Buffer protection integrated automobile part mold frame and control method

Abstract

The application discloses a buffer-protection integrated automobile part mold frame and a control method, which comprises a basic support module, a buffer module, a protection module, a forming module and a control module. The basic support module comprises oppositely arranged upper and lower mold units. The forming module comprises an upper mold core detachably mounted on the upper mold unit and a lower mold core detachably mounted on the lower mold unit, and a cavity for forming an automobile part is formed between the upper and lower mold cores. The buffer module comprises a cavity buffer unit arranged on the surface of the cavity and a mold closing buffer unit arranged between the abutting surfaces of the upper and lower mold units. The protection module comprises a posture sensing unit and a deformable protective fence. The control module is electrically connected with the buffer module and the protection module and comprises at least a controller and a sensor group. The application has the advantages of good universality and high intelligentization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automotive parts processing technology, and more specifically, to a mold frame for stamping or forming automotive parts, and in particular, to an integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame and control method. Background Technology

[0002] In the molding process of automotive parts, the mold set is one of the core pieces of equipment, and its main function is to provide a stable cavity and supporting foundation for the molding of automotive parts. With the rapid development of the automotive industry, the requirements for molding precision, production efficiency, and production safety of automotive parts are constantly increasing, and traditional automotive parts mold sets are gradually revealing many shortcomings.

[0003] Most existing automotive parts mold bases adopt a structural design where forming, buffering, and protection are independent. The buffering module is mostly located on the outside of the mold base, with limited buffering effect and unable to coordinate precisely with the forming process. This results in excessive impact force when the mold closes, which can easily cause defects such as mold core misalignment, scratches, and deformation on the surface of the parts. At the same time, it accelerates the wear of mold base components and shortens the service life of the mold base. The protection module is mostly a fixed structure with poor protection flexibility. It cannot adjust the protection status in real time according to the running posture of the mold base, and it lacks a precise posture monitoring mechanism, making it difficult to effectively prevent safety risks such as mold base overturning and accidental contact by personnel.

[0004] In addition, the existing mold bases are mostly fixed structures with fixed molding modules, which cannot quickly replace the mold cores to adapt to the production needs of different specifications of automotive parts. They have poor versatility, which leads to increased production input costs. The control of the mold bases is mostly based on manual intervention and supplemented by automated control. The level of intelligence is low, the labor intensity of workers is high, and equipment failure or part defects are easily caused by human operation errors, making it difficult to improve production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to address the problems of poor versatility and low intelligence mentioned in the background art, and provides an integrated buffer protection automotive parts mold and control method with good versatility and high intelligence.

[0006] An integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame includes a basic support module, a buffer module, a protection module, a forming module, and a control module. The basic support module includes an upper mold unit and a lower mold unit arranged opposite to each other. The molding module is mounted on the base support module and includes an upper mold core detachably mounted on the upper mold unit and a lower mold core detachably mounted on the lower mold unit, wherein a cavity for molding automotive parts is formed between the upper mold core and the lower mold core. The buffer module is integrated inside the molding module and the connecting parts, including a cavity buffer unit disposed on the cavity surface and a mold closing buffer unit disposed between the mating surfaces of the upper mold unit and the lower mold unit; The protective module is installed on the basic support module and includes an attitude sensing unit and a deformable protective fence. The control module is located beside the basic support module and is electrically connected to the buffer module and the protection module. It includes at least a controller and a sensor group.

[0007] The buffer module is integrated into the molding module and its connecting parts. It provides precise buffering during the cavity molding process, reducing part molding defects, and also buffers and protects the mold-fitting surfaces, reducing mold frame wear. The protection module, in conjunction with the control module, can sense the mold frame's posture in real time and trigger protective actions promptly, preventing safety hazards such as mold frame tipping over or accidental contact by personnel. The upper and lower mold cores of the molding module are detachable, allowing for quick mold core replacement according to different specifications and models of automotive parts without replacing the entire mold frame. This reduces production input, improves production efficiency, and adapts to the mass production needs of various automotive parts. The control module is electrically connected to the buffer and protection modules. It collects mold frame operation data in real time through a sensor array, and the controller dynamically adjusts the buffering effect and triggers protective actions, achieving precise monitoring and adaptive adjustment of the mold frame's operating status, reducing manual intervention. It does not require a large amount of additional space, facilitating the layout and turnover of the mold frame in the production workshop, achieving good versatility and a high degree of intelligence.

[0008] Preferably, the lower mold unit includes a lower mold base and guide columns vertically fixed at the four corners of the lower mold base, and the lower mold core is installed inside the lower mold base; the upper mold unit includes an upper mold base, the upper mold core is installed inside the upper mold base, and guide sleeves that slide with the guide columns are provided at the four corners of the upper mold base; the outer wall of the guide column is provided with guide grooves and scale markings. The guide columns of the lower mold unit slide with the guide sleeves of the upper mold unit to achieve precise guidance when the upper mold unit moves down to close the mold, avoiding mold offset and cavity misalignment, thereby ensuring the molding accuracy of automotive parts; the guide grooves on the outer wall of the guide columns further improve the guiding accuracy, and the scale markings make it easy for operators to visually observe the mold closing stroke and facilitate precise adjustment of the mold closing position; the guide columns are vertically fixed at the four corners of the lower mold base, which can evenly bear the pressure of the upper mold unit and prevent deformation of the lower mold base; the upper mold core and lower mold core are respectively embedded in the upper mold base and lower mold base, which are firmly installed, reduce the shaking of the mold core during the molding process, and extend the service life of the mold core and mold base.

[0009] Preferably, the molding module further includes a mold core adjustment assembly, which includes an adjustable positioning pin and an adjustable support block. The adjustable positioning pin is installed on the mating surface of the upper mold base and the lower mold base to define the mold closing position. Its adjustment range is 0-5mm, and the positioning deviation is ≤0.02mm. The adjustable support block is evenly arranged around the cavity periphery of the lower mold base at the top center of the cavity. Its height is adjustable and its upper surface matches the contour of the cavity surface to support the upper mold core. Adjustable positioning pins are installed on the mating surfaces of the upper and lower mold bases, precisely defining the mold closing position of the upper and lower mold units. Their 0-5mm adjustment range adapts to the mold closing requirements of different mold cores, with a positioning deviation ≤0.02mm, effectively preventing mold offset and cavity misalignment, ensuring the dimensional accuracy and surface quality of automotive parts. Adjustable support blocks are evenly distributed on the top of the lower mold base around the cavity. Their height is adjustable, and their upper surface matches the contour of the cavity surface, providing precise and stable support for the upper mold core. This prevents deformation and shaking of the upper mold core under molding pressure, reducing defects such as surface dents and deformation, and improving the part molding pass rate. The adjustment structure of the adjustable positioning pins and adjustable support blocks is simple and easy to operate. They can be used with detachable upper and lower mold cores to quickly complete the positioning and support adjustment during the molding of parts of different specifications, eliminating the need for complex debugging procedures and further improving production efficiency.

[0010] Preferably, the cavity buffer unit adopts a composite protective structure and is disposed on the cavity surface and sidewall of the upper and lower mold cores. The cavity buffer unit comprises, from the inside to the outside: an elastic buffer layer, the inner surface of which is fixed to the cavity surface of the upper and lower mold cores, and micro-buffered airbags are uniformly arranged inside; a wear-resistant protective layer, which is composited on the outer surface of the elastic buffer layer; and an anti-scratch coating, which is attached to the outer surface of the wear-resistant protective layer. The elastic buffer layer and the micro-buffered airbags inside can undergo elastic deformation at the moment of part molding, adaptively absorbing the micro-energy generated by the flow or impact of the blank, and preventing fatigue cracks from forming on the cavity surface; the wear-resistant protective layer provides a high-hardness molding working surface to ensure the surface quality of the part; the anti-scratch coating further reduces the coefficient of friction during demolding, preventing scratches on the mold core or part during part removal; through the three-layer composite structure, the traditional rigid contact is transformed into a composite mode of "flexible self-adaptation + rigid support", which significantly reduces the wear rate of the mold core.

[0011] Preferably, the mold closing buffer unit includes multiple buffer cylinders, a buffer piston, a return spring, and a damping adjustment valve. The buffer cylinders are fixed at the top four corners of the lower mold unit and filled with damping medium. The buffer pistons are fixed at the bottom of the upper mold unit and correspond to the buffer cylinders. The return spring is sleeved on the outside of the buffer piston, with its upper end abutting or fixedly connected to the buffer piston mounting seat at the bottom of the upper mold unit, and its lower end connected to the top end face of the buffer cylinder. The damping adjustment valve is installed at the bottom of the buffer cylinder, and an elastic protective pad is connected between the mating surfaces of the bottom of the upper mold unit and the top of the lower mold unit. During mold closing, the buffer piston compresses the damping medium in the buffer cylinder, generating hydraulic damping force to achieve primary buffering; simultaneously, the return spring is compressed, storing energy and generating secondary buffering. The two-stage buffer works synergistically to effectively absorb the impact of mold closing, making the mold closing process smooth and gentle; the flow resistance of the damping medium can be changed by the damping adjustment valve, thereby adapting to the molding process requirements of different tonnages and materials, and has strong versatility; the elastic protective pad acts as the last physical barrier to prevent damage to the mold base mating surface in the event of buffer failure or metal collision.

[0012] Preferably, the top end face of the buffer cylinder is provided with an annular spring seat, the center of which is provided with a positioning boss, into which the lower inner ring of the return spring is embedded. A spring guide sleeve is sleeved on the outer side of the piston rod of the buffer piston, and the spring guide sleeve is fixed to the top of the buffer cylinder. The annular spring seat and the positioning boss ensure the coaxiality of the return spring installation; the spring guide sleeve guides the spring throughout its compression and elongation, effectively preventing the spring from radially bending or deflecting under large compression, ensuring the uniformity of the buffering force and the stability of the piston movement, and extending the spring life.

[0013] Preferably, the attitude sensing unit includes a gyroscope and an accelerometer, installed at the bottom of the base support module. The deformable protective fence is hinged to the four edges of the base support module, and a locking mechanism is installed at the bottom of the deformable protective fence, which is electrically connected to the controller. The combination of a gyroscope and an accelerometer enables real-time monitoring of the tilt angle and vibration acceleration of the formwork, providing accurate data for determining whether the formwork is in a dangerous state (such as tilting during hoisting or collision). When the controller determines there is a risk of overturning, it can quickly control the locking mechanism to unlock. The locking mechanism is an electromagnetic locking mechanism electrically connected to the controller. When the controller sends a signal, the electromagnet is instantly energized to generate a strong magnetic force, attracting the locking tongue, compressing the spring, and retracting it, disengaging it from the latch plate. The fence springs open, allowing the protective fence to quickly unfold under gravity or spring force, forming a physical isolation barrier. This fast response effectively protects the safety of surrounding equipment and personnel.

[0014] Preferably, the sensor group includes at least one or more of a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a displacement sensor, and a vibration sensor. The pressure sensor is integrated inside the buffer cylinder, the temperature sensor is embedded inside the lower mold unit and the upper mold unit, the displacement sensor is installed at the connection between the guide column and the upper mold unit, and the vibration sensor is installed at the bottom of the foundation support module. The controller is a PLC controller, and the control module also includes a touch screen and an early warning unit. By collecting key data such as pressure, temperature, displacement, and vibration in real time through multiple sensors, comprehensive digital perception of the mold frame's working status is achieved, enabling intelligent early warning and closed-loop control: the PLC controller, as the core, can dynamically adjust the mold closing pressure and buffer damping based on sensor data using built-in algorithms (such as PID) to achieve closed-loop control; when data is abnormal, the touch screen and early warning unit (audible and visual alarm) promptly alert the operator to prevent the equipment from operating with defects, thus achieving predictive maintenance.

[0015] A control method for an integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame includes the following steps: S1. Pre-processing: Replace the upper and lower mold cores according to the part specifications, and call up the production parameters through the touch screen; the controller starts the sensor group to perform self-check, and issues an alarm through the early warning unit when the status is abnormal; S2. Mold Closing Buffer: Drives the upper mold unit to move downwards, and the displacement sensor monitors the mold closing displacement; the buffer piston contacts the buffer cylinder to generate hydraulic damping, achieving primary buffering; the return spring is compressed to generate secondary buffering; the drive stops after the mold is closed in place. S3. Molding Protection: External mechanism applies pressure, and the part is molded in the cavity; the micro-buffer airbag in the cavity buffer unit adaptively contracts to offset the molding impact; the sensor group monitors pressure, temperature and vibration data in real time, and the controller dynamically adjusts the mold closing pressure through the built-in algorithm to achieve overload protection; S4. Turnover Protection: After molding is completed, the mold frame is in the open turnover state; the attitude sensing unit detects the tilt angle θ and acceleration a of the mold frame in real time. When θ or a exceeds the preset safety threshold, the controller judges that there is a risk of overturning and immediately controls the locking mechanism of the deformable protective fence to open and lock the protective fence. S5. Demolding and Reset Stage: After the part is removed, the upper mold unit is driven to reset. After the sensor group confirms that the reset is in place, the cavity is cleaned to prepare for the next production cycle. The control method covers five stages: pretreatment, mold closing buffer, molding protection, turnover protection, and demolding reset. It covers the complete workflow of the mold frame, with smooth connection between each stage, realizing closed-loop control of the entire process, avoiding equipment failure, part defects or safety accidents caused by human operation omissions, and improving the stability and reliability of mold frame operation. The mold closing buffer stage achieves graded buffering, and the molding protection stage uses a cavity buffer unit to offset molding impact and a controller to dynamically adjust the mold closing pressure, which can effectively reduce surface defects and dimensional deviations of parts, improve the molding quality and pass rate of automotive parts, and the sensor self-check in the pre-processing stage can detect equipment failures in advance and avoid failures from affecting molding quality. During the turnover protection phase, the mold frame is opened for turnover. The mold frame's posture is monitored in real time, and protective actions are triggered in a timely manner to avoid the safety risks caused by the mold frame overturning during turnover. Throughout the process, the controller monitors the equipment status in real time and issues timely warnings when abnormalities occur, minimizing safety hazards. Each stage is automated, requiring minimal manual intervention, reducing the intensity of manual operations, shortening the production cycle, and enabling rapid parameter calls and mold core replacements in the pre-processing stage, further improving production efficiency and adapting to the needs of mass production.

[0016] Preferably, in step S2, the mold closing speed is adjusted according to the material of the part; in step S4, the preset threshold range for the tilt angle is 5° to 15°, and the locking response time of the protective fence is less than 0.1 seconds. Adjusting the mold closing speed according to the material (e.g., low speed for thin plates, medium speed for thick plates) reflects the flexibility of the process; setting the tilt threshold of 5°-15° takes into account both the slight swaying during normal lifting and the boundary of dangerous tilting; the locking response time of less than 0.1 seconds is an instantaneous reaction, enabling protection to be completed instantly in the event of an accident, maximizing safety.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: High functional integration: By setting independent basic support, forming, buffering, protection, and control modules, it breaks the limitation of traditional mold frames merely serving as carriers, achieving organic integration of forming, buffering, and safety protection; Multi-layered buffering protection: Through the cavity buffering unit integrated inside the forming module, it directly absorbs the microscopic impact of the blank on the cavity during the forming process; Combined with the mold closing buffering unit set between the mating surfaces, it absorbs the macroscopic rigid impact during mold closing, achieving all-round buffering from macro to micro, significantly improving the lifespan of the mold core and mold frame; Active safety protection: By setting up a posture sensing unit and deformable protective fence, it can monitor the posture of the mold frame in non-working states (such as turnover, hoisting) in real time, and actively deploy protection in dangerous situations such as tilting to prevent personnel injury or equipment damage; Intelligent control: The control module enables precise and automated control of the buffering effect and protective actions, providing a hardware foundation for digital workshops and intelligent manufacturing; It achieves the goals of good versatility and high level of intelligence. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a side view of the lower mold unit structure; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the top end face of the lower mold unit; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the composite protective structure of the cavity buffer unit; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the location of the mold closing buffer unit; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the mold closing buffer unit. Figure 7 This is a bottom view of the basic support module; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the location of the elastic protective pad.

[0019] The components include: 1. Basic support module; 11. Upper mold unit; 111. Upper mold base; 112. Guide sleeve; 12. Lower mold unit; 121. Lower mold base; 122. Guide column; 1221. Guide groove; 1222. Scale marking; 13. Elastic protective pad; 2. Molding module; 21. Upper mold core; 22. Lower mold core; 23. Cavity; 24. Adjustable positioning pin; 25. Adjustable support block; 3. Buffer module; 31. Cavity buffer unit; 311. Elastic buffer layer; 312. Wear-resistant protective layer; 313. Scratch-resistant coating; 32. ... 321. Buffer unit; 322. Buffer cylinder; 323. Buffer piston; 324. Return spring; 325. Damping adjustment valve; 326. Spring seat; 327. Positioning boss; 328. Spring guide sleeve; 4. Protection module; 41. Attitude sensing unit; 411. Gyroscope; 412. Accelerometer; 42. Deformable protective fence; 43. Locking mechanism; 5. Control module; 51. Controller; 52. Pressure sensor; 53. Temperature sensor; 54. Displacement sensor; 55. Vibration sensor; 56. Display screen; 57. Early warning unit. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

[0021] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer" and "vertical" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0022] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; or they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0023] Furthermore, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "multiple", "multiple groups", and "multiple roots" mean two or more.

[0024] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments; like Figure 1 As shown, an integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame includes a basic support module 1, a molding module 2, a buffer module 3, a protection module 4, and a control module 5. The basic support module 1 includes an upper mold unit 11 and a lower mold unit 12 that are arranged opposite to each other; The molding module 2 is mounted on the base support module 1 and includes an upper mold core 21 detachably mounted on the upper mold unit 11 and a lower mold core 22 detachably mounted on the lower mold unit 12. A cavity 23 for molding automotive parts is formed between the upper mold core 21 and the lower mold core 22. The buffer module 3 is integrated inside the molding module 2 and the connecting part, including the cavity buffer unit 31 disposed on the surface of the cavity 23 and the mold closing buffer unit 32 disposed between the mating surfaces of the upper mold unit 11 and the lower mold unit 12; The protective module 4 is installed on the basic support module 1, including the attitude sensing unit 41 and the deformable protective fence 42; The control module 5 is located beside the basic support module 1. The control module 5 is electrically connected to the buffer module 3 and the protection module 4, and includes at least a controller 51 and a sensor group.

[0025] The lower mold unit 12 includes a lower mold base 121 and guide columns 122 vertically fixed at the four corners of the lower mold base 121. The lower mold core 22 is installed inside the lower mold base 121. The upper mold unit 11 includes an upper mold base 111, an upper mold core 21 is installed inside the upper mold base 111, and guide sleeves 112 that slide with guide columns 122 are provided at the four corners of the upper mold base 111. like Figure 2 As shown, the outer wall of the guide column 122 is provided with a guide groove 1221 and a scale mark 1222.

[0026] like Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the molding module 2 also includes a mold core adjustment assembly, which includes an adjustable positioning pin 24 and an adjustable support block 25. The adjustable positioning pin 24 is installed on the mating side of the upper mold base 111 and the lower mold base 121 to limit the mold closing position. Its adjustment range is 0-5mm and the positioning deviation is ≤0.02mm. The adjustable support block 25 is evenly arranged around the cavity 23 on the top center of the lower mold base 121. Its height is adjustable and its upper surface matches the contour of the cavity surface to support the upper mold core 21.

[0027] The cavity buffer unit 31 adopts a composite protection structure and is disposed on the cavity surface and sidewall of the upper mold core 21 and the lower mold core 22. The cavity buffer unit 31 includes, from the inside to the outside: like Figure 4 As shown, the elastic buffer layer 311 has its inner surface fixed to the cavity surfaces of the upper mold core 21 and the lower mold core 22, and micro buffer airbags are evenly arranged inside. A wear-resistant protective layer 312 is laminated onto the outer surface of the elastic buffer layer 311; Scratch-resistant coating 313 is attached to the outer surface of wear-resistant protective layer 312.

[0028] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the mold closing buffer unit 32 includes multiple buffer cylinders 321, buffer pistons 322, return springs 323 and damping adjustment valves 324. The buffer cylinders 321 are fixed at the top four corners of the lower mold unit 12 and are filled with damping medium. The buffer pistons 322 are fixed at the bottom of the upper mold unit 11 and cooperate with the buffer cylinders 321 one by one. The reset spring 323 is sleeved on the outside of the buffer piston 322, with its upper end abutting against or fixedly connected to the buffer piston mounting seat at the bottom of the upper mold unit 11, and its lower end connected to the top end face of the buffer cylinder 321. Damping adjustment valve 324 is installed at the bottom of buffer cylinder 321, such as Figure 8 As shown, an elastic protective pad 13 is also connected between the mating surfaces of the bottom of the upper mold unit 11 and the top of the lower mold unit 12.

[0029] The top end face of the buffer cylinder 321 is provided with an annular spring seat 325. The center of the spring seat 325 is provided with a positioning boss 326, which is embedded in the lower inner ring of the reset spring 323. The piston rod of the buffer piston 322 is sleeved with a spring guide sleeve 327, which is fixed to the top of the buffer cylinder 321.

[0030] like Figure 7As shown, the attitude sensing unit 41 includes a gyroscope 411 and an accelerometer 412, which are installed at the bottom of the base support module 1. The deformable protective fence 42 is hinged to the four edges of the base support module 1. A locking mechanism 43 is installed at the bottom of the deformable protective fence 42, and the locking mechanism 43 is electrically connected to the controller 51.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the sensor group includes at least one or more of the following: pressure sensor 52, temperature sensor 53, displacement sensor 54, and vibration sensor 55. Figure 5 As shown, the pressure sensor 52 is integrated inside the buffer cylinder 321, and the temperature sensor 53 is embedded inside the lower mold unit 12 and the upper mold unit 11, as shown. Figure 1 As shown, displacement sensor 54 is installed at the connection between guide column 122 and upper mold unit 11, vibration sensor 55 is installed at the bottom of foundation support module 1, controller 51 is PCL controller, and control module 5 also includes touch screen display 56 and early warning unit 57.

[0032] A control method for an integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame includes the following steps: S1. Pre-processing: Replace the upper mold core 21 and lower mold core 22 according to the part specifications, and call the production parameters through the touch screen 56; the controller 51 starts the sensor group to perform self-check, and issues an alarm through the early warning unit 57 when the status is abnormal. S2. Mold Closing Buffer: Drive the upper mold unit 11 to move downward, and the displacement sensor 54 monitors the mold closing displacement; the buffer piston 322 contacts the buffer cylinder 321 to generate hydraulic damping, realizing the first-level buffer; the return spring 323 is compressed to generate the second-level buffer; the drive stops after the mold is closed in place. S3. Molding Protection: When pressure is applied by an external mechanism, the part is molded in the cavity 23; the miniature buffer airbag in the cavity buffer unit 31 adaptively contracts to offset the molding impact; the sensor group monitors pressure, temperature and vibration data in real time, and the controller 51 dynamically adjusts the mold closing pressure through the built-in algorithm to achieve overload protection; S4. Turnover protection: After molding is completed, the mold frame is in the open turnover state; the attitude sensing unit 41 detects the tilt angle θ and acceleration a of the mold frame in real time. When θ or a exceeds the preset safety threshold, the controller 51 judges that there is a risk of overturning and immediately controls the locking mechanism 43 of the deformable protective fence 42 to move, so that the protective fence 42 unfolds and locks. S5. Demolding and Reset Stage: After the part is removed, the upper mold unit 11 is driven to reset. After the sensor group confirms that the reset is in place, the cavity 23 is cleaned to prepare for the next production.

[0033] In step S2, the mold closing speed is adjusted according to the material of the part; in step S4, the preset threshold range of the tilt angle is 5° to 15°, and the locking response time of the protective fence 42 is less than 0.1 seconds.

[0034] Working principle: Preparation phase: Based on the production task, the mold cores (upper mold core 21 and lower mold core 22) are precisely fine-tuned using adjustable positioning pins 24 and adjustable support blocks 25 to ensure mold closing accuracy. Production parameters are set via the touch display screen 56, and the controller 51 initiates a self-test program, checking the equipment status through various sensors.

[0035] Mold closing stage: An external press drives the upper mold unit 11 downwards along the guide column 122. The displacement sensor 54 monitors the downward speed and position in real time. When the buffer piston 322 enters the buffer cylinder 321, the compression damping medium generates damping force (first-stage buffering), and at the same time, the return spring 323 is compressed (second-stage buffering). The two-stage buffering works together to smoothly decelerate the upper mold unit 11 until it closes in place. During the mold closing process, the elastic protective pad 13 prevents rigid collisions between the upper mold base 111 and the lower mold base 121.

[0036] Molding Stage: The press applies working pressure, and the blank flows and is formed in the cavity 23. At this time, the elastic buffer layer 311 of the cavity buffer unit 31 and its internal micro-buffer airbags undergo micro-elastic deformation, absorbing the impact and vibration during molding and protecting the precision surfaces of the upper mold core 21 and the lower mold core 22. Simultaneously, the pressure sensor 52 and the temperature sensor 53 monitor the clamping force and mold temperature in real time and feed the data back to the controller 51. If the pressure rises abnormally, the controller 51 dynamically adjusts the clamping pressure by adjusting the damping regulating valve 324 or sending a signal to the press to achieve overload protection.

[0037] Turnover Stage: After molding is completed, the upper mold unit 11 moves upward to open the mold, and the mold frame is in the open state in preparation for hoisting and turnover. At this time, the attitude sensing unit 41 monitors the tilt angle θ and acceleration a of the mold frame in real time. If the mold frame tilts beyond the preset threshold (e.g., 10°) or shakes violently due to improper hoisting, the controller 51 judges that there is a risk of overturning and sends a command to the locking mechanism 43 instantly (<0.1 seconds) to make the deformable protective fence 42 quickly unfold and lock, forming a physical protection circle to prevent personnel from entering the dangerous area or to prevent parts from slipping and injuring people.

[0038] Reset Phase: After the part is removed, the upper mold unit 11 is driven to reset to its initial position. After the sensor group confirms that all components are reset in place, the system cleans the cavity 23 and prepares for the next production cycle. Example 1

[0039] This embodiment provides a control method based on the mold frame described in Embodiment 1, and the specific steps are as follows.

[0040] S1. Pre-processing: The operator replaces the corresponding upper mold core 21 and lower mold core 22 according to the specifications of the automotive part to be produced (such as the inner door panel). The production parameters matching the part (such as mold closing speed, buffer pressure threshold, etc.) are called up through the touch screen 56. The controller 51 starts the sensor group to perform self-test. If the displacement sensor 54 is found to have an excessive calibration deviation or the temperature sensor 53 is unresponsive, the warning unit 57 will issue an audible and visual alarm to prompt maintenance.

[0041] S2. Mold Closing Buffer: Controller 51 controls the press to drive the upper mold unit 11 downwards. Displacement sensor 54 monitors the mold closing displacement in real time. In this step, the mold closing speed is adjusted according to the material of the part (e.g., high-strength steel), using low-speed mold closing to avoid impact. During the mold closing process, hydraulic damping is first generated by the buffer piston 322 and the hydraulic oil in the buffer cylinder 321 to achieve primary buffering; then the return spring 323 is compressed to store energy, achieving secondary buffering. After the displacement sensor 54 detects that the mold is in place, controller 51 issues a command to stop the drive.

[0042] S3. Molding Protection: The press applies molding pressure, and the blank is stamped in the cavity 23. The miniature buffer airbags in the cavity buffer unit 31 adaptively contract, effectively offsetting the impact during molding. During this process, the pressure sensor 52 monitors the oil pressure in the buffer cylinder 321 in real time, the temperature sensor 53 monitors the temperature of the upper mold core 21 and the lower mold core 22, and the vibration sensor 55 monitors the vibration of the equipment. The controller 51 uses a built-in PID algorithm to fine-tune the mold closing pressure according to pressure fluctuations, ensuring constant pressure and achieving overload protection. When the temperature sensor 53 detects that the temperature exceeds the set value, the warning unit 57 prompts to check the cooling system.

[0043] S4. Turnover Protection: After molding is completed, the mold frame is opened, ready to be transferred to the next workstation by crane. The attitude sensing unit 41 (gyroscope 411 + accelerometer 412) detects the tilt angle θ and acceleration a of the mold frame in real time. In this embodiment, the preset tilt safety threshold is 10°. When the mold frame shakes during hoisting, causing the tilt angle to reach 10° or the acceleration a to change abruptly, the controller 51 determines that there is a risk of overturning within 0.08 seconds, and immediately controls the locking mechanism 43 of the deformable protective fence 42 to move, so that the protective fence 42 instantly unfolds and locks, and at the same time triggers an audible and visual alarm (early warning unit 57) to remind the crane operator to pay attention.

[0044] S5. Demolding and Reset Stage: After the part is removed by the robot arm, the controller 51 drives the upper mold unit 11 to move upward and reset. The displacement sensor 54 confirms that the upper mold unit 11 has returned to the origin, and the temperature sensor 53 confirms that the temperature of the upper mold core 21 and the lower mold core 22 has dropped to a safe range. Then, the system prompts to clean the cavity 23 and prepare for the next production cycle. Example 2

[0045] This embodiment supplements the structure of the adjustable positioning pin 24 based on embodiment 1. The adjustable positioning pin 24 adopts an eccentric pin structure. By rotating the eccentric pin, its radial position can be finely adjusted, thereby achieving precise adjustment of the relative position of the upper mold base 111 and the lower mold base 121, with an adjustment accuracy of up to 0.01mm. Example 3

[0046] This embodiment describes an alternative structure for the deformable protective fence 42 based on Embodiment 1. The deformable protective fence 42 is not limited to a hinged folding type; it can also employ a flexible roller shutter structure. Specifically, a retractor is installed around the frame, and a high-strength Kevlar protective net is wound up inside. When the controller 51 issues a command, the locking mechanism 43 releases, the counterweight falls, or the spring mechanism actuates, quickly pulling the protective net out of the retractor and tensioning it to form a protective barrier.

[0047] Finally, it should be noted that the above specific embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications and equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention, and all such modifications and substitutions should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A buffer and protection integrated automotive parts mold frame, comprising a basic support module (1), a molding module (2), a buffer module (3), a protection module (4), and a control module (5), characterized in that, The basic support module (1) includes an upper mold unit (11) and a lower mold unit (12) arranged opposite to each other. The molding module (2) is mounted on the base support module (1) and includes an upper mold core (21) detachably mounted on the upper mold unit (11) and a lower mold core (22) detachably mounted on the lower mold unit (12), wherein a cavity (23) for molding automotive parts is formed between the upper mold core (21) and the lower mold core (22). The buffer module (3) is integrated inside the molding module (2) and the connection part, including a cavity buffer unit (31) disposed on the surface of the cavity (23) and a mold closing buffer unit (32) disposed between the mating surfaces of the upper mold unit (11) and the lower mold unit (12). The protective module (4) is installed on the basic support module (1) and includes an attitude sensing unit (41) and a deformable protective fence (42). The control module (5) is located on the side of the basic support module (1). The control module (5) is electrically connected to the buffer module (3) and the protection module (4), and includes at least a controller (51) and a sensor group.

2. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower mold unit (12) includes a lower mold base (121) and guide columns (122) vertically fixed at the four corners of the lower mold base (121). The lower mold core (22) is installed inside the lower mold base (121). The upper mold unit (11) includes an upper mold base (111), the upper mold core (21) is installed in the upper mold base (111), and the four corners of the upper mold base (111) are provided with guide sleeves (112) that slide in cooperation with the guide column (122). The outer wall of the guide column (122) is provided with a guide groove (1221) and a scale mark (1222).

3. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The molding module (2) also includes a mold core adjustment assembly, which includes an adjustable positioning pin (24) and an adjustable support block (25). The adjustable positioning pin (24) is installed on the mating side of the upper mold base (111) and the lower mold base (121) to limit the mold closing position. Its adjustment range is 0-5mm and the positioning deviation is ≤0.02mm. The adjustable support block (25) is evenly arranged around the cavity (23) at the top center of the lower mold base (121). Its height is adjustable and its upper surface matches the contour of the cavity surface to support the upper mold core (21).

4. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cavity buffer unit (31) adopts a composite protection structure and is disposed on the cavity surface and sidewall of the upper mold core (21) and the lower mold core (22). The cavity buffer unit (31) includes, from the inside to the outside: An elastic buffer layer (311) is fixed to the cavity surfaces of the upper mold core (21) and the lower mold core (22) on its inner surface, and micro buffer airbags are uniformly arranged inside. A wear-resistant protective layer (312) is laminated onto the outer surface of the elastic buffer layer (311); A scratch-resistant coating (313) is attached to the outer surface of the abrasion-resistant protective layer (312).

5. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 4, characterized in that, The mold closing buffer unit (32) includes multiple buffer cylinders (321), buffer pistons (322), return springs (323) and damping adjustment valves (324). The buffer cylinders (321) are fixed at the top four corners of the lower mold unit (12) and are filled with damping medium. The buffer pistons (322) are fixed at the bottom of the upper mold unit (11) and cooperate with the buffer cylinders (321) one by one. The reset spring (323) is sleeved on the outside of the buffer piston (322), with its upper end abutting against or fixedly connected to the buffer piston mounting seat at the bottom of the upper mold unit (11), and its lower end connected to the top end face of the buffer cylinder (321). The damping regulating valve (324) is installed at the bottom of the buffer cylinder (321), and an elastic protective pad (13) is connected between the mating surfaces of the bottom of the upper mold unit (11) and the top of the lower mold unit (12).

6. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 5, characterized in that, The top end face of the buffer cylinder (321) is provided with an annular spring seat (325). The center of the spring seat (325) is provided with a positioning boss (326) which is embedded in the lower inner ring of the reset spring (323). The piston rod of the buffer piston (322) is sleeved with a spring guide sleeve (327), which is fixed to the top of the buffer cylinder (321).

7. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The attitude sensing unit (41) includes a gyroscope (411) and an accelerometer (412), which are installed at the bottom of the base support module (1). The deformable protective fence (42) is hinged to the four edges of the base support module (1). A locking mechanism (43) is installed at the bottom of the deformable protective fence (42), and the locking mechanism (43) is electrically connected to the controller (51).

8. The integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor group includes at least one or more of the following: pressure sensor (52), temperature sensor (53), displacement sensor (54), and vibration sensor (55). The pressure sensor (52) is integrated inside the buffer cylinder (321). The temperature sensor (53) is embedded inside the lower mold unit (12) and the upper mold unit (11). The displacement sensor (54) is installed at the connection between the guide column (122) and the upper mold unit (11). The vibration sensor (55) is installed at the bottom of the foundation support module (1). The controller (51) is a PCL controller. The control module (5) also includes a touch screen (56) and an early warning unit (57).

9. The control method for an integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Pre-processing: Replace the upper mold core (21) and lower mold core (22) according to the part specifications, and call the production parameters through the touch screen (56); the controller (51) starts the sensor group to perform self-test, and issues an alarm through the early warning unit (57) when the status is abnormal; S2. Mold closing buffer: Drive the upper mold unit (11) to move down, and the displacement sensor (54) monitors the mold closing displacement; the buffer piston (322) contacts the buffer cylinder (321) to generate hydraulic damping, realizing the first-level buffer; the return spring (323) is compressed to generate the second-level buffer; the drive stops after the mold is closed in place. S3. Molding protection: The external mechanism applies pressure and the part is formed in the cavity (23); the micro buffer airbag in the cavity buffer unit (31) shrinks adaptively to offset the molding impact; the sensor group monitors the pressure, temperature and vibration data in real time, and the controller (51) dynamically adjusts the mold closing pressure through the built-in algorithm to achieve overload protection; S4. Turnover protection: After molding is completed, the mold frame is in the open turnover state; the attitude sensing unit (41) detects the tilt angle θ and acceleration a of the mold frame in real time. When θ or a exceeds the preset safety threshold, the controller (51) judges that there is a risk of overturning and immediately controls the locking mechanism (43) of the deformable protective fence (42) to move, so that the protective fence (42) unfolds and locks. S5. Demolding and Reset Stage: After the part is removed, drive the upper mold unit (11) to reset. After the sensor group confirms that the reset is in place, clean the cavity (23) and prepare for the next production.

10. The control method for an integrated buffer and protection automotive parts mold frame according to claim 9, characterized in that, In step S2, the mold closing speed is adjusted according to the material of the part; in step S4, the preset threshold range of the tilt angle is 5° to 15°, and the locking response time of the protective fence (42) is less than 0.1 seconds.

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