Integrated process and equipment for automatic press fit and buckle installation of lampshade and lamp shell

Abstract

The invention discloses a lampshade and lamp shell automatic press-fit and buckle installation integrated technology and equipment, the equipment is formed by sequentially connecting a speed chain unit, a lampshade feeding unit, a press-fit unit, a buckle installation unit, a curing unit and a rear line and off line transferring unit, and all the units are linked with a line body through an industrial robot; and an integrated automatic operation system without artificial participation is formed. The speed chain unit achieves accurate positioning of a circulation tool, the pressing unit completes lampshade grabbing and lamp shell pressing and pressure maintaining, the buckle installation unit synchronously completes buckle installation during pressure maintaining, then the pressing robot transfers the whole lamp to the curing unit to be cured, and the air circulation tool circulates and flows back through the rear line and off line transferring unit. According to the technology, whole-process automatic operation is achieved based on the equipment, the labor and equipment manufacturing cost is greatly reduced, the assembling takt is shortened and the production efficiency is improved through process synchronous operation, the technology can adapt to products of multiple models only by replacing customized tools, and the equipment compatibility is high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automotive parts manufacturing technology, specifically to an integrated process and equipment for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lamp covers and lamp housings. Background Technology

[0002] In the automotive parts manufacturing industry, the assembly quality of headlights directly affects driving safety. The pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of the lamp cover and housing is a core process in headlight assembly, and the quality of this process determines the headlight's sealing performance and structural stability. Currently, the industry commonly uses a single-machine operation mode with upper and lower tooling for pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of the lamp cover and housing. This involves using specialized single-machine equipment to press the two together, followed by manual assistance or simple mechanisms to complete the snap-fit ​​installation. This operation mode has many significant drawbacks.

[0003] First, the process involves high levels of manual labor and is labor-intensive. Processes such as loading and unloading equipment, pre-assembly of lamp covers, and auxiliary installation of clips all require manual labor. For large-sized automotive lighting products such as continuous headlights, the labor intensity of manual handling and operation increases significantly. Furthermore, this model requires multiple operators to work together, substantially increasing the company's labor costs. Second, the equipment manufacturing cost remains high. Because the operation involves close-range manual operation of the loading and unloading fixtures, numerous safety protection and detection devices must be added to ensure the safety of operators, such as safety light curtains, anti-drop cylinders for the upper fixtures, and anti-drop electric cylinders for the upper fixtures. These devices not only increase the design complexity of the equipment but also significantly increase manufacturing and subsequent maintenance costs.

[0004] Secondly, production efficiency is limited. The work cycle of manual operation is difficult to control precisely, and the pressing and snap-fit ​​installation are separate and independent operations without synchronous linkage design, resulting in a long overall assembly work cycle. At the same time, manual operation cannot achieve uninterrupted operation of the equipment, and the production output cannot meet the large-scale production needs of the automotive industry. Finally, the equipment has poor product compatibility. The frame structure and supporting tooling of traditional single-machine equipment are designed for specific models of car lights. Due to the rigid limitations of the equipment frame and tooling structure, when changing to produce different models of car lights, it is necessary to disassemble and adjust the main structure of the equipment significantly. In some cases, core tooling and components also need to be replaced. The changeover efficiency is extremely low, the modification cost is high, and it cannot adapt to the multi-variety, small-batch production characteristics of the automotive industry.

[0005] In response to the problems of high labor costs, high equipment manufacturing costs, low production efficiency, and poor product compatibility in existing technologies, there is an urgent need to develop an automated lampshade and housing pressing and snap-fit ​​installation equipment and process. By combining industrial robots with automated production lines, an integrated operation without human intervention can be achieved, fundamentally solving the industry pain points of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0006] (a) Purpose of the invention:

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide an integrated process and equipment for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lamp covers and lamp housings. By combining an industrial production line with industrial robots, the entire process—including material turnover, lamp cover unloading, pressing and maintaining pressure between the lamp housing and lamp cover, synchronous snap-fit ​​installation, lamp curing, and the recycling of tooling—is automated, completely eliminating manual intervention. This solves the problems of high labor and equipment manufacturing costs in existing technologies. Furthermore, the synchronous operation design of pressing and snap-fit ​​installation precisely controls the work cycle of each process, shortening the overall assembly time and improving production efficiency and output. It also enhances product compatibility, allowing the equipment to adapt to the production needs of multiple automotive lighting products simply by changing customized tooling, reducing equipment modification costs and meeting the diverse and large-scale production needs of the automotive industry.

[0008] (II) Technical Solution:

[0009] The integrated equipment and process for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshades and lamp housings of this invention are compatible with each other. It adopts a unitized and modular design and a process-synchronized linkage design. Through the coordinated cooperation of customized functional units, industrial robots and special tooling, the pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshades and lamp housings is fully automated, without any manual operation. The equipment structure and process steps are described in detail below:

[0010] Integrated equipment for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lamp shades and housings:

[0011] The equipment of this invention includes a speed-multiplying chain unit, a lampshade feeding unit, a pressing unit, a snap-fit ​​installation unit, a curing unit, and a post-line transfer unit, which are connected and coordinated in sequence. Each unit has a clear division of labor and works smoothly together. Through the precise movements of industrial robots and the automated flow of the production line, an integrated automated operation system without human intervention is formed. The specific structure and function of each unit are as follows:

[0012] Double-speed chain unit: As the core carrier for material flow and positioning, it consists of a double-speed chain, a lifting mechanism, a stop mechanism, and various sensors. It can realize the continuous and uniform flow of the transfer tooling. The sensors can detect the position of the transfer tooling in real time. When the transfer tooling carrying the lamp housing reaches the pressing station, the stop mechanism quickly extends to stop the tooling from continuing to move. The lifting mechanism simultaneously lifts the transfer tooling and achieves precise positioning, providing a stable and reliable positioning foundation for subsequent pressing and snap-fit ​​installation operations, and ensuring operational accuracy.

[0013] The lampshade feeding unit consists of a positioning fixture, a front and rear sliding assembly, a lifting door, and a safety light curtain. The positioning fixture is a customized structure adapted to the shape of the lampshade, allowing operators to pre-assemble and precisely position the lampshade. The front and rear sliding assembly can drive the positioning fixture to slide along a preset track to the gripping position at the rear of the equipment, facilitating the pressing unit to grip the lampshade. The lifting door and safety light curtain form a protective structure for the equipment, which is only opened during lampshade pre-assembly and remains closed at other times to ensure the safety of equipment operation.

[0014] Pressing Unit: As one of the core operating units of the equipment, it consists of a pressing robot, a quick-change chuck, and pressing fixtures. The pressing robot is a multi-degree-of-freedom industrial robot with high-precision trajectory movement and positioning capabilities. The quick-change chuck enables rapid disassembly and replacement of the pressing fixtures. The pressing fixtures integrate a cylinder pressing assembly, a vacuum suction cup, a vacuum generator, a valve island, a contouring component, a detection sensor, and a clamping assembly. The contouring component provides precise positioning of the lamp cover, the detection sensor can detect the robot's positioning status and the presence or absence of the lamp cover, the vacuum suction cup generates negative pressure through the vacuum generator to achieve stable adsorption of the lamp cover, the cylinder pressing assembly completes the pressing of the lamp cover and the lamp housing and provides stable holding pressure, and after the holding pressure is completed, the clamping assembly can hold the entire lamp for subsequent transfer.

[0015] The snap-fit ​​installation unit consists of a snap-fit ​​robot, snap-fit ​​fixtures, and a vibratory feeder. The vibratory feeder automates the sorting and feeding of snap-fits, eliminating the need for manual feeding. The snap-fit ​​robot is a multi-degree-of-freedom collaborative industrial robot that can work synchronously with the pressing robot. The snap-fit ​​fixture integrates a cylinder, a hinge mechanism, and a snap-fit ​​contouring structure. The snap-fit ​​contouring structure enables precise gripping of the snap-fit, while the cylinder and hinge mechanism work together to ensure precise installation and clamping of the snap-fit ​​at the connection point between the lampshade and the lamp housing, thus completing the mechanical fixation of the two.

[0016] Curing Unit: Composed of a curing equipment frame, a basket, and heating tubes. The basket is located inside the curing equipment frame and is circulated via chain drive. The curing equipment frame has a corresponding inlet and a manual unloading port. The pressing robot places the completed lamp, which has been pressed and snapped into place, into the basket through the inlet. The heating tube is powered on to generate heat, which heats and cures the sealant of the lamp, so that the lamp cover and the lamp housing achieve a permanent seal. After curing, the lamp is moved by the basket to the manual unloading port to complete the finished product unloading.

[0017] The rear offline transfer unit consists of a transfer fixture and a lifting transplanter. The transplanter is equipped with a lifting double-speed chain and a lifting mechanism. After the empty transfer fixture is removed, it is transferred to this unit along with the double-speed chain unit. The lifting double-speed chain of the transplanter smoothly receives the empty fixture, and the lifting mechanism drives the lifting double-speed chain to move up and down, accurately transferring the empty transfer fixture to the double-speed chain return line. The empty fixture flows along the return line to the initial position of the equipment, realizing the automated circulation and reuse of the transfer fixture, forming a closed loop of fixture transfer.

[0018] Furthermore, the pressing fixture, snap-fit ​​fixture, positioning fixture, and transfer fixture are all customized fixtures adapted to automotive lighting products. Each fixture and its corresponding robot, production line, and equipment adopt a detachable connection structure, which facilitates quick replacement, debugging, and maintenance of the fixtures.

[0019] The lampshade and lamp housing are automatically pressed together and installed using an integrated snap-fit ​​process.

[0020] The process of this invention is based on the aforementioned integrated equipment and adopts a synchronous linkage design for each process. Pressing and holding pressure and buckle installation are carried out simultaneously, which greatly shortens the operation cycle. The entire process requires no manual intervention. The operation actions of each process are linked and coordinated with the flow action of the production line, which can precisely control the working cycle of each process. Specifically, it includes the following steps:

[0021] S1: Tooling Transfer and Positioning: The transfer tooling carrying the glued lamp housing rotates continuously and at a uniform speed with the double-speed chain unit. When the transfer tooling reaches the pressing station, the double-speed chain sensor detects that the tooling is in place and sends a signal. The stop mechanism immediately extends to prevent the transfer tooling from continuing to move, and the lifting mechanism moves upward in sync to lift the transfer tooling and accurately position it to the preset position, preparing for the subsequent pressing operation.

[0022] S2: Lampshade Gripping and Feeding: After the operator of the lampshade feeding unit completes the pre-assembly of the lampshade on the positioning fixture, the front and rear sliding components drive the positioning fixture to slide to the preset gripping position at the rear of the equipment. After receiving the signal, the pressing robot drives the pressing fixture to move to the gripping position. The conforming part of the pressing fixture limits the lampshade. After the detection sensor detects that the robot has moved to the position and the lampshade is present, it triggers the vacuum generator to work. The vacuum suction cup generates negative pressure to adsorb the lampshade. When the negative pressure gauge detects that the negative pressure value reaches the preset requirement, it sends a signal to the pressing robot to complete the gripping of the lampshade.

[0023] S3: Pressing and Holding Pressure: After receiving the signal that the lamp cover has been picked up, the pressing robot accurately moves the lamp cover to the top of the lamp housing at the pressing station according to the preset trajectory. Then it moves downward and uses the cylinder pressing component to accurately press the lamp cover and the lamp housing together. At the same time, it maintains the pressure for a preset time to ensure the fit between the lamp cover and the lamp housing, providing a basis for the curing of the sealant and the snap-on installation.

[0024] S4: Synchronous snap-fit ​​installation: During the pressure-holding process of the pressing robot, the vibratory feeder of the snap-fit ​​installation unit automatically sorts the snaps and feeds them to the preset position. The snap-fit ​​robot drives the snap-fit ​​fixture to grab the snaps and move them to the connection position between the lampshade and the lamp housing according to the preset trajectory. The cylinder and hinge mechanism of the snap-fit ​​fixture work together to accurately install and clamp the snaps to the connection position, completing the mechanical fixation of the lampshade and the lamp housing. After the snap-fit ​​installation is completed, the snap-fit ​​robot drives the snap-fit ​​fixture to reset to the initial position.

[0025] S5: Whole Lamp Curing: After the pressing and holding pressure reaches the preset time, the pressing robot triggers the clamping component of the pressing fixture to firmly clamp the whole lamp that has completed pressing and snap-fit ​​installation. Then, the whole lamp is lifted from the transfer fixture and transferred to the feed port of the curing unit along the preset trajectory. The whole lamp is placed in the basket. The basket drives the whole lamp to circulate in the curing equipment frame through chain drive. The heating tube is energized to heat and cure the sealant of the car lamp, realizing a permanent sealed connection between the lamp cover and the lamp housing.

[0026] S6: Tooling Circulation and Return: After the pressing robot removes the whole lamp, the lifting mechanism of the double-speed chain unit resets downwards, the stopping mechanism retracts, and the empty tooling after removing the whole lamp continues to flow with the double-speed chain to the downstream transfer unit; after the sensor of this unit detects the empty tooling, the lifting double-speed chain of the transplanter picks up the empty tooling, and the lifting mechanism drives the lifting double-speed chain to move up and down, transferring the empty tooling to the double-speed chain return line. The empty tooling flows at a constant speed along the return line to the initial position of the equipment, realizing the automated circulation and reuse of the tooling.

[0027] S7: Finished Product Retrieval: After the complete lamp has completed the curing process within the curing unit for a preset time, it is transferred to the manual retrieval port along with the basket. The operator takes out the finished vehicle lamp from the retrieval port, completing a complete lamp cover and lamp housing pressing and snap-fit ​​installation and assembly operation.

[0028] Furthermore, when it is necessary to change the production of different models of automotive lights, it is only necessary to disassemble and replace the pressing fixture, snap-fit ​​fixture, positioning fixture, and transfer fixture that are compatible with the new model of automotive lights. The core equipment such as industrial robots, double-speed chain units, transfer machines, and curing units remain universal. Only the working trajectory of the pressing robot and snap-fit ​​robot needs to be adjusted through the equipment central control system to adapt to the action requirements of the new fixture. There is no need to disassemble or adjust the core equipment.

[0029] (III) Beneficial Effects:

[0030] Compared with the prior art, the integrated process and equipment for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing of the present invention has significant technical advantages and practical value, as detailed below:

[0031] Full automation significantly reduces production costs: Through the cooperation of industrial robots and automated production lines, the entire process of lamp cover feeding, pressing and holding, snap-on installation, lamp curing, and tooling return is fully automated, completely eliminating human intervention in the entire process and fundamentally saving labor costs; at the same time, because there is no human operation, the equipment does not need to be equipped with a large number of safety protection and detection devices, which greatly simplifies the design complexity of the equipment and reduces the manufacturing cost and subsequent maintenance cost of the equipment.

[0032] Synchronized operation of processes significantly improves production efficiency: The synchronous operation design of pressing and holding and snap-fit ​​installation avoids the waste of time in step-by-step operations. The operation of each process is precisely controlled by industrial robots and automated equipment, and the pace of material flow is uniformly controlled by the production line. It can accurately control the working pace of single process and overall assembly, effectively shortening the overall assembly time. Moreover, the equipment can operate continuously, which greatly improves production efficiency and output.

[0033] The equipment boasts strong compatibility and is suitable for producing multiple models: The core execution components of the equipment, including various industrial robots, speed-multiplying chain units, transfer machines, and curing units, all possess universal structures. Compatibility with automotive lighting products is achieved through customized chemical fittings. When changing to produce different models of automotive lighting products, only the corresponding customized chemical fittings need to be replaced, and the working trajectory of the industrial robots needs to be adjusted. No disassembly or adjustment of the core equipment is required, resulting in high changeover efficiency and reduced equipment modification costs. It perfectly meets the automotive industry's diverse, small-batch, and large-scale production needs.

[0034] High precision ensures high-quality vehicle headlight assembly: Customized chemical fittings and a lifting and positioning mechanism achieve precise positioning of the headlight housing and lens. The pressing robot and the snap-fit ​​robot complete high-precision operations according to preset trajectories, ensuring the degree of pressing fit and the accuracy of snap-fit ​​installation. At the same time, the coordinated operation of pressing and holding pressure and snap-fit ​​installation effectively avoids the displacement of the lens and housing, ensuring the sealing performance and structural stability of the headlight, and significantly improving the assembly quality of the headlight.

[0035] Tooling recycling improves resource utilization: Through the cooperation of the offline transfer unit and the double-speed chain return line, the automated recycling and reuse of tooling is realized. There is no need for manual collection and handling of tooling, avoiding bumps and damage to tooling, improving tooling utilization and reducing tooling consumable costs. At the same time, the closed-loop design of tooling circulation makes the equipment layout more compact and reduces the occupation of production space.

[0036] Modular design ensures stable operation and convenient maintenance: The equipment adopts a modular design with clear division of labor and smooth connection between each functional unit. The core components are all industrial-grade standardized components, which have high operational stability and low failure rate. Moreover, each unit is an independent modular structure, and the tooling adopts detachable connection. The daily maintenance, fault diagnosis and tooling replacement of the equipment are very convenient, which further reduces the later maintenance cost of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the device of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the speed-doubled chain unit in the device of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the pressing robot in the device of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the buckling robot in the device of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the process flow of the integrated process of the present invention.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Multi-speed chain unit, 2-Lamp cover feeding unit, 3-Pressure unit, 4-Snap-on installation unit, 5-Curing unit, 6-Rear line transfer unit, 7-Transfer tooling, 8-Pressure robot, 9-Pressure tooling, 10-Snap-on robot, 11-Snap-on tooling, 12-Hanging basket, 13-Transplanting machine, 14-Lifting multi-speed chain, 15-Vacuum suction cup, 16-Detection sensor, 17-Clamping assembly, 18-Lifting mechanism, 19-Stop mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. For those skilled in the art, any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made to the present invention without departing from the principles and design ideas of the present invention should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0044] I. Specific Structure of the Equipment:

[0045] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the integrated automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation equipment for lamp covers and lamp housings in this embodiment adopts a unitized and modular design, including a double-speed chain unit 1, a lamp cover feeding unit 2, a pressing unit 3, a snap-fit ​​installation unit 4, a curing unit 5, and a rear offline transfer unit 6 that are connected and coordinated in sequence. The units work together to form an integrated automated operation system without human intervention. The specific configuration of each unit is as follows:

[0046] Double-speed chain unit 1: Adopting an industrial-grade double-speed chain structure, equipped with a power-driven lifting mechanism 18, a pneumatic stop mechanism 19, and a high-precision photoelectric sensor, it can realize the continuous circulation and precise positioning of the transfer fixture 7. The transfer fixture 7 is made of industrial rigid material and is equipped with a contour positioning groove that matches the shape of the lamp housing to ensure the positioning accuracy of the lamp housing and prevent the lamp housing from shifting during operation.

[0047] Lampshade feeding unit 2: includes customized positioning fixture, precision front and rear sliding assembly, electric lifting door and safety light curtain. The front and rear sliding assembly can drive the positioning fixture to slide smoothly to the gripping position. The safety light curtain is only turned on when the lampshade is pre-assembled and is in a protective state at other times, forming a safety protection for equipment operation and avoiding the risk of accidental contact when not in operation.

[0048] Pressing Unit 3: Equipped with a multi-degree-of-freedom pressing robot 8, a quick-change chuck, and a customized pressing fixture 9. The pressing robot 8 has high-precision positioning and trajectory movement capabilities. The pressing fixture 9 includes a cylinder clamping assembly, a vacuum suction cup 15, a vacuum generator, a valve island, a contouring component, a detection sensor 16, and a clamping assembly 17. The vacuum suction cup 15 is made of a flexible and wear-resistant material to avoid scratching the surface of the lampshade. The detection sensor 16 can simultaneously detect the robot's positioning status, the presence or absence of the lampshade, and the vacuum negative pressure value, ensuring the reliability of lampshade gripping and pressing in all aspects.

[0049] Snap-on installation unit 4: Equipped with multiple multi-degree-of-freedom snap-on robots 10, customized snap-on fixtures 11, and a vibratory feeder. The snap-on robots 10 and the pressing robots 8 are of the same model and have a common structure, enabling synchronous collaborative operation of multiple machines. The snap-on fixtures 11 are equipped with micro cylinders, hinge mechanisms, and snap-on contouring structures. The snap-on contouring structures are precisely adapted to the shape of the snap-on, and the micro cylinders can provide adjustable thrust to ensure the tightness and positioning of the snap-on installation. The vibratory feeder realizes automated sorting and feeding of snap-on, meeting the feeding requirements of continuous production.

[0050] Curing Unit 5: Includes an industrial-grade curing equipment rack, a chain-driven suspended basket 12, and a heating tube. The internal temperature of the curing equipment rack can be adjusted as needed, with high temperature control accuracy. The suspended basket 12 achieves circulation through chain drive. The feed port of the curing equipment rack is precisely connected to the pressing station. The manual material handling port is equipped with a protective door to prevent operators from contacting the high-temperature working area and ensure operational safety.

[0051] The rear line transfer unit 6 includes a transfer fixture and a lifting transplanter 13. The transplanter 13 is equipped with a power-driven lifting mechanism and a lifting speed chain 14. The lifting speed chain 14 has the same structure as the speed chain unit 1, which can realize the smooth reception and transfer of the empty transfer fixture 7, and accurately send it to the speed chain return line to form a circulating transfer channel for the fixture.

[0052] Tooling connection method: Pressing tooling 9, snap-fit ​​tooling 11, positioning tooling and transfer tooling 7 all adopt quick-release connection structure, and set positioning pins with the corresponding robot and line connection surface, which can realize quick tooling replacement and precise positioning, greatly shorten the tooling replacement time and improve changeover efficiency.

[0053] II. Specific Implementation Steps of the Process:

[0054] like Figure 5 As shown, the integrated automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation process of the lampshade and lamp housing in this embodiment is based on the above-mentioned equipment. The entire process requires no manual intervention and employs a synchronous pressing and snap-fit ​​installation method, with each process working in conjunction. The specific implementation steps are as follows:

[0055] S1: Tooling transfer and positioning: The transfer tooling 7, which carries the lamp housing that has been coated with glue, moves continuously and uniformly with the double-speed chain of the double-speed chain unit 1. When the transfer tooling 7 reaches the pressing station, the photoelectric sensor detects that the tooling is in place and sends a signal. The pneumatic stop mechanism 19 immediately extends to block the transfer tooling 7, and the lifting mechanism 18 moves upward in sync to lift the transfer tooling 7 and accurately position it to the preset position. After the positioning is completed, the operation signal is sent to the pressing robot 8.

[0056] S2: Lampshade gripping and feeding: After the operator of lampshade feeding unit 2 completes the pre-assembly of the lampshade on the positioning fixture, he triggers the start button. The front and rear sliding components drive the positioning fixture to slide to the preset gripping position at the rear of the equipment. After receiving the signal, the pressing robot 8 drives the pressing fixture 9 to move to the gripping position. The contouring parts of the pressing fixture 9 achieve precise positioning of the lampshade. After the detection sensor 16 detects that the robot has moved to the position and the lampshade is present, it triggers the vacuum generator to work. The vacuum suction cup 15 generates negative pressure to adsorb the lampshade. When the negative pressure gauge detects that the negative pressure value reaches the preset requirement, it sends a gripping completion signal to the pressing robot 8 to complete the precise gripping of the lampshade.

[0057] S3: Pressing and Holding Pressure: After receiving the signal that the lamp cover has been picked up, the pressing robot 8 accurately moves the lamp cover to the top of the lamp housing at the pressing station according to the preset trajectory. Then it slowly moves downward and uses the cylinder pressing component to accurately press the lamp cover and the lamp housing together. The cylinder pressing component provides a stable holding pressure and maintains the pressure for a preset time to fully ensure the fit between the lamp cover and the lamp housing, laying the foundation for subsequent sealant curing and snap-on installation.

[0058] S4: Synchronous snap-fit ​​installation: During the pressure holding process of the pressing robot 8, the vibratory feeder of the snap-fit ​​installation unit 4 automatically sorts the snaps and feeds them to the preset position. Multiple snap-fit ​​robots 10 simultaneously drive the snap-fit ​​fixture 11 to grab the snaps and move synchronously to the connection position between the lampshade and the lamp housing according to the preset trajectory. The micro cylinder of the snap-fit ​​fixture 11 moves, and in conjunction with the hinge mechanism, accurately installs and clamps the snaps to the connection position, completing the mechanical fixation of the lampshade and the lamp housing. The entire snap-fit ​​installation process is completed within the pressure holding time. After the installation is completed, the snap-fit ​​robot 10 drives the snap-fit ​​fixture 11 to reset to the initial position.

[0059] S5: Whole lamp curing: After the pressing and holding pressure reaches the preset time, the pressing robot 8 triggers the clamping component 17 of the pressing fixture 9 to firmly clamp the whole lamp that has completed pressing and snap-fit ​​installation. Then, the whole lamp is smoothly lifted from the transfer fixture 7 and transferred to the feed port of the curing unit 5 along the preset trajectory. The whole lamp is then accurately placed in the basket 12. The basket 12 drives the whole lamp to slowly rotate in the curing equipment frame through chain drive. The heating tube is powered on and the temperature is adjusted to the preset value to heat and cure the sealant of the car lamp, so that the lamp cover and the lamp housing achieve a permanent sealed connection.

[0060] S6: Tooling Circulation and Return: After the pressing robot 8 removes the whole lamp, the lifting mechanism 18 of the double-speed chain unit 1 returns to its original position, and the pneumatic stop mechanism 19 retracts. The empty tooling 7, after removing the whole lamp, continues to flow along the double-speed chain to the downstream transfer unit 6. After the photoelectric sensor of this unit detects the empty tooling, the lifting double-speed chain 14 of the transplanter 13 smoothly receives the empty tooling. The lifting mechanism drives the lifting double-speed chain 14 to perform lifting and lowering movements, accurately transferring the empty tooling 7 to the double-speed chain return line. The empty tooling flows at a constant speed along the return line to the initial position of the equipment, realizing the automated circulation and reuse of the tooling 7.

[0061] S7: Finished Product Retrieval: After the complete lamp has completed the curing process for a preset time in the curing unit 5, it is transferred to the manual retrieval port along with the basket 12. The operator takes out the finished lamp from the retrieval port and completes a complete lamp cover and lamp housing pressing and snap-fit ​​installation and assembly operation. The process of this embodiment significantly shortens the overall assembly cycle through the synchronous linkage and automated operation of each process, and the production efficiency is far superior to the traditional manual operation mode.

[0062] When it is necessary to switch to producing another model of automotive lighting product, it is only necessary to disassemble and replace the pressing fixture 9, snap-fit ​​fixture 11, positioning fixture and transfer fixture 7 that are compatible with the new model. The working trajectory of the pressing robot 8 and snap-fit ​​robot 10 can be adjusted through the equipment central control system to adapt to the action requirements of the new fixture. No disassembly or adjustment is required for each core piece of equipment, which greatly improves the changeover efficiency of the production line and can quickly adapt to the production needs of different models of automotive lighting.

[0063] The equipment and process in this embodiment realizes fully automated and integrated operation of pressing lamp covers and lamp housings and snap-fit ​​installation. The equipment operates stably, has high operation precision, and significantly improves production efficiency compared to the traditional manual mode. In addition, the equipment has strong compatibility and can be adapted to the production of multiple different models of car lights, effectively reducing labor costs and equipment manufacturing costs, improving production output and car light assembly quality, and is suitable for large-scale, multi-variety assembly production scenarios of various automotive lights.

[0064] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing, characterized in that: It includes a speed-multiplying chain unit, a lampshade feeding unit, a pressing unit, a snap-fit ​​installation unit, a curing unit, and a post-line transfer unit that are connected in sequence. Each unit is linked with the movement of the industrial robot and the flow of the production line to form an integrated automated operation system for pressing and snap-fitting lampshades and housings without human intervention.

2. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The speed-multiplying chain unit includes a speed-multiplying chain, a lifting mechanism, a stop mechanism, and a sensor. After the sensor detects that the transfer fixture is in place, the stop mechanism blocks the movement of the transfer fixture, and the lifting mechanism lifts the transfer fixture and positions it precisely.

3. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lampshade feeding unit includes a positioning fixture, a front and rear sliding assembly, a lifting door, and a safety light curtain. The positioning fixture is used for the pre-assembly and positioning of the lampshade. The front and rear sliding assembly drives the positioning fixture to slide to the preset gripping position. The lifting door and the safety light curtain form a protective structure for the equipment.

4. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pressing unit includes a pressing robot, a quick-change chuck, and a pressing fixture. The pressing fixture is equipped with a cylinder pressing assembly, a vacuum suction cup, a vacuum generator, and a valve island. The pressing robot picks up the lamp cover from the lamp cover feeding unit through the pressing fixture, presses the lamp cover with the lamp housing on the double-speed chain unit, and completes the pressure holding process. After the pressure holding is completed, the whole lamp is picked up and transferred to the curing unit.

5. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 4, characterized in that: The pressing fixture is also equipped with a contouring component, a detection sensor, and a clamping assembly. The contouring component limits the position of the lamp cover, the detection sensor detects the robot's position and the presence or absence of the lamp cover, and the clamping assembly clamps the entire lamp after pressure holding to achieve transfer.

6. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The buckle installation unit includes a buckle robot, a buckle fixture, and a vibratory feeder. The buckle fixture is equipped with a cylinder, a hinge mechanism, and a buckle contouring structure. The vibratory feeder enables automatic feeding of the buckles. The buckle robot grabs the buckles through the buckle fixture and completes the buckle installation between the lampshade and the lamp housing during the pressure holding process in the pressing unit.

7. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The curing unit includes a curing equipment frame, a basket, and a heating tube. The basket is located inside the curing equipment frame and is driven by a chain. The curing equipment frame has a feed port and a manual unloading port. The pressing robot places the entire lamp in the basket, and the heating tube heats and cures the sealant of the vehicle lamp.

8. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rear line transfer unit includes a transfer fixture and a lifting transplanter. The transplanter is equipped with a lifting speed chain and a lifting mechanism. The transplanter receives the empty transfer fixture through the lifting speed chain and transfers the empty transfer fixture to the speed chain return line for recycling.

9. The integrated device for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that: The pressing fixture, snap-fit ​​fixture, positioning fixture, and transfer fixture are all customized fixtures adapted to automotive lighting products. Each fixture and its corresponding robot, production line, and equipment have a detachable connection structure.

10. An integrated process for automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation of lampshade and lamp housing, characterized in that: Based on the integrated automatic pressing and snap-fit ​​installation equipment for lampshade and lamp housing as described in any one of claims 1-9, the process includes the following steps: S1: Tooling transfer and positioning: The transfer tooling carrying the lamp housing is transferred to the pressing station with the double speed chain unit. After the sensor detects that it is in place, the stop mechanism blocks the tooling, and the lifting mechanism lifts the transfer tooling and positions it accurately. S2: Lampshade gripping and feeding: The lampshade feeding unit moves the pre-assembled lampshade to the preset gripping position, and the pressing robot grips the lampshade through the pressing tooling; S3: Pressing and Holding: The pressing robot precisely presses the lampshade onto the surface of the lamp housing on the transfer tooling and holds it under pressure for a preset time. S4: Synchronous snap-fit ​​installation: During the pressing and holding process, the snap-fit ​​robot grabs the snap-fit ​​from the vibratory feeder and installs the snap-fit ​​to the connection position between the lampshade and the lamp housing through the snap-fit ​​fixture. After installation, the snap-fit ​​robot resets. S5: Whole lamp curing: After the pressure holding is completed, the pressing robot clamps the whole lamp through the clamping component and moves the whole lamp into the basket of the curing unit. The heating tube heats and cures the sealant. S6: Tooling circulation and return: The empty tooling after the whole lamp is removed flows with the double speed chain unit to the rear offline transfer unit. The transfer machine transfers the empty tooling to the double speed chain return line and returns it to the initial position for reuse. S7: Finished Product Retrieval: After curing, the headlights are moved along with the basket to the manual retrieval port to complete the finished product retrieval.

Images