A gluing positioning tool, a design method thereof and a gluing method

Abstract

The application discloses a gluing positioning tool, a design method thereof and a gluing method, and the tool comprises a middle decorative strip positioning area and two glass positioning areas. The glass positioning area is provided with a fixedly arranged block array, a stop block array and an error-proof detection switch, the blocks and the stop blocks are compatible with multiple vehicle types of glass, and at least one block has the functions of supporting and edge abutting. The application realizes quick model changing without adjustment through integrated layout and a shared fixed structure for multiple vehicle types, forms an error-proof mechanism by cooperating with the detection switch, solves problems of redundancy, complicated model changing, unstable positioning and easy errors of traditional split tools, and has the characteristics of compact structure, strong universality, accurate positioning, efficient model changing and reliable error-proofing, and is suitable for automatic gluing production of multiple vehicle types in a line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of tooling technology, specifically to a glue-applying positioning tool, its design method, and the glue-applying method. Background Technology

[0002] Existing technologies mainly employ: independent, separate A-pillar trim strip adhesive positioning trays and independent, separate side windshield adhesive positioning trays. These traditional technologies are prone to equipment redundancy and insufficient adaptability. Expanding production capacity with independent trays requires additional equipment, resulting in higher investment costs and floor space requirements.

[0003] Traditional processes and technologies are economically unsustainable: the two types of positioning pallets are incompatible, and the initial investment in equipment is high, resulting in significant costs for logistics, warehousing, sorting, and distribution, as well as a greater need for personnel. Furthermore, they exhibit significant flexibility deficiencies, involving virtually zero mechanical and electrical compatibility, and longer production line construction cycles. Moreover, the two completely incompatible adhesive positioning pallets do not meet the urgent demands of today's rapidly evolving automotive manufacturing industry for highly flexible and efficient equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical problems to be solved The purpose of this embodiment is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a glue application positioning fixture, its design method, and a glue application method. Technical solution

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this embodiment provides the following technical solution: an adhesive positioning fixture, including a positioning tray assembly, the positioning tray assembly having a central A-pillar trim strip positioning area and side windshield positioning areas located on both sides of the A-pillar trim strip positioning area; The A-pillar decorative strip positioning area is provided with a decorative strip positioning structure; The side windshield positioning area includes a central support block array, an outer peripheral block array, and a fault-proof detection switch. The support block array and the stop block array are fixed and are compatible with the side windshields of various vehicle models; The block array includes at least one multi-functional block, which provides workpiece support and edge contact limiting for different vehicle models.

[0006] The above: The decorative strip positioning structure includes at least two decorative strip positioning blocks arranged at intervals along the length direction, and the decorative strip positioning blocks have a contoured support structure that matches the A-pillar decorative strip.

[0007] The above: The support block array and the stop block array are set based on the common positioning area of ​​the side windshields of various vehicle models, forming a universal positioning structure shared by multiple vehicle models.

[0008] The above: The multifunctional support block integrates a support surface and an abutment surface. The support surface is used to support the workpiece, and the abutment surface is used to limit the edge of the workpiece.

[0009] The above: The relative positions and contact surfaces of the support block array and the stop block array are adapted to the contours of the side windshields of various vehicle models.

[0010] The above: The positioning tray assembly can cooperate with the rotating platform to alternately enter the loading station and the gluing station.

[0011] A design method for an adhesive application positioning fixture is also disclosed, including: The tray layout is designed with an A-pillar trim strip positioning area in the middle and side windshield glass positioning areas on both sides; A decorative strip positioning structure is configured in the A-pillar decorative strip positioning area; The support block array and the stop block array are fixedly arranged according to the contour and support point of the side windshield glass of various vehicle models; Multifunctional support blocks are set in the support block array so that the same support block can provide support and edge contact limit for different vehicle models.

[0012] The above: By performing coupled analysis on the glass profiles of various vehicle models, the common installation positions of the support block and the stop block are determined, forming a universal positioning layout without adjustment mechanism.

[0013] A glue application method was also disclosed, which uses the aforementioned tooling, including: Place the A-pillar trim strip and the side windshield glass in the corresponding positioning area on the same tooling tray; The A-pillar trim is positioned using a trim positioning structure, and the side windshields of various vehicle models are positioned using a fixed array of support blocks and a block array. The workpiece placement status is detected by a fault-proofing switch before automatic glue application is performed.

[0014] The above: The tooling pallet alternately enters the loading station and the gluing station along with the rotating platform, realizing parallel operation of loading and gluing.

[0015] Beneficial effects: Compared with existing technologies, this adhesive application positioning fixture, its design method, and adhesive application method have the following advantages: This invention adopts a two-in-one integrated layout, reducing workstation and equipment investment and making the structure more compact; the support block and stop block are fixed and shared structures, so there is no need to adjust when switching models, which greatly improves the efficiency of model changeover and production flexibility; the multi-functional support block enables component reuse, simplifies the structure and reduces costs; the error-proof detection switch can identify the workpiece status, reduce misassembly and omission, and improve the glue coating yield; the overall positioning is stable and reliable, with high repeatability, ensuring stable glue coating quality and adapting to flexible production of multiple models on the same line.

[0016] Other advantages, objectives and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following examination or study, or may be taught from the practice of the embodiments herein. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the single-piece tooling pallet structure of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 Top view; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the tooling layout structure of the glue coating station of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will now be clearly, completely, and in detail described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] like Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment provides a two-in-one adhesive positioning tooling tray for A-pillar trim strips and side windshields, hereinafter referred to as positioning tray assembly 1. The core innovation of this positioning tray assembly 1 lies in integrating the A-pillar trim strip adhesive positioning tray and the side windshield adhesive positioning tray, which are completely independent, separately set up and used in traditional automotive painting production lines, into a highly integrated, compact, highly modular single adhesive positioning tray assembly that can flexibly and quickly switch between multiple vehicle models through an integrated design at the mechanical structure level. Thus, in the same automatic adhesive application equipment, the same adhesive application station, and the same loading operation, the positioning, support, limiting, and automatic adhesive application of two different types of components, namely the A-pillar trim strip and the side windshield, are completed simultaneously. This fundamentally solves a series of technical pain points caused by traditional separate tooling, such as equipment redundancy, large footprint, high investment cost, long changeover time, slow production cycle, high labor cost, and weak error prevention capability.

[0020] Reference Figure 2 As shown, the single positioning tray assembly 1 is clearly divided into three main positioning functional areas in its structural layout. Along the overall length of the positioning tray assembly 1, two side windshield positioning areas 002 and one A-pillar trim positioning area 001 are sequentially arranged. Spatially, the two side windshield positioning areas 002 are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the A-pillar trim positioning area 001, while the A-pillar trim positioning area 001 is stably located in the central area of ​​the positioning tray assembly 1, that is, in the middle of the two side windshield positioning areas 002. This area division is not arbitrary, but rather an optimal layout determined after comprehensive optimization considering factors such as the structural characteristics of the two types of workpieces, their spatial occupancy, the adhesive application path, the robot's motion trajectory, and the accessibility of the loading operation.

[0021] From the perspective of workpiece structural characteristics, the A-pillar trim strip itself presents a slender linear or columnar structure with a regular overall outline, relatively uniform cross-sectional shape, and a length dimension much larger than its width and height dimensions. During positioning, only a few support points and limiting points along the length direction are needed for stable fixation, occupying minimal lateral space on the pallet. In contrast, the vehicle side windshield has a large curved, irregular shape with irregular edges, continuously varying curvature along both length and height, and significant differences in shape between different vehicle models. Furthermore, the glass itself is large and relatively heavy, requiring multiple support points in the center and multiple directional limiting points on the periphery to ensure it does not wobble, shift, tilt, or slip during adhesive application. Therefore, the side windshield positioning structure requires more space and is better suited for placement in the open areas on both sides of the pallet, facilitating robot adhesive application path avoidance and operator alignment during loading.

[0022] Based on the aforementioned structural differences, this embodiment places the A-pillar trim strip positioning area, which has a regular outline and occupies little space, in the center of the positioning tray assembly 1, while placing the side windshield glass positioning areas, which have a complex outline, occupy a large space, and require multiple points of support and peripheral restraint, on the left and right sides of the positioning tray assembly 1. This "central trim strip + side glass" layout maximizes the utilization of the internal space of the positioning tray assembly 1, avoids spatial interference between the support structure and the restraint structure, avoids cross-conflicts in the adhesive application path, and makes the overall structure more compact, with a more uniform center of gravity distribution and stronger rigidity. It also facilitates operators to complete the loading operations of the side glass and the central trim strip from the same position, reducing the number of turns and movements, reducing operator fatigue, and improving loading efficiency and operational safety.

[0023] Through the above-mentioned integrated regional layout design, the same automatic glue application equipment and the same automatic glue application station can efficiently, stably and continuously complete the automatic glue application of A-pillar trim strips and side windshields under the premise of using the same positioning tray assembly 1. This completely solves a series of long-standing technical problems caused by the two sets of independent tooling and two independent workstations in the existing technology, such as equipment redundancy, large footprint, high one-time investment cost, poor production flexibility, slow production cycle and large number of personnel.

[0024] The basic load-bearing component of the positioning pallet assembly 1 is the pallet base plate. The pallet base plate is the structural foundation of the entire tooling. All support blocks, limit blocks, detection elements, and mounting brackets are fixedly installed on the pallet base plate. Therefore, the pallet base plate needs to simultaneously meet multiple requirements, including high strength, high rigidity, low density, deformation resistance, corrosion resistance, and ease of processing. In this embodiment, the pallet base plate is preferably made of high-strength aluminum alloy 6061-T6. 6061-T6 aluminum alloy is a heat-treated strengthened aluminum alloy with excellent comprehensive mechanical properties. Its tensile strength, yield strength, and fatigue strength can all meet the requirements for use under long-term high-speed rotation, frequent loading, and continuous impact conditions. At the same time, its density is much lower than that of steel, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the pallet, reduce the load on the rotating platform, reduce the power consumption of the drive motor, and improve the rotational positioning accuracy and response speed.

[0025] To further enhance the durability and service life of pallet bases in adhesive application environments, the pallet base surface undergoes a specialized surface treatment process. First, the base surface undergoes hard anodizing, with the oxide film thickness strictly controlled to be no less than 15μm. This ensures a dense, uniform oxide film layer with strong adhesion, significantly improving the surface hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and impact resistance, preventing scratches, dents, deformation, corrosion, and rust during long-term use. On top of this, a Teflon coating (polytetrafluoroethylene) resistant to adhesive corrosion is sprayed onto the pallet base surface. The Teflon coating possesses extremely low surface energy, excellent chemical stability, non-stick properties, and resistance to high and low temperatures. This ensures that even under long-term adhesive application environments, and with frequent contact with common automotive sealants such as polyurethane and silicone-based sealants, the pallet base will not experience sealant adhesion, curing residue, corrosion, or surface deterioration and discoloration. This coating can adapt to working environments with temperatures ranging from -10℃ to 60℃, and can withstand acid and alkaline media with pH values ​​between 4 and 10. It fully covers the normal working conditions in automotive painting workshops, ensuring that the base plate will not be damaged during long-term use, is easy to clean, and has low maintenance costs.

[0026] To enable modular installation, quick disassembly, and positional adjustability of each positioning component, multiple T-slots are pre-machined on the pallet base. These T-slots are evenly distributed along the length or width of the pallet, and quick-change positioning pins and M8 hexagon socket head cap bolts can be embedded within them. All support blocks, stop blocks, and detection switch brackets are rigidly connected to the T-slot nuts via bolts. The advantages of the T-slot structure are: the installation position can be continuously adjusted within the slot, facilitating precise matching of the workpiece's theoretical position during tooling debugging; the modular installation method allows for the individual and rapid removal and replacement of worn or damaged parts without disassembling the entire pallet, significantly reducing maintenance downtime; and when future expansion to adapt to new vehicle models is required, upgrades can be completed simply by adding or replacing corresponding positioning blocks in the T-slots, enhancing the tooling's versatility and lifecycle value.

[0027] Continue to refer to Figure 3 As shown, the positioning pallet assembly 1 in this embodiment adopts a special workstation layout and operation method in the actual glue application station. A rotatable platform is installed in the glue application station, rotating 180° around the rotation axis 3, achieving high rotational positioning accuracy and low repeatability error. At each end of the rotatable platform along the rotation axis 3, a positioning pallet assembly 1 is fixedly installed; the two pallets have identical structures and are arranged symmetrically. An isolation plate is installed at the center of the rotation axis 3, arranged vertically, physically dividing the entire glue application station's internal space into two independent and non-interfering work areas: one area is defined as the material loading area, and the other as the robot glue application area.

[0028] Within the loading area, operators or automated loading robots can safely and easily place the A-pillar trim strips and side windshields to be glued into the corresponding positioning areas of the positioning tray assembly 1, completing operations such as workpiece positioning, placement, and initial inspection. At this time, this area is completely isolated from the glue-applying robot's workspace, eliminating mechanical interference and safety risks. Within the glue-applying area, the glue-applying robot can automatically apply glue to the already loaded positioning tray assembly 1 according to a preset path, including applying glue to the glass edges and trim strip mounting surfaces. During this process, the robot's movement space is enclosed, ensuring a stable, continuous, and safe operation.

[0029] Through the 180° rotation of the rotating platform, the two positioning pallet assemblies 1 can alternately enter the loading area and the gluing area, enabling the loading and gluing operations to be carried out in parallel. When one pallet is being glued in the gluing area, the other pallet is simultaneously being loaded in the loading area. After gluing is completed, the platform rotates, the glued pallet moves out to the unloading / loading position, and the loaded pallet moves into the gluing position. This cycle repeats continuously, eliminating equipment waiting time and idle time, maximizing equipment utilization and production cycle time, and meeting the operational needs of high-capacity, continuous production lines.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the exploded structure of the positioning tray assembly 1 in this embodiment clearly illustrates the specific composition, assembly relationship, installation position, and connection method of each component. The following provides a detailed and complete description of the relevant positioning components, support components, limiting components, and detection components within each positioning area.

[0031] First, the side windshield positioning assembly will be described in detail. Taking a single side windshield positioning area 002 as an example, the positioning area is composed of three main parts: the central support block array 14, the outer peripheral block array 12, and the error-proof detection switch 13. The three parts work together to realize the functions of supporting, limiting, positioning, and error-proof detection of the side windshield.

[0032] The central support block array 14 is fixedly installed at the corresponding position on the tray base plate without any lifting, sliding, rotating, or quick-release mechanisms. Its installation position, height, angle, and orientation are all fixed. The top support surface of the support block is machined using a contouring method to precisely match the curved shape of the inner surface of the side windshield, ensuring a large-area contact between the support surface and the glass. This avoids stress concentration caused by point or line contact, preventing indentations, cracks, or damage to the glass surface. The support block array stably supports the main stress area of ​​the side windshield from below, ensuring that the glass does not settle, warp, shake, or shift under various working conditions such as static placement, adhesive application vibration, robot contact, and airflow, providing a stable foundation for high-precision adhesive application.

[0033] The outer perimeter baffle array 12 is arranged in the outer area of ​​the support block array 14, and is continuously or intermittently distributed along the outer edge contour of the side windshield. The inner limiting surface of the baffle also adopts a contour-following structure to match the shape of the glass edge. The main function of the outer perimeter baffle array 12 is to abut and constrain the sides, corners, and edges of the glass from the side, restricting the glass's degrees of freedom in the X, Y, and Z axes, and preventing problems such as lateral displacement, tilting, flipping, and movement of the glass during the adhesive application process. This ensures that the glass always stays in the theoretically designed position and guarantees that the adhesive application trajectory is precisely consistent with the position of the adhesive strip.

[0034] One of the core advantages of this embodiment lies in the fact that all supports and stops adopt a fixed layout design compatible with multiple vehicle models. During the tooling design phase, by comparing three-dimensional data, analyzing contour envelopes, analyzing the overlap of support points, and analyzing the compatibility of limit boundaries for the side windshields of four different vehicle models, the optimal installation position, spatial coordinates, height dimensions, contact surface, and tilt angle of all supports and stops are uniformly determined. This ensures that a single, unchanging support and limit structure can simultaneously meet the positioning requirements of the side windshields of all four vehicle models. In actual production, when the production line needs to switch between vehicle models, operators only need to directly pick up and place the corresponding vehicle's side windshield. No adjustments to the supports and stops are required, including but not limited to lifting, height adjustment, disassembly and replacement, translation, angle rotation, and clamping force adjustment. This truly achieves adjustment-free, rapid model changeover, and multi-vehicle line compatibility, greatly simplifying the operation process, reducing changeover time to the second level, and significantly improving production efficiency.

[0035] In the central support block array 14, preferably one or two multi-functional support blocks are provided. These multi-functional support blocks are another important innovation of this embodiment. The multi-functional support blocks adopt an integrated structural design, no longer distinguishing between simple support blocks or simple stop blocks. Instead, they automatically switch functional modes according to the differences in the curvature, edge position, and support area of ​​the glass in different vehicle models. Specifically, when corresponding to the side windshield of one vehicle model, the multi-functional support block contacts the inner surface of the glass with its top support surface, undertaking the central support function and ensuring stable glass support. When corresponding to the side windshield of another vehicle model, due to changes in the glass contour, edge position, and curvature height, the multi-functional support block no longer contacts the glass with its top surface, but rather abuts against the edge of the glass with its side limiting surface, undertaking the edge limiting function, equivalent to the function of a traditional stop block. Through this functional reuse of a single component in different vehicle models, the number of overall tooling parts is effectively reduced, the structure is simplified, processing and assembly costs are reduced, space utilization is improved, and failure points are reduced, thereby improving the overall reliability of the tooling.

[0036] To avoid problems such as mis-installation, omission, reverse installation, improper placement, and model mismatch during multi-model co-production, the positioning tray assembly 1 also integrates error-proof detection switches 13. This embodiment uses a total of four detection switches, employing a combination of contact and non-contact methods to achieve comprehensive and highly reliable error prevention. Two of these are contact limit switches, specifically the Omron EE-SX672 model, with a trigger stroke strictly controlled within 10mm ± 0.5mm and a normally open contact output. The limit switches are installed at the bottom of the tray. When the side windshield is correctly placed and pressed into place, the glass's own weight or slight pressure triggers the limit switch, which outputs a position signal to the PLC control system. If the glass is not placed correctly, is suspended, tilted, or missing, the limit switch cannot be triggered, and the system immediately determines it as an anomaly.

[0037] The other two detection switches are non-contact ultrasonic detection switches, specifically the SICKUM30-2 model, with a detection distance range of 50-200mm and a detection accuracy of ±1mm. The ultrasonic switches detect whether the glass contour position, edge distance, and installation posture conform to standard conditions by emitting and receiving sound waves. This identifies problems such as inverted, tilted, misaligned, or model-incompatible glass, compensating for the inability of contact switches to detect posture and vehicle model, thus providing dual error prevention. All detection switch signals are uniformly connected to the PLC control cabinet via an M12 aviation connector, ensuring stable connection, strong anti-interference capability, and convenient installation and removal. The signal response time is no more than 20ms, guaranteeing that abnormal conditions can be identified and handled immediately.

[0038] In practical applications, the configuration of the detection switches can be flexibly adjusted. It can employ a one-to-one detection mode where a single detection switch corresponds to a single vehicle model, or a multi-switch combination logic judgment mode. For example, large-sized glass can trigger multiple detection switches simultaneously, while small-sized glass only triggers some switches. Vehicle models are distinguished through signal combinations, further enhancing error prevention capabilities. The detection method can be freely selected as contact, non-contact, or both simultaneously, adapting to different workshop environments, glass structures, and precision requirements.

[0039] From the perspective of tooling design methodology, this embodiment adopts a multi-vehicle contour coupling integrated design method. This method differs from the traditional single-vehicle point-to-point matching customized design approach and has significant innovation and advancement. During the design phase, complete three-dimensional data of the side windshields of four vehicle models are used as unified design inputs, including key parameters such as outer boundary coordinates, surface curvature changes, surface drop height, edge position dimensions, installation posture angles, and positioning tolerance zones. The central support points and peripheral limit points are comprehensively planned, laid out, and collaboratively optimized.

[0040] During the design process, professional simulation software was used to perform envelope analysis and interference checks on the effective support area, overlapping support area, compatible limiting area, and contour deviation range of glass for different vehicle models. Common positioning references and compatible installation spaces between multiple vehicle models were extracted. Based on this, the installation references, spatial coordinates, height dimensions, contact surfaces, and structural configurations of all support blocks and stops were uniformly solidified. All support and limiting components adopted a fixed, non-adjustable structure design. From the design source, all adjustable mechanisms such as lifting mechanisms, sliding guides, quick-change joints, and adjusting bolts were completely eliminated. This avoided problems such as error accumulation, loosening and failure, cumbersome operation, and slow model change caused by adjustment. It fundamentally achieved efficient adaptation of the fixture with zero adjustment, zero disassembly, and zero operation when switching vehicle models.

[0041] Meanwhile, this embodiment adopts a component functional composite design strategy to further improve structural compactness and economy. Among all central support points, key points with the highest positional overlap, best working condition compatibility, and optimal stress state are selected through simulation calculations, and integrated multi-functional support blocks are designed accordingly. Based on the staggered distribution characteristics of the glass edge position and the main support area of ​​different vehicle models, the same support block can serve as the main support component to bear the weight and stress of the workpiece in one vehicle model, and directly participate in the workpiece edge abutment and limitation in another vehicle model using its own side surface, replacing the function of traditional independent stop blocks. Through the functional reuse and structural integration of a single component, the number of positioning blocks is effectively reduced, the assembly relationship is simplified, the manufacturing cost is reduced, the overall size of the tooling is reduced, and the system stability and durability are improved.

[0042] Furthermore, this embodiment incorporates an integrated error-proofing design concept from the outset, coordinating the mechanical positioning structure with the electrical detection structure to achieve proactive, systematic, and closed-loop error-proofing functionality. By considering the standard placement postures, contour features, size, and positional differences of various workpieces, the number, model, installation position, detection angle, and triggering logic of detection switches are rationally planned. This ensures that each vehicle model corresponds to a unique set of detection signals, utilizing the characteristic differences in workpiece placement to form a dedicated sensing and recognition logic. Through the combination of forced positioning constraints from the mechanical structure and electrical signal detection verification, automatic identification, immediate alarm, and equipment locking are achieved for abnormal states such as misplacement, omission, reverse placement, improper placement, and vehicle model mismatch during multi-vehicle co-production. From the tooling design perspective, universality, rapid changeover capability, and production error-proofing reliability are simultaneously considered, eliminating risks such as poor adhesive application, workpiece scrap, and equipment collisions caused by human error.

[0043] Secondly, the specific composition and functional design of the A-pillar decorative strip positioning area are explained in detail.

[0044] The A-pillar trim positioning area is located in the center of the positioning tray assembly 1, mainly consisting of two A-pillar trim positioning blocks 11 spaced apart along the length of the trim. A reasonable spacing is maintained between the two blocks to ensure sufficient support rigidity while avoiding difficulties in trim placement or deformation due to overly dense support. The A-pillar trim positioning blocks 11 adopt an integrated structure with two adjacent fixing grooves on the left and right sides. The grooves use a stepped support platform structure, and the upper surface of the platform is machined with a limiting contour that precisely matches the shape of the inner cavity of the A-pillar trim, ensuring quick alignment, automatic alignment, and stable fit after the trim is placed. Elastic pressure blocks can be installed on both sides of the blocks. These elastic pressure blocks use a spring-loaded structure to automatically adapt to dimensional deviations and slight deformations of the trim, providing appropriate clamping force to ensure that the trim does not warp, float, or shift during the adhesive application process, maintaining a stable positioning state at all times.

[0045] To ensure the A-pillar trim strip also has error-proofing capabilities, a detection switch is installed in the interval area between the two A-pillar trim strip positioning blocks 11. This switch is used to detect whether the trim strip is correctly installed, properly positioned, or if any parts are missing. The detection signals and the side windshield glass detection signals are connected to the PLC system. Only after both the glass and the trim strip have passed the inspection are the devices allowed to enter the adhesive application process. Any failure will trigger an alarm and lock the device, achieving full error-proofing for both workpieces.

[0046] In this embodiment, all positioning blocks and positioning stops, including all components in contact with the workpiece in the side windshield positioning block assembly and the A-pillar trim positioning block assembly, are uniformly made of high-strength polyurethane material, specifically BASFElastollan1185A. The material's performance parameters have undergone rigorous mechanical property testing, environmental adaptability testing, and lifespan testing to ensure it meets the long-term harsh working conditions of automotive painting workshops. The material density is precisely controlled at 2.5 g / cm³, Young's modulus is 70.2 kPa, shear modulus is 28.5 kPa, Shore hardness is 85A±3A, and elongation at break is not less than 400%. It possesses both sufficient rigidity and excellent toughness, providing stable support and limiting while protecting the glass and trim surfaces from scratches, pressure marks, and impacts upon contact.

[0047] The wear resistance was verified through the Taber abrasion test using a CS-17 grinding wheel. Under a 1000g load and 1000 revolutions, the material weight loss was less than 0.05g, demonstrating wear resistance far exceeding that of ordinary rubber and plastics. Long-term wear was minimal, and dimensional stability was high. Resistance to adhesive corrosion was verified through a sealant immersion test. After continuous immersion in polyurethane sealant for 72 hours, the material surface showed no swelling, peeling, discoloration, cracking, or softening, exhibiting excellent chemical stability. Impact resistance was verified through a drop hammer test. A 1kg hammer head was dropped freely from a height of 500mm, resulting in no cracks, breakage, or plastic deformation in the component, demonstrating strong impact resistance.

[0048] To further reduce adhesive residue and facilitate cleaning and maintenance, all positioning blocks are coated with a 0.2mm thick polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating, reducing the surface energy of the components to no more than 25mN / m and significantly improving non-stick properties. Residual adhesive generated after the application process can be quickly and easily wiped away without the need for scrapers, solvents, or other forceful cleaning methods. A single cleaning cycle takes no more than 30 seconds, significantly reducing maintenance workload and costs, and enhancing the equipment's continuous operation capability.

[0049] To ensure the adhesive application accuracy meets the vehicle assembly requirements, this embodiment implements strict control and comprehensive verification of positioning accuracy. All dimensions are fully inspected using a high-precision coordinate measuring machine (CMM) of HexagonMetrology, achieving a measurement accuracy of 0.002mm, ensuring reliable test results. Testing shows that the overall positioning accuracy of the side windshield glass on the positioning tray assembly 1 is controlled within ≤1mm, with repeatability errors in the X / Y / Z directions ≤0.5mm; the positioning accuracy of the A-pillar trim strip is also ≤1mm, with a key focus on controlling the end axial error to ≤0.4mm, fully meeting the high-precision positioning requirements of the automated adhesive application robot.

[0050] In terms of tolerance design, the RSS (Root Mean Square) method is used for tolerance stacking analysis and allocation. The overall tolerance consists of three parts: structural design tolerance of 0.6mm + assembly tolerance of 0.3mm + material thermal expansion and contraction tolerance of 0.1mm. The total cumulative error after taking the square root of the sum of the squares of the three parts meets the path planning requirements of the glue-applying robot, ensuring that the robot can maintain a stable, uniform, and high-quality glue-applying effect without frequent manual calibration during long-term continuous production.

[0051] In this embodiment, the positioning pallet assembly 1 adopts a highly modular design, possessing strong platform adaptability. It is compatible with at least two different vehicle platforms, including monocoque and non-monocoque body platforms, covering various vehicle categories such as passenger cars and commercial vehicles, meeting the needs of multi-brand, multi-level, and multi-structure vehicle co-production. Simultaneously, the tooling control system is deeply integrated with the factory's intelligent system. It can automatically read vehicle parameters through the MES system, including VIN code, vehicle code, configuration information, and production batch. Based on the vehicle information, the system automatically calls the corresponding gluing program and automatically generates a matching gluing path, achieving automatic vehicle identification and adaptive switching of gluing parameters. This completes the first step in preventing errors during material loading, avoiding problems such as equipment running without gluing or wasting production efficiency due to personnel placing materials incorrectly.

[0052] After the gluing operation is completed, the equipment transmits status information such as gluing completion signal, glue quantity detection signal, workpiece arrival signal, and abnormal alarm signal to the IoT factory Internet of Things system via industrial network interaction. This enables real-time monitoring of production data, storage of historical data, anomaly tracing, efficiency analysis, and equipment management. Thus, from preventing errors in material feeding to monitoring the gluing process and providing quality status feedback, a complete closed-loop control system is formed, completely eliminating quality loopholes and management blind spots.

[0053] Based on actual production line calculations, this integrated A-pillar trim strip and side windshield positioning tray, compared to the original two independent tray solutions, can significantly reduce the one-time equipment investment cost by about 30%, reduce the floor space by about 40%, reduce the number of operators by about 50%, shorten the vehicle changeover time by more than 90%, and greatly improve production flexibility, production efficiency and product yield, resulting in significant economic and quality benefits.

[0054] The following provides a detailed description of the entire glue application process, fully demonstrating the automated operation under PLC program logic control in this embodiment: (1) Feeding stage The operator or robotic gripper accurately places the A-pillar trim strip and side windshield glass into their corresponding positioning blocks on positioning tray assembly 1. After placement, all detection switches immediately enter real-time signal acquisition mode, and the system continuously samples and logically judges the signals. The limit switch trigger threshold is set to ≥8mm, and the ultrasonic detection distance deviation is set to ≤2mm. Only when all qualification conditions are met is the next process allowed. If any signal is abnormal, such as workpiece not in place, missing, reversed installation, misalignment, or incorrect vehicle model, the system immediately activates multi-level alarms: a flashing red alarm light, an 80dB buzzer sound, and real-time text notifications on the MES electronic dashboard. Simultaneously, the tray rotation axis driver and robot start command are locked to prevent equipment malfunction. Only after the abnormality is resolved and all detection signals are qualified will the system automatically unlock, allowing the next stage to proceed.

[0055] (2) Parameter reading and path generation stage The MES system reads key parameters such as vehicle VIN code, production batch, and model code through the OPCUA standard industrial protocol. The system has a pre-stored database of adhesive application processes for multiple vehicle models. Upon receiving model information, it automatically matches and calls the corresponding adhesive application path program. Path generation uses the mature Bezier curve fitting algorithm to accurately fit the contour curves of the glass edge and A-pillar trim strip, combined with real-time transformation of the robot's TCP coordinate system, ensuring a smooth, continuous, and accurate adhesive application trajectory. Adhesive volume control uses a high-precision volumetric metering pump, with an output accuracy of ±3%, ensuring uniform adhesive strip width and height. The entire system supports multiple operation modes, including offline programming, online fine-tuning, history retrieval, and batch import, adapting to different debugging and production scenarios.

[0056] (3) Automatic glue application stage After receiving a qualified path program, the glue-applying robot begins automatic glue-applying operations according to a preset sequence. In this embodiment, glue application to the side windshield is prioritized, with a glue-applying speed set at 180 mm / s and a glue gun working pressure set at 0.4-0.6 MPa to ensure smooth glue dispensing and stable glue shape. After the glass glue application is completed, the robot automatically switches to the A-pillar trim strip glue application process, with a glue-applying speed set at 150 mm / s to adapt to the trim strip's structural features and glue shape requirements. Throughout the glue-applying process, a real-time vision correction system is equipped, with pixel-level detection accuracy reaching 0.05 mm, compensating for workpiece positioning errors and robot motion errors in real time, further improving glue-applying accuracy. Actual measurements show that the glue consumption for the inner side windshield is approximately 45 g per cycle, and the glue consumption for the A-pillar trim strip is approximately 18 g, with stable glue volume control. It is worth mentioning that the glue-applying sequence supports user-defined settings and can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual production line cycle time, robot layout, and workstation arrangement, improving production line adaptability.

[0057] (4) Detection and closed-loop feedback stage After the adhesive application is completed, the system automatically initiates adhesive strip quality inspection. Ultrasonic sensors monitor the height, width, and uniformity of the adhesive strip in real time; a uniformity of ≥95% is required for acceptance. Acceptance signals are rapidly uploaded to the IoT factory IoT system via Profinet industrial Ethernet, and the data is synchronized in real time to the MES, SCADA, and equipment monitoring platforms, forming a complete quality control closed loop of "error prevention in the upper part → error prevention in the adhesive application process → release to downstream processes." If the inspection fails, such as due to insufficient adhesive, misaligned adhesive, or abnormal adhesive shape, the system automatically triggers the robot recoating program or directly stops the machine with an alarm, and pushes specific fault codes to the MES system, such as "E001 - Glass positioning deviation," "E002 - Insufficient adhesive," and "E003 - Trim strip not in place," facilitating quick problem location and troubleshooting by maintenance personnel and minimizing downtime.

[0058] Through the above-mentioned complete structural design, layout design, material selection, precision control, error prevention design and automation process, this embodiment achieves a high degree of integration, multi-model adjustment-free, functional composite and intelligent error prevention of the A-pillar trim strip and side windshield adhesive positioning tooling, fully meeting the production needs of modern automobile manufacturing for flexibility, high efficiency, low cost and high reliability.

Claims

1. A glue-applying positioning fixture, comprising a positioning tray assembly, characterized in that: The positioning tray assembly has a central A-pillar trim positioning area and side windshield positioning areas on both sides of the A-pillar trim positioning area. The A-pillar decorative strip positioning area is provided with a decorative strip positioning structure; The side windshield positioning area includes a central support block array, an outer peripheral block array, and a fault-proof detection switch. The support block array and the stop block array are fixed and are compatible with the side windshields of various vehicle models; The block array includes at least one multi-functional block, which provides workpiece support and edge contact limiting for different vehicle models.

2. The tooling pallet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The decorative strip positioning structure includes at least two decorative strip positioning blocks arranged at intervals along the length direction, and the decorative strip positioning blocks have a contoured support structure that matches the A-pillar decorative strip.

3. The tooling pallet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The support block array and the stop block array are set based on the common positioning area of ​​the side windshields of various vehicle models, forming a universal positioning structure shared by multiple vehicle models.

4. The tooling pallet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The multifunctional support block integrates a support surface and an abutment surface. The support surface is used to support the workpiece, and the abutment surface is used to limit the edge of the workpiece.

5. The tooling pallet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The relative positions and contact surfaces of the support block array and the stop block array are adapted to the contours of the side windshields of various vehicle models.

6. The tooling pallet according to claim 1, characterized in that: The positioning tray assembly can cooperate with the rotating platform to alternately enter the loading station and the gluing station.

7. A design method for an adhesive application positioning fixture, characterized in that, include: The tray layout is designed with an A-pillar trim strip positioning area in the middle and side windshield glass positioning areas on both sides; A decorative strip positioning structure is configured in the A-pillar decorative strip positioning area; The support block array and the stop block array are fixedly arranged according to the contour and support point of the side windshield glass of various vehicle models; Multifunctional support blocks are set in the support block array so that the same support block can provide support and edge contact limit for different vehicle models.

8. The design method according to claim 7, characterized in that: By performing coupled analysis on the glass profiles of various vehicle models, the common installation positions of the support block and the stop block are determined, forming a universal positioning layout without adjustment mechanism.

9. A method for applying adhesive, using the tooling described in claims 1-6, characterized in that, include: Place the A-pillar trim strip and the side windshield glass in the corresponding positioning area on the same tooling tray; The A-pillar trim is positioned using a trim positioning structure, and the side windshields of various vehicle models are positioned using a fixed array of support blocks and a block array. The workpiece placement status is detected by a fault-proofing switch before automatic glue application is performed.

10. The adhesive application method according to claim 9, characterized in that: The tooling pallet alternately enters the loading station and the gluing station along with the rotating platform, realizing parallel operation of loading and gluing.

Images