Conveying device and production line

Abstract

This application relates to the field of conveying device technology, and discloses a conveying device and production line, including a mounting frame, a first guide rail, a carrying mechanism, and a driving mechanism. The mounting frame has a clearance opening and is equipped with transfer stations. The first guide rail includes a lifting section, a lateral section, and a curved section. The lifting section and the lateral section are arranged around the clearance opening and connected by the curved section. Multiple carrying mechanisms are spaced apart along the first guide rail. The driving mechanism is connected to the carrying mechanisms and is used to drive the carrying mechanisms to move along the first guide rail to each transfer station. The clearance opening can be used to avoid pedestrian and material flow routes. The transfer stations on both sides of the clearance opening can be used to connect different conveyor lines. Multiple carrying mechanisms moving along the first guide rail can transport materials between different transfer stations. Material transfer between different conveyor lines can be realized at the transfer stations. By transferring the carrying mechanisms and the materials on them through the first guide rail, continuous transfer between different conveyor lines can be achieved, which is beneficial to improving production efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of conveying device technology, and in particular to a conveying device and production line. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, multiple conveyor lines are typically connected by transfer trolleys moving along preset routes to transfer materials between different conveyor lines. However, the transfer efficiency of these trolleys is low and difficult to adapt to continuous production scheduling. Other technologies use bridge conveyors to directly connect two lines, which involves setting up bridging lines on the ground to connect different conveyor lines. While this enables rapid material flow between different conveyor lines, the bridging lines occupy ground space, block personnel and material flow channels, require additional detour planning, and increase the difficulty of production line layout and space occupation costs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a conveying device and production line that effectively solves the problem of difficult material transfer between different conveyor lines.

[0004] In a first aspect, the conveying device according to an embodiment of this application includes a mounting frame, a first guide rail, a carrying mechanism, and a driving mechanism; the mounting frame has a clearance opening, and on both sides of the clearance opening, the lower end of the mounting frame is provided with a transfer station; the first guide rail is connected to the mounting frame, and the first guide rail includes a lifting section, a lateral section, and a curved section, the lifting section extending vertically, the lateral section extending horizontally, the lifting section and the lateral section being arranged around the clearance opening, the lifting section extending to the corresponding transfer station, and the lifting section and the lateral section being connected through the curved section; the first guide rail includes the lifting section and the lateral section arranged in parallel at intervals, a set of lifting sections arranged in parallel at intervals at both ends of a set of lateral sections arranged in parallel at intervals, and the lower end of the set of lifting sections arranged in parallel at intervals is connected to the curved section; a plurality of carrying mechanisms are arranged at intervals along the first guide rail, and the carrying mechanisms are movably connected to the first guide rail; the driving mechanism is connected to the carrying mechanism and is used to drive the carrying mechanism to move along the first guide rail to each of the transfer stations.

[0005] According to some embodiments of the present application, the conveying device further includes a second guide rail, which includes multiple track portions located inside or outside the curved section and connected to the mounting frame. The carrying mechanism includes a carrying member, a connecting member, and an adjusting component. The connecting member is movably connected to the first guide rail, and the adjusting component is connected to the connecting member and the carrying member. The adjusting component cooperates with the track portions to drive the carrying member to rotate relative to the connecting member when the connecting member moves along the curved section, and to maintain the carrying member in a preset posture during the movement of the connecting member along the curved section and when entering the transverse section. The driving mechanism is connected to the connecting member and is used to drive the connecting member to move the carrying member along the first guide rail to each of the transfer stations.

[0006] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the track portion has an arc-shaped segment, the bending direction of the arc-shaped segment being consistent with the bending direction of the curved segment.

[0007] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the adjusting component includes a connecting shaft and a follower. The connecting shaft is rotatably connected to the connecting member, one end of the connecting shaft is connected to the follower, and the other end is connected to the carrier member. When the connecting member moves to the curved section, the follower engages with the arc-shaped section. When the connecting member moves along the curved section, the follower moves along the arc-shaped section and drives the connecting shaft to rotate, thereby causing the carrier member to rotate.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the follower includes a mounting member and a plurality of rollers. The mounting member is connected to one end of the connecting shaft facing away from the carrier member. The rollers are rotatably connected to the mounting member. The plurality of rollers are spaced apart and rotatably connected to the mounting member. The track portion has two arc-shaped segments, the two ends of which are a first end and a second end, respectively. The distance between the two arc-shaped segments gradually decreases from the first end to the second end. When the connecting member moves to the curved segment, each roller contacts and guides the first end of the corresponding arc-shaped segment. During the movement of the connecting member along the curved segment, each roller rolls along the corresponding arc-shaped segment, and the relative position change between at least two rollers drives the connecting shaft to rotate, thereby driving the carrier member to rotate to the preset posture.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the follower further includes at least two positioning wheels, which are arranged in a direction intersecting the line connecting the rollers, and the positioning wheels are rotatably connected to the mounting member; the second guide rail further includes a positioning wall, which is connected to the track portion and located between the first ends of the two arc-shaped segments; when the connecting member moves to the curved segment, the positioning wheel contacts the positioning wall to align the rollers with the first ends.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the second guide rail further includes a guide rail, the side portions of the lifting section and the transverse section are respectively provided with the guide rail, adjacent guide rails are connected by the rail portion, and the guide rail is connected to the mounting frame; when the connecting member moves along the lifting section or the transverse section, the adjusting component moves along the guide rail to keep the carrier in the preset posture.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the connecting member includes a base, a connecting seat and a plurality of guide wheels, the guide wheels are rotatably connected to the base, the plurality of guide wheels are spaced apart to form a guide channel, the first guide rail passes through the guide channel, the connecting seat is connected to the base, and the driving mechanism is connected to the connecting seat.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the driving mechanism includes a driving member, a transmission wheel, and a conveying member. The transmission wheel is rotatably connected to the mounting frame and is spaced apart around the clearance opening. The conveying member is wound around the transmission wheel and arranged along the first guide rail. The driving member is connected to one of the transmission wheels and is used to drive the transmission wheel to rotate so as to move the conveying member. The bearing mechanism is driven by the conveying member to move along the first guide rail.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present application, the conveying device further includes guide members, at least one of the transverse sections having guide members on both sides, the guide members being connected to the mounting frame, and the guide members being located between the conveying member and the curved section connected to the transverse section.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the conveying device of this application, the mounting frame includes a connecting frame and a plurality of support frames. The support frames extend vertically, and the plurality of support frames are spaced apart horizontally. The connecting frame is connected to the upper end of two adjacent support frames. The two adjacent support frames and the connecting frame together form the clearance opening. The lower end of the support frame is provided with the transfer station. The support frame is connected to the lifting section, and the connecting frame is connected to the transverse section.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present application, the conveying device further includes a protective cover, which together with the mounting frame forms a conveying channel, and the first guide rail and the carrying mechanism are located within the conveying channel; the protective cover has an opening at a corresponding position of the transfer station, and the opening communicates with the conveying channel; when the carrying mechanism moves to the transfer station, the carrying mechanism is opposite to the opening.

[0016] Secondly, the production line of this application embodiment includes multiple conveyor lines and the conveying device of the aforementioned first aspect embodiment; the mounting frame is arranged vertically, the mounting frame is provided with multiple transfer stations, and there is a clearance between two adjacent transfer stations; multiple conveyor lines are arranged horizontally, the conveyor lines are provided with docking stations, and each docking station docks with one of the transfer stations; a transfer device is provided on the side of the docking station and the transfer station, the transfer device is used to transfer materials between the transfer station and the docking station.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present application, the production line further includes a controller communicatively connected to the drive mechanism, the transfer device, and the conveyor line; the controller is configured to control the conveyor line to convey materials at a first cycle and to control the drive mechanism to drive the carrier mechanism to move at a second cycle, and to match the first cycle and the second cycle with each other; the controller is also configured to control the transfer device to transfer materials between the carrier mechanism and the docking station when the carrier mechanism moves to the transfer station.

[0018] The conveying device and production line of this application embodiment have at least the following beneficial effects: the mounting frame of the conveying device has a clearance opening, which can be used to avoid pedestrian and material flow routes. The transfer stations on both sides of the clearance opening can be used to connect different conveying lines. Multiple carrying mechanisms can move along the first guide rail to transport materials between different transfer stations. When the conveying device is used to connect multiple conveying lines, material transfer between different conveying lines can be realized at the transfer stations. The carrying mechanisms and the materials on them are transferred through the first guide rail, realizing continuous transfer between different conveying lines, which is conducive to improving production efficiency.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a conveying device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of part A in the diagram; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first guide rail and the second guide rail in one embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a conveying device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of section B in the diagram; Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the bearing mechanism in one embodiment of this application; Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic cross-section of the plane along the axis of the connecting shaft; Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the connector in one embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a drive mechanism according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a protective cover according to an embodiment of this application.

[0021] Figure label: Mounting bracket 100; 110 clearance opening; 120 transfer station; 130 connecting frame; 140 support frame; First guide rail 200; lifting section 210; lateral section 220; bending section 230; Second guide rail 300; track section 320; arc segment 321; first end 322; second end 323; positioning wall 330; guide rail 340; Bearing mechanism 400; bearing component 410; connector 420; base 421; connecting seat 422; guide wheel 423; guide channel 424; adjusting assembly 430; connecting shaft 431; follower 432; mounting component 4321; roller 4322; positioning wheel 4323; Drive mechanism 500; drive component 510; transmission wheel 520; transmission component 530; Guide component 600; Protective cover 700; opening 710. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The following will clearly and completely describe the concept and technical effects of this application in conjunction with embodiments, so as to fully understand the purpose, features and effects of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are all within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In the description of the embodiments of this application, if directional descriptions are involved, such as "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right" etc., indicating the directional or positional relationship based on the directional or positional relationship shown in the drawings, it is only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or device referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0024] In the description of the embodiments of this application, if a feature is referred to as "setting," "fixing," "connecting," or "installing" on another feature, it can be directly set, fixed, or connected to the other feature, or it can be indirectly set, fixed, connected, or installed on the other feature. In the description of the embodiments of this application, if "several" is involved, it means one or more; if "multiple" is involved, it means two or more; if "greater than," "less than," or "exceeds," it should be understood as excluding the stated number; if "above," "below," or "within," it should be understood as including the stated number. If "first" or "second" is involved, it should be understood as used to distinguish technical features, and not as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features or the order of the indicated technical features.

[0025] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The conveying device in this embodiment includes a mounting frame 100, a first guide rail 200, a supporting mechanism 400, and a driving mechanism 500. The mounting frame 100 supports the overall structure, the first guide rail 200 is connected to the mounting frame 100, the supporting mechanism 400 carries materials, the supporting mechanism 400 is disposed on the first guide rail 200 and can move along the guide rail, and the driving mechanism 500 is connected to the supporting mechanism 400 and drives it to reciprocate along the first guide rail 200.

[0026] The mounting bracket 100 has a clearance opening 110, and a first guide rail 200 surrounds the clearance opening 110. Therefore, the carrying mechanism 400 can move along the first guide rail 200 to bypass the clearance opening 110 for material conveying. During use, the clearance opening 110 can be used to avoid obstacles below or to provide a passage for people, materials, and other collaborative equipment.

[0027] On both sides of the clearance opening 110, the lower end of the mounting frame 100 can be provided with transfer stations 120. When the conveying device is used to connect with the conveyor line, the transfer stations 120 are used to connect with the conveyor line. During the movement of the carrying mechanism 400 along the first guide rail 200, it will pass through the transfer stations 120 on both sides of the clearance opening 110. Material transfer (such as loading and unloading) operations can be completed at the transfer stations 120 without the need for additional dedicated transfer space, which can reduce the overall footprint of the device.

[0028] The first guide rail 200 includes a lifting section 210, a lateral section 220, and a bending section 230. The lifting section 210 extends vertically, and the lateral section 220 extends horizontally. The lifting section 210 and the lateral section 220 surround the clearance opening 110 and are connected by the bending section 230. Therefore, the lifting mechanism 400 can lift and lower the material by moving along the lifting section 210. The lifting section 210 extends to the transfer station 120. When the lifting mechanism 400 moves to the transfer station 120, it can be aligned with the connected conveyor line, which facilitates the transfer of the material. The curved section 230 smoothly connects the lifting section 210 and the transverse section 220 to ensure the continuous movement trajectory. The lifting mechanism 400 can achieve the horizontal displacement of the material by moving along the transverse section 220, so that the lifting mechanism 400 and the material it carries can bypass the avoidance opening 110 and be transported to another lifting section 210 and then to another transfer station 120, so that it can be connected with another conveyor line to realize the cross-line transfer of the material.

[0029] Thus, the first guide rail 200, through the lifting section 210, bending section 230, and lateral movement section 220, forms a conveying path around the avoidance opening 110, avoiding the routes of pedestrian flow, material flow, or collaborative equipment. The transfer stations 120 on both sides of the avoidance opening 110 can be used to connect to different conveyor lines. When the carrying mechanism 400 moves along the first guide rail 200, it can smoothly switch between horizontal lateral movement and vertical lifting through the bending section 230. When the carrying mechanism 400 moves to the transfer station 120 at the lower end of the lifting section 210, it can temporarily stop at the transfer station 120 for material transfer. Then, it moves upward along the lifting section 210, turns into the lateral movement section 220 through the bending section 230, bypasses the avoidance opening 110, and is conveyed to the other side of the lifting section 210, arriving at another transfer station 120 for material transfer with another conveyor line. Therefore, there is no need to set up additional lifting mechanisms for different conveyor lines, which simplifies the overall structure, ensures the continuity of the movement of the carrying mechanism 400, and improves the efficiency of material conveying.

[0030] Multiple carrier mechanisms 400 are spaced apart along the first guide rail 200, and each carrier mechanism 400 is movably connected to the first guide rail 200. A drive mechanism 500 is connected to the carrier mechanism 400 and is used to drive each carrier mechanism 400 to move along the first guide rail 200. When one of the carrier mechanisms 400 stops at the transfer station 120 and completes the material transfer (e.g., loading or unloading operation), it continues to transport along the first guide rail 200 so that the next carrier mechanism 400 can move to the transfer station 120 to continue the material transfer operation, adapting to the production needs of continuous operation.

[0031] Taking the connection of a conveying device to two conveyor lines as an example, the conveying device connects to the conveyor lines through two transfer stations 120 on both sides of the clearance opening 110. For example, the first transfer station 120 connects to the first conveyor line, and the second transfer station 120 connects to the second conveyor line. The first conveyor line conveys materials to the first transfer station 120 of the conveying device. After the materials arrive, the carrying mechanism 400 stops at the first transfer station 120 to transfer the materials on the first conveyor line to the carrying mechanism 400. The carrying mechanism 400 that has received the materials rises along the lifting section 210, making room for the first transfer station 120 so that the next carrying mechanism 400 can stop. The carrying mechanism 400 that has received the materials turns into the transverse section 220 through the bending section 230, goes around the clearance opening 110 and goes down to another lifting section 210, and arrives at the second transfer station 120 to stop, so that the materials can be unloaded to the second conveyor line, completing the cross-line transfer.

[0032] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the first guide rail 200 includes spaced-apart lifting sections 210 and spaced-apart lateral sections 220. For example, two lifting sections 210 are spaced apart and located side-by-side on one side of the clearance opening 110, forming a set of spaced-apart lifting sections 210. Two lateral sections 220 are spaced apart and located side-by-side on the other side of the clearance opening 110, forming a set of spaced-apart lateral sections 220. Each end of the set of spaced-apart lateral sections 220 is provided with a set of spaced-apart lifting sections 210. The lower end of the set of spaced-apart lifting sections 210 is connected to a curved section 230. The two ends of each lateral section 220 are connected to the lifting section 210 through the curved section 230, thereby forming a closed-loop cyclic conveying path. This allows the carrying mechanism 400 to circulate between the transfer stations 120. Multiple carrying mechanisms 400 can operate synchronously on different lifting sections 210 and lateral sections 220, increasing the material transfer frequency per unit time.

[0033] Taking the connection of the conveying device with two conveying lines as an example, the closed-loop path supports the continuous reciprocating motion of the carrying mechanism 400 between the first transfer station 120 and the second transfer station 120. After the carrying mechanism 400 completes the loading and unloading operation at the second transfer station 120, it can return to the first transfer station 120 along the closed-loop path without the need for an additional return structure. This further simplifies the overall structure of the device and reduces production and manufacturing costs.

[0034] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, the mounting frame 100 may include a connecting frame 130 and a plurality of support frames 140. The support frames 140 extend vertically and the plurality of support frames 140 are spaced apart horizontally. The connecting frame 130 is connected to the upper end of two adjacent support frames 140. In some cases, the support frames 140 and the connecting frame 130 are detachably connected to facilitate transportation and on-site assembly.

[0035] Two adjacent support frames 140 and connecting frames 130 together form a clearance opening 110, thus realizing the structure of the vertical mounting frame 100. A transfer station 120 is provided at the lower end of the support frame 140 for easy connection to a conveyor line located on the ground. The support frame 140 is connected to a lifting section 210, and the connecting frame 130 is connected to a lateral section 220. The lateral section 220 and the lifting section 210 are connected by a bending section 230, forming a first guide rail 200 surrounding the clearance opening 110. The bottom end of the support frame 140 can be fixed to the ground or a base 421, and the clearance opening 110 allows passage for people or goods.

[0036] In some cases, the carrying mechanism 400 needs to maintain a preset posture while moving along the first guide rail 200 to ensure smooth material transfer and prevent overturning or deviation during the transfer process. Therefore, in some embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The conveying device also includes a second guide rail 300. The carrying mechanism 400 includes a carrying member 410, a connecting member 420, and an adjusting component 430. The carrying member 410 is used to carry materials. The carrying member 410 is movably connected to the first guide rail 200 through the connecting member 420. The adjusting component 430 is located between the connecting member 420 and the carrying member 410. Through the cooperation of the adjusting component 430 and the second guide rail 300, the carrying member 410 can adaptively rotate to maintain the required preset posture when the carrying mechanism 400 passes through the curved section 230 of the first guide rail 200.

[0037] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The second guide rail 300 includes multiple track sections 320, which are located inside or outside the curved section 230 and connected to the mounting frame 100. The supporting mechanism 400 includes a supporting member 410, a connecting member 420, and an adjusting assembly 430. The connecting member 420 is movably connected to the first guide rail 200, and the adjusting assembly 430 is connected to both the connecting member 420 and the supporting member 410. The adjusting assembly 430 cooperates with the track sections 320 to drive the supporting member 410 to rotate relative to the connecting member 420 when the connecting member 420 moves along the curved section 230, and to maintain the supporting member 410 in a preset posture during the movement of the connecting member 420 along the curved section 230 and when it enters the transverse section 220. Thus, the adjusting assembly 430 can move along the track section 320 to drive the supporting member 410 to rotate, thereby adjusting the posture of the supporting member 410.

[0038] The drive mechanism 500 is connected to the connector 420 and is used to drive the connector 420 to move the carrier 410 along the first guide rail 200 to each transfer station 120. In application, when the connector 420 moves along the lifting section 210, the carrier 410 has a preset posture. When the connector 420 moves to the bending section 230, the adjusting component 430 docks with the track section 320; when the connector 420 transitions between the traverse section 220 and the bending section 230 (for example, the connector 420 moves along the bending section 230 to the traverse section 220, or the connector 420 moves along the traverse section 220 to the bending section 230), the adjusting component 430 moves along the track section 320 and drives the carrier 410 to rotate to the preset posture. As the connector 420 moves along the curved section 230 to the transverse section 220, the carrier 410 maintains its preset posture and continues to move along the transverse section 220 with the connector 420. When the connector 420 enters the next curved section 230, the adjusting component 430 cooperates with the track 320 again, so that the carrier 410 can maintain its preset posture as the connector 420 moves along the curved section 230 and enters the next lifting section 210. This ensures that the material carried by the carrier 410 is always in a suitable posture throughout the entire transfer process, ensuring smooth material transfer, effectively reducing or avoiding the risk of overturning or shifting during the transfer process, and improving the reliability of the transfer.

[0039] The support member 410 may have an upper side and a lower side that are opposite to each other in the vertical direction. The preset posture of the support member 410 may be that the upper side of the support member 410 faces upward in the vertical direction and the lower side faces downward in the vertical direction. For example, the support member 410 may include a base plate, which has an upper side and a lower side that are opposite to each other in the vertical direction. The base plate is used to support materials. During the movement of the connecting member 420 along the first guide rail 200, the preset posture of the base plate with the upper side facing upward and the lower side facing downward is maintained. For example, the support member 410 may also include a bottom plate and a side wall. The side wall is connected to one side of the bottom plate. The bottom plate and the side wall together form a receiving cavity with an opening. Material can be placed in the receiving cavity. The side of the side wall away from the bottom plate is the upper side of the support member 410. The side of the side wall away from the bottom plate forms an opening for material to enter and exit. The side of the bottom plate away from the side wall is the lower side of the support member 410. The preset posture of the support member 410 may be that the lower side of the bottom plate faces downward, the side wall is located above the bottom plate, and the opening faces upward.

[0040] The carrier 410 maintains a preset posture, which allows the material to be stably supported on the carrier 410, effectively reducing or avoiding the risk of overturning or shifting during the transfer process.

[0041] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5In some embodiments, the track section 320 has an arc-shaped segment 321, the bending direction of which is consistent with the bending direction of the curved segment 230. Thus, the arc-shaped segment 321 provides guidance for the adjustment component 430 in the same direction as the connecting member 420 moves along the curved segment 230, so that the adjustment component 430 can smoothly adjust its posture as the connecting member 420 moves in the curved segment 230. When the adjustment component 430 slides on the arc-shaped segment 321, it is subjected to uniform force and moves smoothly, thereby avoiding structural wear or posture deviation caused by local stress concentration.

[0042] The track section 320 can be located on either the outer or inner side of the curved section 230. The outer side of the curved section 230 can be understood as the side where the convex surface of the curved section 230 is located, while the inner side corresponds to the side where the concave surface of the curved section 230 is located. When the track section 320 is located on the outer side, the sliding radius of the adjustment component 430 is larger, which is beneficial to improving the accuracy and stability of attitude adjustment; when located on the inner side, it can save space and is suitable for compact layout scenarios.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the adjustment component 430 may include a slider and a connecting rod, with the slider connected to the carrier 410 via the connecting rod.

[0044] When the connector 420 moves to the curved section 230, the slider engages with the arc section 321; the arc section 321 can be an arc guide rail, and the slider can engage with the arc section 321 in a way that one end of the slider is located on the outside or inside of the arc guide rail; or, the arc section 321 can be an arc guide groove, and the slider can engage with the arc section 321 in a way that one end of the slider is located at the end opening of the arc guide groove.

[0045] When the connector 420 moves along the curved section 230, the slider can slide along the arc section 321, and the connecting rod swings accordingly, driving the carrier 410 to rotate to achieve posture adjustment.

[0046] Alternatively, in another possible implementation, the adjustment component 430 may include a connecting shaft 431 and a follower 432. The connecting shaft 431 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 420. One end of the connecting shaft 431 is connected to the follower 432, and the other end is connected to the carrier member 410. Therefore, the connecting shaft 431 can rotate synchronously with the rotation of the follower 432, driving the carrier member 410 to rotate and thus adjusting the attitude. Driving the carrier member 410 to rotate via the connecting shaft 431 not only results in a simple structure and fast response, reducing errors caused by transmission backlash, but also makes the attitude adjustment process smooth and controllable because the rotation angle of the connecting shaft 431 is directly converted into the rotation angle of the carrier member 410.

[0047] When the connector 420 moves to the curved section 230, the follower 432 engages with the arc-shaped section 321. The arc-shaped section 321 can be an arc-shaped guide rail, and the follower 432 can engage with the arc-shaped section 321 in a manner where a portion of the follower 432 is located at the end of the arc-shaped guide rail; or, the arc-shaped section 321 can be an arc-shaped guide groove, and the follower 432 can engage with the arc-shaped section 321 in a manner where a portion of the follower 432 is located at the end opening of the arc-shaped guide groove.

[0048] When the connector 420 moves along the curved section 230, the follower 432 moves along the arc section 321 and drives the connecting shaft 431 to rotate, thereby driving the carrier 410 to rotate and realizing the follower adjustment of the posture of the carrier 410.

[0049] Among them, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The follower 432 may include a mounting member 4321 and multiple rollers 4322. The mounting member 4321 is connected to the end of the connecting shaft 431 facing away from the carrier member 410. The rollers 4322 are rotatably connected to the mounting member 4321. The multiple rollers 4322 are spaced apart. The two ends of the arc segment 321 are a first end 322 and a second end 323, respectively. The distance between the two arc segments 321 gradually decreases from the first end 322 to the second end 323. When the connecting member 420 moves to the curved section 230, each roller 4322 contacts and guides the first end of the corresponding arc segment 321. During the movement of the connecting member 420 along the curved section 230, each roller 4322 rolls along the corresponding arc segment 321, and the relative position change between at least two rollers 4322 drives the connecting shaft 431 to rotate, thereby causing the carrier member 410 to rotate to a preset posture. Therefore, by restricting the path of the roller 4322 by the arc segment 321, the roller 4322 can rotate around the axis of the connecting shaft 431, thereby driving the mounting part 4321 and the connecting shaft 431 to rotate synchronously, and then driving the bearing part 410 to complete the attitude follow-up adjustment.

[0050] The rolling characteristics of roller 4322 and the surface of arc segment 321 form a low-friction motion mode, which can reduce motion resistance and wear, and improve long-term operational reliability.

[0051] When the arc segment 321 is configured as an arc-shaped guide rail, the arc-shaped guide rail can have two opposing arc-shaped guide surfaces. The distance between the two arc-shaped guide surfaces gradually decreases from one end of the arc-shaped guide rail to the other end. When the connector 420 moves to the curved section 230, the follower 432 can dock with the arc segment 321 by multiple rollers 4322 located on both sides of the end of the arc-shaped guide rail (the end with a larger distance between the arc-shaped guide surfaces). Each arc-shaped guide surface is in contact with at least one roller 4322. The connector 420 moves along the curved section 230, and the roller 4322 moves along the arc-shaped guide surface. As the distance between the two arc-shaped guide surfaces gradually decreases, the movement paths of the roller 4322 and the roller 4322 that are in contact with the two arc-shaped guide surfaces differ during the movement of the roller 4322 along the arc-shaped guide surface. As a result, the line connecting the rollers 4322 on both sides of the arc-shaped guide rail rotates around the connecting shaft 431, thereby driving the mounting component 4321 to rotate the connecting shaft 431 so that the bearing component 410 rotates to the preset posture.

[0052] When the arc-shaped segment 321 is configured as an arc-shaped guide groove, the track section 320 can have two arc-shaped segments 321, with the first end 322 and the second end 323 at the two ends, respectively. The distance between the two arc-shaped segments 321 gradually decreases from the first end 322 to the second end 323. The follower 432 can be docked with the arc-shaped segment 321 in such a way that part of the follower 432 is located at the end opening of the arc-shaped guide groove (i.e., the opening of the first end 322). For example, when the connector 420 moves to the curved section 230, the first end 322 of each arc-shaped segment 321 docks with a roller 4322, and the docking method can be that the opening of the first end 322 of each arc-shaped guide groove corresponds to a roller 4322. When the connector 420 moves along the curved section 230, the roller 4322 moves along the arc section 321. Since the distance between the two arc sections 321 (i.e. arc guide grooves) gradually decreases from the first end 322 to the second end 323, the movement paths of the rollers 4322 in the two arc guide grooves are different during the movement of the rollers 4322 along the arc guide groove. As a result, the line connecting the rollers 4322 in the two arc guide grooves rotates around the connecting shaft 431, thereby driving the mounting part 4321 to drive the connecting shaft 431 to rotate, so that the bearing part 410 rotates to the preset posture.

[0053] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7In some embodiments of the conveying device, positioning wheels 4323 and positioning walls 330 may also be provided to position the relative positions of the follower 432 and the arc segment 321 when the follower 432 docks with the arc segment 321. For example, the follower 432 may also include at least two positioning wheels 4323, which are arranged along a direction intersecting the line connecting the rollers 4322, and the positioning wheels 4323 are rotatably connected to the mounting member 4321. The second guide rail 300 also includes a positioning wall 330, which is connected to the track section 320 and located between the first ends 322 of the two arc-shaped segments 321. When the connector 420 moves to the curved section 230, the positioning wheel 4323 contacts the positioning wall 330 so that the roller 4322 is aligned with the first end 322, ensuring that the roller 4322 accurately aligns with the arc-shaped segment 321, avoiding jamming or shaking caused by the positional deviation of the roller 4322, thereby improving the smoothness of the posture adjustment of the bearing 410.

[0054] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 In some embodiments, before the connector 420 moves to the bending section 230, for example, during the movement of the connector 420 in the lifting section 210 or the lateral section 220, the guide rail 340 and the adjusting component 430 can cooperate to help the carrier 410 maintain a preset posture. For example, the second guide rail 300 may also include a guide rail 340, with guide rails 340 respectively provided on the sides of the lifting section 210 and the lateral section 220, adjacent guide rails 340 being connected by a rail portion 320, and the guide rails 340 being connected to the mounting frame 100. When the connector 420 moves along the lifting section 210 or the lateral section 220, the adjusting component 430 moves along the guide rail 340 to keep the carrier 410 in a preset posture.

[0055] When the connector 420 moves along the lifting section 210, the guide rail 340 constrains the lateral offset of the adjusting component 430, ensuring that the carrier 410 maintains a preset posture and moves stably without tilting during vertical movement. When the connector 420 moves along the transverse section 220, the guide rail 340 restricts its longitudinal offset, so that the carrier 410 maintains a preset posture and moves stably laterally without swaying during horizontal movement.

[0056] The guide rail 340 can be a long strip-shaped slide rail. The slide rail located on the side of the lifting section 210 is arranged parallel to the lifting section 210, and the slide rail located on the side of the transverse section 220 is arranged parallel to the transverse section 220. The adjustment component 430 moves along the slide rail. For example, the two rollers 4322 of the adjustment component 430 are located on both sides of the slide rail. The slide rail restricts the lateral or longitudinal displacement of the rollers 4322, thereby restricting the rotation of the connecting shaft 431 and keeping the bearing 410 stable in posture during movement.

[0057] Alternatively, the guide rail 340 may be provided with a limiting groove. The limiting groove of the guide rail located on the side of the lifting section 210 is arranged parallel to the lifting section 210, and the limiting groove of the guide rail 340 located on the side of the transverse section 220 is arranged parallel to the transverse section 220. The adjusting component 430 moves along the guide rail 340. For example, the two rollers 4322 of the adjusting component 430 are located in the limiting groove. The limiting groove restricts the lateral or longitudinal displacement of the rollers 4322, thereby restricting the rotation of the connecting shaft 431 and maintaining the posture stability of the bearing 410 during movement.

[0058] refer to Figure 8 In some embodiments, the connector 420 includes a base 421, a connecting seat 422, and a plurality of guide wheels 423. The guide wheels 423 are rotatably connected to the base 421, and the plurality of guide wheels 423 are spaced apart to form a guide channel 424. A first guide rail 200 passes through the guide channel 424, the connecting seat 422 is connected to the base 421, and a drive mechanism 500 is connected to the connecting seat 422. When the drive mechanism 500 is activated, it can drive the connecting seat 422 to move synchronously with the base 421. The plurality of guide wheels 423 roll along the side wall of the first guide rail 200. The first guide rail 200 is confined within the guide channel 424 to prevent the guide wheels 423 from disengaging from the guide rail during movement. Furthermore, the rolling connection structure can reduce the friction between the connector 420 and the first guide rail 200 when the connector 420 moves, thereby improving the smoothness of movement.

[0059] The rolling contact between the guide wheel 423 and the first guide rail 200 can also reduce wear, thereby reducing the probability that the movement of the connecting part 420 will deviate from the track due to wear, ensuring the stability of the movement of the bearing part 410, and improving the reliability of long-term operation.

[0060] refer to Figure 9 In some embodiments, the drive mechanism 500 includes a drive member 510, a transmission wheel 520, and a transmission member 530. The transmission wheel 520 is rotatably connected to the mounting frame 100 and is spaced around the clearance opening 110. The transmission member 530 may be a synchronous belt, and correspondingly, the transmission wheel 520 is a synchronous belt pulley. The drive member 510 drives the synchronous belt to reciprocate through the transmission wheel 520. Alternatively, the transmission member 530 may be a chain, and correspondingly, the transmission wheel 520 is a sprocket. The drive member 510 drives the chain to reciprocate through the sprocket.

[0061] The conveyor 530 is wound around the drive wheel 520 and arranged along the first guide rail 200. The drive member 510 is connected to one of the drive wheels 520 and is used to drive the drive wheel 520 to rotate, thereby driving the conveyor 530 to move. The bearing mechanism 400 is driven by the conveyor 530 to move along the first guide rail 200. The drive member 510 can be fixedly installed on the mounting frame 100, or installed on the ground or other support structure relatively fixed to the mounting frame 100. It is connected to the drive wheel 520 through a coupling or gear set. The power output by the drive member 510 is transmitted to the conveyor 530 through the drive wheel 520, thereby precisely controlling the reciprocating speed and positional accuracy of the conveyor 530.

[0062] The drive component 510 can be located on the side of the mounting bracket 100 facing away from the first guide rail 200 to reduce the space occupied in the guide rail area and facilitate maintenance and heat dissipation; the mounting bracket 100 can be provided with corresponding through holes for the axle of the transmission wheel 520 to pass through and be installed so as to connect with the drive component 510.

[0063] The drive component 510 can be positioned opposite one of the transmission wheels 520 at the lower end of the mounting bracket 100, thereby avoiding the structural instability risk caused by suspending the drive component 510 at a high position. The drive component 510 can be configured as a servo motor, with its output shaft connected to the transmission wheel 520 via a high-precision reducer, ensuring rapid transmission response and accurate positioning, and improving the motion control precision of the load-bearing mechanism 400.

[0064] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, the conveying device may further include guide members 600. At least one transverse section 220 is provided with guide members 600 on both sides. The guide members 600 are connected to the mounting frame 100. The guide members 600 are located between the conveying member 530 and the curved section 230 connected to the transverse section 220, and are used to support the conveying member 530 at the curved section 230 on both sides of the transverse section 220 to avoid interference between the conveying member 530 and the curved section 230.

[0065] The guide 600 can be made of a low-friction or wear-resistant material, or the surface of the guide 600 can be polished to have a low coefficient of friction and high wear resistance. The contour of the side of the guide 600 facing away from the curved section 230 matches the curvature of the curved section 230. For example, it can be an arc structure that is concentric with the curved section 230 to ensure that the conveyor 530 can fit smoothly at the guide 600, so that the connector 420 does not jump or get stuck when transitioning to the curved section 230, which is conducive to the carrier 410 maintaining a stable posture.

[0066] refer to Figure 10In some embodiments, the conveying device further includes a protective cover 700, which, together with the mounting frame 100, forms a conveying channel. The first guide rail 200 and the carrying mechanism 400 are located within the conveying channel. The protective cover 700 has an opening 710 at a corresponding position in the transfer station 120, and the opening 710 connects to the conveying channel. When the carrying mechanism 400 moves to the transfer station 120, the carrying mechanism 400 is opposite to the opening 710. Thus, the protective cover 700 can effectively isolate external dust and foreign objects from intrusion, and can also perform material loading and unloading operations on the carrying mechanism 400 at the transfer station 120 through the opening 710.

[0067] In some embodiments, the protective cover 700 is detachably connected to the mounting frame 100. When it is necessary to inspect and maintain the inside of the conveying device, the protective cover 700 can be quickly removed, leaving sufficient space for operation and reducing the difficulty of maintenance.

[0068] This application also provides a production line, including multiple conveyor lines and the conveying device of any of the foregoing embodiments (see reference). Figures 1 to 10 The mounting frame 100 of the conveying device is arranged vertically and has multiple transfer stations 120. There is a clearance opening 110 between two adjacent transfer stations 120. Multiple conveyor lines are arranged horizontally and each conveyor line has a docking station. Each docking station docks with a transfer station 120, thereby realizing three-dimensional material transfer across different conveyor lines.

[0069] Taking the connection of a conveying device to two conveyor lines as an example, the conveying device connects to the conveyor lines through two transfer stations 120 on both sides of the clearance opening 110. For example, the first transfer station connects to the first conveyor line, and the second transfer station connects to the second conveyor line. The first conveyor line conveys materials to the first transfer station of the conveying device. When the materials arrive, the carrying mechanism 400 stops at the first transfer station to transfer the materials on the first conveyor line to the carrying mechanism 400. The carrying mechanism 400 that has received the materials rises along the lifting section 210, making room for the next carrying mechanism 400 to stop at the first transfer station. The carrying mechanism 400 that has received the materials then turns into the transverse section 220 through the bending section 230, goes around the clearance opening 110, and descends to another lifting section 210, arriving at the second transfer station to stop, so that the materials can be unloaded onto the second conveyor line, completing the cross-line transfer.

[0070] The production line may also include a transfer device located beside the docking station and the transfer station 120. The "beside" range can be understood as the transfer device's operating range covering both the docking station and the transfer station 120. Thus, the transfer device is used to transfer materials between the transfer station 120 and the docking station. For example, the transfer device could be a multi-axis robot used to acquire and transfer materials. When the carrying mechanism 400 moves along the first guide rail 200 to the transfer station 120 of the conveyor, the transfer device transfers materials between the docking station and the transfer station 120 of the conveyor line, achieving continuous material conveying and effectively adapting to the conveyor line's cycle time.

[0071] The mounting frame 100 of the conveying device has a clearance opening 110, which can be used to avoid pedestrian and material flow routes. The transfer stations 120 on both sides of the clearance opening 110 can be used to connect different conveyor lines. Multiple carrying mechanisms 400 can move along the first guide rail 200 to transport materials between different transfer stations 120. When the conveying device is used to connect multiple conveyor lines, material transfer between different conveyor lines can be realized at the transfer stations 120. The carrying mechanism 400 and the materials on it are transferred through the first guide rail 200, realizing continuous transfer between different conveyor lines, which is beneficial to improving production efficiency.

[0072] The production line may also include a controller. The conveyor line's transport of materials and the conveyor device's transfer of the carrying mechanism 400 can all be controlled by the controller. For example, the controller is communicatively connected to the drive mechanism 500 of the conveyor device, the transfer device, and the conveyor line. The controller is configured to control the conveyor line to transport materials in a first cycle and to control the drive mechanism 500 to drive the carrying mechanism 400 in a second cycle, and to match the first and second cycles. The matching method can be: by coordinating the cycle of the drive mechanism 500 driving the carrying mechanism 400 through a preset timing logic, so that multiple carrying mechanisms 400 arrive at each transfer station 120 in sequence according to the set timing, so that the arrival time of the carrying mechanism 400 at the transfer station 120 is precisely synchronized with the arrival time of the materials on the conveyor line, thereby ensuring zero waiting and zero accumulation of materials at the transfer nodes.

[0073] The controller is also configured to control the transfer device to transfer materials between the carrying mechanism 400 and the docking station when the carrying mechanism 400 moves to the transfer station 120. When the carrying mechanism 400 arrives at the transfer station 120, the transfer device is simultaneously triggered to pick up materials at the docking station and release materials at the transfer station 120. This allows for precise coordinated scheduling of the conveying cycle, transfer timing, and material flow direction.

[0074] The controller is further configured to monitor the occupancy status of each transfer station 120, the position of the carrying mechanism 400, and the operation signals of the conveyor line in real time, and adjust the start and stop sequence of the second cycle based on dynamic feedback to ensure that multi-line coordination does not conflict, reduce the stagnation of the carrying mechanism 400, and achieve efficient docking and material transportation across conveyor lines.

[0075] A controller is a feedback loop component widely used in industrial control applications. For example, a programmable memory stores instructions for performing logical operations, sequential control, timing, counting, and arithmetic operations. It controls various types of mechanical equipment or production processes through digital or analog inputs and outputs, and can achieve coordinated actions of various mechanisms through preset schemes. In this embodiment, the controller implements the first-cycle control of the conveyor line, the second-cycle control of the conveyor drive mechanism, and the coordinated actions of the transfer device. This is easily achievable by those skilled in the art based on existing controller functions, and the specific control principles and methods are not elaborated here.

[0076] The embodiments of this application have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this application is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of this application. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

Claims

1. A conveying device, characterized in that, include: The mounting frame has a clearance opening, and on both sides of the clearance opening, the lower end of the mounting frame is provided with a transfer station; A first guide rail is connected to the mounting bracket. The first guide rail includes a lifting section, a lateral section, and a curved section. The lifting section extends vertically, and the lateral section extends horizontally. The lifting section and the lateral section are arranged around the clearance opening. The lifting section extends to the corresponding transfer station. The lifting section and the lateral section are connected by the curved section. The first guide rail includes the lifting section and the lateral section arranged in parallel at intervals. A set of lifting sections is arranged in parallel at both ends of a set of lateral sections arranged in parallel at intervals. The lower end of the set of lifting sections arranged in parallel at intervals is connected to the curved section. Multiple support mechanisms are arranged at intervals along the first guide rail, and the support mechanisms are movably connected to the first guide rail; A drive mechanism, connected to the carrier mechanism, is used to drive the carrier mechanism to move along the first guide rail to each of the transfer stations.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying device further includes a second guide rail, which includes multiple track sections located inside or outside the curved section and connected to the mounting frame. The bearing mechanism includes a bearing member, a connector, and an adjustment component. The connector is movably connected to the first guide rail. The adjustment component is connected to the connector and the bearing member. The adjustment component cooperates with the rail portion to drive the bearing member to rotate relative to the connector when the connector moves along the curved section, and to maintain the bearing member in a preset posture during the movement of the connector along the curved section and when it enters the transverse section. The drive mechanism is connected to the connector and is used to drive the connector to move the carrier along the first guide rail to each of the transfer stations.

3. The conveying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The track section has an arc-shaped segment, and the bending direction of the arc-shaped segment is consistent with the bending direction of the curved segment.

4. The conveying device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The adjustment assembly includes a connecting shaft and a follower. The connecting shaft is rotatably connected to the connecting member. One end of the connecting shaft is connected to the follower, and the other end is connected to the bearing member. When the connector moves to the curved section, the follower engages with the arc-shaped section; When the connector moves along the curved section, the follower moves along the arc section and drives the connecting shaft to rotate, thereby causing the carrier to rotate.

5. The conveying device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The follower includes a mounting component and a plurality of rollers. The mounting component is connected to one end of the connecting shaft facing away from the carrier, and the plurality of rollers are spaced apart and rotatably connected to the mounting component. The track section has two arc-shaped segments, with the first end and the second end of each arc-shaped segment being respectively. The distance between the two arc-shaped segments gradually decreases from the first end to the second end. When the connector moves to the curved segment, each roller contacts and guides the first end of the corresponding arc-shaped segment. During the movement of the connector along the curved segment, each roller rolls along the corresponding arc-shaped segment, and the relative position change between at least two rollers drives the connecting shaft to rotate, thereby causing the carrier to rotate to the preset posture.

6. The conveying device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The follower further includes at least two positioning wheels, which are arranged in a direction intersecting the line connecting the rollers, and the positioning wheels are rotatably connected to the mounting component; The second guide rail further includes a positioning wall, which is connected to the track portion and located between the first ends of the two arc-shaped segments; When the connector moves to the curved section, the positioning wheel contacts the positioning wall to align the roller with the first end.

7. The conveying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second guide rail also includes a guide rail, and the guide rail is provided on the side of the lifting section and the lateral section respectively. Adjacent guide rails are connected through the rail portion, and the guide rail is connected to the mounting frame. When the connector moves along the lifting section or the lateral section, the adjusting component moves along the guide rail to keep the carrier in the preset posture.

8. The conveying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connector includes a base, a connecting seat, and multiple guide wheels. The guide wheels are rotatably connected to the base, and the multiple guide wheels are spaced apart to form a guide channel. The first guide rail passes through the guide channel, the connecting seat is connected to the base, and the drive mechanism is connected to the connecting seat.

9. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving mechanism includes a driving component, a transmission wheel, and a transmission component. The transmission wheel is rotatably connected to the mounting frame and is spaced around the clearance opening. The transmission component is wound around the transmission wheel and arranged along the first guide rail. The drive component is connected to one of the transmission wheels and is used to drive the transmission wheel to rotate so as to move the conveyor; the bearing mechanism is driven by the conveyor to move along the first guide rail.

10. The conveying device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The conveying device further includes guide members, with at least one guide member provided on both sides of the transverse section. The guide member is connected to the mounting frame and is located between the conveying member and the curved section connected to the transverse section.

11. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting frame includes a connecting frame and multiple support frames. The support frames extend vertically, and the multiple support frames are spaced apart horizontally. The connecting frame is connected to the upper end of two adjacent support frames. The two adjacent support frames and the connecting frame together form the clearance opening. The lower end of the support frame is provided with the transfer station. The support frame is connected to the lifting section, and the connecting frame is connected to the lateral section.

12. The conveying device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The conveying device also includes a protective cover, which, together with the mounting frame, forms a conveying channel, and the first guide rail and the bearing mechanism are located within the conveying channel; The protective cover has an opening at the corresponding position of the transfer station, and the opening is connected to the conveying channel; when the carrying mechanism moves to the transfer station, the carrying mechanism is opposite to the opening.

13. A production line, characterized in that, include: The conveying device as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the mounting frame is arranged in a vertical direction, the mounting frame is provided with a plurality of the transfer stations, and the clearance opening is provided between two adjacent transfer stations; Multiple conveyor lines are arranged horizontally, and each conveyor line is equipped with a docking station, with each docking station docking with one of the transfer stations. A transfer device is provided on the side of the docking station and the transfer station, and the transfer device is used to transfer materials between the transfer station and the docking station.

14. The production line according to claim 13, characterized in that, The production line also includes a controller, which is communicatively connected to the drive mechanism, the transfer device, and the conveyor line; The controller is configured to control the conveyor line to convey materials in a first cycle and to control the drive mechanism to drive the carrier mechanism to move in a second cycle, and to match the first cycle and the second cycle with each other; The controller is also configured to control the transfer device to transfer materials between the carrier and the docking station when the carrier moves to the transfer station.

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