Negative pressure delivery system and control method

Abstract

The application discloses a negative pressure conveying system and a control method, relates to the technical field of automatic plate conveying systems, and mainly solves the problems that the prior art cannot self-adapt to the widths of plates of multiple specifications and the conveying energy consumption needs to be reduced. The system comprises multiple groups of first, second and third belt conveyors arranged side by side, a size detection module, a distance adjustment module, a position detection module and an upper computer. The upper computer identifies the width type of the plate through the size detection module, controls the distance adjustment module to automatically adjust the distance between the second and third belt conveyors, and realizes variable-width self-adaptive bearing. Meanwhile, the upper computer controls a vacuum pumping module to segmentally pump vacuum on the adsorption areas of the belt conveyors according to the signals of the position detection module. The application realizes flexible automatic adaptation to plates of multiple widths, improves adaptability and reduces operation energy consumption.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automated sheet metal conveying systems, specifically to a negative pressure conveying system and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] In sheet metal processing production lines, such as those for printed circuit boards, photovoltaic silicon wafers, solar collector cores, or decorative panels, it is essential to stably and accurately transport the sheets to each processing station. To ensure positioning accuracy during transport and prevent sheet displacement due to vibration or inertia, vacuum belt conveyors with negative pressure adsorption are typically used. These conveyors utilize adsorption holes on the belt surface and a vacuum chamber below to generate negative pressure, adsorbing the bottom surface of the sheet onto the belt surface for synchronous transport.

[0003] Traditional vacuum belt conveyors use a global vacuum method, meaning that even if the conveying area is only covered by the sheet metal, the entire conveyor must maintain a negative pressure state, leading to energy waste. To address this, a negative pressure conveying system that can reduce energy consumption has been developed.

[0004] For example, patent CN212049114U discloses "An Electrode Transfer Device". The vacuum mechanism of this patent includes several independent vacuum chambers, each with its own independent vacuum hood and exhaust port. By controlling the start and stop of the fans connected to different vacuum chambers, the effective adsorption area can be adjusted according to the actual coverage of the electrode, thereby avoiding energy waste caused by continuous global vacuuming.

[0005] However, the limitations of the aforementioned existing technology lie in the fact that the conveying medium is a vacuum belt of fixed width. When conveying plates of different widths, most of the belt's width is unloaded when conveying narrow plates. Although zone control can reduce ineffective air extraction, the energy consumption of the belt conveyor itself still exists. If the plate width is greater than the belt width, the existing equipment is completely incapable of handling the conveying task, and the only solution is to replace the entire conveyor line or add parallel conveyor lines. This results in insufficient adaptability of the conveying system.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a conveying system that can automatically adapt to the width of the sheet material, improve adaptability, and reduce energy consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention proposes a negative pressure conveying system and control method. This invention can automatically adapt to the width of the sheet material, improving adaptability and reducing energy consumption.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows: A negative pressure conveying system includes a vacuum belt conveyor unit and a vacuum module. The vacuum belt conveyor unit includes two sets of first belt conveyors, two sets of second belt conveyors, and two sets of third belt conveyors. The two sets of third belt conveyors are located between the two sets of first belt conveyors, and the two sets of second belt conveyors are located outside the two sets of first belt conveyors. The first belt conveyors, second belt conveyors, and third belt conveyors all convey the plate material along a first straight direction. The first belt conveyors, second belt conveyors, and third belt conveyors all have multiple adsorption zones along the first straight direction. It also includes a size detection module, a distance adjustment module, a position detection module, and a host computer; The dimension detection module is used to detect the width of the sheet material in the second linear direction, which is perpendicular to the first linear direction. The spacing adjustment module is used to adjust the spacing between the two sets of second belt conveyors and the spacing between the two sets of third belt conveyors; The position detection module is used to detect the position of the board in the first straight line direction; The first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, the third belt conveyor, the size detection module, the distance adjustment module, the position detection module, and the vacuum module are all electrically connected to the host computer.

[0009] Preferably, the size detection module includes a first sensor and a second sensor. The first set of two sets of first belt conveyors are provided with a first sensor at the beginning of the side facing each other, and the second set of two sets of second belt conveyors are provided with a second sensor at the beginning of the side facing each other. Both the first sensor and the second sensor are electrically connected to the host computer.

[0010] Preferably, it also includes a positioning detection module, which includes a third sensor and a fourth sensor. The two sets of third belt conveyors are each equipped with a third sensor at the beginning of the side opposite to each other, and the two sets of second belt conveyors are each equipped with a fourth sensor at the beginning of the side opposite to each other. The third sensor and the fourth sensor are both electrically connected to the host computer.

[0011] Preferably, the position detection module includes a fifth sensor. The first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third belt conveyor are each provided with a plurality of fifth sensors along a first straight line direction. Each fifth sensor corresponds to one of the adsorption areas and is electrically connected to the host computer.

[0012] Preferably, the vacuum module includes: The first air passage is provided in multiple ways along the first straight line. The first air passage corresponds one-to-one with the adsorption zone in the first belt conveyor. Each adsorption zone in the first belt conveyor is connected to the first air passage through a first air distribution pipe. Each adsorption zone in the third belt conveyor is connected to the first air passage through a flexible third air distribution pipe. Multiple second air passages are provided along the first straight line direction. The second air passages are fixedly connected to the second belt conveyor. The second air passages are connected to the first air passages through hoses. Each adsorption zone in the second belt conveyor is connected to the second air passages through a second air distribution pipe. The main pipe is equipped with multiple first connecting pipes, each of which is connected to a first airway. The vacuum generator includes a first blower, a second blower, and a third blower, all of which are connected to the main pipe via a second connecting pipe. An airway valve is provided on each of the first connecting pipes; The fan valve is located on each of the second connecting pipes; The first gas distribution valve is installed on each first gas distribution pipe; The second gas distribution valve is installed on each second gas distribution pipe; The third gas distribution valve is installed on each third gas distribution pipe; The first fan, the second fan, the third fan, the air duct valve, the fan valve, the first air distribution valve, the second air distribution valve, and the third air distribution valve are all electrically connected to the host computer.

[0013] Preferably, the pitch adjustment module includes a first pitch adjustment mechanism and a second pitch adjustment mechanism. The first pitch adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors, and the second pitch adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the distance between the two sets of the second belt conveyors.

[0014] A control method for a negative pressure conveying system, based on the aforementioned negative pressure conveying system, includes the following steps: Step S1: After receiving the initialization command, the host computer controls the two sets of third belt conveyors and the two sets of second belt conveyors to return to their initial positions. The initial positions of the two sets of third belt conveyors are the positions with the smallest distance between them, and the initial positions of the two sets of second belt conveyors are the positions with the smallest distance between them. Step S2: After receiving the transmission command, the host computer controls the size detection module to detect the width of the first board in the second straight line direction of the current batch of boards. Step S3: The host computer determines the type of the current batch of boards as a first board, a second board, or a third board based on the detection information from the size detection module. The width of the third board in the second straight line direction is less than that of the first board, and the width of the second board in the second straight line direction is greater than that of the first board. Step S4: When the current batch of boards is the first board, the host computer controls the two sets of the third belt conveyor and the two sets of the second belt conveyor to maintain the initial position. When the current batch of sheet material is the second sheet material, the host computer controls the spacing adjustment module to increase the spacing between the two sets of second belt conveyors; When the current batch of sheet material is the third sheet material, the host computer controls the spacing adjustment module to increase the spacing between the two sets of the third belt conveyor. Step S5: When the current batch of boards is the first board, the host computer controls the first belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor to transport the board together; and the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor according to the detection information of the position detection module. When the current batch of boards is the second board, the host computer controls the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor to transport the board together. Furthermore, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor based on the detection information from the position detection module. When the current batch of boards is the third board, the host computer controls the third conveyor belt to transport the board; and, based on the detection information from the position detection module, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the third conveyor belt. Step S6 continues with step S5 until the current batch of boards is transported. Step S7: When the next batch of boards is delivered, repeat steps S1 to S6.

[0015] Preferably, when the host computer determines the type of the current batch of boards based on the detection information from the size detection module, it includes the following steps: Step S301: The host computer controls the second sensor to detect; when the host computer receives the detection signal from the second sensor, the host computer determines the current batch of boards as the second board; when the host computer does not receive the detection signal from the second sensor, proceed to the next step. Step S302: The host computer controls the first sensor to detect; when the host computer receives the detection signal from the first sensor, the host computer determines the current batch of boards as the first board; when the host computer does not receive the detection signal from the first sensor, the host computer determines the current batch of boards as the third board.

[0016] Preferably, when the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to increase the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors, the host computer controls the fourth sensor to detect in real time. When the detection signal of the fourth sensor disappears, the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors is adjusted to the correct position, and the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to stop adjusting the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors. When the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to increase the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors, the host computer controls the third sensor to detect in real time. When the detection signal of the third sensor disappears, the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors is adjusted to the correct position, and the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to stop adjusting the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors.

[0017] Preferably, when the host computer controls the vacuuming module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor, the host computer controls the first fan and the third fan to operate. When the host computer controls the vacuuming module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third belt conveyor, the host computer controls the first fan, the second fan, and the third fan to operate. The host computer controls the vacuuming module to perform segmented vacuuming on the third belt conveyor, and the host computer controls the third fan to operate.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: 1. This invention can automatically adjust the conveyor width and activate the belt conveyor according to the width of the sheet material, and perform segmented vacuuming based on the sheet material width and conveying position. Compared to existing technologies, this invention can automatically adapt to the conveying needs of sheets with different widths. When conveying narrow sheets, only the third belt conveyor located in the middle area needs to be activated, while the first and second belt conveyors on the outer sides remain in standby mode, reducing the energy consumption of the belt conveyors themselves. When conveying wide sheets, the first and second belt conveyors on the outer sides automatically deploy and start working, completing the task without replacing the entire conveyor line or adding parallel conveyor lines. This improves the adaptability and automation of the conveying system and reduces energy consumption.

[0019] 2. The control method of this invention is based on system hardware and forms a complete logical control strategy. By determining the type of sheet material and executing differentiated conveying strategies through a host computer, combined with segmented vacuum control, it achieves intelligent and energy-saving conveying in the first linear direction ("suction when sheet material is present, stop when no sheet material is present"), and on-demand operation in the second linear direction ("multiple belt conveyors working together for wide sheets, fewer belt conveyors operating for narrow sheets"). This invention not only controls the adsorption area but also the number of belt conveyor units involved in the conveying process, achieving simultaneous optimization of mechanical operating energy consumption and vacuum adsorption energy consumption.

[0020] 3. By setting a first sensor and a second sensor at specific locations to form a size detection module, the width type of the sheet material entering the conveyor line can be quickly and accurately identified using simple sensing logic. This structure is low-cost, responds rapidly, and effectively controls equipment costs.

[0021] 4. The control method of this invention uses the signal changes of the third and fourth sensors as the criterion for adjusting the distance to the correct position. That is, when the light-blocking signal of the board disappears, it indicates that the edge of the belt has retreated to the outside of the edge of the board. At this time, the adjustment is stopped, which ensures that the belt forms the optimal bearing width for the board. This ensures that the bottom surface of the board receives sufficient support and adsorption area, while avoiding the waste of space and ineffective energy consumption caused by the excessive outward movement of the second or third belt conveyor, thus ensuring a balance between adsorption effect and energy saving effect.

[0022] 5. The control method of this invention refines the start-stop control strategy for the first, second, and third fans under different operating conditions. For plates of different widths, only the necessary fan combinations are activated, avoiding long-term idling of high-power fans and significantly optimizing energy-saving effects. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a 3D diagram of a negative pressure conveying system; Figure 2 This is a front view of a negative pressure conveying system; Figure 3 This is a right view of a negative pressure conveying system; Figure 4 This is a top view of a negative pressure conveying system when a third plate is placed. Figure 5 This is a 3D view of a vacuum belt conveyor unit; Figure 6 This is a top view of the vacuum belt conveyor unit; Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional view of the frame and the first belt conveyor; Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional view of the frame, the first sliding frame, the first telescopic cylinder, and the third belt conveyor; Figure 9 It is a three-dimensional view of the frame, the second sliding frame, the second telescopic cylinder, and the second belt conveyor; Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the frame, the second sliding frame, the third sliding frame, the second telescopic cylinder, the first connecting rod assembly, the second connecting rod assembly, the second belt conveyor, and the fourth belt conveyor; Figure 11 It is a three-dimensional view of the frame, the first sliding frame, the second sliding frame, the third sliding frame, the first telescopic cylinder, and the second telescopic cylinder; Figure 12 This is a front view of the frame, the first sliding frame, the second sliding frame, the third sliding frame, the first telescopic cylinder, and the second telescopic cylinder; Figure 13 This is a 3D view of the first belt conveyor; Figure 14 It is a three-dimensional view of the first belt conveyor after the belt has been removed and the machine has been cut open; Figure 15 It is a three-dimensional vacuum module Figure 1 ; Figure 16 It is a three-dimensional vacuum module Figure 2 .

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 11-First belt conveyor; 12-Second belt conveyor; 13-Third belt conveyor; 14-Fourth belt conveyor; 151 - First link assembly; 152 - Second link assembly; 161 - First sliding frame; 162 - Second sliding frame; 163 - Third sliding frame; 171 - First telescopic cylinder; 172 - Second telescopic cylinder; 21-First sensor; 22-Second sensor; 31 - Third sensor; 32 - Fourth sensor; 41 - Fifth sensor; 51 - First airway; 52 - Second airway; 53-First gas distribution pipe; 531-First gas distribution valve; 54-Second gas distribution pipe; 541-Second gas distribution valve; 55 - Third gas distribution pipe; 551 - Third gas distribution valve; 56-Fourth gas distribution pipe; 561-Fourth gas distribution valve; 57-Main pipe; 571-First connecting pipe; 5711-Airway valve; 581 - First fan; 582 - Second fan; 583 - Third fan; 59-Second connecting pipe; 591-Fan valve; 6-Rack. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To better understand the present invention, it will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is worth noting that in the description of the present invention, terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element 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 the present invention.

[0026] Example 1: See Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 A negative pressure conveying system includes a frame 6, a vacuum belt conveyor unit, a distance adjustment module, a size detection module, a position detection module, a vacuuming module, and a host computer.

[0027] See Figure 1 The vacuum belt conveyor unit is used to carry and transport sheet metal. To accommodate sheets of different widths, the vacuum belt conveyor unit includes two sets of first belt conveyors 11, two sets of second belt conveyors 12, and two sets of third belt conveyors 13. The two sets of third belt conveyors 13 are located in the middle area of ​​the frame 6, between the two sets of first belt conveyors 11. The two sets of first belt conveyors 11 are located on both sides of the middle area. The two sets of second belt conveyors 12 are located on the outermost side, outside the two sets of first belt conveyors 11. All the first belt conveyors 11, second belt conveyors 12, and third belt conveyors 13 transport the sheet metal along a first linear direction. To achieve segmented vacuum adsorption along the conveying path, see [reference needed]. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The first belt conveyor 11, the second belt conveyor 12 and the third belt conveyor 13 are all provided with multiple independent adsorption zones along the first straight line direction. The number of adsorption zones on the first belt conveyor 11, the second belt conveyor 12 and the third belt conveyor 13 is the same. In this embodiment, each belt conveyor is provided with three adsorption zones.

[0028] To accommodate different sheet widths, this invention employs a sliding installation structure. See details... Figure 7 The two sets of first belt conveyors 11 are bolted to the frame 6 as a reference. See also Figure 9 Both sets of second belt conveyors 12 are fixedly mounted on the first sliding frame 161. The first sliding frame 161 is slidably connected to the frame 6 via a slider guide pair, thereby allowing the second belt conveyor 12 to move along the second linear direction (perpendicular to the first linear direction). Similarly, see... Figure 8 Both sets of third belt conveyors 13 are fixedly installed on the second sliding frame 162, and the second sliding frame 162 is also slidably connected to the frame 6 through the slider guide pair.

[0029] The pitch adjustment module provides the driving force. It includes a first pitch adjustment mechanism for adjusting the distance between the two sets of third belt conveyors 13, and a second pitch adjustment mechanism for adjusting the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors 12. See also... Figure 8 The first adjusting mechanism includes two sets of symmetrically arranged first telescopic cylinders 171, preferably hydraulic cylinders or electric cylinders; in this embodiment, each set of first telescopic cylinders 171 has two cylinders; the cylinder body of the first telescopic cylinder 171 is fixedly mounted on the frame 6, and its piston rod is fixedly connected to the second sliding frame 162. See also Figure 9The second adjustment mechanism includes two sets of symmetrically arranged second telescopic cylinders 172, preferably hydraulic cylinders or electric cylinders; in this embodiment, each set of second telescopic cylinders 172 is provided with two cylinders; the cylinder body of the second telescopic cylinder 172 is pivotally connected to the frame 6, and its piston rod is pivotally connected to the first sliding frame 161.

[0030] The dimension detection module is used to detect the width type of the sheet material in the second linear direction. It includes a first sensor 21 and a second sensor 22. See also... Figure 5 or Figure 6 A first sensor 21 is fixedly installed at the starting end (i.e., the feed end) of each of the two sets of first belt conveyors 11 facing each other; a second sensor 22 is fixedly installed at the starting end of each of the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 facing each other. Both the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 are through-beam or diffuse reflection photoelectric sensors.

[0031] The positioning detection module assists in the distance adjustment process. It includes a third sensor 31 and a fourth sensor. See also... Figure 5 or Figure 6 A third sensor 31 is fixedly installed at the beginning of each of the two sets of third belt conveyors 13 on the side opposite to each other; a fourth sensor 32 is fixedly installed at the beginning of each of the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 on the side opposite to each other. Both the third sensor 31 and the fourth sensor 32 are through-beam or diffuse reflection photoelectric sensors.

[0032] The position detection module is used to detect the traveling position of the sheet metal in the conveying direction. See also Figure 5 or Figure 6 Multiple fifth sensors 41 are arranged along a first straight line on the bodies of the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, and the third conveyor belt 13. Each fifth sensor 41 corresponds to the position of an adsorption area. The fifth sensors 41 can also be through-beam or diffuse reflection photoelectric sensors.

[0033] See Figure 15 or Figure 16 The vacuum module includes a first air duct 51, a second air duct 52, a first air distribution pipe 53, a first air distribution valve 531, a second air distribution pipe 54, a second air distribution valve 541, a third air distribution pipe 55, a third air distribution valve 551, a main pipe 57, a first connecting pipe 571, an air duct valve 5711, a vacuum generator, and a blower valve 591.

[0034] See Figure 15 or Figure 16 Multiple first air passages 51 are provided along a first straight line, the number of which corresponds to the number of adsorption zones distributed along the first straight line. The first air passages 51 are fixedly installed on the frame 6. The second air passage 52 is connected to the first air passage 51 through a flexible tube (such as a corrugated tube).

[0035] See Figure 4For the first belt conveyor 11, each adsorption zone is connected to the first air passage 51 via a rigid first air distribution pipe 53. Furthermore, see... Figure 15 A first gas distribution valve 531 is installed on the first gas distribution pipe 53 to control the opening and closing of the first gas distribution pipe 53.

[0036] See Figure 4 For the third conveyor belt 13, each adsorption zone is connected to the first air passage 51 via a flexible third air distribution pipe 55 (such as a corrugated pipe). When the first adjusting mechanism adjusts the position of the third conveyor belt 13, the third air distribution pipe 55 has sufficient length to accommodate the positional changes of the third conveyor belt 13. See also Figure 15 A third air distribution valve 551 is fixedly installed on the third air distribution pipe 55 to control the opening and closing of the third air distribution pipe 55.

[0037] See Figure 4 For the second belt conveyor 12, each adsorption zone is fixedly installed together with the second air passage 52 via a rigid second air distribution pipe 54. This not only ensures that each adsorption zone of the second belt conveyor 12 is connected to a second air passage 52, but also allows the second air passage 52 to move along with the second belt conveyor 12 under the drive of the second adjusting mechanism, causing the second air passage 52 to slide relative to the first air passage 51. During the movement of the second air passage 52, the flexible hose connecting the second air passage 52 and the first air passage 51 has sufficient length to accommodate changes in the position of the second air passage 52. See also Figure 15 A second air distribution valve 541 is fixedly installed on the second air distribution pipe 54 to control the opening and closing of the second air distribution pipe 54.

[0038] See Figure 15 The main pipe 57 is connected to multiple first connecting pipes 571, and each first connecting pipe 571 is connected to a first air passage 51. Each first connecting pipe 571 is fixedly installed with an air passage valve 5711, which is used to control the opening and closing of the first connecting pipe 571.

[0039] See Figure 15 The vacuum generator includes a first fan 581, a second fan 582, and a third fan 583. All three fans (581, 582, and 583) are connected to the main pipe 57 via second connecting pipes 59. A fan valve 591 is fixedly installed on each second connecting pipe 59 to control the on / off state of the pipe. Furthermore, a filter is fixedly installed on each second connecting pipe 59 to stabilize the fan's operating status.

[0040] All actuators and sensors are electrically connected to the host computer (using a PLC or industrial computer). Specifically: the first belt conveyor 11, the second belt conveyor 12, and the third belt conveyor 13 in the vacuum belt conveyor unit; the first telescopic cylinder 171 and the second telescopic cylinder 172 in the pitch adjustment module; the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 in the dimension detection module; the third sensor 31 and the fourth sensor 32 in the position detection module; the fifth sensor 41 in the position detection module; and the first fan 581, the second fan 582, the third fan 583, the fan valve 591, the air duct valve 5711, the first air distribution valve 531, the second air distribution valve 541, and the third air distribution valve 551 in the vacuum pumping module are all electrically connected to the host computer.

[0041] The working principle is as follows: The host computer first controls the pitch adjustment module to perform a reset action. The piston rods of the two first telescopic cylinders 171 extend, causing the two second sliding frames 162 to slide inward along the slider guide pair, returning the two sets of third belt conveyors 13 to their initial positions (minimum pitch position); the piston rods of the second telescopic cylinders 172 extend, causing the first sliding frames 161 to slide inward, returning the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 to their initial positions (the positions closest to the first belt conveyor 11), see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 The system is currently in standby mode, ready to receive the board material.

[0042] Once the sheet material to be conveyed is placed in the middle area of ​​the inlet end of the vacuum conveyor by the feeding equipment (such as a robotic arm), the host computer receives the conveying command and immediately starts the size detection module to identify the width. Based on the occlusion signal logic of the second sensor 22 and the first sensor 21, the host computer determines whether the current batch of sheet material belongs to the first sheet material (standard sheet), the second sheet material (wide sheet), or the third sheet material (narrow sheet). Figure 4 This is a top view of a negative pressure conveying system when a third plate is placed.

[0043] If the material is identified as the second sheet material, the host computer controls the piston rod of the second telescopic cylinder 172 to retract, pulling the two first sliding frames 161 and the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 on them to move laterally outward. During the movement, the second air duct 52 moves outward synchronously with the second belt conveyor 12, and the second air duct 52 and the first air duct 51 generate relative sliding displacement, with the hose between them providing length compensation. When the second belt conveyor 12 moves outward to its edge and exits the sheet material projection area, the signal of the fourth sensor 32 changes from blocked to unblocked, and the host computer locks the current position accordingly, completing the adaptive width adjustment.

[0044] If the material is identified as the third type of material, the host computer controls the first telescopic cylinder 171 to retract, pulling the two second sliding frames 162 and the two sets of third conveyor belts 13 on them outward. During this process, the flexible third air distribution pipe 55, which connects the adsorption area of ​​the third conveyor belt 13 and the first air passage 51, provides distance compensation. When the signal from the third sensor 31 disappears, the adjustment stops.

[0045] After the width adjustment is completed, the conveying and adsorption operations begin. The first conveyor belt 11 and the third conveyor belt 13 cooperate to convey the first sheet material; the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, and the third conveyor belt 13 convey the second sheet material; and the third conveyor belt 13 conveys the third sheet material. During the conveying process, the fifth sensor 41, arranged along the conveyor belt, provides real-time feedback signals indicating the arrival of the sheet material at its front end and its departure at its rear end. Based on this, the host computer executes a segmented vacuuming logic: when the fifth sensor 41 corresponding to a certain adsorption zone detects a sheet material, the host computer immediately opens the corresponding air duct valve 5711 and air distribution valve (first air distribution valve 531, second air distribution valve 541, or third air distribution valve 551) for that adsorption zone, and ensures that the corresponding fan (first fan 581, second fan 582, or third fan 583) and fan valve 591 are in working condition, creating negative pressure in the adsorption zone to firmly adhere the bottom surface of the sheet material; when the sheet material leaves the adsorption zone, the host computer closes the corresponding air distribution valve, cutting off the negative pressure supply. This "suction upon arrival, air cut off upon departure" control strategy, through the coordinated operation of airway valve 5711 and fan valve 591, achieves precise coverage of the conveying trajectory of different specifications of sheet metal and efficient energy-saving operation.

[0046] As can be seen from the above working principle, this embodiment, by setting up a vacuum belt conveyor unit including two sets of first belt conveyors 11, two sets of second belt conveyors 12, and two sets of third belt conveyors 13, and combining a size detection module, a distance adjustment module, a position detection module, a vacuuming module, and a host computer, realizes closed-loop control that automatically adjusts the conveying width and calls up belt conveyors according to the width of the board, and performs segmented vacuuming according to the width and conveying position of the board. This embodiment can automatically adapt to the conveying needs of the first, second, and third boards (i.e., different width specifications). When conveying narrow boards, only the third belt conveyor 13 located in the middle area needs to be activated, while the first belt conveyors 11 and second belt conveyors 12 on the outside remain in standby mode, reducing the operating energy consumption of the belt conveyors themselves. When conveying wide boards, the first belt conveyors 11 and second belt conveyors 12 on the outside automatically unfold and start working, completing the task without replacing the entire conveyor line or adding parallel conveyor lines, improving the flexibility and automation of the production line and reducing energy consumption.

[0047] In the vacuum module, during the adjustment of the second belt conveyor 12, the second air duct 52 can move together with the second belt conveyor 12, which simplifies the pipeline. Furthermore, the use of multiple independent valves enables precise, on-demand gas supply to each adsorption zone, reducing the energy consumption of vacuum adsorption.

[0048] Example 2: This embodiment introduces a negative pressure delivery control method based on the system described in Embodiment 1. The method includes the following steps: Step S1: After receiving the initialization command from the control unit (such as the control panel in the central control room), the host computer controls the pitch adjustment module to restore the two sets of third belt conveyors 13 and the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 to their initial positions. See also Figure 1 The initial positions of the two sets of third belt conveyors 13 are the positions with the smallest distance between them and the positions furthest from the first belt conveyor 11; the initial positions of the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 are the positions with the smallest distance between them and the positions furthest from the first belt conveyor 11.

[0049] Step S2: After receiving the transport command from the control unit (such as the control panel in the central control room), the host computer controls the dimension detection module to detect the width of the first board in the second straight line direction of the current batch of boards. Each batch of boards has the same specifications.

[0050] Step S3: The host computer determines the type of the current batch of boards based on the detection information. The type of boards includes the first board (standard board), the second board (wide board), or the third board (narrow board). The width of the third board in the second straight line direction is less than that of the first board, and the width of the second board in the second straight line direction is greater than that of the first board.

[0051] The specific judgment logic is as follows: Step S301: The host computer controls the second sensor 22 for detection. If the host computer receives a signal, it indicates that the first board is blocking the second sensor 22, and the current batch of boards is determined to be the second board (wide board). If no signal is received, proceed to step S302; Step S302: The host computer controls the first sensor 21 to detect. If the host computer receives a signal, it indicates that the first board is blocking the first sensor 21, and the current batch of boards is determined to be the first board (standard board); if no signal is received, the current batch of boards is determined to be the third board (narrow board).

[0052] To improve detection accuracy, the feeding equipment (such as a robotic arm) places the current batch of plates one by one at the middle position at the beginning of the vacuum conveyor, so that the two second sensors 22 or the two first sensors 21 at symmetrical positions can perform detection.

[0053] Step S4: Execute the spacing adjustment strategy according to the type of the current batch of boards.

[0054] If the current batch of boards is the first board, the host computer controls the first and second adjusting mechanisms to remain stationary, so that the second belt conveyor 12 and the third belt conveyor 13 remain in their initial positions.

[0055] If the current batch of boards is the second type, the host computer controls the second telescopic cylinder 172 of the second spacing adjustment mechanism to increase the distance between the two sets of second conveyor belts 12. During the adjustment process, the host computer reads the signal from the fourth sensor 32 in real time. When the two sets of second conveyor belts 12 move outward until the edge of the board is just not obstructed, the detection signal from the fourth sensor 32 disappears. At this time, the host computer determines that the spacing adjustment is in place and immediately controls the second telescopic cylinder 172 to stop.

[0056] If the current batch of boards is the third type, the host computer controls the first telescopic cylinder 171 of the first spacing adjustment mechanism to increase the distance between the two sets of third belt conveyors 13. During the adjustment process, the host computer reads the signal from the third sensor 31 in real time. When the signal disappears, the host computer determines that the distance adjustment is in place and stops the adjustment.

[0057] Step S5: Perform coordinated control of delivery and vacuuming.

[0058] If the current batch of boards is the first board, the host computer controls the first conveyor belt 11 and the third conveyor belt 13 to start and transport them together. At the same time, based on the feedback from the fifth sensor 41 on the first conveyor belt 11 and the third conveyor belt 13, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first conveyor belt 11 and the third conveyor belt 13: only the adsorption area covered by the board is opened, and the corresponding air duct valve 5711, the first air distribution valve 531 and the third air distribution valve 551 are opened, and the first fan 581 and the third fan 583 provide negative pressure, and the fan valve 591 and the filter connected to the first fan 581 and the third fan 583 are opened.

[0059] If the current batch of boards is the second type, the host computer controls the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, and the third conveyor belt 13 to transport them together. Simultaneously, based on feedback from the fifth sensor 41 on the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, and the third conveyor belt 13, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first conveyor belt 11, the second fan 582, and the third fan 583: during vacuuming, only the adsorption area covered by the board has its corresponding air duct valve 5711, the first air distribution valve 531, the second air distribution valve 541, and the third air distribution valve 551 opened, and the first fan 581, the second fan 582, and the third fan 583 fully opened to provide negative pressure. Furthermore, the fan valve 591 and the filter connected to the first fan 581, the second fan 582, and the third fan 583 are opened.

[0060] If the current batch of boards is the third type, the host computer only controls the third conveyor belt 13 for conveying. At the same time, based on the feedback from the fifth sensor 41 on the third conveyor belt 13, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the third conveyor belt 13: during vacuuming, only the third fan 583 is turned on, and the corresponding air duct valve 5711 and the third air distribution valve 551 are controlled to open and close according to the signal from the fifth sensor 41. In addition, the fan valve 591 and the filter connected to the third fan 583 are also turned on.

[0061] Step S6: Continue with step S5 until the current batch of boards is transported.

[0062] Step S7: When the next batch of boards is delivered, repeat steps S1 to S6.

[0063] The control method in Embodiment 2 is based on the system in Embodiment 1, forming a complete logical control strategy. The host computer determines the type of sheet material and executes differentiated conveying strategies (e.g., only activating the third conveyor belt 13 to convey narrow sheets, or simultaneously activating the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, and the third conveyor belt 13 to convey wide sheets, or simultaneously activating the first conveyor belt 11 and the third conveyor belt 13 to convey standard sheets). Combined with segmented vacuum control, this achieves intelligent and energy-saving conveying in the first linear direction ("suction when there is a sheet, stop when there is no sheet"), and on-demand operation in the second linear direction ("multiple conveyor belts work together for wide sheets, fewer conveyor belts work for narrow sheets"). This not only controls the adsorption area but also the number of conveyor belts involved in the conveying process, achieving simultaneous optimization of mechanical operating energy consumption and vacuum adsorption energy consumption.

[0064] This embodiment 2 clarifies the specific steps for determining the type of board material using the signal logic of the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22. This determination process is logically rigorous, accurately distinguishing between the three specifications of board material and reducing the risk of misjudgment. This structure is low-cost, responds quickly, and effectively controls equipment costs.

[0065] This embodiment 2 defines the use of signal changes from the third sensor 31 and the fourth sensor 32 as the criterion for determining when the adjustment is in place. That is, when the light-blocking signal of the board disappears, it indicates that the edge of the belt has retreated to the outside of the edge of the board. At this point, the adjustment is stopped, which ensures that the belt forms the optimal bearing width for the board. This ensures that the bottom surface of the board receives sufficient support and adsorption area, while avoiding the waste of space and ineffective energy consumption caused by excessive outward movement of the second belt conveyor 12 or the third belt conveyor 13, thus ensuring a balance between adsorption effect and energy saving effect.

[0066] This embodiment 2 refines the start-stop control strategy for the first fan 581, the second fan 582, and the third fan 583 under different operating conditions. For sheet materials of different widths, only the necessary fan combinations are activated, avoiding long-term idling of high-power fans and significantly optimizing energy-saving effects.

[0067] Example 3: This embodiment 3 is a further improvement on embodiment 1: See Figure 5 A fourth belt conveyor 14 is also provided between the second belt conveyor 12 and the first belt conveyor 11. The fourth belt conveyor 14 is electrically connected to the host computer, which controls the start and stop of the fourth belt conveyor 14.

[0068] See Figure 10 and Figure 11 The fourth belt conveyor 14 is fixedly mounted on the third sliding frame 163, which is slidably connected to the first sliding frame 161, where the second belt conveyor 12 is located, via a slider guide pair. (See also...) Figure 10 or Figure 12 The fourth belt conveyor 14 is connected to the first belt conveyor 11 through the first connecting rod assembly 151, and the fourth belt conveyor 14 is connected to the second belt conveyor 12 through the second connecting rod assembly 152.

[0069] See Figure 10 or Figure 12 The first linkage assembly 151 includes two first linkages, the upper ends of which are respectively pivotally connected to the frame 6 where the first belt conveyor 11 is located and the third sliding frame 163 where the fourth belt conveyor 14 is located, and the lower ends are pivotally connected to each other. The second linkage assembly 152 includes two second linkages, the upper ends of which are respectively pivotally connected to the third sliding frame 163 where the fourth belt conveyor 14 is located and the first sliding frame 161 where the second belt conveyor 12 is located, and the lower ends are pivotally connected to each other.

[0070] See Figure 15 and Figure 16 Each adsorption zone of the fourth conveyor belt 14 is connected to the second air passage 52 via a flexible fourth air distribution pipe 56 (such as a corrugated pipe). The fourth air distribution pipe 56 is of sufficient length to accommodate changes in the distance between the fourth conveyor belt 14 and the second conveyor belt 12. A fourth air distribution valve 561 is fixedly installed on the fourth air distribution pipe 56. The fourth air distribution valve 561 is used to control the opening and closing of the fourth air distribution pipe 56 and is electrically connected to the host computer.

[0071] The working principle is as follows: When the host computer determines that the current batch is the second sheet material (wide sheet) based on feedback from the size detection module, the host computer controls the second telescopic cylinder 172 of the second adjustment mechanism to move, driving the two first sliding frames 161 to move the two sets of second belt conveyors 12 laterally outward along the second straight line. During this process, the lower pivot point of the second linkage assembly 152 opens, pushing the third sliding frame 163 to slide laterally relative to the first sliding frame 161 along the slider guide pair. At the same time, the upper end of the first linkage assembly 151 is pivotally connected to the frame 6 and the third sliding frame 163 respectively, and its lower pivot point undergoes an adaptive angle change. Under the combined constraint of the first linkage assembly 151 and the second linkage assembly 152, the fourth belt conveyor 14 is precisely guided to the intermediate position between the first belt conveyor 11 and the second belt conveyor 12, without the need for an additional independent power drive device, realizing position follow-up adjustment, saving energy and simplifying the control logic.

[0072] While the fourth conveyor belt 14 moves laterally, the flexible fourth air distribution pipe 56, which connects the adsorption zone of the fourth conveyor belt 14 and the second air passage 52, has sufficient length to accommodate the change in distance between the fourth conveyor belt 14 and the second conveyor belt 12.

[0073] When conveying the second sheet material (wide sheet), the host computer controls the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, the third conveyor belt 13, and the fourth conveyor belt 14 to start synchronously. Because the fourth conveyor belt 14 automatically fills the gap caused by the adjustment between the first conveyor belt 11 and the second conveyor belt 12, the central area of ​​the bottom surface of the wide sheet material receives continuous and uniform support, effectively preventing the sheet material from sagging and deforming in the middle due to its own weight or uneven adsorption force, thus ensuring the smoothness of the conveying.

[0074] In terms of segmented adsorption control, the host computer controls the opening and closing of the fourth air distribution valve 561 based on the detection signal from the fifth sensor 41 correspondingly installed on the fourth conveyor belt 14: the fourth air distribution valve 561 only opens when the plate covers a certain adsorption area of ​​the fourth conveyor belt 14, so that the adsorption area is connected to the negative pressure in the second air passage 52; it closes immediately after the plate leaves. This control strategy works in conjunction with the segmented adsorption logic of the first conveyor belt 11, the second conveyor belt 12, and the third conveyor belt 13 to ensure that the overall energy-saving effect of the system is maintained while expanding the conveying width.

Claims

1. A control method for a negative pressure conveying system, based on a negative pressure conveying system comprising a vacuum belt conveyor unit and a vacuuming module, characterized in that, The vacuum belt conveyor unit includes two sets of first belt conveyors, two sets of second belt conveyors, and two sets of third belt conveyors. The two sets of third belt conveyors are located between the two sets of first belt conveyors, and the two sets of second belt conveyors are located outside the two sets of first belt conveyors. The first, second, and third belt conveyors all transport the sheet metal along a first straight direction, and each of the first, second, and third belt conveyors has multiple adsorption zones along the first straight direction. The negative pressure conveying system also includes a size detection module, a distance adjustment module, a position detection module, and a host computer. The size detection module is used to detect the width of the sheet metal in the second straight direction, which is perpendicular to the first straight direction. The distance adjustment module is used to adjust the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors and the distance between the two sets of third belt conveyors. The position detection module is used to detect the position of the plate in the first straight line direction; the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, the third belt conveyor, the size detection module, the distance adjustment module, the position detection module and the vacuum module are all electrically connected to the host computer; The control method includes the following steps: Step S1: After receiving the initialization command, the host computer controls the two sets of third belt conveyors and the two sets of second belt conveyors to return to their initial positions. The initial positions of the two sets of third belt conveyors are the positions with the smallest distance between them, and the initial positions of the two sets of second belt conveyors are the positions with the smallest distance between them. Step S2: After receiving the transmission command, the host computer controls the size detection module to detect the width of the first board in the second straight line direction of the current batch of boards. Step S3: The host computer determines the type of the current batch of boards as a first board, a second board, or a third board based on the detection information from the size detection module. The width of the third board in the second straight line direction is less than that of the first board, and the width of the second board in the second straight line direction is greater than that of the first board. Step S4: When the current batch of boards is the first board, the host computer controls the two sets of the third belt conveyor and the two sets of the second belt conveyor to maintain the initial position. When the current batch of sheet material is the second sheet material, the host computer controls the spacing adjustment module to increase the spacing between the two sets of second belt conveyors; When the current batch of sheet material is the third sheet material, the host computer controls the spacing adjustment module to increase the spacing between the two sets of the third belt conveyor. Step S5: When the current batch of boards is the first board, the host computer controls the first belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor to transport the board together; and the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor according to the detection information of the position detection module. When the current batch of boards is the second board, the host computer controls the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor to transport the board together. Furthermore, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor based on the detection information from the position detection module. When the current batch of boards is the third board, the host computer controls the third conveyor belt to transport the board; and, based on the detection information from the position detection module, the host computer controls the vacuum module to perform segmented vacuuming on the third conveyor belt. Step S6 continues with step S5 until the current batch of boards is transported. Step S7: When the next batch of boards is delivered, repeat steps S1 to S6.

2. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The size detection module includes a first sensor and a second sensor. The first set of two sets of first belt conveyors are equipped with a first sensor at the beginning of their respective sides facing each other, and the second set of two sets of second belt conveyors are equipped with a second sensor at the beginning of their respective sides facing each other. Both the first sensor and the second sensor are electrically connected to the host computer.

3. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the host computer determines the type of the current batch of boards based on the detection information from the size detection module, it includes the following steps: Step S301: The host computer controls the second sensor to detect; when the host computer receives the detection signal from the second sensor, the host computer determines the current batch of boards as the second board; when the host computer does not receive the detection signal from the second sensor, proceed to the next step. Step S302: The host computer controls the first sensor to detect; when the host computer receives the detection signal from the first sensor, the host computer determines the current batch of boards as the first board; when the host computer does not receive the detection signal from the first sensor, the host computer determines the current batch of boards as the third board.

4. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a positioning detection module, which includes a third sensor and a fourth sensor. Both sets of third belt conveyors are equipped with a third sensor at the beginning of the side opposite to each other, and both sets of second belt conveyors are equipped with a fourth sensor at the beginning of the side opposite to each other. Both the third sensor and the fourth sensor are electrically connected to the host computer.

5. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to increase the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors, the host computer controls the fourth sensor to detect in real time. When the detection signal of the fourth sensor disappears, the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors is adjusted to the correct position, and the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to stop adjusting the distance between the two sets of second belt conveyors. When the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to increase the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors, the host computer controls the third sensor to detect in real time. When the detection signal of the third sensor disappears, the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors is adjusted to the correct position, and the host computer controls the distance adjustment module to stop adjusting the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors.

6. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The position detection module includes a fifth sensor. The first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third belt conveyor are each provided with a plurality of fifth sensors along a first straight line. Each fifth sensor corresponds to one of the adsorption areas and is electrically connected to the host computer.

7. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vacuum module includes: The first air passage is provided in multiple ways along the first straight line. The first air passage corresponds one-to-one with the adsorption zone in the first belt conveyor. Each adsorption zone in the first belt conveyor is connected to the first air passage through a first air distribution pipe. Each adsorption zone in the third belt conveyor is connected to the first air passage through a flexible third air distribution pipe. Multiple second air passages are provided along the first straight line direction. The second air passages are fixedly connected to the second belt conveyor. The second air passages are connected to the first air passages through hoses. Each adsorption zone in the second belt conveyor is connected to the second air passages through a second air distribution pipe. The main pipe is equipped with multiple first connecting pipes, each of which is connected to a first airway. The vacuum generator includes a first blower, a second blower, and a third blower, all of which are connected to the main pipe via a second connecting pipe. An airway valve is provided on each of the first connecting pipes; The fan valve is located on each of the second connecting pipes; The first gas distribution valve is installed on each first gas distribution pipe; The second gas distribution valve is installed on each second gas distribution pipe; The third gas distribution valve is installed on each third gas distribution pipe; The first fan, the second fan, the third fan, the air duct valve, the fan valve, the first air distribution valve, the second air distribution valve, and the third air distribution valve are all electrically connected to the host computer.

8. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the host computer controls the vacuuming module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor and the third belt conveyor, the host computer controls the first fan and the third fan to work. When the host computer controls the vacuuming module to perform segmented vacuuming on the first belt conveyor, the second belt conveyor, and the third belt conveyor, the host computer controls the first fan, the second fan, and the third fan to operate. The host computer controls the vacuuming module to perform segmented vacuuming on the third belt conveyor, and the host computer controls the third fan to operate.

9. The control method for a negative pressure conveying system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distance adjustment module includes a first distance adjustment mechanism and a second distance adjustment mechanism. The first distance adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the distance between the two sets of the third belt conveyors, and the second distance adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the distance between the two sets of the second belt conveyors.

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