A car pillar hot stamping apparatus and a hot stamping method thereof

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of hot stamping, in particular to a car stand column hot stamping device and a hot stamping method thereof, which comprises a console, the top surface of the console is provided with a clamp tool module and a vertical frame, the inner side of the vertical frame is provided with a horizontal frame, the horizontal frame is provided with a hot pressing module, one end of the horizontal frame is provided with an unwinding module for unwinding a hot stamping film roll, the other end of the horizontal frame is provided with a winding module for winding the hot stamping film roll, the side wall of the horizontal frame is symmetrically provided with a pressing arm, the bottom end of the pressing arm is provided with a pressing wheel, and the horizontal frame is provided with an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the tension of the pressing arm. The application has the effect of adaptively adjusting the tension degree of the hot stamping film, keeping the hot stamping film in a relatively stable tension state under different film roll diameters and different conveying states, and further improving the clarity, flatness and consistency of pattern transfer during column guard plate hot stamping.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of hot stamping, and in particular to a hot stamping device and method for automotive pillars. Background Technology

[0002] In automotive interior and exterior trim, pillar areas are typically fitted with pillar guards. These guards not only shield the vehicle's structure and protect occupants but also enhance the overall interior's quality and visual appeal. To meet the demands for personalized, lightweight, and high-quality appearance in automotive products, pillar guard surfaces often feature wood grain, brushed metal, glossy black textures, carbon fiber patterns, or other decorative designs. Hot stamping, due to its advantages such as clear pattern transfer, good adhesion of the decorative layer, and high processing efficiency, has been widely used in the surface treatment of automotive pillar guards and other interior and exterior trim components.

[0003] In existing hot stamping processes for automotive pillar guards, the workpiece is typically placed on a fixture, and then a hot press head applies the hot stamping film to the workpiece surface. This transfers the decorative layer from the film to the pillar guard surface under heat and pressure. To meet continuous production needs, some equipment is equipped with unwinding and rewinding mechanisms to continuously transport the hot stamping film within the hot pressing area. Simultaneously, to ensure transfer quality, tensioning and guiding control of the hot stamping film is generally required. However, existing equipment still has some shortcomings in actual use: First, the hot stamping film is prone to loosening, wrinkling, or local displacement during the conveying process due to unstable tension, which affects the integrity and flatness of the hot stamping pattern; Second, during the hot pressing process, the surface of the workpiece will release certain odors or volatile gases when heated. If these gases are not extracted in time, they can easily affect the working environment and may cause secondary pollution to the hot stamping area; Third, the fixing method of the existing equipment is not convenient enough when changing the hot stamping film roll, and the film roll clamping stability is insufficient, which can easily lead to unwinding and affect the production cycle; Fourth, some equipment can only perform single-station processing, or the efficiency of switching between left and right stations is low, making it difficult to balance processing quality and production efficiency.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to propose a hot stamping equipment and method for automotive pillars to solve the problems of insufficient tension stability of the hot stamping film, inconvenient treatment of exhaust gas during the hot pressing process, low efficiency of film roll clamping, and the need to improve the hot stamping quality and efficiency of pillar guard plates in the existing technology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To improve the quality of hot stamping on pillar guards, this application provides a hot stamping device and method for automotive pillars.

[0006] Firstly, the automotive pillar hot stamping equipment provided in this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] A hot stamping device for automotive pillars includes a control panel. The top surface of the control panel is provided with a fixture module and a vertical frame. A horizontal frame is provided on the inner side of the vertical frame. A hot pressing module is provided on the horizontal frame. One end of the horizontal frame is provided with an unwinding module for unwinding the hot stamping film roll, and the other end of the horizontal frame is provided with a winding module for winding the hot stamping film roll. Pressure arms are symmetrically arranged on the side walls of the horizontal frame. Pressure rollers are provided at the bottom ends of the pressure arms. The horizontal frame is provided with an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the tension of the pressure arms.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solutions, the unwinding module and the rewinding module can work together to achieve continuous conveying of the hot stamping film roll, allowing the hot stamping film to stably pass through the area where the hot pressing module is located; the fixture module is used to position and clamp the column guard plate, making it easy for the hot pressing module to accurately transfer the film layer to the surface of the column guard plate; the pressure arms and pressure rollers set on both sides of the crossbeam can guide and press the hot stamping film, reducing the deviation and shaking of the hot stamping film during the conveying process; the adjustment mechanism can adjust the force state of the pressure arms, thereby adaptively adjusting the tension of the hot stamping film, so that the hot stamping film maintains a relatively stable tension under different film roll diameters and different conveying conditions, thereby improving the clarity, flatness and consistency of the pattern transfer when hot stamping the column guard plate.

[0009] Optionally, the adjusting mechanism includes a buffer arm, one end of which is hinged to the bottom end of the pressure arm, and the pressure roller is rotatably disposed at the other end of the buffer arm. A guide rod is provided on one side of the buffer arm, and a guide plate is provided on the inner side of the pressure arm. One end of the guide rod slides through the guide plate, and a first spring is sleeved on the guide rod. A limit nut is threadedly connected to one end of the guide rod.

[0010] By adopting the above technical solution, the pressure roller is connected to the pressure arm via a buffer arm, giving the pressure roller a certain amount of swing and buffer space when pressing against the hot stamping film. This allows it to adapt to changes in the thickness of the hot stamping film, transport fluctuations, or local undulations. When the tension of the hot stamping film tightens, the film is squeezed by the pressure roller against the buffer arm, which in turn presses the first spring. The guide rod, guide plate, and first spring work together to provide elastic restoring force to the swing of the buffer arm, ensuring that the pressure roller always maintains flexible pressure on the hot stamping film, avoiding damage or movement stagnation caused by excessive rigid pressure. By adjusting the position of the limit nut, the preload of the first spring can also be adjusted to accommodate hot stamping film rolls of different materials, widths, and tension requirements, further improving the applicability and hot stamping stability of the equipment.

[0011] Optionally, the adjustment mechanism further includes a sleeve, a bracket is provided on the front side of the cross frame, a vertical rod is provided inside the bracket, the sleeve is sleeved on the vertical rod, and support arms are symmetrically hinged on both sides of the sleeve. The other end of the support arm is hinged to the pressure arm, and the bracket is provided with an auxiliary component for cooperating to drive the support arm to swing.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, the sleeve can move up and down along the vertical rod, and the pressure arms can be driven to swing synchronously through the two side support arms, so that the two pressure arms can be adjusted in a coordinated manner. This makes it easy to adjust the pressing angle and tension of the hot stamping film by the two pressure rollers at the same time. Compared with the method of adjusting one side separately, this structure can make the force on the left and right sides of the hot stamping film more balanced, reducing the film surface tilt, uneven local force or edge wrinkles. At the same time, the adjustment of this linkage structure is intuitive and convenient, which helps to improve debugging efficiency and production continuity.

[0013] Optionally, the auxiliary component includes a second spring, which is sleeved on the vertical rod. One end of the second spring is connected to the sleeve, and the other end of the second spring is connected to the bracket. A hand-tightening swivel is threaded to the top of the vertical rod, and the hand-tightening swivel is located at the top of the sleeve.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, when the tension of the hot stamping film is too loose, the operator can turn the hand-tightening ring downwards, which will press the sleeve downwards. The sleeve will press the second spring downwards, and the sleeve will simultaneously drive the pressure arm to expand outwards through the two side support arms. The pressure arm will drive the buffer arm to open outwards in sync. The buffer arm will finally press the hot stamping film through the pressure roller, thereby achieving the purpose of quickly changing the overall tension of the pressure arm.

[0015] Optionally, a fixed frame is provided on the front side of the vertical frame, and the fixture tooling module is provided with a left processing position and a right processing position. At both ends of the fixed frame, a gas collection hood is rotatably provided via a rotating shaft. The two gas collection hoods rotate in the same direction synchronously. Both gas collection hoods are connected to a suction device via a flexible hose. The vertical frame is provided with a follower mechanism for driving the two gas collection hoods to swing back and forth.

[0016] By adopting the above technical solution, the left and right processing positions can work together to achieve alternating processing, improving the cycle efficiency of hot stamping operations on the column guard plate. During the hot pressing process, the suction unit uses hoses and gas collection hoods to promptly extract hot air, odors, and volatile gases generated near the processing position, which helps improve the operating environment and reduce the possibility of pollutants remaining on the surface of the column guard plate. The two gas collection hoods can swing synchronously under the action of the follow-up mechanism, thereby automatically moving closer to the corresponding processing area according to the working position of the hot pressing module, making the suction position closer to the point of exhaust gas generation. At the same time, the synchronously swinging two gas collection hoods also help to increase the suction range, improve suction efficiency, and reduce the amount of manual adjustment work.

[0017] Optionally, the follower mechanism includes a first connecting rod, which is slidably disposed on the front side of the vertical frame. The top end of the first connecting rod is connected to the hot-pressing module, and the bottom end of the first connecting rod is provided with a first wedge-shaped surface. A second connecting rod is slidably disposed inside the fixed frame. A through hole is provided on the top surface of the second connecting rod, and the first connecting rod is inserted into the through hole. A second wedge-shaped surface is provided on the second connecting rod through the through hole, and the first wedge-shaped surface and the second wedge-shaped surface cooperate with each other. Both ends of the second connecting rod are provided with teeth, and the side wall of the rotating shaft is provided with teeth and threads, which mesh with each other. The fixed frame is provided with a reset member that cooperates with the movement of the second connecting rod.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, the hot-pressing module can drive the first connecting rod to move synchronously when it moves up and down. After the first wedge surface and the second wedge surface cooperate with each other, the linear displacement of the hot-pressing module is converted into the lateral movement of the second connecting rod. Then, through the meshing of teeth and threads, the two rotating shafts are driven to rotate synchronously, ultimately realizing the synchronous swing of the two gas collection hoods. This structure uses the action of the hot-pressing module itself to realize the automatic linkage of the gas collection hoods, without the need for an additional independent power source. It has a compact structure, reliable transmission, and low cost, and can ensure that the action sequence of the gas collection hoods is coordinated with the hot-pressing action, thereby improving the timeliness of exhaust gas extraction and the overall degree of automation.

[0019] Optionally, the reset element is a third spring, a guide block is provided on the side wall of the second connecting rod, the third spring is sleeved on the second connecting rod, one end of the third spring is connected to the guide block, and the other end of the third spring is connected to the fixing frame.

[0020] By adopting the above technical solution, the third spring can drive the second connecting rod back to the initial position after the hot-pressing module is reset, so that the gas collection hood can automatically return to the initial swing angle and prepare for the next suction action. The elastic reset method can reduce the rigid impact of the mechanism, improve the transmission smoothness, reduce component wear, and help ensure the consistency and reliability of the reciprocating swing of the gas collection hood.

[0021] Optionally, the unwinding module includes an unwinding shaft, the sidewalls of which are symmetrically and detachably provided with limiting pieces, the two limiting pieces enclosing a placement space for the hot stamping film roll, and the unwinding shaft is provided with a fixing component for fixing the hot stamping film roll.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solution, the detachable limiting plate can axially limit the hot stamping film roll from both sides of the unwinding shaft, preventing the film roll from moving left and right during the unwinding process; at the same time, the limiting plate is easy to disassemble and assemble, making the replacement of the hot stamping film roll quicker; the fixing component can further fix the hot stamping film roll stably on the unwinding shaft, reducing the phenomenon of film roll spinning, slipping or loosening, thereby improving the unwinding stability and work continuity.

[0023] Optionally, the fixing component includes a stop block and a fourth spring. The side wall of the unwinding shaft is provided with a groove. The stop block is slidably disposed in the groove. The fourth spring is disposed in the groove. One end of the fourth spring is connected to the groove wall, and the other end of the fourth spring is connected to one end of the stop block.

[0024] By adopting the above technical solution, the abutment block is pushed outward under the elastic force of the fourth spring, and abuts against the inner wall of the hot stamping film roll core, thereby forming radial support and positioning for the film roll; this elastic clamping method can be adapted to different film roll cores with certain dimensional tolerances, and is easy to install and reliable to fix; at the same time, when disassembling the film roll, the abutment block can retract under the action of external force, which facilitates quick loading and unloading, thereby improving the equipment roll changing efficiency.

[0025] Secondly, this application also provides a method for hot stamping automotive pillars, which includes the following steps:

[0026] S1: Prepare the hot stamping film roll and install the hot stamping film roll into the unwinding module;

[0027] S2: Film pulling, the film sheet of the hot stamping film roll is pulled out and passes through the two pressure rollers in sequence, and finally the film sheet is wound up in the winding module;

[0028] S3: Fixture, place and fix the column guard plate to be processed at the left and right processing positions respectively;

[0029] S4: Start the equipment. The fixture module first moves the column guard plate on the left processing position to directly below the hot pressing module. The hot pressing module then transfers the film layer to the surface of the column guard plate. Reset the hot pressing module and repeat this step to transfer the film layer to the surface of the column guard plate on the right processing position.

[0030] S5: Loosen the fixture, remove the column guard plate, and complete the hot stamping operation.

[0031] By adopting the above technical solutions, and by systematically arranging the installation, tensioning and guiding, workpiece positioning, hot pressing transfer, and alternating processing of the hot stamping film, a relatively complete and continuous production process can be formed for the hot stamping of automotive pillar guards. Among them, the pressure roller guides and tensions the film, which keeps the film flat and stable before hot pressing, reducing hot stamping defects; the alternating hot stamping of the left and right processing stations reduces equipment waiting time and improves overall processing efficiency; and the precise hot pressing transfer after the workpiece is fixed can achieve a better decorative effect and consistency on the surface of the pillar guard.

[0032] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:

[0033] 1. By incorporating an unwinding module, a rewinding module, a pressure arm, pressure rollers, and an adjustment mechanism, the guiding and tensioning states of the hot stamping film during transport can be stably controlled, reducing film slack, wrinkles, and deviation. This improves the clarity, integrity, and flatness of the hot stamping pattern on automotive pillar guards.

[0034] 2. By setting up dual processing stations on the left and right sides, and cooperating with the fixture module and hot pressing module for alternating processing, the continuous operation capability and production efficiency of the equipment can be improved while ensuring the hot stamping quality.

[0035] 3. By setting up an automatically moving gas collection hood, suction components, and follow-up mechanism, it is possible to promptly extract and discharge odors and volatile gases generated in the processing area during the hot pressing process, improve the working environment, and reduce the impact of exhaust gas or impurities on the hot stamping surface.

[0036] 4. By setting an adjustable elastic clamping structure and a linkage adjustment structure, the tension can be flexibly adjusted according to hot stamping film rolls of different specifications and materials, thereby improving the equipment's adaptability to various working conditions.

[0037] 5. By setting up an unwinding module with limit plates and elastic blocks, it is possible to quickly install, stably fix and conveniently replace hot stamping film rolls, which helps to improve the roll changing efficiency and production continuity of the equipment.

[0038] 6. The equipment described in this application has a compact overall structure and good inter-mechanism linkage. While improving the hot stamping quality of the column guard plate, it also takes into account the degree of automation, ease of use and equipment operation stability. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the automotive pillar hot stamping equipment of this application;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the regulatory body of this application;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the servo mechanism of this application;

[0042] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the fixing frame and the second connecting rod of this application;

[0043] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the unwinding module of this application;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the unwinding spool of this application.

[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Control panel; 2. Fixture tooling module; 3. Vertical frame; 4. Left machining position; 5. Right machining position; 6. Horizontal frame; 7. Hot pressing module; 8. Unwinding module; 9. Rewinding module; 10. Pressure arm; 11. Pressure roller; 12. Buffer arm; 13. Guide rod; 14. Guide plate; 15. Limit nut; 16. First spring; 17. Sleeve; 18. Bracket; 19. Vertical rod; 20. Support arm; 21. Second spring; 22. Hand-tightened nut; 23. Fixing frame; 24. Gas collection hood; 25. First connecting rod; 26. First wedge surface; 27. Second connecting rod; 28. Through hole; 29. ​​Second wedge surface; 30. Tooth; 31. Tooth pattern; 32. Third spring; 33. Guide block; 34. Unwinding shaft; 35. Limiting piece; 36. Abutment block; 37. Fourth spring; 38. Slide groove. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-6 This application will be described in further detail.

[0047] See Figure 1 A hot stamping device for automotive pillars includes a control panel 1, which serves as the mounting base for the entire machine. The control panel 1 can house an electrical control system, a pneumatic system, and some transmission components. An operation panel can be installed on the outside of the control panel 1, facilitating operator control of equipment start / stop, parameter settings, and processing cycle.

[0048] See Figure 1 The top surface of the control panel 1 is fixedly equipped with a fixture module 2 and a vertical frame 3. The fixture module 2 is used to position and clamp the automotive pillar guards to be processed. In this embodiment, the fixture module 2 includes a left processing position 4 and a right processing position 5. The left processing position 4 and the right processing position 5 can each hold a pillar guard to be processed, and the pillar guard on one of the processing positions can be sent to the hot pressing module 7 for hot stamping through a linear motion module, while the other processing position can simultaneously load or unload materials, thereby improving the efficiency of the equipment.

[0049] See Figure 1 A vertical frame 3 is fixedly installed on the top surface of the control panel 1. A horizontal frame 6 is fixedly installed on the inner side of the vertical frame 3. A hot pressing module 7 is installed on the horizontal frame 6. The hot pressing module 7 is used to transfer the decorative layer on the hot stamping film to the surface of the column guard plate under the action of heating and downward pressure. The hot pressing module 7 may include a heating pressure head, a lifting drive component, and a temperature control component. The lifting drive component may be a servo linear module. The heating pressure head can be adapted to the local shape of the column guard plate to improve the hot pressing contact effect. The temperature control component is used to control the temperature of the pressure head to adapt it to the processing requirements of different hot stamping films and different substrates.

[0050] See Figure 1One end of the crossbeam 6 is equipped with an unwinding module 8, which is used to mount the hot stamping film roll to be used; the other end of the crossbeam 6 is equipped with a winding module 9, which is used to recycle the base film after the transfer is completed. After the hot stamping film is released from the unwinding module 8, it passes through the pressure roller 11 and the hot pressing area in sequence, and finally winds onto the winding module 9, thus forming a continuous film feeding path.

[0051] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The crossbar 6 has pressure arms 10 symmetrically hinged on both sides, and pressure rollers 11 are rotatably mounted on the bottom of the pressure arms 10. The two pressure rollers 11 are located on both sides of the hot stamping film's running path, guiding and holding the film to maintain a certain tension before and after passing through the hot-pressing area, reducing film sagging and deviation. The crossbar 6 also has an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the tension of the pressure arms 10, allowing operators to adjust the tension according to the material characteristics, thickness, and width of different hot stamping film rolls.

[0052] For details, see Figure 2 The adjusting mechanism includes a buffer arm 12. One end of the buffer arm 12 is hinged to the bottom end of the pressure arm 10, while the pressure roller 11 is rotatably mounted on the other end of the buffer arm 12. A guide rod 13 is fixedly mounted on one side of the buffer arm 12, and the guide rod 13 is curved. A guide plate 14 is fixedly connected to the inner side of the pressure arm 10. One end of the guide rod 13 slides through the guide plate 14, and a limit nut 15 is threadedly connected to one end of the guide rod 13. A first spring 16 is sleeved on the guide rod 13. One end of the first spring 16 is fixedly connected to the side wall of the guide rod 13, and the other end of the first spring 16 is fixedly connected to the guide plate 14. In use, the pressure roller 11 presses against the surface of the hot stamping film. When the film surface undergoes slight displacement due to stretching, local thickness changes, or fluctuations in the winding speed, the pressure roller 11 can drive the buffer arm 12 to swing around the hinge point. At the same time, the guide rod 13 slides relative to the guide plate 14 and compresses or releases the first spring 16, thereby giving the pressure roller 11 an elastic buffering effect on the hot stamping film. By turning the limiting nut 15, the preload of the first spring 16 can be changed to adjust the pressure and tension control effect applied to the hot stamping film by the pressure roller 11.

[0053] For details, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The adjustment mechanism also includes a sleeve 17, a bracket 18, a vertical rod 19, support arms 20, and auxiliary components. A bracket 18 is fixedly installed on the front side of the crossbar 6, and a vertical rod 19 is fixedly installed inside the bracket 18. The sleeve 17 is fitted around the outer periphery of the vertical rod 19 and can move up and down along the vertical rod 19. Support arms 20 are symmetrically hinged to both sides of the sleeve 17, and the other end of each support arm 20 is hinged to the left and right pressure arms 10 respectively. When the sleeve 17 moves up and down along the vertical rod 19, the support arms 20 synchronously drive the two pressure arms 10 to swing, thereby achieving synchronous adjustment of the position and force state of the pressure rollers 11 on both sides.

[0054] See Figure 2 The auxiliary component includes a second spring 21. The second spring 21 is sleeved on the vertical rod 19, with one end fixedly connected to the sleeve 17 and the other end fixedly connected to the bracket 18. A hand-tightening ring 22 is threadedly connected to the top of the vertical rod 19, and the hand-tightening ring 22 is located at the top of the sleeve 17. When the tension of the hot stamping film is too loose, the operator rotates the hand-tightening ring 22 to move the sleeve 17 downward. The sleeve 17 presses the second spring 21 downward, and the sleeve 17 simultaneously drives the two pressure arms 10 to expand outward through the two side support arms 20. The pressure arms 10 drive the buffer arms 12 to expand outward. The buffer arms 12 finally press the hot stamping film through the pressure roller 11, which is suitable for quickly adapting to the usage requirements of hot stamping films of different specifications. The support arms 20 transmit a stable and continuous adjustment force to the pressure arms 10, making the pressure roller 11 hold the hot stamping film more smoothly.

[0055] See Figure 1 and Figure 3 To improve the environment of the processing area during hot pressing, in this embodiment, a fixed frame 23 is fixedly installed on the front side of the vertical frame 3. At both ends of the fixed frame 23, a gas collection hood 24 is rotatably mounted via a rotating shaft. The two gas collection hoods 24 correspond to the areas above the left processing position 4 and the right processing position 5, respectively. Each gas collection hood 24 is connected to a suction device via a flexible hose. The suction device can be a negative pressure fan, an industrial adsorption pump, or a centralized exhaust system. The gas collection hood 24 can swing under the drive of the rotating shaft, thereby approaching the corresponding processing position during hot pressing to promptly extract odors, fumes, and volatile gases generated in the hot pressing area.

[0056] See Figure 3 and Figure 4 The two gas collecting hoods 24 rotate synchronously and in the same direction. A follower mechanism is provided on the vertical frame 3 to drive the two gas collecting hoods 24 to reciprocate. The follower mechanism includes a first connecting rod 25, which is slidably mounted on the front side of the vertical frame 3. Its top end is fixedly connected to the hot-pressing module 7, and its bottom end is a first wedge-shaped surface 26. A second connecting rod 27 is slidably mounted inside the fixed frame 23. A through hole 28 is provided through the top surface of the second connecting rod 27, and the first connecting rod 25 is inserted into the through hole 28. A second wedge-shaped surface 29 is provided at the position of the through hole 28 on the second connecting rod 27, and the first wedge-shaped surface 26 and the second wedge-shaped surface 29 cooperate with each other.

[0057] When the hot-pressing module 7 moves downward, the first connecting rod 25 moves downward synchronously, and the first wedge surface 26 acts on the second wedge surface 29, causing the second connecting rod 27 to displace horizontally. Both ends of the second connecting rod 27 are provided with teeth 30, and the sidewalls of the rotating shaft are provided with teeth 31. The teeth 30 and teeth 31 mesh, thereby causing the two rotating shafts to rotate synchronously when the second connecting rod 27 moves laterally, which in turn causes the two gas collection hoods 24 to swing synchronously to their corresponding positions. A reset component is provided on the fixed frame 23 to return the second connecting rod 27 to its original position after the hot-pressing module 7 rises and resets.

[0058] In this embodiment, the reset element is a third spring 32. A guide block 33 is fixedly connected to the side wall of the second connecting rod 27, and the third spring 32 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second connecting rod 27. One end of the third spring 32 is connected to the guide block 33, and the other end is connected to the fixing frame 23.

[0059] When the hot-pressing module 7 is pressed down, the second connecting rod 27 pushes the third spring 32 to compress via the guide block 33; when the hot-pressing module 7 is raised, the third spring 32 releases its elastic force and pushes the second connecting rod 27 to reset via the guide block 33, thereby driving the gas collection hood 24 back to its initial state. This structure avoids the need for an independent drive source to control the movement of the gas collection hood 24, making the overall structure more compact.

[0060] For details, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The unwinding module 8 includes an unwinding shaft 34. Symmetrical, detachable limiting plates 35 are provided on the side walls of the unwinding shaft 34. The two limiting plates 35 enclose a space for the hot stamping film roll. The limiting plates 35 can be fixed to both sides of the unwinding shaft 34 using screws, snap-fit ​​connections, or plug-in connections. After the hot stamping film roll is installed on the unwinding shaft 34, the limiting plates 35 restrict its axial position from both sides, preventing the film roll from shifting left or right during rotation and unwinding.

[0061] See Figure 6 The unwinding shaft 34 is equipped with a fixing assembly, which includes a stop block 36 and a fourth spring 37. A groove 38 is formed on the side wall of the unwinding shaft 34. The stop block 36 is slidably disposed within the groove 38, and the fourth spring 37 is disposed within the groove 38. One end of the fourth spring 37 is fixedly connected to the groove wall of the groove 38, and the other end is fixedly connected to the stop block 36. When installing the hot stamping film roll, the film roll core can be inserted into the outer circumference of the unwinding shaft 34. The stop block 36 retracts into the groove 38 under the pressure of the film roll core. After the core is in place, the fourth spring 37 pushes the stop block 36 outward, causing the stop block 36 to abut against the inner wall of the core, thereby radially tightening and positioning the hot stamping film roll. For disassembly, external force is applied to retract the stop block 36 to remove the film roll. This structure ensures both effective fixing and convenient film roll replacement.

[0062] The winding module 9 can employ an active winding structure, such as a winding shaft driven by a geared motor and transmission belt to rotate slowly, thereby tractioning the base film for stable recovery. The winding speed can be coordinated and controlled with the hot pressing cycle and unwinding damping to ensure relatively stable tension of the hot stamping film during transport. If necessary, the unwinding module 8 can also be used in conjunction with a damping device to further prevent the film from loosening due to excessively fast unwinding.

[0063] It is worth mentioning that, in practical applications, the heating temperature of the hot pressing module 7 can be set according to the type of hot stamping film and the substrate of the column guard plate, for example, it can be controlled within the range of 100℃ to 220℃; the hot pressing time can be controlled within the range of 0.5 seconds to 10 seconds; and the holding pressure can be set according to the surface curvature of the workpiece and the requirements of film transfer. For column guard plates with large surface curvature, the elastic holding effect of the pressure roller 11 and the film tension can be appropriately increased to reduce local wrinkles.

[0064] The fixture module 2 can be replaced or adjusted according to the contour of the pillar guard plate of different vehicle models. The shape of the pressure head of the hot pressing module 7 can also be designed as a flat, curved, or partially contour-fitting structure according to the shape of the area to be hot-stamped on the pillar guard plate, so as to improve the transfer effect.

[0065] The suction device can be selected with different power levels according to the actual workshop environment and the amount of exhaust gas. The opening shape of the gas collection hood 24 can be designed as a trumpet shape, an arc shape or a slit shape, so as to be closer to the hot pressing area of ​​the column guard plate and improve the extraction efficiency.

[0066] Based on the above-mentioned automotive pillar hot stamping equipment, this embodiment also provides an automotive pillar hot stamping method, which includes the following steps:

[0067] S1: Install the hot stamping film roll.

[0068] Select the appropriate hot stamping film roll based on the desired decorative pattern and surface finish of the column guard plate. Remove the limiting piece 35 from one side of the unwinding module 8, and mount the hot stamping film roll onto the unwinding shaft 34, ensuring the film roll core is coaxial with the unwinding shaft 34. During the installation of the hot stamping film roll, the inner wall of the core will press against the abutment 36, causing it to retract into the slide groove 38. Once the hot stamping film roll is in place, the fourth spring 37 pushes the abutment 36 outward and presses against the inner wall of the core to secure the film roll. Then, reinstall the limiting piece 35 to axially limit the hot stamping film roll.

[0069] S2: Membrane stretching and guiding.

[0070] The film sheet is pulled out from the outer periphery of the hot stamping film roll, and passes sequentially along a preset path through the first pressure roller 11, the hot pressing area, and the second pressure roller 11, finally fixing the end of the film sheet to the take-up shaft of the take-up module 9. The operator can adjust the preload of the first spring 16 and the second spring 21 by adjusting the limit nut 15 and the hand-tightening screw ring 22, ensuring that the two pressure rollers 11 exert appropriate holding and tension forces on the hot stamping film. Then, the take-up module 9 is started for a low-speed test run to observe whether the film sheet deviates, wrinkles, loosens, or vibrates, and further fine-tunes the adjustment mechanism until the film sheet is transported smoothly.

[0071] S3: Install column guard plate.

[0072] The automotive pillar guard plates to be processed are placed on the fixtures at the left processing station 4 and the right processing station 5, respectively. The fixture module 2 can position and fix the pillar guard plates using locating pins, locating surfaces, pressure plates, grippers, cylinder clamping components, or vacuum adsorption structures to ensure that the surface of the pillar guard plate to be hot-stamped is in the predetermined position. According to the shape of the pillar guard plate and the hot-stamping position, the fixture movement path and hot-pressing parameters, such as hot-pressing temperature, hot-pressing time, pressing pressure, and holding pressure duration, can be preset in the control system.

[0073] S4: Perform hot stamping.

[0074] After the equipment is started, the fixture module 2 first moves the column guard plate on the left processing position 4 directly below the hot pressing module 7. At this time, the hot pressing module 7 begins to move downwards and drives the follower mechanism through the first connecting rod 25, causing the corresponding gas collection hood 24 to swing synchronously to the suction position close to the left processing position 4. After the suction component is activated, the odor and gas generated in the hot pressing area are extracted. At the same time, the hot pressing module 7 presses the hot stamping film located above the surface of the column guard plate onto the surface of the column guard plate. Under the action of heating and pressure, the decorative layer on the hot stamping film is transferred to the surface of the column guard plate. After the set holding time is reached, the hot pressing module 7 rises and resets, the follower mechanism resets under the action of the third spring 32, and the gas collection hood 24 returns to its initial position. Subsequently, the fixture module 2 moves the column guard plate on the right machining position 5 directly below the hot pressing module 7. During this process, the gas collection hood 24 continuously suctions the column guard plate on the corresponding machining position to minimize the emission of odors, fumes, and volatile gases into the machining area environment. Simultaneously, the suction process also provides some heat dissipation. Repeating the above actions completes the hot stamping of the column guard plate on the right machining position 5.

[0075] During continuous hot stamping, the winding module 9 intermittently or continuously winds up the film according to a set length, moving the base film that has already been transferred forward to provide a new hot stamping area for the next hot press. The pressure roller 11 and the adjustment mechanism continuously guide and tension the film during this process to ensure that the film surface remains stable during each hot press.

[0076] S5: Pick-up and inspection.

[0077] After the column guard plates on both left and right processing positions 5 have been hot-stamped, release the fixture and remove the column guard plates from the fixture. Inspect the hot-stamped pattern on the surface of the column guard plates to confirm whether there are any problems such as missing patterns, wrinkles, misalignment, bubbles, rough edges, or poor adhesion. If qualified, proceed to the next process; if any abnormalities are found, the hot-pressing temperature, holding time, diaphragm tension, suction position, or fixture positioning accuracy can be adjusted according to the hot-stamping effect.

[0078] The working principle of a hot stamping device and method for automobile pillars:

[0079] Before use, the hot stamping film roll is fixed in the unwinding module 8, and the film path is completed by the rewinding module 9. The unwinding module 8 is responsible for releasing the hot stamping film, and the rewinding module 9 is responsible for collecting the used base film. The two work together to form a continuous film feeding system. The pressure rollers 11 set on both sides of the crossbeam 6 provide guidance and elastic tension through the pressure arms 10 and the adjustment mechanism, so that the hot stamping film can maintain a stable state before and after the hot pressing area.

[0080] When the fixture module 2 delivers the column guard plate to the hot pressing area, the hot pressing module 7 presses down to perform the transfer printing. During the downward movement of the hot pressing module 7, a follow-up mechanism composed of components such as the first connecting rod 25, wedge-shaped surface, second connecting rod 27, teeth 30, tooth pattern 31, and rotating shaft drives the gas collection hood 24 to swing synchronously to a position close to the processing point, thereby enhancing the local suction effect of the hot pressing exhaust gas. After the hot pressing is completed, the hot pressing module 7 rises, and the third spring 32 resets the second connecting rod 27 and the gas collection hood 24. The fixture module 2 then switches to another processing position to repeat the hot stamping process, thus realizing dual-station alternating operation.

[0081] In summary, by adjusting the tension of the hot stamping film using an adjustment mechanism, the film can maintain a relatively stable tension under different roll diameters and conveying conditions, thereby improving the clarity, flatness, and consistency of the pattern transfer during hot stamping of the column guard plate.

[0082] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A hot stamping device for automotive pillars, comprising a control panel (1), characterized in that: The top surface of the control panel (1) is provided with a fixture module (2) and a vertical frame (3). A horizontal frame (6) is provided on the inner side of the vertical frame (3). A hot pressing module (7) is provided on the horizontal frame (6). One end of the horizontal frame (6) is provided with an unwinding module (8) for unwinding the hot stamping film roll. The other end of the horizontal frame (6) is provided with a winding module (9) for winding the hot stamping film roll. Pressure arms (10) are symmetrically arranged on the side wall of the horizontal frame (6). Pressure rollers (11) are provided at the bottom end of the pressure arms (10). The horizontal frame (6) is provided with an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the tension of the pressure arms (10).

2. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment mechanism includes a buffer arm (12), one end of which is hinged to the bottom end of the pressure arm (10). The pressure roller (11) is rotatably disposed at the other end of the buffer arm (12). A guide rod (13) is provided on one side of the buffer arm (12). A guide plate (14) is provided on the inner side of the pressure arm (10). One end of the guide rod (13) slides through the guide plate (14). A first spring (16) is sleeved on the guide rod (13). A limit nut (15) is threadedly connected to one end of the guide rod (13).

3. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 2, characterized in that: The adjustment mechanism also includes a sleeve (17), a bracket (18) is provided on the front side of the cross frame (6), a vertical rod (19) is provided inside the bracket (18), the sleeve (17) is sleeved on the vertical rod (19), and support arms (20) are symmetrically hinged on both sides of the sleeve (17). The other end of the support arm (20) is hinged to the pressure arm (10), and the bracket (18) is provided with an auxiliary component for cooperating to drive the support arm (20) to swing.

4. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 3, characterized in that: The auxiliary component includes a second spring (21), which is sleeved on the vertical rod (19). One end of the second spring (21) is connected to the sleeve (17), and the other end of the second spring (21) is connected to the bracket (18). A hand-tightening swivel (22) is threaded to the top of the vertical rod (19), and the hand-tightening swivel (22) is located at the top of the sleeve (17).

5. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 1, characterized in that: A fixed frame (23) is provided on the front side of the vertical frame (3). The fixture tooling module (2) is provided with a left processing position (4) and a right processing position (5). At both ends of the fixed frame (23), a gas collection hood (24) is rotatably provided via a rotating shaft. The two gas collection hoods (24) rotate synchronously and in the same direction. Both gas collection hoods (24) are connected to a suction device via a hose. The vertical frame (3) is provided with a follower mechanism for driving the two gas collection hoods (24) to swing back and forth.

6. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 5, characterized in that: The follower mechanism includes a first connecting rod (25), which is slidably disposed on the front side of the vertical frame (3). The top end of the first connecting rod (25) is connected to the hot pressing module (7). The bottom end of the first connecting rod (25) is provided with a first wedge-shaped surface (26). A second connecting rod (27) is slidably disposed in the fixed frame (23). The top surface of the second connecting rod (27) is provided with a through hole (28). The first connecting rod (25) and the through hole are connected to the hot pressing module (7). The second connecting rod (27) is inserted through the hole (28) and has a second wedge-shaped surface (29) through the hole (28). The first wedge-shaped surface (26) and the second wedge-shaped surface (29) cooperate with each other. Both ends of the second connecting rod (27) are provided with teeth (30). The side wall of the rotating shaft is provided with teeth (31). The teeth (30) and the teeth (31) mesh with each other. The fixing frame (23) is provided with a reset member that cooperates with the movement of the second connecting rod (27).

7. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 6, characterized in that: The reset component is a third spring (32). A guide block (33) is provided on the side wall of the second connecting rod (27). The third spring (32) is sleeved on the second connecting rod (27). One end of the third spring (32) is connected to the guide block (33), and the other end of the third spring (32) is connected to the fixing frame (23).

8. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 1, characterized in that: The unwinding module (8) includes an unwinding shaft (34), and the side wall of the unwinding shaft (34) is symmetrically and detachably provided with limiting pieces (35). The two limiting pieces (35) enclose a space for placing the hot stamping film roll. The unwinding shaft (34) is provided with a fixing component for fixing the hot stamping film roll.

9. The hot stamping equipment for automobile pillars according to claim 8, characterized in that: The fixing component includes a stop block (36) and a fourth spring (37). The side wall of the unwinding shaft (34) is provided with a groove (38). The stop block (36) is slidably disposed in the groove (38). The fourth spring (37) is disposed in the groove (38). One end of the fourth spring (37) is connected to the groove wall of the groove (38), and the other end of the fourth spring (37) is connected to one end of the stop block (36).

10. A method for hot stamping automotive pillars, based on the automotive pillar hot stamping equipment according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: Prepare the hot stamping film roll and install the hot stamping film roll into the unwinding module (8); S2: Film pulling, the film of the hot stamping film roll is pulled out and passed through the two pressure rollers (11) in sequence, and finally the film is wound up in the winding module (9); S3: Fix the fixture, place and fix the column guard plate to be processed in the left processing position (4) and the right processing position (5) respectively; S4: Start the equipment. The fixture module (2) first moves the column guard plate on the left processing position (4) directly below the hot pressing module (7). The hot pressing module (7) then transfers the film layer to the surface of the column guard plate. Reset the hot pressing module (7) and repeat this step to transfer the film layer to the surface of the column guard plate on the right processing position (5). S5: Loosen the fixture, remove the column guard plate, and complete the hot stamping operation.

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