Automatic production equipment and process for silica gel automobile switch

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of silica gel automobile switch's automation production equipment and process, it is related to silica gel automobile switch technical field, including equipment body, further including multi-station carousel, it is installed in the top of equipment body, and the top of equipment body is fixedly connected with multiple assembly modules;Feeding module, it is set to the side of multi-station carousel, including button feeding unit, the button feeding unit includes vibration disc and straight line track;Moving module, it is fixedly connected to the top of equipment body;Distance sensor, it is installed to the side of vibration disc, and distance sensor detection end is directly opposite the inside of straight line track, by vibration disc standardization arrangement material cooperation distance sensor real-time acquisition distance data, can dynamically self-adapting adjust vibration disc feeding speed, first by whole total distance comparison screening exception, again piece by piece sorting investigation, distinguish silica gel button temporary abnormal recoverable and irreversible quality defects and different problems, without shutdown can correct working condition deviation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of silicone automotive switch manufacturing technology, and in particular to an automated production equipment and process for silicone automotive switches. Background Technology

[0002] As the domestic automotive industry continues to upgrade towards intelligence, lightweighting, and refinement, the application scope of vehicle electronic control systems is constantly expanding. As a core basic component of automotive interior, body electronic control, lighting, and central control systems, the market demand for silicone automotive switches is increasing year by year. Silicone material has become the mainstream material for automotive switch silicone buttons due to its advantages such as high and low temperature resistance, good insulation, wear resistance, anti-aging, waterproofing, and dustproofing. Traditional silicone automotive switch production mostly adopts a manual-assisted semi-automated operation mode, and the overall production capacity is difficult to match the current demand for large-scale production. The production mode of low-end manual labor and simple equipment can no longer meet the mass production requirements and quality control standards of modern automotive parts.

[0003] The above-mentioned technical solutions have some problems in use. For example, the production capacity of the multi-station turntable is determined by the slowest station, so the continuous operation of the feeding module will cause the silicone buttons to clump together during the feeding process. Due to the inherent characteristics of silicone buttons, they are prone to extrusion deformation, which may lead to subsequent gripping and placement failures and installation deviations. Silicone material is very easy to generate static electricity and adsorption due to relative friction with the linear track, which may cause jamming and gripping failures during positioning and placement. Excessively extruded and deformed silicone buttons and those that are abnormal cannot be used, but some extruded and deformed silicone buttons can still be used after they are restored. Simply discarding them will cause a lot of waste. After the vibratory plate has been vibrating for a long time, it is easy for the linear track to tilt and deviate, which will affect the quality of the finished silicone automotive switches.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to invent an automated production equipment and process for silicone automotive switches to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated production equipment and process for silicone automotive switches to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an automated production equipment for silicone automotive switches, comprising a machine body, and further comprising: The multi-station turntable is installed on the top of the equipment body. Multiple assembly modules are fixedly connected to the top of the equipment body. The multi-station turntable rotates intermittently in coordination with the assembly modules to gradually complete the assembly of silicone automotive switches. The feeding module is located on the side of the multi-station turntable and includes a button feeding unit. The button feeding unit includes a vibratory feeder and a linear track. The vibratory feeder feeds the silicone buttons into the linear track, and the silicone buttons are quantitatively collected at the output end of the linear track. The moving module is fixedly connected to the top of the device body. The moving module uses negative pressure to adsorb the silicone buttons inside the linear track. The distance sensor is installed on the side of the vibratory feeder, with its detection end facing the inside of the linear track. The distance sensor is used to detect the distance between itself and the silicone buttons inside the linear track.

[0007] Preferably, the feeding module further includes: The housing loading unit is located on the side of the multi-station turntable. The housing loading unit loads other components into the housing. The button feeding unit is located on the side of the multi-station turntable, and the button feeding unit feeds silicone buttons.

[0008] Preferably, the button feeding unit further includes: The recycling section, which is fixedly connected to the side of the linear track, is used to recycle abnormal silicone buttons; The vibratory feeder is located on the side of the multi-station turntable, and the output end of the vibratory feeder is fixedly connected to the input end of the linear track.

[0009] An automated production process for silicone automotive switches, comprising the following steps, utilizes automated production equipment for silicone automotive switches to automate their production: S1. The housing feeding unit, in conjunction with the assembly module, feeds and assembles some housing components. S2. The vibratory feeder sorts the silicone buttons and feeds them into the linear track, so that the silicone buttons are quantitatively gathered at the output end of the linear track, and the distance sensor detects the distribution and status of the silicone buttons in the linear track in real time. S3. The moving module uses negative pressure adsorption to grab qualified silicone buttons in the linear track and transport them to the work station of the multi-station turntable. S4. The housing feeding unit, in conjunction with the assembly module, feeds and assembles the remaining parts, and finally collects and unloads the silicone automotive switch after the automated assembly is completed.

[0010] Preferably, in step S2, the vibratory feeder continuously supplies silicone buttons at a preset speed, and the distance sensor collects distance data between itself and the silicone buttons in real time. The system automatically compares the deviation of the distance data with the preset distance. If the deviation is within the preset acceptable range, multiple sets of silicone buttons will be orderly gathered at the output end of the linear track, and the system simultaneously confirms the distribution and status of the silicone buttons. If the deviation exceeds the preset acceptable range by a factor of two, the system immediately and automatically adjusts the feeding speed of the vibratory feeder until the distance parameters meet the standard. At the same time, when the moving module grabs the silicone button at the front of the queue through negative pressure adsorption, the system continuously monitors the change in distance data. If the distance data changes, the real-time distance monitoring process continues. If the distance data remains unchanged, the system automatically issues a linear track clearing command.

[0011] Preferably, in confirming the distribution and status of the silicone buttons, the following steps are performed: The distance sensor collects distance data between itself and the silicone button and compares the measured total distance with the preset standard value. If the measured total distance is not equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to be abnormal. If the measured total distance is equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to be qualified. The moving module grabs the single silicone button at the front of the queue by negative pressure adsorption and transfers it to the corresponding operating station of the turntable.

[0012] Preferably, after confirming that there is an abnormality in the current silicone button, the following steps are performed: The moving module uses negative pressure adsorption to grab the single silicone button at the front of the queue. At the same time, a distance sensor detects the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons and compares it with a preset remaining value. If the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is not equal to the preset remaining value, the remaining silicone buttons are marked as abnormal and proceed to the next process. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is equal to the preset remaining value, the previously grabbed silicone button is moved to the end of the queue, and the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is checked again. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to have recovered its deformation and proceeds to the next process. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is not equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button itself is determined to be abnormal.

[0013] Preferably, the distance sensor compares historical detections to determine if there are any continuous abnormalities. If there are continuous abnormalities, the cause of the abnormality is investigated and determined. If there are no continuous abnormalities, the moving module first grabs the abnormal silicone button to the recycling area by negative pressure adsorption and discards it. Then, it grabs the silicone button at the front of the subsequent queue by negative pressure adsorption and proceeds to the next process.

[0014] Preferably, after investigating and determining the cause of the anomaly, the following steps are performed: The number of silicone buttons clustered on the linear track is adjusted based on the speed of the vibratory feeder, and then it is checked whether the continuous abnormality occurs again. If there is no continuous abnormality, the current number of silicone buttons clustered is set to a new preset value, and the speed of the vibratory feeder is reset according to this parameter to continue supplying silicone buttons. If the continuous abnormality still exists, the operation of the multi-station turntable and the vibratory feeder is stopped immediately, and all silicone buttons in the linear track are cleared.

[0015] Preferably, after all the silicone buttons inside the linear track are cleared, the distance sensor detects whether the overall distance of the linear track meets the preset baseline value. If the overall distance is equal to the preset baseline value, the internal structure of the vibratory feeder is inspected and repaired. After the inspection is completed, the turntable and vibratory feeder are restarted. If the overall distance is not equal to the preset baseline value, the position of the linear track is adjusted first, and then the equipment is restarted to resume operation.

[0016] The technical effects and advantages of this invention are as follows: 1. In this invention, materials are standardized by a vibratory feeder and distance data is collected in real time by a distance sensor. The feeding speed of the vibratory feeder can be dynamically and adaptively adjusted to ensure that the number of silicone buttons delivered is compliant.

[0017] 2. In this invention, anomalies are first screened by overall aggregate comparison, and then each item is sorted and inspected to distinguish between different problems such as temporary abnormalities of silicone buttons and irreversible quality defects, so as to ensure the continuous and stable transport link.

[0018] 3. In this invention, the abnormality is distinguished into occasional faults and continuous faults, and the processing flow is executed differently. Occasional defects are directly rejected and reworked, while continuous abnormalities are automatically traced and investigated. By adjusting the vibratory feeder and updating the equipment operating parameters, the process is self-optimized, and the deviation of the working condition can be corrected without stopping the machine.

[0019] 4. In this invention, the system can set the optimal number of silicone buttons as a new standard parameter and update the vibratory feeder operating parameters simultaneously to achieve adaptive iteration of process parameters and ensure that the equipment is adapted to the actual production status. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the multi-station turntable structure of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding module structure of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the vibratory feeder structure of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the silicone button structure of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the overall process flow of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the silicone button feeding process of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of determining the silicone button status according to the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the process for determining the cause of an anomaly according to the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the process for determining the cause of continuous anomalies according to the present invention.

[0021] In the diagram: 1. Equipment body; 2. Multi-station turntable; 3. Assembly module; 4. Feeding module; 401. Button feeding unit; 4011. Vibratory feeder; 4012. Linear track; 4013. Recycling section; 402. Shell feeding unit; 5. Moving module; 6. Distance sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0023] Example 1 In the use of an automated production equipment for silicone automotive switches, the multi-station turntable 2 is characterized by moving one step at a time. The overall production capacity of the equipment is determined by the slowest station. The assembly of automotive silicone switches often involves complex processes such as dispensing and laser engraving. These processes take longer than simple gripping and placing. Therefore, the continuous operation of the feeding module 4 will cause some silicone buttons to aggregate during the feeding process. Although the appropriate aggregation of silicone buttons ensures stable gripping and placing by the moving module 5, due to the inherent characteristics of silicone buttons, they are prone to extrusion deformation. Extruded silicone buttons may cause subsequent gripping and placing failures and installation deviations, resulting in unusable silicone automotive switches with extremely low yield. Moreover, not only does the change in the number of silicone buttons aggregated affect the assembly of silicone buttons, but during the sliding aggregation process, the silicone material is very prone to static electricity adsorption due to relative friction with the linear track 4012, which can cause jamming during positioning and gripping, leading to positioning and gripping failures and ultimately causing the silicone automotive switch molding to fail.

[0024] This invention provides, for example Figures 1 to 5The automated production equipment for silicone automotive switches shown includes a machine body 1 and a multi-station turntable 2 installed on the top of the machine body 1. Multiple assembly modules 3 are fixedly connected to the top of the machine body 1. The multi-station turntable 2 rotates intermittently to cooperate with the assembly modules 3 to gradually complete the assembly of silicone automotive switches. As the core platform for product flow, the multi-station turntable 2 is divided into multiple workstations, which are connected to each functional module in sequence to complete the complete assembly of silicone automotive switches step by step in cooperation with each process.

[0025] The feeding module 4, located on the side of the multi-station turntable 2, includes a button feeding unit 401 and a housing feeding unit 402, which is also located on the side of the multi-station turntable 2. The housing feeding unit 402 feeds other components in the housing. The button feeding unit 401, located on the side of the multi-station turntable 2, feeds silicone buttons. The feeding module 4 and the multi-station turntable 2 work together to perform assembly operations on the housing and internal accessories. Precise assembly is completed by relying on the intermittent stops of the multi-station turntable 2, ensuring the orderly connection of the assembly process.

[0026] The button feeding unit 401 includes a vibratory feeder 4011 and a linear track 4012. The vibratory feeder 4011 feeds the silicone buttons into the linear track 4012 in a uniform posture, and the silicone buttons are quantitatively collected at the output end of the linear track 4012.

[0027] The button feeding unit 401 also includes a recycling unit 4013, which is fixedly connected to the side of the linear track 4012 for recycling abnormal silicone buttons. The vibratory feeder 4011 is set on the side of the multi-station turntable 2. The output end of the vibratory feeder 4011 is fixedly connected to the input end of the linear track 4012. The multi-station turntable 2 sorts the scattered silicone buttons and transports them to the linear track 4012 in a uniform standard posture. After traveling along the linear track 4012, the silicone buttons are quantitatively gathered at the output end of the linear track 4012. The output end of the vibratory feeder 4011 is tightly connected to the input end of the linear track 4012 to achieve seamless transportation of silicone buttons.

[0028] The moving module 5 is fixedly connected to the top of the device body 1. The moving module 5 uses negative pressure to adsorb the silicone button inside the linear track 4012. The moving module 5 includes an operating table fixedly connected to the top of the device body 1 and an adsorption head for negative pressure adsorption of the silicone button, which work together to achieve negative pressure adsorption and gripping of the silicone button.

[0029] Distance sensor 6 is installed on the side of vibratory feeder 4011, with its detection end facing the inside of linear track 4012. Distance sensor 6 is used to detect the distance between itself and the silicone buttons inside linear track 4012. Moving module 5 uses a negative pressure adsorption gripping method to specifically adsorb qualified silicone buttons inside linear track 4012, completing the transfer of silicone buttons. Distance sensor 6 can detect the distance of silicone buttons inside linear track 4012 in real time, indirectly judging the quantity and status of silicone buttons inside linear track 4012, and adjusting the silicone button conveying speed of vibratory feeder 4011 in real time.

[0030] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, an automated production process for silicone automotive switches is described. This automated production process utilizes automated production equipment for silicone automotive switches to automatically produce silicone automotive switches, and includes the following steps: S1. The housing feeding unit 402, in conjunction with the assembly module 3, feeds and assembles some housing components. The multi-station turntable rotates intermittently, cooperating with the assembly module 3 to assemble some housing components step by step. After the equipment starts, the multi-station turntable 2 rotates intermittently according to the set rhythm. Each rotation stops at the corresponding station. The assembly module 3 uses the time when the multi-station turntable 2 stops to complete the assembly of the silicone automotive switch housing and housing accessories step by step, laying a solid foundation for the product structure.

[0031] S2. The vibratory feeder 4011 organizes the silicone buttons and feeds them into the linear track 4012, causing the silicone buttons to quantitatively accumulate at the output end of the linear track 4012. The distance sensor 6 monitors the distribution and status of the silicone buttons within the linear track 4012 in real time. Simultaneously with the housing assembly, the button feeding unit 401 starts operating. The vibratory feeder 4011 organizes the messy silicone buttons into a uniform posture and continuously feeds them into the linear track 4012. The silicone buttons slide smoothly along the inclined linear track 4012 and quantitatively accumulate at the output end of the linear track 4012, ready for use. During this process, the distance sensor 6 on one side of the vibratory feeder 4011 monitors online throughout, collecting real-time data on the distance to the silicone buttons inside the linear track 4012 to determine the quantity and status of the silicone buttons, ensuring that all silicone buttons used are qualified.

[0032] S3. The moving module 5 uses negative pressure adsorption to grab qualified silicone buttons inside the linear track 4012 and transports them to the work station of the multi-station turntable 2. The moving module 5 uses negative pressure adsorption to accurately grab qualified silicone buttons at the front end of the linear track 4012, and then smoothly transports and places the silicone buttons to the corresponding work station of the multi-station turntable 2, connecting the shell assembly process and carrying out the combination assembly of silicone buttons and shell.

[0033] S4. The housing feeding unit 402, in conjunction with the assembly module 3, feeds and assembles the remaining parts, and finally collects and unloads the silicone automotive switch after the automated assembly is completed. As the multi-station turntable 2 continues to operate intermittently, the assembly module 3 feeds and assembles the remaining parts, and each station completes the entire assembly process in sequence. The final qualified silicone automotive switch is transferred to the unloading station, and the equipment automatically completes the collection and unloading of the finished product.

[0034] In S2, the vibratory feeder 4011 continuously supplies silicone buttons at a preset speed, and the distance sensor 6 collects the distance data between itself and the silicone buttons in real time. The system automatically compares the deviation of the distance data with the preset distance. If the deviation is within the preset acceptable range, multiple sets of silicone buttons will be orderly gathered at the output end of the linear track 4012, and the system will simultaneously confirm the distribution and status of the silicone buttons. If the deviation exceeds the preset acceptable range by a factor of two, the system will immediately and automatically adjust the feeding speed of the vibratory feeder 4011 until the distance parameter meets the standard. At the same time, when the moving module 5 grabs the silicone button at the front of the queue by negative pressure adsorption, the system continuously monitors the change in distance data. If the distance data changes, the real-time distance monitoring process continues. If the distance data remains unchanged, the system automatically issues a clearing command to the linear track 4012.

[0035] During equipment operation, the vibratory feeder 4011 continuously and automatically feeds the silicone buttons in an orderly manner according to the preset operating speed and feeding frequency. After unifying the scattered silicone buttons, it smoothly conveys them to the rear linear track 4012. The distance sensor 6 installed on the side of the vibratory feeder 4011 continuously collects the real-time distance data between it and the silicone buttons inside the linear track 4012, and transmits the collected raw data back to the main control system of the equipment in real time.

[0036] The main control system performs real-time calculations on the received detection data, automatically compares the measured distance data with the system's built-in standard preset distance value, and accurately calculates the deviation between the two. When the detection deviation value falls within the preset qualified range, it is determined that the silicone button conveying status in the track is normal. Multiple sets of silicone buttons will move in an orderly manner along the straight track 4012 and complete quantitative aggregation at the track output end.

[0037] If the measured distance deviates from the standard value by a factor of several, exceeding the preset acceptable range, the system immediately triggers a closed-loop speed regulation mechanism. This dynamically corrects the operating parameters of the vibratory feeder 4011, adjusting the feeding speed up or down, and continuously performs adaptive parameter adjustments until the distance detected by the distance sensor 6 returns to the standard range. The silicone button conveying status then returns to normal. Specifically, the distance sensor 6 collects real-time data on the number of silicone buttons on the linear track 4012 and compares it with preset parameters. If the measured number is higher than the set threshold, the feeding cycle of the vibratory feeder 4011 is automatically slowed down; if the measured number is lower than the set threshold, the feeding cycle of the vibratory feeder 4011 is automatically accelerated. This dynamically matches the silicone button supply speed, preventing excessive aggregation of silicone buttons and resulting in compression deformation, ensuring that the silicone buttons to be retrieved meet the requirements.

[0038] Throughout the feeding process, after the moving module 5 grabs the silicone button at the front of the queue using negative pressure adsorption, the system monitors the dynamic changes in distance detection data. If the data continues to change normally, it indicates that the silicone button is in normal conveying state, and the equipment maintains the original real-time detection process without interruption. If the distance data does not change significantly for a long time and the value tends to be constant, it is determined that the linear track 4012 has abnormal working conditions such as jamming and blockage. The system immediately issues a clearing command, starts the clearing mechanism of the linear track 4012, or issues an alarm for personnel to carry out clearing operations to ensure the continuous and stable operation of the entire feeding link.

[0039] Example 2 Based on the above embodiments, all extracted silicone buttons need to be judged before use. Silicone buttons that are excessively deformed by compression or that are abnormal cannot be used and need to be discarded directly. However, some silicone buttons that are deformed by compression can be reused after their elastic deformation recovers after being removed from compression, and simply discarding them results in a lot of waste. Although the vibratory feeder 4011 ensures the uniformity of the silicone button feeding posture, the vibratory feeder 4011 needs to be guided by the linear track 4012 to reach the pick-up position. In the process of judging whether the silicone buttons are qualified, the judgment of the linear track 4012 is particularly important. However, after the vibratory feeder 4011 has been vibrating for a long time, the connection between the vibratory feeder 4011 and the linear track 4012 is prone to loosening, which will cause the linear track 4012 to tilt and deviate, affecting the detection accuracy. Ultimately, some qualified silicone buttons are discarded, and even abnormal silicone buttons are assembled, affecting the quality of the finished silicone automotive switches.

[0040] like Figures 8 to 10The automated production process of a silicone automotive switch shown includes the following steps in confirming the distribution and status of the silicone buttons: distance sensor 6 collects distance data between itself and the silicone buttons, and compares the measured total distance with a preset standard value. If the measured total distance is not equal to the preset standard value, the current silicone button is determined to be abnormal; if the measured total distance is equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to be qualified. The moving module 5 uses negative pressure adsorption to grab the single silicone button at the front of the queue and transfers it to the corresponding operating station on the turntable.

[0041] Distance sensor 6 collects real-time measured total distance data of the entire row of silicone buttons at the output end of linear track 4012. The main control system accurately compares and verifies the measured total distance value with the system's preset standard value. When the measured total distance is not equal to the preset standard value, that is, when the deviation between the measured total distance and the preset standard value exceeds the allowable tolerance range, the system immediately determines that the current row of silicone buttons has an abnormal working condition and triggers the abnormal handling process. If the measured total distance is equal to the preset standard value, that is, when the measured total distance matches the standard value and the deviation is within the qualified range, the posture and arrangement of the entire row of silicone buttons are determined to meet the production specifications, and the silicone buttons are in good condition.

[0042] When the silicone button is in good condition, the moving module 5 activates the negative pressure adsorption mechanism to accurately pick up the single silicone button at the front of the queue, completes the transfer of the silicone button according to the predetermined trajectory, and accurately places it to the corresponding work station of the multi-station turntable 2 to connect with the subsequent assembly process.

[0043] To determine the cause of the current silicone button malfunction, the following steps are performed: the moving module 5 uses negative pressure adsorption to grab the single silicone button at the front of the queue, while the distance sensor 6 detects the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons and compares it with the preset remaining value. If the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is not equal to the preset remaining value, the remaining silicone buttons are marked as malfunctioning, and the process proceeds to the next step.

[0044] If the total distance of the silicone buttons is equal to the preset remaining value, the previously captured silicone buttons are moved to the end of the entire group of silicone buttons, and the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is judged again. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is equal to the preset standard value, it is determined that the silicone button deformation has been restored and the process proceeds to the next step. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is not equal to the preset standard value, it is determined that the silicone button itself is abnormal.

[0045] Next, the distance sensor 6 compares the historical detections to see if there are any continuous abnormalities. If there are continuous abnormalities, the cause of the abnormality is investigated and determined. If there are no continuous abnormalities, the moving module 5 first grabs the abnormal silicone button to the recycling section 4013 area by negative pressure adsorption and discards it. Then, it grabs the silicone button at the front of the subsequent queue by negative pressure adsorption and enters the next process.

[0046] Specifically, after the system determines that there is an anomaly in the entire row of silicone buttons, that is, the measured total distance data of the entire row of silicone buttons is abnormal, it enters the item-by-item inspection stage. The moving module 5 first grabs the single silicone button at the front of the queue by negative pressure adsorption. At the same time, the distance sensor 6 re-collects the total distance data of the remaining silicone buttons in the linear track 4012 and compares it again with the preset remaining value of the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons in the linear track 4012. If the measured total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is not equal to the preset remaining value, the system marks the remaining entire row of silicone buttons as abnormal. The single silicone button at the front of the queue that was grabbed meets the requirements and is accurately placed to the corresponding work station of the multi-station turntable 2.

[0047] If the total pitch of the remaining silicone buttons within the linear track 4012 is equal to the preset remaining value, indicating an abnormality in the silicone button, the moving module 5 will move the captured silicone button to the end of the entire column of silicone buttons, completing the silicone button queue reorganization. The system will then perform the total pitch detection again. After reorganization, the total pitch parameter will return to the standard, meaning the total pitch of the silicone buttons will be equal to the preset standard value. The silicone button will be determined to be a temporary deformation, and although the silicone button is in production abnormal, it can still be used. The temporarily abnormal silicone button will automatically return to normal and be accurately placed into the corresponding workstation of the multi-station turntable 2.

[0048] If the total pitch of the recombined silicone button is not equal to the preset standard value, it is determined that the silicone button itself has problems such as deformation or irreversible dimensional deviation after extrusion, and cannot continue to be used. At the same time, the system retrieves historical operating data to check whether there are consecutive abnormal records under the same working conditions. If consecutive abnormal working conditions are detected, the in-depth fault investigation process is immediately initiated. If there are no consecutive abnormal records, it is determined to be an occasional defect of the single unit. The moving module 5 grabs the abnormal silicone button to the recycling unit 4013 for desorption and disposal by negative pressure adsorption. The silicone button at the front of the subsequent queue is grabbed by negative pressure adsorption to continue the process flow and enter the next process.

[0049] After investigating and determining the cause of the abnormality, the following steps were performed: Adjust the number of silicone buttons clustered on the linear track 4012 based on the running speed of the vibratory feeder 4011. Then check if the continuous abnormality recurs. If no continuous abnormality occurs, set the current number of silicone buttons clustered to a new preset value and reset the running speed of the vibratory feeder 4011 according to this parameter, continuously supplying silicone buttons. If the continuous abnormality persists, immediately stop the operation of the turntable and vibratory feeder 4011, clear all silicone buttons from the linear track 4012. After clearing all silicone buttons from the linear track 4012, the distance sensor 6 checks whether the overall distance of the linear track 4012 meets the preset baseline value. If the overall distance equals the preset baseline value, inspect the internal structure of the vibratory feeder 4011. After inspection, restart the turntable and vibratory feeder 4011. If the overall distance does not equal the preset baseline value, first adjust the position of the linear track 4012, then restart the equipment to resume operation.

[0050] In response to the detected continuous abnormal operating conditions, the system conducts root cause investigation and equipment calibration. First, based on the current operating parameters such as the speed of the vibratory feeder 4011 and the feeding frequency, the total number of silicone buttons in the linear track 4012 is dynamically adjusted. After the adjustment, the operating conditions are continuously monitored to check whether the continuous abnormal phenomenon still exists. After adjusting the number of silicone buttons, the continuous abnormal phenomenon disappears. That is, the system sets the current optimal number of silicone buttons as the new standard preset parameter, and simultaneously updates the supporting parameters such as the operating speed of the vibratory feeder 4011 and the feeding rate. Based on the new parameters, the automated silicone button supply is continuously executed to ensure stable feeding conditions.

[0051] Even after adjusting the parameters, the continuous abnormality persisted. The system issued an emergency stop command, simultaneously cutting off the power to the multi-station turntable 2 and the vibratory feeder 4011, halting the equipment's operation. Subsequently, all residual silicone buttons inside the linear track 4012 were cleared. A baseline distance test was performed on the cleared linear track 4012, and the measured distance was equal to the preset baseline value. It was determined that the fault originated from a problem with the internal components of the vibratory feeder 4011 or a problem with this batch of silicone buttons. The staff inspected this batch of silicone buttons and then conducted a comprehensive overhaul and maintenance of the internal structure of the vibratory feeder 4011. After the maintenance was completed, the turntable and vibratory feeder 4011 were restarted, restoring automated production.

[0052] If the measured distance of the emptied linear track 4012 is not equal to the preset base value, it is determined that there is a structural offset fault in the position of the linear track 4012. First, the installation structure of the linear track 4012 is corrected and adjusted. After the adjustment is completed, the entire set of equipment is restarted to restore the normal production process. Before the normal production process, the measured distance of the emptied linear track 4012 is calibrated.

[0053] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automated production process for silicone automotive switches, comprising automated production equipment for silicone automotive switches, the automated production equipment including a machine body, a multi-station turntable, a feeding module, a moving module, and a distance sensor, characterized in that, Multiple assembly modules are fixedly connected to the top of the equipment body. The feeding module includes a button feeding unit and a shell feeding unit. The button feeding unit includes a vibratory feeder, a linear track and a recycling section. The automated production process includes the following steps: S1. The housing feeding unit, in conjunction with the assembly module, feeds and assembles some housing components. S2. The vibratory feeder sorts the silicone buttons and feeds them into the linear track, so that the silicone buttons are quantitatively gathered at the output end of the linear track, and the distance sensor detects the distribution and status of the silicone buttons in the linear track in real time. S3. The moving module uses negative pressure adsorption to grab qualified silicone buttons in the linear track and transport them to the work station of the multi-station turntable. S4. The housing feeding unit, in conjunction with the assembly module, feeds and assembles the remaining parts, and finally collects and unloads the silicone automotive switch after the automated assembly is completed. To confirm the distribution and status of the silicone buttons, perform the following steps: The distance sensor collects distance data between itself and the silicone button and compares the measured total distance with the preset standard value. If the measured total distance is not equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to be abnormal. If the measured total distance is equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to be qualified. The moving module grabs the single silicone button at the front of the queue by negative pressure adsorption and transfers it to the corresponding operating station of the turntable. If the cause of the current silicone button malfunction is confirmed, perform the following steps: The moving module uses negative pressure adsorption to grab the single silicone button at the front of the queue. At the same time, a distance sensor detects the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons and compares it with a preset remaining value. If the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is not equal to the preset remaining value, the remaining silicone buttons are marked as abnormal and proceed to the next process. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is equal to the preset remaining value, the previously grabbed silicone button is moved to the end of the queue, and the total distance of the remaining silicone buttons is checked again. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button is determined to have recovered its deformation and proceeds to the next process. If the total distance of the silicone buttons is not equal to the preset standard value, the silicone button itself is determined to be abnormal.

2. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S2, the vibratory feeder continuously supplies silicone buttons at a preset speed, and the distance sensor collects the distance data between itself and the silicone buttons in real time. The system automatically compares the deviation of the distance data with the preset distance. If the deviation is within the preset acceptable range, multiple sets of silicone buttons will be orderly gathered at the output end of the linear track, and the system simultaneously confirms the distribution and status of the silicone buttons. If the deviation exceeds the preset acceptable range by a factor of two, the system immediately and automatically adjusts the feeding speed of the vibratory feeder until the distance parameters meet the standard. At the same time, when the moving module grabs the silicone button at the front of the queue through negative pressure adsorption, the system continuously monitors the change in distance data. If the distance data changes, the real-time distance monitoring process continues. If the distance data remains unchanged, the system automatically issues a linear track clearing command.

3. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distance sensor compares historical detections to check for continuous anomalies. If continuous anomalies are detected, the cause of the anomaly is investigated and determined. If there are no continuous anomalies, the moving module first uses negative pressure adsorption to grab the abnormal silicone button and remove it from the recycling area. Then, it uses negative pressure adsorption to grab the silicone button at the front of the subsequent queue and proceeds to the next process.

4. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 3, characterized in that, After identifying the cause of the anomaly, perform the following steps: The number of silicone buttons clustered on the linear track is adjusted based on the running speed of the vibratory feeder, and then it is checked whether the continuous abnormality recurs. If there are no continuous abnormalities, set the current number of silicone buttons to a new preset value, and reset the vibratory feeder speed according to this parameter to continue supplying silicone buttons; if there are still continuous abnormalities, immediately stop the operation of the multi-station turntable and vibratory feeder, and clear all silicone buttons in the linear track.

5. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 4, characterized in that, After all the silicone buttons inside the linear track are cleared, the distance sensor detects whether the distance of the linear track meets the preset baseline value. If the distance is equal to the preset baseline value, the internal structure of the vibratory feeder is inspected and repaired. After the inspection is completed, the turntable and vibratory feeder are restarted. If the distance is not equal to the preset baseline value, the position of the linear track is adjusted first, and then the equipment is restarted to resume operation.

6. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 1, wherein the multi-station turntable is installed on the top of the equipment body, and the multi-station turntable rotates intermittently in conjunction with the assembly module to gradually complete the assembly of the silicone automotive switch; the feeding module is set on the side of the multi-station turntable, and the vibratory feeder feeds the silicone buttons into the linear track, and the silicone buttons are quantitatively collected at the output end of the linear track; the moving module is fixedly connected to the top of the equipment body, and the moving module uses negative pressure to adsorb the silicone buttons inside the linear track; the distance sensor is installed on the side of the vibratory feeder, and the detection end of the distance sensor faces the inside of the linear track, and the distance sensor is used to detect the distance value between itself and the silicone buttons inside the linear track.

7. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing feeding unit is located on the side of the multi-station turntable, and the housing feeding unit feeds other components in the housing; the button feeding unit is located on the side of the multi-station turntable, and the button feeding unit feeds silicone buttons.

8. The automated production process for a silicone automotive switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The recycling unit is fixedly connected to the side of the linear track and is used to recycle abnormal silicone buttons; the vibratory feeder is set on the side of the multi-station turntable, and the output end of the vibratory feeder is fixedly connected to the input end of the linear track.

Images