A special-shaped firework group pot line and a group pot method thereof

Abstract

This invention discloses a production line for assembling irregularly shaped fireworks and its assembly method. The production line, arranged sequentially along the outer cylinder's flow direction, includes an outer cylinder feeder, an outer cylinder deformation machine, a variable-pitch conveyor, and an outer cylinder fuse-setting machine. This invention overcomes the technical bias of "fuse-setting first, deformation later" in traditional automated fireworks production. It creatively uses the outer cylinder deformation machine to first convert the conventionally arranged fireworks outer cylinder into an irregularly shaped arrangement and shape it. Then, using a variable-pitch conveyor equipped with a specific variable-pitch adjustment mechanism, it smoothly transfers the irregularly shaped arrangement to the outer cylinder fuse-setting machine for drilling and fuse insertion while strictly maintaining this arrangement. The technical solution of this invention fundamentally eliminates the major safety hazards such as wear, flameout, and flashover caused by forced deformation and pulling of the fuse in traditional processes. It not only significantly improves the reliability of irregularly shaped combined fireworks but also possesses strong size compatibility and ease of changeover, greatly improving production efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of fireworks production and automated machinery, and in particular to a special-shaped fireworks assembly line and its assembly method. Background Technology

[0002] As market demand for fireworks products becomes increasingly diverse and sophisticated, combination fireworks are gaining popularity among consumers. Compared to ordinary rectangular combination fireworks, irregularly shaped combination fireworks (such as the commonly seen "peacock spreading its tail" fan-shaped or W-shaped fireworks) are widely loved for their unique firing patterns and high visual appeal. These irregularly shaped combination fireworks typically require multiple outer tubes of fireworks to be combined and fixed at specific angles (such as a fan-shaped circumference).

[0003] Currently, there are significant technical bottlenecks in the automated production of irregularly shaped fireworks. Because the outer cylinders are arranged in irregular shapes (such as fan shapes) with mutual tilting angles, it is extremely difficult to perform automated drilling and insertion positioning directly in this state. Therefore, existing irregularly shaped fireworks assembly equipment generally adopts a compromise process of "insertion first, deformation later": that is, the outer cylinders are first transported in parallel upright positions, and drilling and insertion are completed in a parallel state. Then, a mechanical structure is used to forcibly deform the parallel-arranged outer cylinders into an irregular shape, and finally, fireproof paper is applied and the assembly is pressed together.

[0004] However, this traditional "insert fuse first, then deform" process has a fatal flaw. During the mechanically forced deformation of the outer tube array, the already inserted fuses inevitably suffer severe stretching and friction, easily causing fuse wear, internal powder detachment, or even fuse breakage or detachment. This not only leads to serious quality problems such as "flameout" or "extinguishing" during fireworks display, but may even cause "flame spikes" between adjacent outer tubes, posing a significant safety hazard. Furthermore, existing automated production lines are often designed for a single specification. Once it is necessary to produce irregularly shaped fireworks of different lengths and shapes, a large-scale replacement of the entire tooling is required, resulting in extremely poor compatibility and high production change costs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, this invention provides a shaped fireworks assembly line and a method for assembling the assembly line, thereby resolving the aforementioned technical issues.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, a non-standard fireworks assembly line is proposed according to a first aspect of the present invention, comprising an outer tube feeder, an outer tube deformation machine, a variable-pitch conveyor, and an outer tube ignition machine arranged sequentially along the process flow direction of the fireworks outer tube. The feed end of the variable-pitch conveyor is connected to the discharge side of the outer tube deformation machine, and the discharge end of the variable-pitch conveyor is connected to the feed side of the outer tube ignition machine. The outer tube deformation machine is used to convert conventionally arranged fireworks outer tubes into a non-standard arrangement and output them in a shaped manner. The variable-pitch conveyor is used to support the fireworks outer tubes maintaining the non-standard arrangement and transfer them to the working position of the outer tube ignition machine. By placing the outer tube deformation machine before the outer tube ignition machine and physically connecting it with the variable-pitch conveyor, a new process of "deformation first, ignition later" is realized, fundamentally avoiding the pulling and damage to the ignition wire caused by subsequent deformation, and completely eliminating the safety hazards of ignition wire detachment, flameout, and flashover.

[0007] In some specific embodiments, the outer cylinder deformation machine includes a worktable and a power cylinder and a slide plate fixedly mounted on the worktable. The output end of the power cylinder is connected to a deformation gripper for directly clamping the fireworks outer cylinder. The slide plate has a guide groove with a guiding direction. The partial guide structure of the deformation gripper is slidably inserted and confined within the guide groove so that the relative clamping position changes along the defined path of the guide groove under the drive of the power cylinder. By using the power cylinder in conjunction with the slide plate with a specific guide groove, the precise guidance and synchronous and stable transformation of the outer cylinder during the deformation process are ensured. At the same time, by simply changing the slide plate with a different guide groove, irregular shapes (such as changing a fan shape to a W shape) can be quickly switched, improving the expandability of the equipment.

[0008] In some specific embodiments, the variable-pitch conveyor includes multiple parallel drive chains and variable-pitch tooling installed before and after the different drive chains. A changeover turntable is provided at the side or bottom of the variable-pitch conveyor. The changeover turntable is connected to the drive shaft of the corresponding drive chain so that the rotation of the turntable directly drives the different drive chains carrying the variable-pitch tooling to generate relative displacement and adjust the mechanical distance between them. By separately installing the variable-pitch tooling before and after on different chains and directly changing the chain spacing by rotating the changeover turntable, it is possible to quickly adapt to the clamping requirements of fireworks outer tubes of different lengths without replacing large tooling, significantly reducing changeover costs and ensuring the transportation stability of irregularly shaped arrangements.

[0009] In some specific embodiments, the outer cylinder punching machine includes a power unit and a punching mechanism. The punching mechanism is drivenly connected to the output end of the power unit, and the punching and insertion working ends of the punching mechanism are set towards the conveying clamping station on the variable pitch conveyor. The punching mechanism operates directly towards the clamping station on the variable pitch conveyor, ensuring that the punching and insertion actions can be accurately executed under a stable irregular arrangement state, thereby improving the insertion success rate.

[0010] In some specific embodiments, a glue applicator and a packing machine are sequentially arranged downstream of the outer cylinder forming machine along the conveying direction. A fireproof paper feeding machine is arranged to the side or downstream of the glue applicator. The glue applicator includes an outer cylinder glue applicator arranged on the outer cylinder conveying path and a fireproof paper glue applicator arranged on the fireproof paper conveying path. The dual-line synchronous glue applicator design for the outer cylinder and the fireproof paper ensures the uniformity of glue application, providing a process guarantee for subsequent high-quality pressing and bonding.

[0011] In some specific embodiments, the fireproof paper feeding machine includes a fireproof paper stacking structure at the bottom for carrying materials and a suction cup structure movably suspended directly above the fireproof paper stacking structure. Multiple suction cups for performing gripping actions are arranged in an array on the suction cup structure, and the mounting position of each suction cup on the suction cup structure is a slidingly adjustable fixed structure. The slidingly adjustable mounting position of the suction cups allows them to perfectly adapt to various irregularly shaped fireproof papers required for different types of fireworks, greatly improving the compatibility of the auxiliary material feeding system.

[0012] In some specific embodiments, the pot assembly machine includes an irregularly shaped tooling and a pot assembly platform, as well as a centering guide rod and a side-guiding structure vertically fixed on both sides of the pot assembly platform. The irregularly shaped tooling is a structure whose inner cavity contour is adapted to the irregular arrangement of the outer tube of the fireworks. Below the irregularly shaped tooling, there is a pot assembly gripper that reciprocates to grab the semi-finished product of the outer tube and the fireproof paper bonding assembly from the variable pitch conveyor. The side of the pot assembly platform is provided with a pot assembly push-out structure with the working thrust direction laterally facing the discharge side of the irregularly shaped tooling. The use of irregularly shaped tooling ensures that the shape of the assembly plate gripper matches the shape of the deformed outer cylinder, ensuring reliable gripping. The centering guide rod provides lateral limiting to the tail of the outer cylinder on the assembly plate platform. Together with the assembly plate gripper, it holds the semi-finished product of the firework outer cylinder and fireproof paper bonding assembly, and presses the outer cylinder down onto the assembly plate platform, achieving absolute limiting of the outer cylinder. This ensures the reliability of the side-guiding structure for the side insertion and guiding of the outer cylinder during the assembly process, and achieves tight and uniform adhesion between multiple inclined outer cylinders and fireproof paper. The reciprocating gripping of the assembly plate gripper, combined with the fixed-distance descent of the assembly plate platform, enables the outer cylinder to overlap and be guided sideways on the assembly plate platform. The lateral assembly plate ejection structure ensures the undamaged unloading of the finished product after pressing and guiding sideways.

[0013] In some specific embodiments, a glue-wrapping machine is also connected downstream of the basin assembly machine. The glue-wrapping machine includes a belt conveyor that serves as a bottom support and material carrier, and a glue-wrapping mechanism that is cantilevered or spans over the belt conveyor's bearing surface. The cantilevered glue-wrapping mechanism, in conjunction with the belt conveyor, can automatically and securely wrap the irregularly shaped basins, ensuring the structural integrity of the finished product during subsequent packaging, transportation, and ignition, and preventing it from falling apart.

[0014] In some specific embodiments, the outer cylinder feeder includes an adjustable hopper with a bottom discharge port and a pushing device arranged at the discharge port. An adjustment plate for adapting to the length of the outer cylinder is slidably installed on the inner side wall of the adjustable hopper. The outer cylinder feeder is externally equipped with a handwheel and a screw drive structure. The screw drive structure is used to adjust the number of outer cylinders arranged side-by-side within the pushing device. By adjusting the adjustment plate inside the hopper, the internal dimensions of the hopper can be quickly changed. By adjusting the baffle spacing on the screw via the handwheel, the width of the pushing position can be changed. This not only accommodates outer cylinders of different lengths and diameters but also allows for precise control of the number of arrays arranged in a single operation.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for assembling irregularly shaped fireworks assembly lines as described above is provided, comprising: S1: The outer tube feeding machine initially arranges the conventional upright fireworks outer tubes to be processed into a conventional array, and pushes the arranged fireworks outer tubes downstream for output; S2: The outer tube deformation machine receives the fireworks outer tubes that have completed the initial arrangement. It uses a power mechanism to drive the deformation gripper to slide in the preset track groove. Through mechanical clamping and track guiding actions, it changes multiple fireworks outer tubes from the conventional parallel arrangement to the preset irregular arrangement and maintains the irregular arrangement to shape them. S3: The variable pitch conveyor receives the firework outer tubes in an irregularly arranged state after they have been shaped. It uses the variable pitch fixtures set on different transmission chains to clamp and limit the front and rear sides of the firework outer tubes. While maintaining the irregular arrangement, it smoothly transports the firework outer tubes to the downstream ignition station. S4: The outer tube ignition machine automatically punches holes and inserts fuses into the side walls of the outer tubes in the irregular array of fireworks, while ensuring that the outer tubes of the fireworks are always arranged in an irregular shape. S5: Use a glue applicator to automatically apply glue to the outer surface of the firework tube after the ignition action is completed, as well as to the irregularly shaped fireproof paper that is synchronously transferred by the fireproof paper feeder. S6: The assembly clamps on the assembly machine reciprocate to grab the semi-finished product of the combination of the firework outer tube and the irregular fireproof paper on the variable pitch conveyor to the assembly platform. After applying downward pushing force to press and bond the semi-finished product, the assembly clamps maintain a clamped state to provide front and rear limits. In conjunction with the left and right limits provided by the centering guide rod, the side guide structure performs the action of inserting the side guide wire on the side of the semi-finished product. After the side guide is inserted, the assembly platform descends by the distance of one firework outer tube diameter. The assembly clamps reciprocate to perform grabbing and pressing and bonding actions. Through layer-by-layer cycle, the final pressing and shaping is formed into a complete irregular firework basin. S7: The irregularly shaped firework basin is received and shaped by the tape wrapping machine. The tape wrapping operation is automatically and continuously tightened along the outer side wall contour of the irregularly shaped firework basin to complete the final anti-scattering shaping and output of the finished irregularly shaped firework.

[0016] The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line and assembly method provided in this application have the following significant advantages: This application breaks through industry technical biases and proposes an automated production line layout of "deformation first, then drilling and inserting the fuse." This completely avoids the stretching, squeezing, and wear of the fuse during the deformation process, eliminating serious quality and safety accidents such as fuse detachment, flameout, and misfiring at the source, and greatly improving the reliability of the shaped fireworks.

[0017] The core modules of the production line in this application all adopt a flexible and adjustable pitch design. Through the production change turntable of the variable pitch conveyor, the replaceable slide plate of the deformation machine, and the quick adjustment structure of the feeding machine and suction cup, a single production line can easily accommodate the production needs of fireworks with different lengths, different pipe diameters, and different irregular shapes (such as fan-shaped, W-shaped, etc.), avoiding the high cost of frequently changing the overall tooling.

[0018] This application system integrates fully automated operations from feeding, deformation, conveying, ignition, gluing, assembling and labeling to final gluing, effectively reducing the reliance on manual labor in the assembly of traditional irregularly shaped fireworks, lowering the labor intensity of workers and the safety risks of contact with hazardous materials, and significantly improving production efficiency and product consistency. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Other embodiments and many anticipated advantages of the embodiments will be readily recognized as they become better understood through reference to the following detailed description. Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from reading the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an outer cylinder feeder according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the outer cylinder deformation machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an outer cylinder priming machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a glue applicator according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a structural diagram of a fireproof paper feeding machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7This is a structural diagram of a specific embodiment of the potting planter of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of a glue-coating machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a diagram of a variable-pitch conveyor according to a specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a specific embodiment of the present invention, showing the rectangular shape changing to a fan shape, the lead wire being applied to the fireproof paper, and the assembly being bonded to the basin. Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for assembling irregularly shaped fireworks assembly lines according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Reference numerals: 1-Outer cylinder feeder, 11-Pushing device, 12-Adjustable hopper, 13-Adjusting plate, 14-Handwheel, 2-Outer cylinder deformation machine, 21-Workbench, 22-Deformation gripper, 23-Power cylinder, 24-Slide plate, 3-Outer cylinder priming machine, 31-Priming mechanism, 32-Power unit, 4-Glue applicator, 41-Outer cylinder glue applicator, 42-Fireproof paper glue applicator, 5-Fireproof paper 51-Feeding machine, 52-Flameproof paper stacking structure, 6-Pot assembly machine, 61-Pot assembly gripper, 62-Pot assembly platform, 63-Centering guide rod, 64-Side guide structure, 65-Pot assembly ejection structure, 66-Irregular tooling, 7-Glue wrapping machine, 71-Belt conveyor, 72-Glue wrapping mechanism, 8-Variable pitch conveyor, 81-Before variable pitch tooling, 82-After variable pitch tooling, 83-Production changeover turntable. Detailed Implementation

[0021] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

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

[0023] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 1 As shown, this invention provides a novel irregular-shaped fireworks assembly line. This automated production line has multiple functional modules arranged linearly according to the process flow direction of the outer tube processing. In terms of specific process flow and module coordination, the outer tube feeding machine 1 is located at the beginning of the entire assembly line to achieve the initial arrangement and feeding of the fireworks outer tubes. The outer tube deformation machine 2 is closely connected downstream of the outer tube feeding machine 1, receiving the outer tubes from the outer tube feeding machine 1 and changing their conventional arrangement to the required irregular shape. After the deformation process is completed, a variable-pitch conveyor 8, located between the outer tube deformation machine 2 and the subsequent outer tube fuse-inserting machine 3, plays a transfer role. This variable-pitch conveyor 8 receives the irregularly shaped outer tubes processed by the outer tube deformation machine 2 and, while maintaining their irregular shape, accurately transports them to the next workstation. The outer tube fuse-inserting machine 3 is located downstream of the variable-pitch conveyor 8 and directly performs drilling and fuse insertion operations on the fireworks outer tubes maintaining their irregular shape.

[0025] In the subsequent shaping and reinforcement stage after ignition, a glue applicator 4 is installed immediately after the outer tube ignition machine 3. This machine is specifically used to apply glue to the outer tube or related auxiliary materials after ignition. Simultaneously, a fireproof paper feeder 5 is installed in the production line, downstream of the glue applicator 4, to accurately pick up the fireproof paper and supply it synchronously to the assembly station. Then, the assembly machine 6 receives the glued outer tube from the previous process and the fireproof paper provided by the fireproof paper feeder 5, and completes the pressing of the irregularly shaped firework outer tube and fireproof paper, as well as the assembly of the firework. Finally, a tape wrapping machine 7, located at the end of the assembly line and downstream of the assembly machine 6, wraps tape around the finally assembled irregularly shaped firework body to secure it, thus completing the output of the finished irregularly shaped firework. This invention creatively places the outer cylinder deformation machine 2 before the outer cylinder punching machine 3, and effectively connects the workstations through the variable pitch conveyor 8, thereby thoroughly implementing the new process flow of "deformation first, then punching and insertion" in terms of physical structure layout.

[0026] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of an outer cylinder feeder according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the outer tube feeding machine 1 is mainly used for the initial storage, arrangement, and directional output of fireworks outer tubes to subsequent processes. Specifically, the main structure of the outer tube feeding machine 1 includes an adjustable hopper 12 and a pushing device 11 located at the discharge end of the adjustable hopper 12. The adjustable hopper 12 is used to centrally accommodate the fireworks outer tubes to be processed. To meet the feeding requirements of outer tubes of different lengths and diameters, an adjusting plate 13 is movably installed on the adjustable hopper 12. By changing the relative position of the adjusting plate 13, the size of the internal accommodating space of the hopper can be flexibly adjusted, thus accommodating fireworks outer tubes of different sizes and specifications. At the same time, a handwheel 14 is also provided on the outside of the outer tube feeding machine 1. For the number of outer tubes required for different specifications of fireworks, the operator can conveniently adjust and achieve precise control of the number of outer tubes arranged at one time by rotating the handwheel 14 (for example, by driving the internal central screw and other transmission structures). After the outer cylinders are aligned in the adjustable hopper 12 according to the set rules, the bottom pushing device 11 is activated to smoothly push the batch of arranged outer cylinders out of the outer cylinder feeder 1, so that they can smoothly enter the downstream deformation station.

[0027] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the outer cylinder deformation machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 3As shown, the outer cylinder deformation machine 2 is mainly used to receive the conventionally arranged outer cylinders from the previous process and use a specific mechanical structure to change their overall arrangement shape into the required irregular shape (such as fan-shaped, W-shaped, etc.), thus laying the foundation for subsequent variable-pitch conveying and drilling and insertion processes. All core actuators of this device are securely mounted on the worktable 21 to ensure the support strength and operational stability of the entire deformation process. The worktable 21 is equipped with a power cylinder 23, serving as the core drive source for performing the deformation action. To achieve precise guidance and change of the outer cylinder's arrangement shape, the worktable 21 is also equipped with a slide plate 24 with a specific trajectory design, and correspondingly equipped with multiple deformation grippers 22 for directly clamping the firework outer cylinder. In actual operation, the power cylinder 23 starts and outputs driving force, driving the deformation grippers 22 to move; at this time, the movement trajectory of the deformation grippers 22 is strictly limited and guided by the internal slide groove of the slide plate 24. The specific mechanical operation can be as follows: the output end of the power cylinder 23 pushes a movable base plate, and each deformable gripper 22 has a guide pin or a raised roller on its movable end or hinge. The guide pin or roller is slidably inserted into the track grooves on the slide plate 24 with divergent or specific orientation openings. Through the push-pull action of the power cylinder 23 and the track guidance of the slide plate 24, the multiple deformable grippers 22 can accurately change their relative positions and angles, thereby powerfully and smoothly transforming the outer cylinder held in them from its original upright and parallel state into the target irregular arrangement structure. In addition, for different types of irregularly shaped fireworks array requirements, the final deformation state of the deformable grippers 22 can be easily changed by simply replacing the slide plate 24 with a different track orientation, greatly improving the equipment's changeover efficiency and compatibility.

[0028] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an outer cylinder priming machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 4As shown, the outer tube fuse-setting machine 3 follows the preceding variable-pitch conveying station and is used to automatically drill holes and insert fuses into the outer tubes of fireworks that are already in an irregular arrangement. It is a key piece of equipment in the core process of this application, which involves "deformation first, then drilling and fuse insertion". Specifically, to achieve precise and efficient fuse-setting, the main structure of the outer tube fuse-setting machine 3 mainly includes a power unit 32 and a fuse-setting mechanism 31 controlled by the power unit. In actual operation, the power unit 32 serves as the driving source for the entire mechanism, providing stable power output for the drilling and fuse-feeding actions. Under the drive and control of the power unit 32, the fuse-setting mechanism 31 precisely drills holes in the positioned irregular outer tube sidewalls according to a preset rhythm and stroke, and reliably inserts the fuse into the holes. Since the outer tube is already in a fixed irregular arrangement state, the fuse-setting mechanism 31 directly completes the fuse insertion in this state, thereby completely avoiding the quality and safety hazards of fuse pulling, wear, or even detachment caused by "funnel insertion first, then deformation" in traditional processes. In addition, the multiple drilling and insertion actuators on the ignition mechanism 31 are adapted to the spacing between the outer tubes when the outer tubes of the fireworks are deformed to different angles, or have a guide mechanism that adjusts the angle accordingly, so as to ensure that the drill bit and the lead wire can be perpendicular or precisely inserted into each inclined outer tube of the fireworks at a set angle.

[0029] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of a glue applicator according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the glue applicator 4 is mainly used for automatically applying glue to the outer tube of fireworks and the accompanying fireproof paper before the assembly and pressing process, to ensure the bonding strength of the two when they are joined later. The glue applicator 4 mainly integrates two independent but closely coordinated glue applicator units: the outer tube glue applicator 41 and the fireproof paper glue applicator 42. In actual assembly line operation, the outer tube glue applicator 41 is arranged on the outer tube conveying path, specifically responsible for quantitatively and uniformly applying glue to the outer surface of the irregularly shaped fireworks outer tubes that have been ignited and are passing through this station. Simultaneously, the fireproof paper glue applicator 42 applies glue to the fireproof paper in the subsequent assembly process. Through the synchronous operation of the outer tube glue applicator 41 and the fireproof paper glue applicator 42, the glue applicator 4 can efficiently provide sufficient and reasonably distributed bonding medium for the outer tube and fireproof paper, thus providing a reliable process guarantee for the tight bonding of the outer tube and fireproof paper and the final assembly of the fireworks in the downstream process.

[0030] Figure 6 A structural diagram of a fireproof paper feeding machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 6As shown, the fireproof paper feeding machine 5 mainly works in conjunction with the previous gluing process to accurately pick up and transfer stacked fireproof paper sheets one by one onto the glued firework outer tubes fixed by tooling on a variable-pitch conveyor, in preparation for subsequent glue application of the fireproof paper and pressing and bonding during the assembly of the firework outer tubes. The fireproof paper feeding machine 5 mainly includes a fireproof paper stacking structure 52 for centralized storage of auxiliary materials, and a suction cup structure 51 movably positioned above it to perform the picking action. In actual production applications, since the firework outer tubes to be assembled have been variable-pitched and maintained in a specific irregular arrangement (e.g., fan-shaped, W-shaped, etc.), the fireproof paper to be bonded must also present corresponding different shapes and contours. These fireproof papers of various shapes are neatly placed in advance on the fireproof paper stacking structure 52 awaiting picking. To achieve precise picking of fireproof paper of different specifications and shapes, the suction cup structure 51 is designed with adjustable position. Operators can flexibly adjust the relative positions of the suction cups on suction cup structure 51 according to the actual size and force distribution of the current batch of irregularly shaped fireproof paper, ensuring the balance and stability of the adsorption force. During the work cycle, suction cup structure 51 descends to the fireproof paper stack structure 52, uses negative pressure to adsorb the top layer of fireproof paper, and then smoothly lifts and conveys it to the glued firework outer tube fixed by tooling on the variable pitch conveyor, thus perfectly meeting the automated feeding requirements of auxiliary materials for various specifications of irregularly shaped fireworks.

[0031] Figure 7 A structural diagram of a specific embodiment of the potting planter of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 7As shown, the assembly machine 6 is located in the core assembly stage of the entire production line. It is primarily responsible for precisely positioning and pressing the irregularly shaped outer cylinders, which have undergone pre-coating, with the fireproof paper fed in, thereby completing the overall assembly of the irregularly shaped fireworks. The bottom of the assembly machine 6 has a stable assembly platform 62, serving as the supporting foundation for all actions. The top of the assembly machine 6 features an irregularly shaped fixture 66, which controls the shape of the assembly grippers 61 below. The fixture 66 is a structure whose inner cavity contour matches the irregular arrangement of the fireworks' outer cylinders. The assembly grippers 61 are responsible for transferring the semi-finished product, consisting of the outer cylinder and fireproof paper combination. On both sides of the assembly platform 62 are side-guiding structures 64, used to guide the sides of adjacent outer cylinders during assembly. To ensure the smooth operation of the side-guiding structures 64, vertically fixed centering guide rods 63 are also provided on both sides of the assembly platform 62, used to limit the movement of the fireworks' outer cylinders during the side-guiding process. During actual assembly, the upper assembly clamp 61, driven by the power source, picks up the semi-finished product of the outer cylinder + fireproof paper combination from the tail of the upstream variable pitch conveyor 8 and transfers it directly above the assembly platform 62. Then, the semi-finished product is pressed down onto the assembly platform 62 along the centering guide rod 63. At this time, the semi-finished product is stably held by the assembly clamp 61 and is laterally limited by the centering guide rod 63. Then, the side-guiding structure 64 performs a side-guiding operation on the side of the outer cylinder. After the side-guiding is completed, the assembly clamp 61 releases the semi-finished product, and at the same time, the assembly platform 62 moves a distance of one outer cylinder diameter under the drive of the power source. The above operation is repeated. When the pressing assembly action is completely completed, the assembly push-out structure 65, located on the side or rear of the assembly platform 62, is then activated to perform a lateral pushing action, smoothly pushing the assembled irregularly shaped firework basins out of the assembly platform 62 and out of the assembly work area, so as to smoothly hand them over to the downstream glue-wrapping process.

[0032] Figure 8 A structural diagram of a glue-coating machine according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 8As shown, the tape wrapping machine 7 is located at the end of the entire irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line. It receives the irregularly shaped fireworks bodies output from the previous process and is mainly used to wrap the outer perimeter of the assembled and pressed irregularly shaped fireworks bodies with tape to achieve final reinforcement and shaping of the finished product. The main structure of the tape wrapping machine 7 includes a belt conveyor 71 at the bottom and a tape wrapping mechanism 72 arranged on the conveying path. In actual production, the irregularly shaped fireworks bodies that have completed preliminary shaping in the assembly process are smoothly transferred to the belt conveyor 71. The belt conveyor 71, as the basic material carrier, is responsible for smoothly conveying the fireworks bodies forward to the designated tape wrapping station and providing stable bottom support during the tape wrapping process. When the fireworks body reaches the predetermined position, the tape wrapping mechanism 72 starts working. Through corresponding transmission components and tape release structure, it automatically and tightly wraps the tape along the outer contour of the fireworks body. The smooth conveying of the belt conveyor 71 and the efficient winding of the adhesive wrapping mechanism 72 work together to ensure the overall structural integrity of the irregularly shaped firework clusters, effectively preventing the outer tube from loosening and falling apart during subsequent packaging, transportation and final ignition.

[0033] Figure 9 A diagram of a variable-pitch conveyor according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown, such as Figure 9As shown, the variable-pitch conveyor 8 is the core conveying and transfer equipment connecting the outer cylinder deformation station and the punching and insertion station. It is mainly used to stably receive and smoothly transport the firework outer cylinders already in an irregular arrangement. Its internal structural design provides the entire production line with high dimensional compatibility and convenient production changeover adjustment capabilities. The variable-pitch conveyor 8 is equipped with two mutually separate but complementary variable-pitch tooling fixtures: a front variable-pitch fixture 81 and a rear variable-pitch fixture 82. During actual material conveying, the front and rear variable-pitch tooling fixtures act on different parts of the irregularly arranged firework outer cylinders, jointly providing reliable limiting and support to ensure that the firework outer cylinders do not tip over or deform during movement. To meet the production needs of firework outer cylinders of different lengths and specifications, the front and rear variable-pitch tooling fixtures 81 and 82 are cleverly installed on different drive chains, and a production changeover turntable 83 is configured at the corresponding adjustment end of the variable-pitch conveyor 8. When the production line needs to change products of different specifications, the operator only needs to drive or manually rotate the changeover turntable 83 to directly change the relative positions between the different chains of the front and rear variable pitch tooling 81. As a specific mechanical implementation, the changeover turntable 83 can be connected to the drive sprocket of the corresponding transmission chain via a coaxial bidirectional lead screw mechanism or a phase adjustment gear set. When the changeover turntable 83 is rotated, the relative circumferential phase difference between the different drive sprockets in coaxial positions can be changed, thereby causing the front and rear variable pitch tooling 81 and 82 mounted on different chains to produce synchronous relative longitudinal displacement. Through this adjustment method, the clamping distance between the front and rear variable pitch tooling 81 and 82 can be quickly and conveniently changed, thus perfectly adapting to the transportation needs of irregularly shaped container sets with outer cylinders of different lengths. This independent pitch adjustment design not only greatly reduces the cost and time of frequently changing the overall tooling for different product specifications, but also significantly improves the positioning accuracy and stability of irregularly shaped outer cylinders during transportation and transfer, providing excellent material posture protection for downstream high-precision drilling and insertion operations.

[0034] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates a specific embodiment of the present invention, showing the rectangular fan-shaped section from the lead wire to the fireproof paper adhesive to the basin assembly. Figure 10As shown, this illustrates the physical changes in the spatial position and arrangement of the outer tubes of fireworks before and after processing by the aforementioned outer tube deformation machine, as well as the transformation process from outer tubes to assembled containers during subsequent processes. In the initial deformation stage, multiple outer tubes are arranged in a regular, parallel, upright position, forming a conventional rectangular linear arrangement. This parallel and compact arrangement conforms to the material flow logic of a conventional production line, facilitating unified pushing and arrangement by the front-end feeding process. Subsequently, guided by the mechanical trajectory and clamping changes at the deformation station, these originally parallel outer tubes undergo relative position and angle shifts: their lower ends maintain a relatively compact convergence, while the upper parts unfold outwards at a certain angle, thus smoothly transitioning the entire outer tube array from its original rectangular arrangement to a radially distributed fan-shaped structure. This complete change in spatial form precisely matches the specific posture requirements of fan-shaped irregular fireworks (such as "peacock spreading its tail" type fireworks) when assembling containers, and provides the final morphological preparation for subsequent drilling and insertion operations directly in this fan-shaped state.

[0035] Continue to refer to Figure 11 , Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating a method for assembling irregularly shaped fireworks display trays according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, as follows: Figure 11 As shown, this potting method specifically includes: S1: The outer tube feeder initially arranges the standard upright firework outer tubes to be processed into a regular array and pushes the arranged firework outer tubes downstream for output. In this step, loose or disordered firework outer tubes are transformed into an ordered, standardized array (usually a regular rectangular arrangement). This process provides a stable and standardized material input foundation for the entire automated production line, ensuring that subsequent mechanical actions can be performed in a uniform rhythm for grabbing and centralized processing.

[0036] S2: The outer tube deformation machine receives the initially arranged firework outer tubes and uses a power mechanism to drive the deformation grippers to slide within a preset track groove. Through mechanical clamping and track guidance, multiple firework outer tubes are changed from a conventional parallel arrangement to a preset irregular arrangement, and this irregular arrangement is maintained for shaping. Through purely mechanical physical forced guidance, the spatial form transformation of the outer tube array is completed in advance without inserting fuses. This operation completely eliminates the risk of interference and damage to the fuse structure caused by the forced deformation of the outer tube array in traditional processes.

[0037] S3: The variable-pitch conveyor receives the shaped fireworks outer tubes in their irregular arrangement. Using variable-pitch fixtures positioned before and after the tubes on different drive chains, it clamps and limits their position on both sides, maintaining the irregular arrangement while smoothly transferring the outer tubes to the downstream ignition station. This step not only ensures that the shaped arrangement does not loosen or deform during transport, but its variable-pitch characteristics also give the production line extremely high flexibility, allowing it to adapt to irregularly shaped outer tubes of different lengths and sizes. This provides highly accurate material space positioning for subsequent high-precision drilling and ignition.

[0038] S4: The outer tube ignition machine automatically drills holes and inserts fuses into the side walls of the outer tubes within the irregularly shaped array, while maintaining the irregular arrangement of the outer tubes. Since the drilling and ignition insertion are performed when the outer tubes are already in their final, fixed shape, the fuse insertion is the final state, eliminating any subsequent deformation processes that could lead to pulling, squeezing, or relative displacement. This fundamentally eliminates the safety hazards of fuse detachment, damage, and subsequent flameout or flashover.

[0039] S5: An automated gluing machine is used to apply glue to the outer surface of the firework outer tube after the ignition action and to the irregularly shaped fireproof paper simultaneously transferred by the fireproof paper feeding machine. By performing automated gluing of the main outer tube and the auxiliary fireproof paper simultaneously on two lines, the overall operating efficiency of the production line is improved, the uniformity of glue application and bonding time are ensured, and the glue is prevented from drying prematurely, thus providing sufficient material surface preparation for high-quality assembly and pressing.

[0040] S6: The assembly jaws on the assembly machine reciprocate to grip the semi-finished product of the fireworks outer tube and the irregularly shaped fireproof paper from the variable-pitch conveyor to the assembly platform. The jaws apply downward pressure to press and bond the semi-finished product, maintaining a clamped state to provide front and rear limits. Combined with the left and right limits provided by the centering guide rod, the side-guiding structure inserts a side lead wire into the side of the semi-finished product. After side-guiding, the assembly platform descends by the diameter of one fireworks outer tube. The jaws reciprocate to grip and press and bond, ultimately pressing and shaping the entire irregularly shaped fireworks basin through a layer-by-layer cycle. The clamping and fixing by the jaws above the assembly machine and the left and right limits of the centering guide rod ensure full constraint during the side-guiding of the fireworks outer tube assembly. Furthermore, the downward pressure applied by the jaws precisely aligns and presses the glued fireworks outer tube and the irregularly shaped fireproof paper together, forming a complete irregularly shaped fireworks basin. The fixed-distance downward movement of the assembly platform and the cyclic gripping of the assembly claws enable bottom-up side-guiding between the layers of outer cylinders. Stable pressing force and rigid guide rods on both sides limit the tight compaction of multiple inclined outer cylinders with the fireproof paper, eliminating assembly gaps, avoiding outer cylinder displacement during side-guiding, and ensuring that the assembled irregularly shaped fireworks basin has excellent structural stability and consistent appearance.

[0041] S7: The irregularly shaped firework bowl, after being pressed and shaped using a tape wrapping machine, automatically and continuously wraps tape along the outer contour of the bowl, completing the final anti-disintegration shaping and output of the finished product. As the final step in the bowl assembly process, the external tape reinforcement provides secondary structural constraints for the irregularly shaped firework bowl. This step effectively resists the rebound stress that may occur after the internal components are assembled, ensuring that the finished product maintains an extremely strong overall structure during subsequent packaging, long-distance transportation, and final ignition, preventing the product from falling apart.

[0042] This invention discloses a non-standard fireworks assembly line and its assembly method, creatively breaking the industry's conventional technical bias of "inserting the fuse first, then deforming." By placing the outer cylinder deformation machine before the variable-pitch conveyor and the outer cylinder fuse-making machine, a new flexible automated production system of "deforming and shaping first, then drilling and inserting the fuse" is constructed. This technical solution not only completely eliminates the pulling and wear on the fuse caused by the deformation process and the corresponding safety hazards of flameout and flashover from a physical perspective, but also, with its multi-stage adjustable pitch and replaceable tooling design, gives the entire assembly line extremely high compatibility with multiple specifications and sizes and high production changeover efficiency.

[0043] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0044] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

[0045] The specific embodiments of the present invention described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present invention. Any other corresponding changes and modifications made in accordance with the technical concept of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A uniquely shaped fireworks assembly line, characterized in that, The system includes an outer tube feeder, an outer tube deformation machine, a variable pitch conveyor, and an outer tube ignition machine, arranged sequentially along the process flow direction of the outer tube. The feed end of the variable pitch conveyor is connected to the discharge side of the outer tube deformation machine, and the discharge end of the variable pitch conveyor is connected to the feed side of the outer tube ignition machine. The outer tube deformation machine is used to convert conventionally arranged firework outer tubes into irregularly arranged states and output them in a shaped manner. The variable pitch conveyor is used to support the firework outer tubes that maintain the irregularly arranged state and transfer them to the working position of the outer tube ignition machine.

2. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer cylinder deformation machine includes a worktable and a power cylinder and a slide plate respectively fixedly installed on the worktable. The output end of the power cylinder is connected to a deformation claw for directly clamping the outer cylinder of the fireworks. The slide plate is provided with a trajectory slide groove with a guiding direction. The partial guide structure of the deformation claw is slidably inserted and confined within the trajectory slide groove so as to change the relative clamping position along the defined path of the trajectory slide groove under the drive of the power cylinder.

3. A special-shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The variable pitch conveyor includes multiple parallel transmission chains and variable pitch fixtures installed on different transmission chains in front and behind. A production change turntable is provided on the side or bottom of the variable pitch conveyor. The production change turntable is connected to the transmission shaft of the corresponding transmission chain so that the rotation stroke of the production change turntable directly drives the different transmission chains carrying the variable pitch fixtures in front and behind to generate relative displacement and adjust the mechanical distance between them.

4. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer cylinder punching machine includes a power unit and a punching mechanism. The punching mechanism is connected to the output end of the power unit. The punching and insertion working end of the punching mechanism is set towards the conveying clamping station on the variable pitch conveyor.

5. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 1, characterized in that, Downstream of the outer cylinder priming machine, along the conveying direction, a glue applicator and a basin assembly machine are sequentially arranged. A fireproof paper feeding machine is arranged to the side or downstream of the glue applicator. The glue applicator includes an outer cylinder glue applicator arranged on the outer cylinder conveying path and a fireproof paper glue applicator arranged on the fireproof paper conveying path.

6. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fireproof paper feeding machine includes a fireproof paper stacking structure at the bottom for carrying materials and a suction cup structure movably suspended directly above the fireproof paper stacking structure. The suction cup structure has multiple suction cups arranged in an array to perform gripping actions, and the installation position of each suction cup on the suction cup structure is a sliding adjustable fixed structure.

7. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 5, characterized in that, The assembly machine includes a special-shaped tooling and an assembly platform, as well as a centering guide rod and a side-guiding structure vertically fixed on both sides of the assembly platform. The special-shaped tooling is a structure whose inner cavity contour is adapted to the special-shaped arrangement of the outer tube of the fireworks. Below the special-shaped tooling is an assembly gripper that reciprocates to grab the semi-finished product of the outer tube and the fireproof paper bonding assembly from the variable pitch conveyor. The side of the assembly platform is provided with an assembly pushing structure with the working thrust direction laterally facing the discharge side of the special-shaped tooling.

8. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 5, characterized in that, A glue-wrapping machine is also connected downstream of the basin assembly machine. The glue-wrapping machine includes a belt conveyor that serves as the bottom support and material carrier, and a glue-wrapping mechanism that is cantilevered or spans over the bearing surface of the belt conveyor.

9. The irregularly shaped fireworks assembly line according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer cylinder feeder includes an adjustable hopper with a bottom discharge port and a pushing device arranged at the discharge port. An adjustment plate for adapting to the length of the outer cylinder is slidably installed on the inner side wall of the adjustable hopper. The outer cylinder feeder is externally equipped with a handwheel and a screw drive structure. The screw drive structure is used to adjust the number of outer cylinders arranged side by side in the pushing device.

10. A method for assembling irregularly shaped fireworks assembly lines as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, include: S1: The outer tube feeding machine initially arranges the conventional upright fireworks outer tubes to be processed in a conventional array, and pushes the arranged fireworks outer tubes downstream for output; S2: The outer tube deformation machine receives the fireworks outer tubes that have completed the initial arrangement, and uses a power mechanism to drive the deformation gripper to slide in the preset track groove. Through mechanical clamping and track guiding actions, the multiple fireworks outer tubes are changed from the conventional parallel arrangement to the preset irregular arrangement, and the irregular arrangement is maintained to fix the shape. S3: The variable pitch conveyor receives the firework outer tube after it has been shaped and is in the irregular arrangement state. It uses the variable pitch tooling set on different transmission chains to clamp and limit the front and rear sides of the firework outer tube. Under the condition of maintaining the irregular arrangement, the firework outer tube is smoothly transferred to the downstream ignition station. S4: Under the premise that the outer tube of the firework always maintains the irregular arrangement, the outer tube firing machine automatically drills holes and inserts fuses into the side wall of the outer tube of the firework in the irregular array. S5: Use a glue applicator to automatically apply glue to the outer surface of the firework tube after the ignition action is completed, as well as to the irregularly shaped fireproof paper that is synchronously transferred by the fireproof paper feeder. S6: The assembly jaws on the assembly machine reciprocate to grab the semi-finished product of the combination of the firework outer tube and the irregular fireproof paper on the variable pitch conveyor to the assembly platform. After the assembly jaws apply downward pushing force to press and bond the semi-finished product, they remain clamped to provide front and rear limits. In conjunction with the left and right limits provided by the centering guide rod, the side guide structure performs the side guide insertion action on the side of the semi-finished product. After the side guide is inserted, the assembly platform descends by the diameter of one firework outer tube. The assembly jaws reciprocate to perform grabbing and pressing and bonding actions. Through layer-by-layer cycle, the semi-finished product is finally pressed and formed into a complete irregular firework basin. S7: The irregularly shaped firework basin, after being pressed and shaped by the tape wrapping machine, is automatically and continuously wrapped with tape along the outer sidewall contour of the irregularly shaped firework basin to complete the final anti-scattering shaping and output of the finished irregularly shaped firework.

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