually, the optimal parameters can be obtained after 1-2 rounds of iteration, thereby greatly reducing the time and material loss required for traditional "trial and error" debugging.

[0083] This implementation endows the processing equipment with the ability for process self-optimization and rapid changeover. It digitizes and models the experience and trial-and-error process of veteran operators. When faced with new tasks, the equipment can use historical knowledge for analogical reasoning and intelligently predict the results and recommend the optimal process through one or a few trials, achieving rapid process finalization based on data-driven principles. This significantly reduces the process debugging time, material trial production costs, and personnel dependence for new products and batches, making it particularly suitable for flexible production modes with small batches and multiple varieties, and is a core manifestation of intelligent manufacturing capabilities.

[0084] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and an explanation of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of the invention involved in this application is not limited to technical solutions formed by specific combinations of the above-described technical features, but should also cover other technical solutions formed by arbitrary combinations of the above-described technical features or their equivalents without departing from the inventive concept. For example, technical solutions formed by substituting the above features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in this application.

Claims

1. A processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components, characterized in that, include: Base (5); Conveying mechanism (1) for continuously conveying long pipes along a first direction; The cutting mechanism (2) is located downstream of the conveying mechanism (1) and is used to cut the long pipes conveyed to its work station to a fixed length to obtain a single pipe section. A bending mechanism (4) is located downstream of the cutting mechanism (2) and is used to bend the end of the single-section pipe fitting. The transfer mechanism (3) is used to transfer the cut single-section pipe fitting from the cutting mechanism (2) to the bending mechanism (4).

2. The processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bending mechanism (4) includes: The forming mechanism includes a fixed lower mold (41) and an upper mold (42) adjustable in a first direction, wherein a forming space for placing the end of the tube to be bent is formed between the upper mold (42) and the lower mold (41); The lateral clamping and transfer mechanism (3) includes: A pair of clamping components, and a drive device for driving the clamping components to move; A pair of clamping components are distributed on opposite sides of the forming space along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction; When the driving device drives the clamping assembly to move to the first station, a pair of clamping assemblies limit the pipe placed on the lower mold (41) from both sides in the second direction; The driving device is also used to drive the clamping assembly to move the formed pipe to the second station after the pipe is bent and formed, so as to remove the formed pipe from the forming space.

3. The processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bending device further includes a pair of fixed limiting blocks (43) extending along a third direction and located on both sides of the forming space along a second direction; each clamping assembly includes a movable base and a clamping actuator movably connected to the base; the clamping actuator interacts with the corresponding limiting block (43) so that when the base is driven to different work stations, the limiting block (43) can force or allow the clamping actuator to present different working postures.

4. The processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 3, characterized in that, The clamping actuator is movably connected to the base; an elastic element is provided between the clamping actuator and the base to provide a restoring force for the clamping actuator; the clamping actuator interacts with different parts on the limiting strip (43) through the positioning part provided thereon, so that the clamping actuator presents at least three different working states in sequence as it moves with the base.

5. The processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting device includes: A laser cutting head is used to perform cutting operations; An air blowing assembly, connected to the laser cutting head, is used to blow away the cutting slag; The clamping and fixing device includes cylinder assemblies located at both radial ends of the pipe fitting for clamping the pipe fitting from both sides during cutting to prevent the pipe fitting from moving along its axial direction. The clamping and fixing device includes: A frame is fixed to the base (5), and the frame has a hollow structure. The lifting drive module (6) is movably disposed within the frame; The guide section is provided on the lifting drive module (6) and located in the pipe conveying path, and is used to radially guide the pipe passing through; An clearance space is formed within the hollow structure and between the guide area defined by the guide portion. The pipe is exposed within the clearance space, and the piston rod of the cylinder assembly acts on the exposed pipe within the clearance space. The lifting drive module (6) includes a lifting cylinder and an integrated mounting base (61) driven by the lifting cylinder; the integrated mounting base (61) is installed inside the hollow structure of the frame; the guide is installed on the integrated mounting base (61).

6. The processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 5, characterized in that, The transfer mechanism (3) is located at the bottom of the cutting mechanism (2), and includes: The slide cylinder is installed at the bottom of the frame, and the extension direction of its guide rod (31) is the same as the pipe conveying direction; The sliding head (32) is slidably connected to the guide rod (31) of the slide cylinder; The extension (33) is located on the top of the sliding head (32) and extends into the clearance space; The protrusion (33) is used to drive the sliding head (32) along the guide rod (31) after cutting, so as to push the end of the cut single-section pipe fitting and move it to the forming station of the bending mechanism (4) along the pipe fitting conveying direction.

7. The processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 5, characterized in that, The guide portion is an integral sleeve with guide holes at both ends for the pipe to pass through, and an opening in the middle for the piston rod of the cylinder assembly to pass through. The bottom of the sleeve has a through gap along the pipe conveying direction for the extension (33) of the transfer mechanism (3) to pass through. A sleeve portion (62) is provided between the two guide holes of the guide portion. The sleeve portion (62) is coaxially sleeved on the outside of the pipe in the clearance space and has a gap with the outer wall of the pipe. Two brackets (63) are provided on both sides of the outer wall of the sleeve portion (62). The cylinder bodies of the first cylinder and the second cylinder are fixed on the corresponding brackets (63), and their piston rods face the gap of the sleeve portion (62).

8. A control method for a processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components, implemented based on the processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The transfer mechanism (3) is controlled to transfer the cut single-section pipe to the forming process of the bending mechanism (4); During the transfer action performed by the transfer mechanism (3), the lateral clamping of the bending mechanism (4) and the status information of the transfer mechanism (3) are acquired in real time; the status information is used to characterize whether a pair of clamping components have completed the removal and release of the previous formed tube. Only when it is confirmed based on the status information that a pair of clamping components has been reset to the state ready to receive new pipe fittings, the transfer mechanism (3) is controlled to continue to perform the transfer action until the single pipe fitting is placed in the forming station of the bending mechanism (4); If it is not confirmed that a pair of clamping components have been reset within the preset time window, the transfer mechanism (3) is controlled to pause or retract, and the processing device is controlled to issue an alarm signal.

9. The control method for the processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 8, characterized in that, During the bending process performed by the bending mechanism (4), the forming pressure data is collected in real time by force sensors installed on the lower die (41) or the upper die (42); Obtain the identification mark of the current single-segment pipe piece transferred to the forming station by the transfer mechanism (3); Based on the identification mark, query the historical forming data corresponding to the pipe fitting. The historical forming data includes the standard forming pressure curve collected during the historical bending process of the batch or specification of pipe fitting. The real-time collected molding pressure data is compared with the standard molding pressure curve to generate a comparison result; If the comparison results indicate that there is a pressure deviation between the pressure curve of the current bending process and the standard curve in the preset key deformation stage, then it is determined that the material properties or wall thickness of the current single-section pipe fitting have batch abnormalities. Based on the magnitude and characteristics of the pressure deviation, the pressing speed or holding time of the upper die (42) is adjusted in real time during the remaining stroke of the bending process to compensate for the forming error caused by material abnormalities.

10. The control method for the processing apparatus for seat chassis tubular components according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: After each bending process is completed, a corresponding process quality data pair is formed based on the collected forming pressure data and the offline measurement results of the final product, and updated to the process knowledge base; the process knowledge base stores the optimized bending process parameter set corresponding to pipe fittings of different material specifications; When processing new varieties or batches of pipe fittings, the transfer mechanism (3) is used to transfer one of the pipe fittings to the bending mechanism (4) as a trial piece to perform a complete bending process, and the forming pressure data of the trial process is collected. The forming pressure data of the trial production process is input into the prediction model trained based on the process knowledge base. The prediction model outputs the prediction result of the final forming quality of the trial part and the recommended adjustment scheme of the bending process parameters. Based on the prediction results, it is determined whether the quality requirements are met, and based on the determination results, it is decided whether to adopt the recommended bending process parameter adjustment scheme to set the parameters for the bending process of subsequent pipe fittings in the same batch.

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