A positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer dies

Abstract

The application discloses a positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer die, comprising a rack, a female die base, a plurality of workpiece sub-dies and a plurality of positioning and locking mechanisms. The female die base is arranged on the rack and has a plurality of mounting grooves. Each workpiece sub-die is movably inserted into any mounting groove and is used for carrying a workpiece. The positioning and locking mechanisms are arranged in the mounting grooves in correspondence with the mounting grooves and form annular spaces with the mounting grooves, the annular spaces are used for positioning the workpiece sub-dies, and the positioning and locking mechanisms are used for locking and fixing the workpiece sub-dies. The positioning and clamping device for the multi-station transfer die can improve die changing efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of positioning and clamping technology for stamping die tooling, and in particular to a positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer dies. Background Technology

[0002] In multi-station transfer mold production, robotic arms are needed to transfer workpieces between different stations. Stable workpiece transfer and normal mold stamping operation require extremely high relative positional accuracy between the mold stations. Currently, traditional multi-station transfer mold positioning and clamping structures involve cumbersome mold installation and alignment adjustments, resulting in time-consuming and labor-intensive overall debugging. This slows down the mold changeover process and directly restricts the mold changeover efficiency of the production line. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this invention is to provide a positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer molds, which can improve mold changing efficiency.

[0004] The objective of this invention is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0005] A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold includes: a frame, a female mold base, multiple workpiece sub-molds, and a positioning and locking mechanism;

[0006] The female mold base is disposed on the frame, and the female mold base has multiple mounting slots;

[0007] Each of the workpiece sub-molds can be movably inserted into any of the mounting slots, and the workpiece sub-molds are used to support the workpieces;

[0008] The positioning and locking mechanism is provided in multiple ways, and each positioning and locking mechanism is respectively disposed in one of the mounting slots, forming an annular space with the corresponding mounting slot. The annular space is used to provide position positioning for the workpiece sub-mold, and the positioning and locking mechanism is used to lock and fix the workpiece sub-mold.

[0009] Furthermore, the positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold also includes a robot arm, which is mounted on the frame and is used to disassemble and replace the workpiece sub-mold inserted into the mounting slot.

[0010] Furthermore, at least two female mold bases are provided, and the two female mold bases are respectively located on opposite horizontal sides of the robot arm.

[0011] Furthermore, the positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer molds further includes a rotary motor and a control module. There are at least two rotary motors, which are respectively mounted on the frame. Each female mold base is connected to the output of one of the rotary motors and rotates with it. The control module is electrically connected to the rotary motor and the robot arm.

[0012] Furthermore, each of the rotating motors is connected to an encoder, which is used to control the number of rotations of the rotating motor in real time, and each encoder is electrically connected to the control module.

[0013] Furthermore, the workpiece sub-mold has a connecting rod tube, which is used to insert into the annular space. The positioning and locking mechanism includes a column, an abutment locking rod, a linkage rod, and a reset drive. The column is disposed in the mounting groove. The abutment locking rod is slidably connected to the column so as to be able to approach and lock or move away from the inner tube wall of the connecting rod tube. The abutment locking rod has a pushed portion. The linkage rod is slidably connected to the column. The sliding path direction of the linkage rod is parallel to the path direction when the connecting rod tube is inserted into the annular space. The linkage rod is used to push the pushed portion to slide under the pressure of the connecting rod tube, thereby driving the abutment locking rod to approach and lock against the inner tube wall of the connecting rod tube. The reset drive is used to drive the abutment locking rod away from the inner tube wall of the connecting rod tube.

[0014] Furthermore, one of the abutment locking rods and one reset drive member are defined as a unit group, and there are at least two unit groups, with the two unit groups located on opposite sides of the linkage rod.

[0015] Furthermore, the positioning and locking mechanism also includes a return member, which has a tendency to drive the linkage rod away from the pushed part.

[0016] Furthermore, the connecting rod tube has a first groove and a second groove. The extension direction of the first groove is consistent with the length direction of the connecting rod tube, and the extension direction of the second groove is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first groove. The second groove connects to the first groove and penetrates the horizontally opposite sides of the connecting rod tube. The positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold further includes a first rod, a second rod, and an elastic drive member. The first rod and the second rod are connected to each other, and the length directions of the first rod and the second rod are perpendicular to each other. The first rod is slidably connected to the first groove and can abut against and drive the linkage rod. The elastic drive member is used to drive the first rod to abut against and drive the linkage rod. The second rod is slidably connected to the second groove, and the sliding direction of the second rod is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the first rod. The second rod is used for user-driven operation to drive the first rod to overcome the driving force of the elastic drive member and move away from the linkage rod.

[0017] Furthermore, an operating ring is provided around the periphery of the connecting rod tube, and the inner ring wall of the operating ring is connected to the opposite ends of the second rod.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0019] 1. Based on the fact that the female mold base is located on the machine frame, and the female mold base has multiple mounting slots; the machine frame and the female mold base are assembled to form an integrated fixed reference. Throughout the operation, the machine frame and the female mold base do not require disassembly, relocation, or adjustment, locking the overall installation position of the mold and preventing overall mold offset or deviation. The female mold base integrates multiple independent mounting slots, realizing modular division of workstations. Each workstation assembly area is independent of each other, allowing for single-station disassembly and assembly operations without disassembling the entire mold set. This eliminates the need for whole-machine disassembly and reassembly, and machine tool reference reset procedures, reducing the time spent on disassembling and assembling the mold change base. From the reference structure level, this optimizes the mold change process and improves the efficiency of mold change operations.

[0020] 2. Based on the fact that multiple workpiece sub-molds can be movably inserted into any of the mounting slots, the positioning and locking mechanisms are respectively disposed in the mounting slots and form an annular space with the mounting slots. The annular space is used to provide position positioning for the workpiece sub-molds, and the positioning and locking mechanisms are used to lock and fix the workpiece sub-molds. After the workpiece sub-mold is placed in the annular space, it is completely clamped and positioned by the positioning and locking mechanisms, locking the angle, orientation, and position of the workpiece sub-mold, and restricting the shaking, rotation, and offset of the workpiece sub-mold. After replacing the workpiece sub-mold, it is placed in the annular space, and the original station coordinates can be replicated by relying on the fixed reference of the machine frame mother mold seat. There is no need for manual repeated alignment, dimension adjustment, and station adjustment, saving the most time-consuming manual precision adjustment process after mold change, reducing the mold change and adjustment time, and unifying the assembly accuracy of all stations, which can meet the accuracy requirements of multi-station workpiece transfer and stamping processing.

[0021] 3. Multiple positioning and locking mechanisms are provided, each correspondingly located within one of the mounting slots, forming an annular space with the corresponding mounting slot. This annular space provides positional positioning for the workpiece sub-mold, and the positioning and locking mechanisms are used to lock and fix the workpiece sub-mold. Each station's locking structure is independently controlled and operates in a coordinated manner without affecting each other. A single station's workpiece sub-mold can be individually released, replaced, or locked. Only the changing station needs to be unlocked individually; the remaining stations can remain locked and ready, eliminating the need for full-area unlocking and mold adjustment. After locking, the mechanism circumferentially encloses and jams the assembly gap, preventing the workpiece sub-mold from shaking or shifting during stamping and transfer, thus ensuring processing stability. The device enables partial station mold changing, adapting to small-batch, high-frequency workpiece changing conditions in the workshop. It simplifies mold changing steps, shortens downtime for mold changing, further improves the efficiency of multi-station transfer mold changing, and facilitates single-station mold maintenance. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of point B in the middle.

[0026] In the diagram: 1. Frame; 2. Mold base; 201. Mounting groove; 3. Workpiece sub-mold; 301. Connecting rod tube; 3011. First slide groove; 3012. Second slide groove; 4. Positioning and locking mechanism; 401. Column; 402. Abutment locking rod; 4021. Pushed part; 403. Linkage rod; 404. Reset drive component; 405. Return component; 5. Robot arm; 6. Motor; 7. Encoder; 8. First rod; 9. Second rod; 10. Elastic drive component; 11. Operating ring. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The present invention will now be further described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, without conflict, the various embodiments or technical features described below can be arbitrarily combined to form new embodiments.

[0028] It should be noted that when an element is described as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly attached to the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is described as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementations.

[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] See Figures 1-4 A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold, comprising: a frame 1, a female mold base 2, multiple workpiece sub-molds 3, and a positioning and locking mechanism 4.

[0031] The frame 1 serves as the load-bearing reference base for the entire device. It can be manufactured from a single piece of cast steel, exhibiting high overall rigidity and a small deformation coefficient. After assembly, it can be directly and fixedly installed on the worktable of a multi-station transfer mold machine, providing a fixed installation reference for the entire mold set and defining the overall installation position of the female mold base 2. Throughout the entire operation, the frame 1 requires no disassembly, displacement, or fine-tuning, ensuring a constant overall reference position for the mold from the source and preventing overall mold offset or displacement issues. This is suitable for the high-intensity operation conditions of continuous stamping and workpiece transfer in multi-station transfer molds. The table surface of the frame 1 has bolt countersunk holes and locating pin holes, allowing for the fixation of the female mold base 2 using a double locking method of pins and bolts. This ensures high assembly coaxiality, convenient disassembly and fastening, and prevents reference offset during long-term stamping operations.

[0032] The female mold base 2 can be located on the upper surface of the frame 1, forming an integrated reference structure with the frame 1. The female mold base 2 has multiple mounting slots 201, the number of which corresponds one-to-one with the number of processing stations of the multi-station transfer mold. At the same time, the specifications, dimensions and machining coaxiality of each mounting slot 201 are set to be consistent, ensuring that the assembly reference of each station is completely identical. The inner wall of the mounting slot 201 can be precision machined and hardened, with high wear resistance and precision. It can be used with the positioning and locking mechanism 4 to form a closed-loop annular space. The workpiece sub-mold 3 can be vertically inserted and disassembled along the mounting slot 201 without lateral alignment or assembly, simplifying the sub-mold disassembly and assembly process.

[0033] Multiple workpiece sub-molds 3 are provided, each corresponding to a mounting slot 201. The lower outline of each workpiece sub-mold 3 is adapted to the outline of the annular space within the mounting slot 201. A workpiece-shaped bearing groove is provided at the upper end of each workpiece sub-mold 3 for positioning and bearing the metal workpiece to be stamped and transferred for processing. Each workpiece sub-mold 3 is independently set up, and a single workpiece sub-mold 3 can be vertically and movably inserted into the corresponding mounting slot 201. It offers high freedom of insertion and removal without interference, allowing for independent disassembly and replacement at a single workstation. The outer wall of the workpiece sub-mold 3 undergoes heat treatment for wear resistance. After insertion, it fits snugly against the inner wall of the annular space. Relying on the limiting effect of the annular space, it automatically corrects the position angle, autonomously eliminating assembly offsets, rotations, and lateral movement gaps, ensuring uniform assembly position of the workpiece sub-molds 3 across all workstations, and meeting the high-precision processing requirements of synchronous transfer and step-by-step stamping at multiple workstations.

[0034] The number of positioning and locking mechanisms 4 corresponds one-to-one with the mounting slots 201. Each positioning and locking mechanism 4 is independently embedded inside the wall of a single mounting slot 201. Each positioning and locking mechanism 4 acts only on the workpiece sub-mold 3 at the corresponding workstation. The locking actions between workstations are independent and do not interfere with each other. After the workpiece sub-mold 3 is inserted into the position, the positioning and locking mechanism 4 will clamp the workpiece sub-mold 3 tightly, locking the assembly gap between the workpiece sub-mold 3 and the mounting slot 201, thus restricting the horizontal rotation, left and right offset, and vertical vibration of the workpiece sub-mold 3 in all directions. During mold changing operations, a single positioning and locking mechanism 4 can be unlocked individually, and only the workpiece sub-mold 3 at the corresponding workstation needs to be pulled out to complete the partial mold change. There is no need to disassemble the mother mold base 2, move the reference frame 1, or disassemble the entire mold. After replacing with a new specification workpiece sub-mold 3, it can be directly inserted and reset, automatically replicating the original assembly coordinates based on the original annular space. There is no need for manual dimension adjustment or workstation adjustment, reducing the mold changing and debugging time, and taking into account both mold processing stability and mold changing convenience.

[0035] It is understood that, as alternative implementation methods, the mounting slot 201 of the master mold base 2 can be replaced with a split-type slot structure, a detachable bushing type slot structure, or an adjustable-spacing type slot structure, respectively adapting to rapid wear maintenance and replacement, adapting to sub-molds 3 with different outer diameters, and adapting to variable station distance transfer molds. This enables individual replacement of worn slots, reduces master mold repair costs, adapts to multi-specification sub-mold assembly, and adapts to the use of non-standard transfer molds with adjustable station distances. The workpiece sub-mold 3 can be replaced with an integrated contour sub-mold, a quick-release insert type sub-mold, or a fine-tuning reference type sub-mold, respectively adapting to conventional standard workpiece processing, multi-size workpiece changeover with the same shape, and ultra-high precision micron-level processing conditions. This achieves low-cost universal processing, changeover with only partial insert replacement, and autonomous fine-tuning of minute positions, further reducing the cost of mold replacement parts and improving the pass rate of extreme high-precision stamping processing. The frame 1 can be replaced by a shock-absorbing integrated frame 1, a sliding rail movable reference frame 1, or a heightened isolation frame 1, respectively adapting to working conditions with strong workshop floor vibration, multiple molds rotating and sharing workstations, and working conditions where bottom space is needed to avoid wiring. These measures successively reduce the micro-vibration of the sub-mold caused by stamping resonance, enable the frame 1 to be quickly aligned and reused, and avoid pipeline interference, thereby further improving the stability of the device operation and its adaptability to the workshop.

[0036] The working principle of this invention is as follows: During operation, the frame 1 is fixedly mounted with the female mold base 2, providing a fixed reference for the entire mold set and ensuring that the overall position of the mold does not move randomly. Each workpiece sub-mold 3, used to hold the workpiece, can be directly inserted into the corresponding mounting slot 201 of the female mold base 2, making disassembly and assembly very convenient. Each mounting slot 201 is equipped with a dedicated positioning and locking mechanism 4. The locking mechanism, together with the wall of the mounting slot 201, forms a ring-shaped space. After the workpiece sub-mold 3 is inserted into the ring-shaped space, the positioning and locking mechanism 4 locks the workpiece sub-mold 3, preventing the workpiece sub-mold 3 from swaying, rotating, or shifting, quickly locating the installation position, ensuring that the position of the workpiece sub-mold 3 at each station is uniform, and meeting the accuracy requirements for multi-station mold processing and workpiece transfer. When the workshop needs to change the processed workpiece or perform mold changing operations, the operator only needs to loosen the positioning and locking mechanism 4 of the corresponding station to directly remove the workpiece from that station. The workpiece sub-mold 3 does not require disassembling the entire mother mold base 2, nor does it require changing the position of the frame 1, nor does it require disassembling the entire mold. After replacing it with a workpiece sub-mold 3 adapted to the new workpiece, it can be directly inserted into the original mounting slot 201. It can automatically find its original position by relying on the annular space, without the need for repeated manual adjustment of position and dimensions, saving a lot of debugging time. After the workpiece sub-mold 3 is placed in place, the corresponding positioning and locking mechanism 4 is activated. The mechanism clamps the workpiece sub-mold 3 from all sides, locking the assembly gap. When the mold is stamping and the workpiece is being moved, the workpiece sub-mold 3 will not shake or shift. The locking structures of each station do not interfere with each other. Individual station sub-molds can be loosened, replaced, and locked individually. Partial station molds can be replaced individually without overall mold replacement and adjustment, simplifying the mold replacement process and reducing mold replacement time. This facilitates mold maintenance and workpiece change processing, and ensures stable position and high processing accuracy when the mold is processing the workpiece.

[0037] Obviously, since the female mold base 2 is located on the frame 1, and the female mold base 2 has multiple mounting slots 201, the frame 1 and the female mold base 2 form an integrated fixed reference. Throughout the operation, the frame 1 and the female mold base 2 do not require disassembly, relocation, or adjustment, locking the overall installation position of the mold and preventing overall mold offset. The female mold base 2 integrates multiple independent mounting slots 201, realizing modular division of workstations. Each workstation assembly area is independent of the others, allowing for single-station disassembly and assembly operations without disassembling the entire mold set. This eliminates the need for whole-machine disassembly and machine tool reference reset procedures, reducing the time spent on disassembling and assembling the mold change base. From the reference structure level, this optimizes the mold change process and improves the efficiency of mold change operations.

[0038] Based on the fact that multiple workpiece sub-molds 3 can be movably inserted into any of the mounting slots 201, the positioning and locking mechanisms 4 are respectively disposed in the mounting slots 201 and form an annular space with the mounting slots 201. The annular space is used to provide position positioning for the workpiece sub-molds 3, and the positioning and locking mechanisms 4 are used to lock and fix the workpiece sub-molds 3. After the workpiece sub-molds 3 are placed in the annular space, they are completely clamped and positioned by the positioning and locking mechanisms 4, locking the angle, orientation, and position of the workpiece sub-molds 3, and restricting the shaking, rotation, and offset of the workpiece sub-molds 3. After replacing the workpiece sub-molds 3, they are placed in the annular space, and the original station coordinates can be replicated by relying on the fixed reference of the mother mold base 2 of the frame 1. There is no need for manual repeated alignment, size adjustment, and station adjustment, saving the most time-consuming manual precision adjustment process after mold change, reducing the mold change and adjustment time, and unifying the assembly accuracy of all stations, which can meet the accuracy requirements of multi-station workpiece transfer and stamping processing.

[0039] Multiple positioning and locking mechanisms 4 are provided, each corresponding to one of the mounting slots 201, forming an annular space with the corresponding mounting slot 201. The annular space is used to provide position positioning for the workpiece sub-mold 3, and the positioning and locking mechanism 4 is used to lock and fix the workpiece sub-mold 3. The locking structure of each station is independently controlled and linked without affecting each other. The workpiece sub-mold 3 of a single station can be loosened, replaced, and locked individually. Only the changeover station needs to be unlocked individually, while the other stations can remain locked and ready, without the need for full unlocking and mold adjustment. After locking, the mechanism circumferentially surrounds and jams the assembly gap, preventing the workpiece sub-mold 3 from shaking and shifting during stamping and transfer, thus ensuring processing stability. The device can realize mold changing at partial stations, adapting to the small batch and high frequency of workpiece changeover in the workshop, simplifying mold changing steps, shortening downtime for mold changing, further improving the efficiency of mold changing for multi-station transfer molds, and facilitating mold maintenance operations at single stations.

[0040] In this embodiment, preferably, the positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer molds further includes a robotic arm 5, which is mounted on the frame 1. The robotic arm 5 is used to disassemble and replace the workpiece sub-mold 3 inserted into the mounting slot 201. Specifically, the robotic arm 5 on the frame 1 enables automated disassembly and replacement of the workpiece sub-mold 3, adapting to the automated mass production line operation of multi-station transfer molds, further improving the overall mold changing efficiency and reducing the frequency of manual intervention. Conventional manual mold changing requires manual tightening and loosening of the locking mechanism, insertion and removal of the workpiece sub-mold 3 for alignment, and manual verification of the placement position. This not only limits the mold changing speed but also poses risks of manual alignment deviation and human-machine operation hazards at the stamping station in the workshop. With the addition of the integrated robotic arm 5 on the frame 1, the robotic arm 5 can accurately align with the annular space of each set of mounting slots 201, automatically completing the entire process of removing the workpiece sub-mold 3 and inserting the new workpiece sub-mold 3. In conjunction with the linkage operation of each set of independent positioning and locking mechanisms 4, it realizes a closed-loop operation of automated unlocking, automatic mold changing, and automatic locking at a single station. Among them, the robotic arm 5 can be a rectangular coordinate insertion and extraction robotic arm, a multi-axis articulated robotic arm, a guide rail sliding special robotic arm, a pneumatic gripping micro robotic arm, and a servo precision positioning insertion and extraction robotic arm, etc.

[0041] It is understood that, as alternative implementation methods, in addition to the fixed dedicated plug-in manipulator 5 automatic mold changing structure of the frame 1, external mobile mold changing manipulator structure, workstation independent small clamping cylinder mold changing structure, chain push-pull automatic mold changing mechanism, magnetic automatic pick-and-place mold changing module and truss linkage cross-workstation automatic mold changing mechanism, etc., can also be adopted.

[0042] In this embodiment, preferably, at least two female mold bases 2 are provided, with the two female mold bases 2 located on opposite horizontal sides of the robot arm 5. Specifically, the layout structure of symmetrically arranged female mold bases 2 on both sides and the robot arm 5 centrally positioned maximizes the utilization of the robot arm 5's working stroke, enabling one robot arm 5 to handle the disassembly and assembly of the workpiece sub-mold 3 on both sides of the female mold base 2, eliminating the need for a separate robot arm 5 for each set of female mold bases 2, and greatly reducing the procurement and maintenance costs of automated mold changing equipment. In the single-side female mold base 2 operation mode, the robot arm 5 has a long idle time, low equipment utilization, and can only complete mold changing on one side of the workstation at a time, limiting production capacity. The centrally positioned robot arm 5 can alternately perform sub-mold removal, replacement, and insertion / resetting operations on both sides of the female mold base 2. When the workpiece on one side of the female mold base 2 is being stamped, the robot arm 5 can simultaneously complete the mold changing and material preparation on the other side of the female mold base 2 in advance, realizing parallel operation of stamping and mold changing and material preparation, reducing the downtime for mold changing and improving the overall processing and mold changing efficiency. Meanwhile, the symmetrical layout on both sides ensures balanced stress distribution, dispersing the stress on frame 1 and preventing uneven deformation caused by heavy-duty operation on one side. This guarantees consistent datum accuracy of the two female mold bases 2, resulting in higher consistency in machining accuracy between the two workstations. It also allows for the machining of workpieces of different specifications on both sides of the female mold bases 2, adapting to the mass production of differentiated workpieces on dual production lines in the workshop and broadening the adaptability of the equipment. Specifically, the dual female mold bases 2 can adopt symmetrical female mold bases of equal specifications, detachable and interchangeable female mold bases, integrated paired female mold bases with the same datum, and paired female mold bases with different workstation numbers, etc.

[0043] It is understood that, as alternative implementation methods, in addition to the structure of the robot arm 5 being centered and the double female mold bases 2 being arranged opposite each other, a structure of the single female mold base 2 cooperating with the robot arm 5 for sliding and changing, a structure of the three female mold bases 2 surrounding the robot arm 5 in a ring, a structure of the female and male combined linkage female mold bases 2, a structure of the independent robot arm 5 being arranged one-to-one with the single female mold base 2, and a structure of the track-type multi-female mold bases 2 flowing and docking with the robot arm 5, etc.

[0044] In this embodiment, preferably, the positioning and clamping device for multi-station mold transfer further includes a rotary motor 6 and a control module. At least two rotary motors 6 are provided, each mounted on the frame 1. Each female mold base 2 is connected to the output of one of the rotary motors 6 and rotates with it. The control module is electrically connected to the rotary motor 6 and the robotic arm 5. Specifically, the control module centrally controls the rotary motor 6 and the robotic arm 5, enabling intelligent collaborative operation of the entire process of rotating and repositioning the female mold base 2 and inserting / removing the mold by the robotic arm 5. This further optimizes the operational logic of the dual-sided female mold base 2, comprehensively reducing mold changing time and improving the accuracy of automated mold changing. Independent rotating motors 6 drive the corresponding female mold base 2 to rotate and reposition, allowing the mold-changing station to be rotated towards the robot arm 5 as needed. This eliminates the need for the robot arm 5 to move and align extensively, further shortening its working stroke, reducing idle time, and improving mold-changing cycle efficiency. Simultaneously, the processing station can be rotated away from the robot arm 5's working area to prevent collisions and interference during mold changing, ensuring that stamping and mold-changing operations do not interfere with each other. The control module can preset mold-changing programs, linking and controlling the start / stop of motors 6, rotation angle, and the timing of robot arm 5's clamping and insertion / removal. This achieves fully automated closed-loop operation, including rotation and alignment of the female mold base 2, unlocking of the locking mechanism, removal of the old sub-mold, insertion of the new sub-mold, and locking reset. This eliminates the need for manual alignment and equipment start / stop procedures, making it suitable for unmanned mold-changing production lines. In addition, the dual motors 6 independently drive the dual female mold bases 2, allowing for individual control of the rotation and reversal of one side of the female mold base 2. This enables switching of the workpiece processing surface and changing of the workstation orientation, adapting to multi-angle transfer and stamping processing of irregularly shaped workpieces, and adapting to the transformation processing of various types of irregularly shaped workpieces, thus enhancing the device's adaptability to different operating conditions. The rotary motors 6 can be servo-reduced rotary motors, stepper positioning rotary motors, dustproof and explosion-proof variable frequency rotary motors, self-locking brake rotary motors, and high-precision hollow rotary motors, etc.; the control modules can be PLC integrated control modules, embedded touch-screen programmable control modules, industrial wireless linkage control modules, stand-alone integrated programmable control modules, and workshop bus linkage control modules, etc.

[0045] In this embodiment, preferably, each of the rotating motors 6 is connected to an encoder 7. The encoder 7 is used to control the number of rotations of the rotating motor 6 in real time, and each encoder 7 is electrically connected to the control module. Specifically, the encoder 7 collects the number of rotations and rotation angle data of the rotating motor 6 in real time and feeds it back to the control module to form a closed-loop electronic control adjustment. This precisely controls the rotation angle and rotation position of the master mold base 2, preventing rotational inertia deviation and start-stop angle errors of the motor 6. It ensures that the mounting slot 201 of the master mold base 2 is accurately aligned with the gripping position of the robot arm 5 after each rotation, ensuring the coaxiality of the insertion and alignment of the workpiece sub-mold 3, and avoiding misalignment, collision with the slot wall, and wear on the structure. Relying on the quantitative control of the encoder 7, multiple sets of fixed rotation angles can be preset, adapting to multi-station equally divided rotation positioning, realizing precise reversing positioning at any station, eliminating the need for repeated manual fine-tuning and calibration of the position of the master mold base 2, further reducing the time consumption of automated mold changing and alignment, and adapting to high-frequency continuous mold changing operations. Meanwhile, encoder 7 monitors the load and rotational stroke data of motor 6 in real time, and works with the control module to achieve overload self-locking and angle correction. When the female mold base 2 rotates and jams or misaligns, it immediately stops and locks to prevent forced rotation and squeezing of the workpiece sub-mold 3 and damage to the positioning and locking mechanism 4. This improves the safety of automated operation of the whole machine, extends the service life of components such as motor 6 and female mold base 2, and ensures consistent precision in long-term batch mold changes and stamping operations. Among them, encoder 7 can be an absolute photoelectric encoder, incremental magnetic encoder, dustproof integrated shaft end encoder, waterproof and explosion-proof hollow encoder, and high-precision pulse positioning encoder.

[0046] In this embodiment, preferably, the workpiece sub-mold 3 has a connecting rod tube 301, which is used to insert into the annular space. The positioning and locking mechanism 4 includes a column 401, an abutting locking rod 402, a linkage rod 403, and a reset driving member 404. The column 401 is disposed in the mounting groove 201. The abutting locking rod 402 is slidably connected to the column 401 so as to be able to approach and lock or move away from the inner tube wall of the connecting rod tube 301. The abutting locking rod 402 has a pushed portion 4021. The linkage rod 403 is slidably connected to the column 401. The sliding path direction of the linkage rod 403 is parallel to the path direction of the connecting rod tube 301 when it is inserted into the annular space. The linkage rod 403 is used to push the pushed part 4021 to slide under the pressure of the connecting rod tube 301, thereby driving the abutment locking rod 402 to approach and lock the inner wall of the connecting rod tube 301. The reset drive member 404 is used to drive the abutment locking rod 402 away from the inner wall of the connecting rod tube 301 to release it. This structure employs a plug-in linkage mechanical self-locking logic. During the vertical insertion of the connecting rod tube 301 into the annular space, it autonomously compresses the linkage rod 403. The linkage rod 403 slides synchronously with the insertion stroke and pushes against the locking rod 402, automatically completing the inward contact and locking of the inner wall of the connecting rod tube 301 with the locking rod 402. This achieves automatic locking upon insertion, eliminating the need for manual operation of the locking components and electrical start / stop locking mechanisms, simplifying the mold changing locking process and further reducing mold changing operation time. The sliding direction of the linkage rod 403 is parallel to the insertion and extraction direction of the connecting rod tube 301, ensuring a straight and smooth force transmission path. The insertion and extraction pressure can be efficiently converted into locking resistance force, resulting in uniform locking force. Multi-point locking can comprehensively restrict the offset, rotation, and shaking of the connecting rod tube 301 and the integrated workpiece sub-mold 3, providing strong locking stability and adapting to high-frequency stamping impact conditions of the mold. Among them, the column 401 can be a one-piece column made of hard alloy, a rust-proof electroplated column, a detachable and assembled column, or a one-piece column with guide groove, etc.; the abutting locking rod 402 can be a wear-resistant and anti-slip locking rod, an arc-shaped fitting locking rod, or a multi-point split locking rod, etc.; the reset drive component 404 can be a compression spring reset component, a torsion spring linkage reset component, a miniature cylinder reset component, or a magnetic rebound reset component, etc.

[0047] In this embodiment, preferably, one abutment locking rod 402 and one reset driving member 404 are defined as a unit group, and at least two unit groups are provided, with the two unit groups located on opposite sides of the linkage rod 403. Specifically, the unit groups are symmetrically arranged on both sides. When the linkage rod 403 slides and pushes, it can synchronously drive the abutment locking rods 402 on both sides to face each other and fit against the inner wall of the connecting rod tube 301, forming a symmetrical clamping and locking. Compared with single-sided single-point locking, it can offset the lateral component of the locking force, avoid the eccentric displacement of the connecting rod tube 301 under pressure on one side, and ensure that the axis of the connecting rod tube 301 always coincides with the axis of the annular space, further ensuring the coaxiality of the workpiece sub-mold 3 assembly. The forces of the unit groups on both sides are mutually balancing, dispersing the impact load during mold stamping, avoiding long-term pressure wear and deformation jamming of a single abutment locking rod 402, extending the service life of the locking components, and reducing the frequency of maintenance and replacement of the mechanism. Simultaneously, the dual-side unit groups can be unlocked and reset synchronously. The 404 reset drive components on both sides work together to rebound and unload force, ensuring balanced unlocking resistance and preventing single-side jamming or sticking issues. This adapts to the automated mold changing cycle of the entire machine and improves the smoothness of mold changing.

[0048] In this embodiment, preferably, the positioning and locking mechanism 4 further includes a return member 405, which has a tendency to drive the linkage rod 403 away from the pushed part 4021. Specifically, the return member 405 continuously applies a reverse reset force to the linkage rod 403 under normal conditions, so that the linkage rod 403 always maintains its initial standby posture away from the pushed part. After the workpiece sub-mold 3 and the connecting rod tube 301 are pulled out of the annular space, the linkage rod 403 can automatically spring back to its reset position by relying on the force of the return member 405. There is no need for manual or drive components to assist in resetting the linkage rod 403, ensuring that the linkage rod 403 quickly returns to the insertion and receiving position, which facilitates the direct insertion and assembly of the next connecting rod tube 301. This eliminates the manual reset process of the linkage rod 403 and further speeds up the continuous mold changing operation cycle. The linkage rod 403 retracts autonomously, simultaneously releasing the pushing and squeezing force on the locking rods 402 of the two side unit groups. This, combined with the reset drive 404, unloads the force, allowing the locking rods 402 to retract and release pressure synchronously. This completely releases the inner wall of the connecting rod tube 301, preventing the locking rods from rebounding and jamming, and reducing the insertion and extraction resistance of the robot arm 5 when removing the workpiece sub-mold 3. The return component 405 can be a compression-type spring-loaded return component, a torsion spring hinged return component, a magnetic repulsion return component, a micro-elastic pad return component, or a damping buffer return component, etc.

[0049] In this embodiment, preferably, the connecting rod tube 301 has a first sliding groove 3011 and a second sliding groove 3012. The extending direction of the first sliding groove 3011 is consistent with the length direction of the connecting rod tube 301, and the extending direction of the second sliding groove 3012 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the first sliding groove 3011. The second sliding groove 3012 communicates with the first sliding groove 3011 and penetrates the horizontally opposite sides of the tube wall of the connecting rod tube 301. The positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold further includes a first rod 8, a second rod 9, and an elastic driving member 10. The first rod 8 and the... The first rod 8 and the second rod 9 are interconnected, and their length directions are perpendicular to each other. The first rod 8 is slidably connected to the first slide groove 3011. The first rod 8 can abut against and drive the linkage rod 403. The elastic drive member 10 is used to drive the first rod 8 to abut against and drive the linkage rod 403. The second rod 9 is slidably connected to the second slide groove 3012, and the sliding direction of the second rod 9 is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the first rod 8. The second rod 9 is used for user-driven operation to drive the first rod 8 to overcome the driving force of the elastic drive member 10 and move away from the linkage rod 403. Specifically, the vertically arranged first slide groove 3011 and second slide groove 3012 form a bidirectional vertical sliding track, matching the vertically integrated first rod 8 and second rod 9 to form a built-in bidirectional control unlocking structure, adaptable to different mold changing operation scenarios. Under normal conditions, the elastic drive component 10 continuously pushes the first rod 8, ensuring that the first rod 8 always abuts against the linkage rod 403. This assists the linkage rod 403 in maintaining its pushing and locking posture, strengthens the clamping force of the locking rod 402 against the inner wall of the connecting rod tube 301, counteracts the tendency of the mechanism to loosen due to stamping vibration, and further improves the locking stability. During mold changing, the second rod 9 slides upward, causing the first rod 8 to slide upward and overcome the driving force of the elastic drive component 10, moving it away from the linkage rod 403. This allows the positioning and locking mechanism 4 to release the workpiece sub-mold 3, thus enabling the replacement of the workpiece sub-mold 3. The elastic drive component 10 can be a tubular pressure spring, a ring-shaped pushing elastic component, or a miniature columnar elastic pushing component, etc.

[0050] In this embodiment, preferably, an operating ring 11 is provided around the periphery of the connecting rod tube 301, and the inner ring wall of the operating ring 11 is connected to the opposite ends of the second rod 9. Specifically, by fitting the operating ring 11 around the periphery of the connecting rod tube 301 and fixing it to both ends of the second rod 9, the traditional double-sided exposed short rod control structure is optimized into a full-circle ring control structure, integrating the operating endpoints of the second rod 9 on both sides, enabling force control at any angle in the circumference, solving the problem of limited operation on one side and awkward force application in a narrow mold installation space, and reducing the difficulty of manual unlocking, maintenance and disassembly. The ring structure distributes force evenly, and when manually lifting and pressing, the force can be evenly transmitted to both ends of the second rod 9, preventing the second rod 9 from being biased, stuck, or bent and deformed on one side, ensuring the vertical sliding accuracy of the second rod 9, accurately driving the first rod 8 to smoothly unload and unlock, the unlocking action is smooth and without jamming, and it is suitable for high-frequency repeated unlocking operations. In addition, the externally positioned and conspicuous operating ring 11 allows for quick identification of the unlocking operation position, facilitating equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, emergency mold replacement unlocking, and adaptability to enclosed mold assembly conditions. The operating ring 11 can be configured as an anti-slip knurled integrated operating ring, a wear-resistant coated annular operating ring, a widened grip operating ring, a lightweight high-strength alloy operating ring, or a dustproof and sealed integrated operating ring.

[0051] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of those different embodiments or examples.

[0052] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0053] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various variations or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application, and these should all be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold, characterized in that, include: Rack (1); The female mold base (2) is disposed on the frame (1) and has multiple mounting slots (201). Multiple workpiece sub-molds (3), each of the workpiece sub-molds (3) can be movably inserted into any of the mounting slots (201), and the workpiece sub-molds (3) are used to carry workpieces; Positioning and locking mechanism (4) is provided in multiple ways. Each positioning and locking mechanism (4) is respectively located in one of the mounting slots (201) and forms an annular space with the corresponding mounting slot (201). The annular space is used to provide position positioning for the workpiece sub-mold (3). The positioning and locking mechanism (4) is used to lock and fix the workpiece sub-mold (3).

2. The positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer mold also includes a robot (5), which is mounted on the frame (1) and is used to disassemble and replace the workpiece sub-mold (3) inserted into the mounting slot (201).

3. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least two female mold bases (2) are provided, and the two female mold bases (2) are respectively located on opposite horizontal sides of the robot arm (5).

4. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 3, characterized in that, The positioning and clamping device for multi-station transfer mold further includes a rotary motor (6) and a control module. There are at least two rotary motors (6), which are respectively mounted on the frame (1). Each female mold base (2) is connected to the output of one of the rotary motors (6) and rotates with it. The control module is electrically connected to the rotary motor (6) and the robot (5).

5. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 4, characterized in that, Each of the rotating motors (6) is connected to an encoder (7), which is used to control the number of rotations of the rotating motor (6) in real time. Each encoder (7) is electrically connected to the control module.

6. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, The workpiece sub-mold (3) has a connecting rod tube (301) for insertion into the annular space. The positioning and locking mechanism (4) includes a column (401), an abutting locking rod (402), a linkage rod (403), and a reset drive (404). The column (401) is located in the mounting groove (201). The abutting locking rod (402) is slidably connected to the column (401) so as to be able to approach or move away from the inner wall of the connecting rod tube (301) for locking or releasing. The abutting locking rod (402) has a pushed portion (4021). The movable rod (403) is slidably connected to the column (401). The sliding path direction of the linkage rod (403) is parallel to the path direction when the connecting rod tube (301) is inserted into the annular space. The linkage rod (403) is used to push the pushed part (4021) to slide under the pressure of the connecting rod tube (301), thereby driving the abutment locking rod (402) to approach and lock against the inner wall of the connecting rod tube (301). The reset drive (404) is used to drive the abutment locking rod (402) away from the inner wall of the connecting rod tube (301) to release it.

7. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 6, characterized in that, Define one of the abutting locking rods (402) and one reset driving member (404) as a unit group, and there are at least two unit groups, which are respectively located on opposite sides of the linkage rod (403).

8. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 6, characterized in that, The positioning and locking mechanism (4) further includes a return member (405) which has a tendency to drive the linkage rod (403) away from the pushed part (4021).

9. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 6, characterized in that, The connecting rod tube (301) has a first groove (3011) and a second groove (3012). The extension direction of the first groove (3011) is consistent with the length direction of the connecting rod tube (301), and the extension direction of the second groove (3012) is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first groove (3011). The second groove (3012) connects to the first groove (3011) and penetrates the horizontally opposite sides of the tube wall of the connecting rod tube (301). The positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold also includes a first rod (8), a second rod (9), and an elastic drive member (10). The first rod (8) and the second rod (9) are connected... The first rod (8) and the second rod (9) are interconnected, and the length directions of the first rod (8) and the second rod (9) are perpendicular to each other. The first rod (8) is slidably connected to the first groove (3011). The first rod (8) can abut against and drive the linkage rod (403). The elastic drive member (10) is used to drive the first rod (8) to abut against and drive the linkage rod (403). The second rod (9) is slidably connected to the second groove (3012), and the sliding direction of the second rod (9) is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the first rod (8). The second rod (9) is used for the user to drive the first rod (8) to overcome the driving force of the elastic drive member (10) and move away from the linkage rod (403).

10. A positioning and clamping device for a multi-station transfer mold according to claim 9, characterized in that, An operating ring (11) is provided on the periphery of the connecting rod tube (301), and the inner ring wall of the operating ring (11) is connected to the opposite ends of the second rod (9).

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