Pipe feeding device for machining center

Abstract

The application discloses a pipe material feeding device of a machining center and relates to the field of sealing ring machining equipment. The device comprises a machine body, a pipe material groove, a feeding mechanism and a pushing mechanism. The machine body is positioned and matched with a feeding port of the machining center. The pipe material groove is arranged in the machine body and vertically lifted by a vertical driving mechanism to realize butt joint with the feeding port. The feeding mechanism is arranged on one side of the machine body and comprises an inclined discharging plate and a material blocking assembly, and automatically feeds the pipe material groove in batches. The pushing mechanism is synchronously lifted with the pipe material groove and comprises a feeding rod, a pushing piece and a transverse driving mechanism. The transverse driving mechanism drives the pushing piece to slide and push the pipe material along the feeding rod. The pushing piece is provided with a clamping mechanism which clamps the pipe material and drives the feeding rod to displace, thereby realizing depth feeding. The device realizes automatic feeding, accurate butt joint, stable pushing and depth feeding automation of the pipe material, replaces manual feeding, improves machining efficiency and positioning accuracy, reduces safety hazards and meets the production requirements of automatic sealing rings, high precision and continuity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to the field of sealing ring processing equipment, and specifically to a pipe feeding device for a processing center. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of sealing ring processing, machining centers are the mainstream technology for producing sealing rings of various specifications. The core of this process involves using the machining center's fixtures to hold the pipe blank, rotating it around its axis, and then using precise feeds from milling, turning, and grinding tools to cut the pipe into a finished sealing ring of a predetermined size and structure. This process is widely used in the large-scale production of industrial sealing rings due to its high precision and good forming effect. However, current methods for loading and positioning pipe blanks still rely on traditional manual operation. After a single sealing ring is cut in the machining center, the operator must manually shut down the equipment, release the fixtures from the pipe blank, and then manually adjust the extension length and clamping position of the pipe blank according to the processing requirements of the next section. After adjustment, the fixtures are re-locked, and the equipment is restarted to continue processing. The entire operation requires full manual intervention and cannot achieve continuous operation.

[0003] The aforementioned manual adjustment of the tube clamping position not only significantly increases the labor intensity of operators but also has obvious efficiency drawbacks. The manual positioning and locking steps are time-consuming, causing frequent downtime in the machining center, drastically reducing equipment utilization and making it difficult to meet the demands of large-scale, high-efficiency sealing ring production. Furthermore, the accuracy of the tube clamping position adjustment relies entirely on the operator's experience and technique; manual adjustments are prone to positioning deviations. Errors in the tube's extension length or coaxiality directly affect the dimensional accuracy of subsequent sealing ring processing, leading to a lower finished product yield and increased rework costs. In addition, repeated manual tube adjustment in the machining center's work area poses safety hazards due to hand contact with rotating tools and fixtures, easily causing accidents and failing to meet the safety requirements of modern machining. Currently, there is no dedicated device for machining centers that can automatically adjust the clamping position and continuously feed tubes for sealing ring processing, becoming a key issue restricting the improvement of sealing ring processing efficiency and quality. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the problems existing in the prior art, this invention provides a tube feeding device for a machining center, comprising: a machine body, which is adapted and positioned to fit the inlet of the machining center for feeding tubes into the inlet; a tube trough, horizontally disposed within the machine body and equipped with a vertical drive mechanism, which drives the tube trough to move vertically back and forth, so that the end of the tube trough connects with the inlet of the machining center for supporting and guiding the movement of the tubes; a feeding mechanism, disposed on one side of the machine body, whose outlet is connected to the tube trough for continuously feeding the tube trough; and a pushing mechanism, which is drivenly connected to the tube trough and moves vertically synchronously, the pushing mechanism being located above the tube trough, specifically including: a feed rod, the feed rod being horizontally mounted. Located above the material trough, extending in the same direction as the length of the material trough, with one end near the machining center capable of reaching the feed inlet; a pusher component, slidably sleeved on the feed rod; and a transverse drive mechanism connected to the pusher component and driving it to slide along the feed rod; when the material trough moves to the position where it aligns with the feed inlet of the machining center under the drive of the vertical drive mechanism, the transverse drive mechanism drives the pusher component to slide, pushing the material in the material trough into the feed inlet of the machining center; when the end of the feed rod moves to the position where it aligns with the feed inlet of the machining center, a clamping mechanism is provided inside the pusher component, driving the feed rod and the pusher component to move synchronously, allowing the material to penetrate deeper into the feed inlet of the machining center.

[0005] With the aforementioned technical features, the machine body is matched and positioned with the machining center's feed inlet, ensuring accurate and reliable pipe material delivery. The pipe material trough automatically docks and resets with the feed inlet under the drive of the vertical drive mechanism, reducing downtime and improving processing efficiency. The feeding mechanism automatically replenishes materials, reducing manual labor intensity and meeting the needs of continuous production. The pushing mechanism rises and falls synchronously with the pipe material trough, and the pushing component slides smoothly along the feed rod, stably pushing the pipe material into the feed inlet. The clamping mechanism clamps the pipe material and achieves deep feeding, replacing manual adjustment, ensuring consistent processing dimensions, and improving the finished product qualification rate. The entire device automates the entire process of feeding, docking, pushing, and deep feeding, eliminating the safety risks of manual operation and significantly improving the utilization rate and production efficiency of the machining center.

[0006] In some embodiments, the pushing mechanism further includes a frame, the tubular material trough is horizontally fixed in the frame, the transverse drive mechanism is fixed in the frame, and the feed rod is supported in the frame and slidably connected to the frame.

[0007] Therefore, the pipe material trough, the transverse drive mechanism and the feed rod are integrated into the frame to form an integral structure, ensuring the stability of the relative position of each component and the uniformity of motion accuracy, avoiding misalignment and offset during pushing and feeding, improving the stability and reliability of pipe material conveying, and simplifying assembly and maintenance.

[0008] In some embodiments, the frame and the machine body are slidably connected in the vertical direction. The vertical drive mechanism includes a vertical drive motor, which is vertically fixed inside the machine body; a vertical lead screw, which is coaxially fixed to the output shaft of the vertical drive motor; and a drive nut, which is threadedly connected to the vertical lead screw and fixedly connected to the frame. Thus, the vertical drive motor, in conjunction with the lead screw and nut, enables stable and precise lifting of the frame, accurately controlling the lifting position and stroke, ensuring reliable connection between the material trough and the feed inlet, providing smooth transmission, high positioning accuracy, and improving the stability and processing efficiency of the device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the feeding mechanism includes a feeding plate, obliquely disposed on one side of the machine body and fixedly connected to the machine body, with the discharge port of the feeding plate connected to a lower-level pipe trough; and a baffle assembly, disposed at the discharge port of the feeding plate and connected to the machine body, for feeding pipe material into the pipe trough in batches. Thus, the feeding plate automatically feeds material by gravity, resulting in a simple structure and stable operation; the discharge port precisely connects to the pipe trough, avoiding jamming and misalignment; and the baffle assembly enables quantitative batch feeding, preventing multi-pipe congestion and improving the level of automated feeding.

[0010] In some embodiments, the material blocking assembly includes a synchronizing rod horizontally positioned at the discharge port of the feeding plate and rotatably connected to the machine body around its center; multiple material blocking components spaced apart along the length of the synchronizing rod; and a material blocking motor located at one end of the synchronizing rod and fixedly connected to the machine body. The output shaft of the material blocking motor is coaxially fixedly connected to the synchronizing rod. Thus, the material blocking motor drives the synchronizing rod to cause multiple material blocking components to swing synchronously, achieving orderly interception and quantitative release of the material in the tube. Multi-point limiting ensures stable tube posture, preventing skewness and jamming, eliminating the need for manual intervention, and improving feeding stability and control accuracy.

[0011] In some embodiments, a clearance groove is provided on the material trough at the corresponding position of the material blocking component to accommodate the rotation and relocation of the material blocking component. Thus, the clearance groove provides movement space for the material blocking component, avoids structural interference, ensures smooth and reliable material blocking and discharging actions, prevents jamming, collisions, and wear, and improves the continuity of material supply and the stability of the device.

[0012] In some embodiments, the transverse drive mechanism includes a transverse lead screw, horizontally disposed within the frame body, with both ends rotatably connected to the frame body; a limiting rod, disposed parallel to the transverse lead screw, with both ends fixedly connected to the frame body; a drive block, through which the limiting rod passes and slidably connects with the drive block, and through which the transverse lead screw passes and threadedly connects with the drive block, the drive block being fixedly connected to the pusher; and a transverse motor, fixed to the frame body and coaxially fixedly connected to the transverse lead screw. Thus, the transverse motor drives the lead screw to rotate, causing the drive block and pusher to slide precisely, while the limiting rod constrains the sliding direction, preventing swaying and improving pushing stability and accuracy. The structure is rigid, responds quickly, and is easy to assemble and maintain.

[0013] In some embodiments, the clamping mechanism includes a clamping cylinder fixed to the pusher and two grippers respectively fixed to the two output ends of the clamping cylinder. The clamping cylinder drives the two grippers to open and close, thereby clamping or releasing the feed rod.

[0014] Therefore, the clamping cylinder drives the gripper to open and close synchronously, ensuring a firm grip and smooth release, preventing the tube from shifting or loosening, guaranteeing the accuracy of pushing and feeding, adapting to automated feeding processes, and improving processing efficiency and product qualification rate.

[0015] In some embodiments, a positioning sleeve is fixed to one end of the frame at the feed rod, and the end of the feed rod is inserted into the positioning sleeve. A sliding sleeve is fixed to the other end of the frame at the feed rod, and the feed rod passes through the sliding sleeve and is slidably connected to it. Thus, the positioning sleeve and the sliding sleeve provide bidirectional support and guidance for the feed rod, preventing skewing and shaking, ensuring smooth and precise movement, reducing material conveying deviation, and improving the stability and practicality of the device.

[0016] In some embodiments, the end of the feed rod facing the positioning sleeve is magnetically connected to the positioning sleeve. This magnetic connection improves the positioning stability of the feed rod, prevents loosening or displacement due to vibration, and features a simple structure that is easy to assemble and disassemble. Combined with the dual guidance of the positioning sleeve and the sliding sleeve, it further improves the pushing accuracy, reduces component wear, and extends the service life of the device.

[0017] It should be understood that the description in the Summary of the Invention is not intended to limit the key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to restrict the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of a tube feeding device for a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0019] Figure 2A schematic diagram of the internal structure of a tube feeding device in a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the feeding mechanism in a tube feeding device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the pipe feeding device in a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the transverse drive mechanism in a tube feeding device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0023] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the clamping mechanism in a tube feeding device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0024] Symbol Explanation 1. Machine body; 2. Material trough; 21. Clearance groove; 3. Vertical drive mechanism; 31. Vertical drive motor; 32. Vertical lead screw; 33. Drive nut; 4. Feeding mechanism; 41. Discharge plate; 42. Material blocking assembly; 421. Synchronizing rod; 422. Material blocking component; 423. Material blocking motor; 5. Pushing mechanism; 51. Feeding rod; 52. Pushing component; 53. Horizontal drive mechanism; 531. Horizontal lead screw; 532. Limiting rod; 533. Drive block; 534. Horizontal motor; 54. Frame; 55. Positioning sleeve; 56. Sliding sleeve; 6. Clamping mechanism; 61. Clamping cylinder; 62. Gripper. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The preferred embodiments (or implementation methods) of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] The following is for reference. Figures 1-6 This invention describes a tube feeding device for a machining center.

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of a tube feeding device for a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the body 1 in a tube feeding device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the tube feeding device for a machining center disclosed in this embodiment includes a machine body 1, a tube trough 2, a feeding mechanism 4, and a pushing mechanism 5. The machine body 1 is adapted and positioned to fit the inlet of the machining center for conveying tubes to the inlet. The tube trough 2 is horizontally disposed inside the machine body 1 and is equipped with a vertical drive mechanism 3. The vertical drive mechanism 3 drives the tube trough 2 to move vertically back and forth, so that the end of the tube trough 2 connects with the inlet of the machining center to support and guide the movement of the tubes. The feeding mechanism 4 is disposed on one side of the machine body 1, and its outlet is connected to the tube trough 2. It is used to continuously supply material to the tube trough 2; the pushing mechanism 5 is connected to the tube trough 2 and moves vertically in sync. The pushing mechanism 5 is located above the tube trough 2. Specifically, the pushing mechanism 5 includes a feeding rod 51, a pushing component 52, and a transverse drive mechanism 53. The feeding rod 51 is horizontally mounted above the tube trough 2, and its extension direction is consistent with the length of the tube trough 2. The end near the machining center can extend into the feed port; the pushing component 52 is slidably sleeved on the feeding rod 51, and the transverse drive mechanism 53 is connected to the pushing component 52 and drives it to slide along the feeding rod 51.

[0028] When the tube trough 2 moves to the position where it connects with the feed port of the machining center under the drive of the vertical drive mechanism 3, the horizontal drive mechanism 53 drives the pusher 52 to slide, pushing the tube material in the tube trough 2 into the feed port of the machining center; when the end of the feed rod 51 moves to the position where it connects with the feed port of the machining center, the pusher 52 is provided with a clamping mechanism 6, which drives the feed rod 51 and the pusher 52 to move synchronously, so that the tube material goes deep into the feed port of the machining center.

[0029] The main body 1 serves as the installation foundation and load-bearing carrier for the entire feeding device. By adapting and positioning itself to the machining center's feed inlet, it provides a stable installation benchmark for pipe material conveying. The pipe material trough 2 is the supporting and guiding component for the pipe material, horizontally positioned within the main body 1. Its core function is to receive the pipe material conveyed by the feeding mechanism 4 and guide it towards the machining center's feed inlet, cooperating with the vertical drive mechanism 3 to achieve precise docking with the feed inlet. The feeding mechanism 4 is the continuous supply component for the pipe material, located on one side of the main body 1, and supplies it through the discharge port. Connecting with the tube trough 2, it realizes automatic replenishment of tube material and ensures the continuity of the feeding process; the pushing mechanism 5 is the tube material pushing and feeding execution component, which moves vertically in sync with the tube trough 2 to ensure that the pushing action and the docking action of the tube trough 2 are coordinated and consistent. The feeding rod 51 provides sliding guide for the pushing component 52, which is used to directly push the tube material into the feed port of the machining center. The transverse drive mechanism 53 provides transverse driving force for the pushing component 52, driving the pushing component 52 to slide smoothly along the feeding rod 51.

[0030] Based on the coordinated operation of the aforementioned components, the matching and positioning of the machine body 1 with the machining center's feed inlet ensures that the relative position of the entire feeding device and the machining center is fixed, preventing deviation during pipe material transportation and providing a reliable guarantee for the accurate feeding of pipe material into the machining center. The pipe material trough 2, driven by the vertical drive mechanism 3, achieves vertical reciprocating movement, automatically completing docking and resetting with the machining center's feed inlet without manual adjustment of the pipe material position, significantly reducing equipment downtime and improving overall processing efficiency. The feeding mechanism 4 continuously supplies pipe material to the pipe material trough 2, achieving automatic pipe material replenishment and eliminating the need for frequent manual feeding. This design reduces the labor intensity of operators and meets the needs of large-scale and continuous processing of sealing rings. The pushing mechanism 5 moves vertically synchronously with the tube groove 2. The feed rod 51 provides a stable guide for the pushing component 52. The transverse drive mechanism 53 drives the pushing component 52 to slide smoothly along the feed rod 51. This allows the tube material in the tube groove 2 to be pushed smoothly and accurately into the feed port of the machining center, avoiding problems such as tube material tilting or jamming, ensuring the smoothness of the feeding process, and laying the foundation for subsequent deep feeding of tube material. Overall, this improves the continuity, accuracy and production efficiency of sealing ring processing, and meets the needs of modern automated processing.

[0031] refer to Figure 2 As shown, the pushing mechanism 5 also includes a frame 54, with the tube groove 2 horizontally fixed inside the frame 54, the transverse drive mechanism 53 fixed to the frame 54, and the feed rod 51 supported on the frame 54 and slidably connected to the frame 54. The frame 54 in this structure provides an integrated mounting carrier for the pushing mechanism 5 and the tube groove 2, serving as the assembly basis for each moving component. The tube groove 2, horizontally fixed inside the frame 54, supports the tube material and moves synchronously with the frame 54. The transverse drive mechanism 53 is fixedly installed on the frame 54, providing power output for the transverse movement of the pushing component 52. The feed rod 51 is supported on the frame 54 and slidably connected to the frame 54, providing sliding guidance for the pushing component 52 and allowing relative sliding on the frame 54 to meet the requirements of deep tube feeding.

[0032] By integrating the pipe trough 2, the lateral drive mechanism 53, and the feed rod 51 onto the frame 54, the components form a fixed overall structure, effectively ensuring the assembly accuracy and coaxiality of the moving parts and preventing misalignment or offset during pushing and feeding. The frame 54 provides stable support for each component, significantly improving the rigidity and stability of the pushing mechanism 5 during operation. This makes the actions of pipe support, lateral pushing, and feed rod 51 sliding more coordinated, reducing movement gaps and swaying, thus ensuring a stable and reliable pipe feeding process. Simultaneously, it simplifies the overall assembly structure of the device, facilitating installation, debugging, and subsequent maintenance, and providing structural support for improving the processing accuracy of the sealing rings and ensuring production continuity.

[0033] In some embodiments, the frame 54 is slidably connected to the body 1 in a vertical direction, and the vertical drive mechanism includes... The vertical drive motor 31, vertical lead screw, and drive nut 33 are included. The vertical drive motor 31 is vertically fixed inside the machine body 1. The vertical lead screw 32 is coaxially fixed to the output shaft of the vertical drive motor 31. The drive nut 33 is threadedly connected to the vertical lead screw 32 and fixedly connected to the frame 54.

[0034] In this embodiment, the frame 54 and the machine body 1 form a sliding engagement in the vertical direction. Specifically, a sliding guide method with a guide rail and a slider can be adopted. The guide rail is vertically fixed inside the machine body 1, and the slider is fixed to the side wall of the frame 54 and slides with the guide rail to realize the lifting and lowering movement of the frame 54 in the vertical direction. The vertical drive mechanism provides power for the lifting and lowering of the frame 54. The vertical drive motor 31 is fixed inside the machine body 1 as a power source. The vertical screw is used to transmit the rotational motion. The drive nut 33 is sleeved on the vertical screw and connected to the frame 54, converting the rotational motion of the screw into the vertical linear motion of the frame 54, thereby driving the pipe trough 2 and the pushing mechanism 5 to lift and lower synchronously.

[0035] The use of a vertical guide rail slider sliding connection method can precisely constrain the lifting path of the frame 54, effectively preventing the frame 54 from swaying, shaking, or jamming during lifting, ensuring smooth movement and higher positioning accuracy. The vertical drive motor 31, together with the vertical lead screw and drive nut 33, forms a lead screw and nut transmission mechanism with high transmission efficiency and good motion rigidity. It can precisely control the lifting height and stopping position of the frame 54, ensuring that the end of the tube trough 2 is stably aligned with the feed port of the machining center, providing a reliable guarantee for the smooth feeding of the tube into the processing station. The overall transmission structure responds quickly and operates stably, enabling automated and precise lifting, reducing manual adjustment steps, and improving the operational reliability and processing efficiency of the feeding device.

[0036] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the feeding mechanism 4 in a tube feeding device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See reference) Figure 3 As shown, the feeding mechanism 4 includes a feeding plate 41 and a baffle assembly 42. The feeding plate 41 is obliquely arranged on one side of the machine body 1 and fixedly connected to the machine body 1. The discharge port of the feeding plate 41 is connected to the lower pipe trough 2. The baffle assembly 42 is arranged at the discharge port of the feeding plate 41 and connected to the machine body 1, and is used to supply pipe materials to the pipe trough 2 in batches.

[0037] The feeding mechanism 4 in this structure is mainly used to realize the automatic feeding and orderly feeding of pipe materials. The feeding plate 41 is an inclined bearing structure, which is fixedly installed on one side of the machine body 1 and is used to place the pipe materials to be processed. The inclined angle allows the pipe materials to move towards the discharge port by their own weight. The baffle assembly 42 is set at the discharge port of the feeding plate 41 and is used to control the timing and quantity of pipe material discharge, realize the batch and quantitative conveying of pipe materials, and ensure that the pipe materials can enter the pipe material trough 2 in sequence, avoiding interference caused by multiple pipe materials being discharged at the same time.

[0038] The inclined feeding plate 41 utilizes the weight of the pipe material for automatic feeding, requiring no additional power. Its simple structure and stable, reliable operation effectively reduce the complexity and energy consumption of the device. The precise connection between the feeding plate 41's outlet and the lower-level pipe trough 2 ensures the pipe material falls smoothly from the feeding plate 41 into the trough 2, preventing jamming or misalignment and guaranteeing the continuity of the feeding process. The baffle assembly 42 intercepts and releases the pipe material in an orderly manner, enabling sequential supply of single pipes and preventing congestion caused by simultaneous discharge of multiple pipes. This makes the feeding process more stable and controllable, improving the overall automation level of the feeding device and providing a stable material guarantee for the continuous and efficient processing of sealing rings by the machining center.

[0039] Specifically, the material blocking assembly 42 includes a synchronizing rod 421, a material blocking component 422, and a material blocking motor 423. The synchronizing rod 421 is horizontally located at the discharge port of the feeding plate 41 and is rotatably connected to the machine body 1 around its own center. Multiple material blocking components 422 are spaced apart along the length of the synchronizing rod 421. The material blocking motor 423 is located at one end of the synchronizing rod 421 and is fixedly connected to the machine body 1. The output shaft of the material blocking motor 423 is coaxially fixedly connected to the synchronizing rod 421.

[0040] The material blocking assembly 42 in this structure is used to achieve orderly interception and quantitative release of the tube material. The synchronizing rod 421 is a horizontally arranged transmission rod, which is set at the discharge port of the discharge plate 41 and can rotate relative to the machine body 1, playing the role of uniformly driving the action of each material blocking component 422. The material blocking component 422 is a material blocking component arranged at intervals on the synchronizing rod 421, which is used to directly block or release the tube material to ensure single tube discharge. The material blocking motor 423 is a driving component, which is fixed on the machine body 1 and coaxially connected to the synchronizing rod 421, providing power for the rotation of the synchronizing rod 421 and realizing the automated control of the swing of the material blocking component 422.

[0041] The material-blocking motor 423 drives the synchronous rod 421 to rotate, which in turn causes multiple material-blocking components 422 to swing synchronously, achieving stable interception and precise release of the tube material, effectively ensuring consistent and reliable discharge action. Multiple material-blocking components 422 are spaced apart along the length of the synchronous rod 421, forming multiple uniform points of restraint on the tube material, preventing it from tilting, jamming, or rolling at the discharge port, ensuring that each tube material enters the tube material trough 2 in an orderly manner. This structure achieves automated batch feeding without manual intervention, with rapid response and precise control, effectively avoiding congestion caused by simultaneous discharge of multiple tube materials, improving the stability and continuity of the feeding process, and providing a reliable material supply guarantee for subsequent tube material pushing and sealing ring processing.

[0042] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the pipe feeding device in a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See reference) Figure 4 As shown, a clearance groove 21 is provided on the material trough 2 at a position corresponding to the material blocking component 422 to accommodate the rotation of the material blocking component 422. The clearance groove 21 mentioned here is a groove structure on the material trough 2 at a position corresponding to the material blocking component 422. Its function is to provide a space for the material blocking component 422 to rotate with the synchronizing rod 421, so that the material blocking component 422 can smoothly extend into or rotate out when performing the material blocking and discharging actions, and avoid structural interference with the body of the material trough 2.

[0043] A clearance groove 21 is provided at a corresponding position on the material trough 2 to ensure that the material blocking component 422 is not obstructed or hindered by the material trough 2 during rotation. This makes the interception and release actions of the material blocking component 42 smoother and more stable, effectively avoiding problems such as jamming, collision, or component wear. This structure not only ensures that the material can fall smoothly into the material trough 2, but also ensures the integrity and reliability of the action of the material blocking component 422, making the overall feeding process more continuous and smooth, and further improving the stability and service life of the feeding device.

[0044] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the transverse drive mechanism 53 in a tube loading device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See reference) Figure 5 As shown, the transverse drive mechanism 53 includes a transverse lead screw 531, a limiting rod 532, a drive block 533, and a transverse motor 534. The transverse lead screw 531 is horizontally arranged inside the frame 54, and its two ends are rotatably connected to the frame 54. The limiting rod 532 is arranged parallel to the transverse lead screw 531, and its two ends are fixedly connected to the frame 54. The limiting rod 532 passes through the drive block 533 and is slidably connected to the drive block 533. The transverse lead screw 531 passes through the drive block 533 and is threadedly connected to the drive block 533. The drive block 533 is fixedly connected to the pusher 52. The transverse motor 534 is fixed to the frame 54 and coaxially fixed to the transverse lead screw 531.

[0045] The lateral drive mechanism 53 described here is the power and guide component for the lateral sliding of the pusher 52. The lateral lead screw 531 is a horizontally arranged transmission rod with both ends rotatably connected to the frame 54 to transmit lateral driving force. The limiting rod 532 is arranged parallel to the lateral lead screw 531 and its two ends are fixed to the frame 54, serving as a guide and limiting component. The drive block 533 is a power transmission and connection component. The limiting rod 532 passes through it and forms a sliding fit, and the lateral lead screw 531 passes through it and forms a threaded connection. It is also fixed to the pusher 52 and is used to drive the pusher 52 to move synchronously. The lateral motor 534 is a power source, fixed to the frame 54 and coaxially connected to the lateral lead screw 531, providing power for the rotation of the lateral lead screw 531, thereby driving the pusher 52 to slide along the feed rod 51.

[0046] The transverse drive mechanism 53, consisting of a transverse lead screw 531, a limit rod 532, a drive block 533, and a transverse motor 534, features high transmission precision and smooth operation. The transverse motor 534 drives the transverse lead screw 531 to rotate, converting the rotational motion into linear sliding of the drive block 533 via threaded transmission. This allows for precise control of the moving speed and stroke of the pusher component 52, ensuring accurate and controllable tube feeding. The limit rod 532 is parallel to the transverse lead screw 531 and passes through the drive block 533, effectively constraining the sliding direction of the drive block 533 and preventing it from skewing or shaking during movement. This further enhances the stability of the pushing action and avoids tube jamming or feeding deviation due to pushing offset. The coordinated operation of all components results in a rigid structure with rapid response, enabling automated and precise pushing of the pusher component 52 without manual intervention. This ensures the smooth feeding of tubes into the processing center, improving feeding efficiency and accuracy, providing reliable support for the consistency of sealing ring processing, while simplifying the transmission structure for easier assembly, debugging, and subsequent maintenance, thus extending the service life of the device.

[0047] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the clamping mechanism 6 in a tube feeding device of a machining center according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See reference) Figure 6 As shown, the clamping mechanism 6 includes a clamping cylinder 61 and a gripper 62. The clamping cylinder 61 is fixed to the pusher 52. There are two grippers 62, which are fixed to the two output ends of the clamping cylinder 61 respectively. The clamping cylinder 61 drives the two grippers 62 to open and close, thereby clamping or releasing the feed rod 51.

[0048] The clamping mechanism 6 described here is an actuator used to clamp and release the pipe material. The clamping cylinder 61 is a power output component, fixed on the pusher 52, which provides power for the opening and closing of the gripper 62. There are two grippers 62, which are respectively installed at the two output ends of the clamping cylinder 61. They are components that directly contact the pipe material and realize the clamping and releasing actions. The extension and retraction of the clamping cylinder 61 drives the two grippers 62 to open and close synchronously, thereby realizing the clamping or releasing operation of the pipe material.

[0049] The clamping mechanism 6 features a simple structure and reliable operation, adapting to the overall automated feeding process. It can clamp and release pipe materials without manual intervention, effectively reducing labor intensity and avoiding errors caused by manual operation. The clamping cylinder 61 provides stable driving force, ensuring that the two grippers 62 open and close synchronously. Clamping is firm and stable, preventing loosening or displacement of the pipe material during pushing and feeding. Releasing is flexible and smooth, without affecting the normal conveying and processing of the pipe material. Simultaneously, this structure, in conjunction with components such as the pusher 52 and feed rod 51, can accurately position and convey the pipe material, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the feeding process. This provides strong support for the precision of subsequent processing, adapting to the automated production requirements of sealing ring processing, and further improving overall processing efficiency and product qualification rate.

[0050] Looking back Figure 5 As shown, a positioning sleeve 55 is fixed to one end of the frame 54 at the feed rod 51, and the end of the feed rod 51 is inserted into the positioning sleeve 55. A sliding sleeve 56 is fixed to the other end of the frame 54 at the feed rod 51, and the feed rod 51 passes through the sliding sleeve 56 and is slidably connected to the sliding sleeve 56. The positioning sleeve 55 and the sliding sleeve 56 mentioned here are both support and guide components on the frame 54. The positioning sleeve 55 is fixed to the end of the frame 54 near the tube processing end, and is used to position and support the end of the feed rod 51 to ensure the stability of the end position of the feed rod 51. The sliding sleeve 56 is fixed to the other end of the frame 54, and the feed rod 51 passes through it and forms a sliding connection, providing stable guidance for the reciprocating movement of the feed rod 51, so that the feed rod 51 can slide smoothly in a preset direction and avoid deviation.

[0051] By setting positioning sleeves 55 and sliding sleeves 56 at both ends of the frame 54, bidirectional support and guidance can be provided for the feed rod 51, effectively preventing the feed rod 51 from tilting or wobbling during sliding and ensuring that the feed rod 51 always remains horizontal and stable. The positioning sleeves 55 can accurately fix the end position of the feed rod 51 to prevent it from shifting; the sliding sleeves 56 provide a smooth sliding channel for the feed rod 51, reducing sliding friction and ensuring the flexibility of the feed rod 51's movement. This ensures that the pusher 52 moves smoothly along the feed rod 51, avoiding deviation in tube pushing caused by the offset of the feed rod 51. At the same time, it can also protect the feed rod 51 and the frame 54 components, reduce wear, extend service life, and provide reliable guarantee for the accurate pushing of tubes and processing accuracy, adapting to the needs of overall automatic feeding and processing.

[0052] In some embodiments, the end of the feed rod 51 facing the positioning sleeve 55 is magnetically connected to the positioning sleeve 55. This magnetic connection means that the end of the feed rod 51 facing the positioning sleeve 55 is magnetically attracted to the positioning sleeve 55 for a detachable connection. No additional locking components are needed; the magnetic force keeps the end of the feed rod 51 stably attached to the positioning sleeve 55. This ensures accurate positioning of the end of the feed rod 51 while allowing for easy separation when needed, adapting to the movement requirements of the feed rod 51 and forming a perfect connection with the structure of the frame 54 and the positioning sleeve 55 described above.

[0053] A magnetic connection is used between the feed rod 51 and the positioning sleeve 55, which further improves the positioning stability of the end of the feed rod 51. This effectively prevents the end of the feed rod 51 from shifting or loosening due to vibration, movement, or other factors during device operation, ensuring that the feed rod 51 always maintains accurate positioning. At the same time, the magnetic connection is easy to operate, requiring no additional locking or disassembly steps. It does not affect the normal sliding of the feed rod 51, and can fix the position of the feed rod 51 in a non-moving state, reducing its shaking. Combined with the dual guidance of the positioning sleeve 55 and the sliding sleeve 56 mentioned above, it further improves the accuracy of tube feeding, avoids the impact of feed rod 51 positioning deviation on processing quality, and also reduces component wear, extending the service life of the device. This is highly consistent with the overall requirements of automatic feeding and precise processing.

[0054] In the description of this specification, the terms "connection," "installation," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0055] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A tube feeding device for a machining center, characterized in that, include: The machine body (1) is adapted and positioned to the feed port of the machining center for conveying pipe material to the feed port; The tube trough (2) is horizontally located inside the machine body (1) and is equipped with a vertical drive mechanism (3). The vertical drive mechanism (3) drives the tube trough (2) to move vertically back and forth, so that the end of the tube trough (2) is connected to the feed port of the machining center, which is used to support and guide the movement of the tube. The feeding mechanism (4) is located on one side of the machine body (1), and its outlet is connected to the material trough (2) for continuously feeding material into the material trough (2); The pushing mechanism (5) is connected to the tube trough (2) and moves vertically in sync. The pushing mechanism (5) is located above the tube trough (2) and specifically includes: Feed rod (51), the feed rod (51) is horizontally mounted above the tube groove (2), the extension direction is consistent with the length of the tube groove (2), and the end near the machining center can extend into the feed port; A pusher (52) is slidably sleeved on the feed rod (51). A transverse drive mechanism (53) is connected to a pusher (52) and drives it to slide along the feed rod (51); When the tube trough (2) moves to the position where it is connected to the feed port of the machining center under the drive of the vertical drive mechanism (3), the horizontal drive mechanism (53) drives the pusher (52) to slide and push the tube in the tube trough (2) into the feed port of the machining center; When the end of the feed rod (51) moves to the position where it docks with the feed port of the machining center, the pusher (52) is provided with a clamping mechanism (6), which drives the feed rod (51) and the pusher (52) to move synchronously, so that the tube material goes deep into the feed port of the machining center.

2. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pushing mechanism (5) also includes a frame (54), The pipe trough (2) is horizontally fixed inside the frame (54). The lateral drive mechanism (53) is fixed to the frame (54). The feed rod (51) is supported on the frame (54) and is slidably connected to the frame (54).

3. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame (54) and the body (1) are slidably connected in the vertical direction. The vertical drive mechanism includes A vertical drive motor (31) is vertically fixed inside the machine body (1). A vertical lead screw (32) is coaxially fixed to the output shaft of the vertical drive motor (31). The drive nut (33) is threadedly connected to the vertical lead screw (32) and fixedly connected to the frame (54).

4. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism (4) includes The feeding plate (41) is obliquely arranged on one side of the machine body (1) and fixedly connected to the machine body (1). The discharge port of the feeding plate (41) is connected to the low-position pipe trough (2). The material blocking assembly (42) is located at the discharge port of the material feeding plate (41) and connected to the machine body (1) for supplying pipe material to the pipe material trough (2) in batches.

5. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 4, characterized in that, The baffle assembly (42) includes Synchronous rod (421) is horizontally located at the discharge port of the feeding plate (41) and is rotatably connected to the machine body (1) around its own center; Multiple material blocking elements (422) are provided at intervals along the length direction of the synchronizing rod (421). The material resistance motor (423) is located at one end of the synchronizing rod (421) and is fixedly connected to the machine body (1). The output shaft of the material resistance motor (423) is coaxially fixedly connected to the synchronizing rod (421).

6. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 5, characterized in that, The material trough (2) is provided with a relief groove (21) at the position corresponding to the material blocking component (422) to accommodate the rotation and relocation of the material blocking component (422).

7. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lateral drive mechanism (53) includes A horizontal lead screw (531) is horizontally installed inside the frame (54), and its two ends are rotatably connected to the frame (54); The limiting rod (532) is arranged parallel to the transverse lead screw (531) and its two ends are fixedly connected to the frame (54); The driving block (533) has a limiting rod (532) that passes through the driving block (533) and is slidably connected to the driving block (533). The transverse lead screw (531) passes through the driving block (533) and is threadedly connected to the driving block (533). The driving block (533) is also fixedly connected to the pusher (52). A horizontal motor (534) is fixed to the frame (54) and coaxially fixed to the horizontal lead screw (531).

8. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping mechanism (6) includes The clamping cylinder (61) is fixed to the pusher (52). Two grippers (62) are provided, which are respectively fixed to the two output ends of the gripping cylinder (61). The two grippers (62) are driven by the gripping cylinder (61) to open and close, thereby clamping or releasing the feed rod (51).

9. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 2, characterized in that, A positioning sleeve (55) is fixed to one end of the frame (54) and the end of the feed rod (51) is inserted into the positioning sleeve (55). The frame (54) has a sliding sleeve (56) fixed at the other end of the feed rod (51). The feed rod (51) passes through the sliding sleeve (56) and is slidably connected to the sliding sleeve (56).

10. The tube feeding device for a machining center according to claim 9, characterized in that, The end of the feed rod (51) facing the positioning sleeve (55) is magnetically connected to the positioning sleeve (55).

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