A steering upper cover fastener assembly and air tightness test composite workstation

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of steering upper cover fastener assembly and air-tight test composite workstation, including machine base, and the bearing platform of machine base is equipped with positioning sealing module and gas outlet;Positioning sealing module is radially positioned to steering upper cover and is sealed with its open end edge, and gas outlet is located on the upper end surface of positioning sealing module;Machine base is also equipped with the pressing module located above bearing platform and the push module below, and pressing module is used to press steering upper cover on positioning sealing module;Fastener hole on bearing platform corresponds with the matching hole of steering upper cover connecting part, and the push effect part of push module can pass through fastener hole and push fastener into matching hole;When workstation works, pressing module first presses workpiece, and gas outlet is connected with detection gas to carry out sealing detection, and only after detection is qualified, push module executes fastener installation;The application integrates air-tight detection and fastener assembly in the same station, uses first measurement after installation timing, avoids unqualified product rework, improves production efficiency and reduces manufacturing cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of tooling, and in particular to a composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover. Background Technology

[0002] Steering cover is a key component of the automotive steering system, broadly referring to cover-like parts with internal cavities in various steering systems, including but not limited to steering gear covers, steering housing end covers, and sensor covers for electric power steering systems. As a crucial component related to vehicle safety, the steering system contains lubricating oil or power steering fluid, and some cavities require a specific air pressure environment, thus placing strict requirements on the sealing performance of components. Currently, the production of steering cover components faces challenges in the integration of assembly and testing processes. These parts require pre-installation of fasteners and airtightness testing; these two processes are often independent, leading to issues with production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the problems in the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing.

[0004] The technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: a composite workstation for fastener assembly and airtightness testing of steering cover, including a base, the base having a bearing platform, the bearing platform being provided with a positioning and sealing module and a gas outlet, the positioning and sealing module being used to radially position the steering cover and form a sealing fit with its opening edge, the gas outlet being located on the upper end face of the positioning and sealing module, and being used to supply test gas to the internal cavity of the steering cover; The base is also provided with a clamping module, which is movably disposed above the bearing platform. The clamping module includes a clamping drive source and multiple clamping action parts. The clamping drive source is used to drive the clamping action parts to move along a first direction to press the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module. The support platform is also provided with fastener holes, which are located on the outer periphery of the positioning and sealing module and correspond to the mating holes on the outer connecting part of the steering cover; the base is also provided with a push module, which is located below the support platform. The push module has a push function part, which is arranged opposite to the fastener holes. The push module is used to drive the push function part through the fastener holes and push the fasteners into the mating holes; After the clamping module presses the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module, the gas outlet supplies detection gas to the internal chamber of the steering cover to perform a sealing test. After the sealing test meets the preset conditions, the pushing module drives the pushing action to perform a fastener installation action.

[0005] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the base has a first bearing layer, a second bearing layer and a third bearing layer stacked in a vertical direction, a first installation space is formed between the first bearing layer and the second bearing layer, and a second installation space is formed between the second bearing layer and the third bearing layer; The support platform is alternatively installed on the second support layer; the pushing module is disposed in the first installation space; the clamping module is disposed in the second installation space and is connected to the third support layer.

[0006] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the positioning and sealing module includes a profile protruding from the bearing platform and an annular sealing ring arranged around the profile. The profile is used to extend into the cylindrical inner cavity of the steering cover to position the steering cover, and the annular sealing ring is used to abut and seal with the open end face of the steering cover.

[0007] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the clamping module includes a clamping seat, a guide member and a plurality of clamping bodies. The clamping seat is disposed in the second installation space and connected to the third bearing layer through the vertically arranged guide member. Each guide member is slidably inserted through the third bearing layer. The clamping bodies extend downward from the clamping seat, and the lower end of each clamping body forms the clamping action part.

[0008] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the pressure holding body is divided into a fixed pressure holding body and a floating pressure holding body; the fixed pressure holding body is fixedly connected to the pressure seat; The upper end of the floating pressure body is provided with a reduced diameter section, and an elastic element is sleeved on the reduced diameter section. After each floating pressure body passes through the pressure seat, it is fixed relative to the pressure seat by a limiting structure. Each elastic element is elastically pressed between the corresponding floating pressure body and the pressure seat. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element, each floating pressure body can float and press against the surface of the steering cover.

[0009] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the pressing seat is further provided with an elastic filler, the elastic filler extending vertically toward the bearing platform; the elastic filler is used to press the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module when the pressing module presses the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module, and to fit with the through-hole at the upper end of the steering cover and extend into the internal cavity of the steering cover, so as to close the through-hole and reduce the volume of the internal cavity.

[0010] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the bearing platform has an annular mounting groove and a boss located inside the annular mounting groove on the side surface facing the pressing module, and the annular sealing ring is embedded in the annular mounting groove; The boss has a connection hole for connecting with the second bearing layer, and the surface of the fixed boss also has a gas flow channel extending from the connection hole to the annular mounting groove.

[0011] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the second bearing layer is provided with an information reading component, which is used to read the preset identification code on the steering cover to obtain process parameter information associated with the steering cover.

[0012] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: the second bearing layer is further provided with a marking execution component, the marking execution component includes a marking drive and a marking action part connected to the output end of the marking drive; the marking execution component is used to form a physical mark on the surface of the steering cover after the testing and assembly process of the steering cover is completed, so as to characterize the processing status of the workpiece.

[0013] The preferred technical solution provided by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is: the side of the bearing platform is provided with an air inlet for connecting to the test air source.

[0014] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this invention are as follows: by integrating the positioning and sealing module, gas outlet, clamping module, and pushing module into the same workstation, the airtightness testing and fastener assembly processes are completed continuously at the same station. This integrated design eliminates the link of product transfer between different stations in traditional processes, significantly shortening production cycle time and improving production efficiency. Furthermore, performing airtightness testing first, and then installing fasteners only after the test is passed, fundamentally avoids the situation where unqualified products are used in subsequent assembly processes. In traditional processes, if a product completes fastener assembly first and is then transferred to the testing station where a leak is found, the installed fasteners need to be removed, resulting in waste of fasteners and potentially causing wear on the mating holes during assembly and disassembly. The timing configuration of this invention ensures that only products that pass airtightness testing are fitted with fasteners, eliminating rework and reducing manufacturing costs. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that these drawings are drawn only for the purpose of explaining the preferred embodiments and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Furthermore, unless specifically indicated, the drawings are only schematic representations of the composition or structure of the described objects and may contain exaggerated depictions, and the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0016] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a combined workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover. Figure 1 ; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a combined workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover. Figure 2 ; Figure 3 An exploded view of the support platform of a composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping module of a composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a combined workstation for assembling and testing the airtightness of a steering cover fastener in the depressed state. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a swivel cover; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the working state of a composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover.

[0017] Figure label: Base 1; Support platform 11; Annular mounting groove 111; Boss 112; Connecting hole 113; Gas flow channel 114; Air inlet 115; Fastener hole 12; First support layer 13; Second support layer 14; Third support layer 15; First mounting space 16; Second mounting space 17; Positioning sealing module 2; Profile part 21; Annular sealing ring 22; Gas outlet 3; Pressing module 4; Pressing drive source 41; Pressing action part 42; Pressing seat 43; Guide part 44; Pressing body 45; Fixed pressing body 451; Floating pressing body 452; Reduced diameter section 453; Elastic part 454; Limiting structure 455; Elastic filler 46; Pushing module 5; Pushing action part 51; Information reading component 6; Marking execution component 7; Marking drive part 71; Marking action part 72; Steering cover 100; Through port 102; Connecting part 103; Mating hole 104; Fastener 105. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these descriptions are merely descriptive and exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0019] It should be noted that similar labels in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it may not be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0020] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0021] In the description of this invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0022] like Figures 1 to 7As shown, this invention provides a composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing. This workstation integrates the automatic assembly function of steering cover fasteners and the airtightness testing function into the same station, making it particularly suitable for mass production scenarios of automotive steering system components. In traditional production processes, the assembly of steering cover fasteners and airtightness testing are usually completed in two separate stations—the product is first assembled at the assembly station with bolts or screws installed, and then transferred to the airtightness testing station for sealing testing. This separate process route has the following technical problems: on the one hand, the transfer of products between different stations increases the production cycle time and reduces production efficiency; on the other hand, if the airtightness test finds a leakage defect in the product, the completed fastener assembly work needs to be disassembled and reworked, resulting in waste of time and materials. This invention fundamentally solves the above problems by integrating the two processes into the same workstation and optimizing the process sequence—testing airtightness first and then installing bolts.

[0023] This embodiment provides a combined workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of the steering cover. The overall structure of the workstation will be described in detail below, followed by a step-by-step explanation of the configuration and working principle of each component.

[0024] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the composite workstation mainly includes a base 1. The base 1 has a support platform 11. A positioning and sealing module 2 and a gas outlet 3 are provided on the support platform 11. The positioning and sealing module 2 is used to radially position the steering cover 100 and form a sealing fit with its open end edge. The steering cover 100 is usually a cylindrical or cup-shaped component with an internal cavity, with an open end at the lower end and a closed end face or a through-hole 102 at the upper end. The positioning and sealing module 2 engages with the open end of the steering cover 100 from below, precisely defining the horizontal position of the steering cover 100 and forming a sealing fit with its open end edge to close the lower opening of the internal cavity of the steering cover 100.

[0025] Gas outlet 3 is located on the support platform 11, with its outlet end situated on the upper surface of the positioning and sealing module 2. In other words, the port of gas outlet 3 is located at the top of the positioning and sealing module 2. When the steering cover 100 is placed on the positioning and sealing module 2, the outlet end of gas outlet 3 extends into or connects to the internal cavity of the steering cover 100. Gas outlet 3 is used to supply test gas to the internal cavity of the steering cover 100 for airtightness testing.

[0026] like Figure 1 , 2As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 7, the base 1 is also provided with a clamping module 4. The clamping module 4 is movably disposed above the support platform 11. The clamping module 4 includes a clamping drive source 41 and multiple clamping action parts 42. The clamping drive source 41 is used to drive the clamping action parts 42 to move along a first direction to press the steering cover 100 against the positioning and sealing module 2. The first direction is usually a vertical direction. When the steering cover 100 is placed on the positioning and sealing module 2, the clamping drive source 41 drives the clamping action parts 42 to move downward, pressing the steering cover 100 from above and tightly pressing it against the positioning and sealing module 2, ensuring the sealing reliability between the positioning and sealing module 2 and the opening edge of the steering cover 100, while preventing the steering cover 100 from shifting or loosening due to increased internal air pressure during subsequent airtightness testing.

[0027] like Figure 3 , 5 As shown in Figure 6, the support platform 11 also has fastener holes 12. The fastener holes 12 are located on the outer periphery of the positioning sealing module 2, and correspond to the mating holes 104 on the outer connecting portion 103 of the steering cover 100. The steering cover 100 typically has a connecting portion 103 on its outer side for connecting to the steering gear housing or other components, such as a flange or lug. The connecting portion 103 has multiple mating holes 104 for fasteners 105 to pass through. The positions of the fastener holes 12 on the support platform 11 correspond one-to-one with the positions of the mating holes 104; that is, when the steering cover 100 is correctly positioned on the positioning sealing module 2, each mating hole 104 is directly below its corresponding fastener hole 12.

[0028] like Figure 1 , 3 As shown, the base 1 also includes a push module 5. The push module 5 is located below the support platform 11. The push module 5 has a push action part 51, which is disposed opposite to the fastener hole 12. The push module 5 is used to drive the push action part 51 through the fastener hole 12 and push the fastener 105 into the mating hole 104. Specifically, before assembly, the fastener 105 is pre-placed in the fastener hole 12. When the assembly action needs to be performed, the push module 5 drives the push action part 51 to move upward, pass through the lower opening of the fastener hole 12 into the hole, push the fastener 105 upward, push it out of the fastener hole 12 and into the mating hole 104 on the connecting part 103 of the steering cover 100, and finally install the fastener 105 in place.

[0029] It should be noted that after the clamping module 4 presses the steering cover 100 against the positioning and sealing module 2, the gas outlet 3 supplies test gas to the internal chamber of the steering cover 100 to perform a sealing test. After the sealing test meets the preset conditions, the pushing module 5 drives the pushing action part 51 to perform the fastener installation action.

[0030] This timing configuration is a key feature of this embodiment. Specifically, the entire workstation's workflow proceeds in the following order: First, the steering cover 100 is placed on the positioning and sealing module 2. The positioning and sealing module 2 radially positions the steering cover 100 and forms a sealing fit with its opening edge.

[0031] Second, the pressing drive source 41 drives the pressing action part 42 to move downward, firmly pressing the steering cover 100 against the positioning sealing module 2 to ensure reliable sealing.

[0032] Third, gas outlet 3 supplies detection gas to the internal chamber of steering cover 100 to perform a sealing test. At this time, the detection gas is sealed in the closed space formed between the internal chamber of steering cover 100 and positioning sealing module 2. By monitoring the gas pressure change or gas leakage rate in this space, it can be determined whether the airtightness of steering cover 100 meets the requirements.

[0033] Fourth, only after the sealing test result meets the preset qualified conditions will the push module 5 drive the push action part 51 to perform the fastener installation action and push the fastener 105 into the mating hole 104.

[0034] In this embodiment, by integrating the positioning and sealing module 2, gas outlet 3, clamping module 4, and pushing module 5 into the same workstation, the airtightness testing and fastener assembly processes are completed continuously at the same station. This integrated design eliminates the need for product transfer between different stations in traditional processes, significantly shortening production cycle time and improving production efficiency. Furthermore, performing the airtightness test first, and then installing the fasteners only after the test is passed, fundamentally avoids the situation where unqualified products are used in subsequent assembly processes. In traditional processes, if a product completes fastener assembly first and is then transferred to the testing station where a leak is found, the installed fasteners need to be removed, resulting in waste of fasteners and potentially causing wear on the mating hole 104 during assembly and disassembly. The timing configuration of this invention ensures that only products with qualified airtightness are fitted with fasteners, eliminating rework and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0035] In this embodiment, the clamping module 4 clamps the steering cover 100 onto the positioning and sealing module 2 before the airtightness test, ensuring the reliability of the seal throughout the entire airtightness test process. Since the test gas has a certain pressure, if the steering cover 100 is not reliably clamped, the internal air pressure may push the steering cover 100 upwards, disrupting the sealing fit and leading to inaccurate test results. The presence of the clamping module 4 ensures the stability of the sealing fit, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the airtightness test results.

[0036] As a further preferred embodiment of the base, such as Figure 1 As shown, the base 1 adopts a three-layer structure design. The first support layer 13 is located at the bottom and serves as the bottom foundation of the entire base 1; the second support layer 14 is located in the middle, and the support platform 11 is detachably installed on the upper surface of the second support layer 14; the third support layer 15 is located at the top, and the clamping module 4 is connected to the third support layer 15 and extends downward.

[0037] The first mounting space 16 is located between the first support layer 13 and the second support layer 14, and its height is sufficient to accommodate the pushing module 5 and its driving device. The pushing action part 51 of the pushing module 5 passes through the corresponding channels on the second support layer 14 and the support platform 11 and extends into the fastener hole 12. The second mounting space 17 is located between the second support layer 14 and the third support layer 15, and its height is sufficient to accommodate the travel space of the clamping drive source 41 and the clamping action part 42 of the clamping module 4. The clamping drive source 41 of the clamping module 4 (such as a cylinder, hydraulic cylinder or electric cylinder) is mounted on the third support layer 15, and its driving end passes through the third support layer 15 and extends into the second mounting space 17, connecting with the clamping action part 42.

[0038] In this embodiment, the support platform 11 is replaceably mounted on the second support layer 14. This replaceable structure allows the workstation to adapt to different models of steering covers 100. When different specifications of products need to be produced, only the matching support platform 11 needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire base 1, which greatly improves the flexible production capability of the equipment.

[0039] like Figure 2 , 3 As shown, more preferably, the positioning and sealing module 2 includes a profile 21 protruding from the support platform 11 and an annular sealing ring 22 surrounding the profile 21. The profile 21 is used to extend into the cylindrical inner cavity of the steering cover 100 to position the steering cover 100, and the annular sealing ring 22 is used to abut and seal against the open end face of the steering cover 100.

[0040] like Figure 3As shown, the profile 21 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the support platform 11, and its outline matches the outline of the cylindrical inner cavity of the steering cover 100. When the steering cover 100 is placed on the positioning and sealing module 2, the profile 21 extends into the inner cavity of the steering cover 100, and a small clearance fit is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the profile 21 and the inner wall of the inner cavity, thereby precisely defining the position of the steering cover 100 in the horizontal direction. Since the shape of the profile 21 matches the outline of the inner wall of the inner cavity, the steering cover 100 is automatically guided to the predetermined position under the guidance of the profile 21. The annular sealing ring 22 is disposed around the profile 21 on the upper surface of the support platform 11. When the pressing module 4 presses the steering cover 100 downward, the open edge of the steering cover 100 forms a tight abutment fit with the annular sealing ring 22. The annular sealing ring 22 is made of materials such as nitrile rubber, fluororubber, or silicone rubber. Under the action of clamping force, it undergoes elastic deformation to fill the gap between the opening edge of the steering cover 100 and the upper surface of the bearing platform 11, thereby achieving a reliable air seal.

[0041] The combined design of the profile part 21 and the annular sealing ring 22 achieves the separation and synergy of positioning and sealing functions. The profile part 21 is specifically responsible for radial positioning, and its small-gap fit with the inner wall of the internal cavity ensures the horizontal positioning accuracy of the steering cover 100; the annular sealing ring 22 is specifically responsible for sealing, and its elastic deformation characteristics ensure the reliability of the seal. The two functions are independent yet synergistic, avoiding the contradiction between positioning accuracy and sealing performance that may occur when a single component simultaneously undertakes positioning and sealing functions. At the same time, after the profile part 21 extends into the internal cavity, it also effectively reduces the effective volume of the internal cavity, which helps to improve the sensitivity of airtightness detection—at the same leakage rate, the smaller the volume, the faster the pressure drop rate and the shorter the detection time.

[0042] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 4, the clamping module 4 includes a clamping seat 43, a guide member 44, and multiple clamping bodies 45. The clamping seat 43 is disposed within the second mounting space 17 and connected to the third bearing layer 15 via the vertically arranged guide member 44. Each guide member 44 is slidably inserted into the third bearing layer 15. The clamping bodies 45 extend downward from the clamping seat 43, and the lower end of each clamping body 45 forms a clamping action part 42.

[0043] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 4, the clamping seat 43 is a horizontally arranged plate-shaped component located within the second installation space 17. The clamping drive source 41 is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the third bearing layer 15, and its drive end passes through the third bearing layer 15 and connects to the clamping seat 43 to drive the clamping seat 43 to reciprocate in the vertical direction.

[0044] The guide member 44 is a vertically arranged guide rod or guide post, with its upper end passing through the third bearing layer 15 and forming a sliding fit with the third bearing layer 15, and its lower end fixedly connected to the clamping seat 43. There are usually two or more guide members 44, which are symmetrically arranged on the clamping seat 43 to ensure that the clamping seat 43 maintains a horizontal posture during movement and does not tilt.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure-holding body 45 is a columnar or rod-shaped member extending downward from the pressure seat 43, with its lower end forming a pressure-holding part 42 for directly contacting and pressing the surface of the steering cover 100. The positions of the plurality of pressure-holding bodies 45 on the pressure seat 43 correspond to the pressure-bearing parts on the steering cover 100 to ensure that the pressure force is evenly distributed on the steering cover 100.

[0046] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 4, the clamping seat 43 forms a sliding guide fit with the third bearing layer 15 through the guide member 44. The guiding effect of the guide member 44 ensures that the clamping seat 43 remains horizontal and does not deflect when moving vertically under the drive of the clamping drive source 41. This guiding accuracy is crucial to ensuring that multiple clamping bodies 45 are simultaneously and evenly clamped at different positions on the steering cover 100. If the clamping seat 43 tilts, some clamping bodies 45 will contact the steering cover 100 first and bear a large clamping force, while other clamping bodies 45 will not contact or will have insufficient clamping force, resulting in uneven force on the steering cover 100, which may affect the sealing effect or cause product deformation. The sliding fit structure between the guide member 44 and the third bearing layer 15 is simple, rigid, and has high guiding accuracy, making it suitable for long-term stable operation in high-cycle production environments.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, as a further preferred embodiment, the pressure holder 45 is divided into a fixed pressure holder 451 and a floating pressure holder 452. The fixed pressure holder 451 is fixedly connected to the pressure seat 43.

[0048] The upper end of the floating support body 452 is provided with a reduced diameter section 453, and an elastic element 454 is sleeved on the reduced diameter section 453. Each floating support body 452 passes through the clamping seat 43 and is fixed relative to the clamping seat 43 by a limiting structure 455. Each elastic element 454 is elastically pressed between the corresponding floating support body 452 and the clamping seat 43. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element 454, each floating support body 452 can float and press against the surface of the steering cover 100.

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, the fixed pressure holding body 451 is fixedly connected to the pressure seat 43, and the position of its lower end is fixed relative to the pressure seat 43. When the pressure seat 43 moves downward, the fixed pressure holding body 451 presses against the upper cover 100 with a constant displacement.

[0050] The floating pressure holder 452 and the pressure seat 43 are connected by a floating connection. Specifically, the upper end of the floating pressure holder 452 is a reduced-diameter section 453, on which an elastic element 454 is sleeved. The main body of the floating pressure holder 452 passes through a through hole in the pressure seat 43, and its lower end is used to contact the steering cover 100; its reduced-diameter section 453 extends above the pressure seat 43, and the axial position of the floating pressure holder 452 relative to the pressure seat 43 is limited by the limiting structure 455—the floating pressure holder 452 can generate a certain relative displacement in the vertical direction relative to the pressure seat 43, but will not fall out. The elastic element 454 is clamped between the upper stepped surface of the floating pressure holder 452 and the upper surface of the pressure seat 43, and is always in a compressed state, applying a downward elastic force to the floating pressure holder 452.

[0051] When the clamping seat 43 moves downward, the lower end of the floating clamping body 452 first contacts the surface of the steering cover 100. As the clamping seat 43 continues to move downward, the floating clamping body 452 slides upward relative to the clamping seat 43, further compressing the elastic element 454. The reaction force of the elastic element 454 is the clamping force applied to the steering cover 100 by the floating clamping body 452. Since each floating clamping body 452 floats independently, when there are height differences or inclinations on the surface of the steering cover 100, each floating clamping body 452 can adaptively conform to the product surface through different degrees of retraction, while applying a uniform clamping force to the product.

[0052] Through this preferred configuration, the combined configuration of the fixed clamping body 451 and the floating clamping body 452 achieves a synergistic effect of rigid positioning and flexible clamping. The fixed clamping body 451 provides a defined clamping position and clamping force, ensuring that the steering cover 100 is reliably clamped onto the positioning and sealing module 2; the floating clamping body 452 adaptively compensates for height errors and local unevenness on the surface of the steering cover 100 through the elastic deformation of the elastic element 454, avoiding local overload or insufficient clamping force caused by rigid clamping. This design is particularly suitable for castings or injection-molded parts with complex surface structures, such as the steering cover 100—whose surface may have certain height tolerances. The independent floating capability of the floating clamping body 452 ensures that each clamping point can conform to the product surface with appropriate pressure, thereby achieving uniform and reliable clamping, while avoiding product deformation or seal failure caused by uneven clamping force.

[0053] like Figure 1 , 2As shown in Figure 4, the clamping seat 43 is also provided with an elastic filler 46. The elastic filler 46 extends vertically toward the bearing platform 11. The elastic filler 46 is used to press against the positioning sealing module 2 when the clamping module 4 presses the steering cover 100 against the positioning sealing module 2, and to fit with the through opening 102 at the upper end of the steering cover 100 and extend into the internal cavity of the steering cover 100, so as to close the through opening 102 and reduce the volume of the internal cavity.

[0054] like Figure 6 , 7 As shown, the upper end of the steering cover 100 typically has one or more through-holes 102, which are used for sensor wiring harnesses, oil pipes, or other components to pass through during final assembly. During airtightness testing, if these through-holes 102 are open, the testing gas will leak from them, preventing the airtightness test from proceeding properly. The elastic filler 46 is used to seal these through-holes 102 during the testing process.

[0055] The lower end of the elastic filler 46 extends downward from the clamping seat 43, and its shape and size match the through-hole 102. When the clamping module 4 presses the upper cover 100 against the positioning sealing module 2, the lower end of the elastic filler 46 is inserted into the through-hole 102, forming an interference fit with the inner wall of the through-hole 102, thereby sealing the through-hole 102.

[0056] Meanwhile, the elastic filler 46 extends into the internal cavity, occupying part of the space and effectively reducing the effective volume of the internal cavity. As mentioned earlier, the smaller the volume, the higher the sensitivity of the airtightness test and the shorter the test time.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, as a further preferred embodiment, the surface of the support platform 11 facing the clamping module 4 has an annular mounting groove 111 and a boss 112 located inside the annular mounting groove 111. An annular sealing ring 22 is embedded in the annular mounting groove 111. The boss 112 has a connection hole 113 for connecting with the second support layer 14. The surface of the fixed boss 112 also has a gas flow channel 114 extending from the connection hole 113 to the annular mounting groove 111. The purpose of the gas flow channel 114 is to discharge gas from the connection hole 113.

[0058] Preferably, as shown in the figure, the second support layer 14 is provided with an information reading component 6, located beside the support platform 11, with its reading end facing the steering cover 100 above the support platform 11. The information reading component 6 is used to read a preset identification code on the steering cover 100 to obtain process parameter information associated with the steering cover 100.

[0059] like Figure 2 , 7As shown, the information reading component 6 is disposed on the second bearing layer 14. The preset identification code on the steering cover 100 can be a QR code, barcode, or RFID tag, which stores process parameter information related to the steering cover 100, such as product model, fastener specifications, tightening torque requirements, airtightness test pressure value, and leakage rate threshold. During the operation of the workstation, after the steering cover 100 is placed on the positioning and sealing module 2, the information reading component 6 first reads the identification code on the steering cover 100 to obtain the process parameter information associated with the product. This information is transmitted to the control system of the workstation, and the control system automatically adjusts the clamping force of the clamping module 4, the inflation pressure and holding time for airtightness testing, and the pushing stroke and pushing force of the pushing module 5 according to these parameters.

[0060] The introduction of information reading component 6 enables the workstation to possess intelligent adaptive capabilities. By automatically acquiring process parameters through reading identification codes, the workstation eliminates the need for operators to manually input or switch parameters, thus avoiding quality incidents caused by incorrect parameter settings. Simultaneously, this design allows the workstation to be compatible with various models of steering cover 100—when changing product models, simply installing the corresponding support platform 11 allows the workstation to automatically identify the product type and retrieve the corresponding process parameters by reading the identification code, achieving one-click model changeover and significantly improving the equipment's flexible production capabilities and changeover efficiency.

[0061] In addition, such as Figure 2 , 7 As shown, the second support layer 14 also includes a marking execution assembly 7. Located beside the support platform 11, its marking action part 72 faces the steering cover 100 above the support platform 11. The marking execution assembly 7 includes a marking drive 71 and a marking action part 72 connected to the output end of the marking drive 71. The marking drive 71 can be a cylinder or an electric cylinder, used to drive the marking action part 72 to move towards or away from the steering cover 100. The marking action part 72 is a punch or engraving head with a specific shape, capable of applying physical marks to the surface of the steering cover 100.

[0062] After the steering cover 100 has completed all the processes of airtightness testing and fastener assembly, if all test results are qualified, the marking drive 71 of the marking execution component 7 drives the marking action part 72 to move toward the steering cover 100, and makes a small indentation on the side wall or connecting part 103 of the steering cover 100 to indicate that the product has completed all testing and assembly processes and the results are qualified.

[0063] The marking execution component 7 applies a physical mark upon completion of the process, achieving a permanent and traceable identification of the product's quality status. Compared to electronic records or tags, physical markings have the advantages of being tamper-proof, non-removable, and non-fading. Even during subsequent transportation, storage, and assembly, relevant personnel can visually determine whether the product has completed the prescribed testing and assembly processes by observing the markings. This design effectively prevents untested or substandard products from being mixed with qualified products, improving the reliability and traceability of quality management.

[0064] As shown in the figure, the side of the support platform 11 is provided with an air inlet 115 for connecting to the test air source. This arrangement makes the connection point of the external air source pipeline located on the side of the support platform 11, which facilitates the layout and maintenance of the pipeline and avoids interference caused by the pipeline passing through the top or bottom of the support platform 11 to the workpiece loading and unloading and the movement of the module.

[0065] Based on the above embodiments, the complete workflow of the steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing composite workstation of this embodiment is as follows: Step 1: The operator or automatic feeding device places the fastener 105 into the fastener hole 12. The upper end of the fastener hole 12 is flush with or slightly lower than the upper surface of the support platform 11, and the lower end is opposite to the pushing action part 51 of the pushing module 5. The fastener 105 is placed in the fastener hole 12 with its head facing upward and its rod facing downward, waiting for the pushing action part 51 to push it.

[0066] Step 2: Place the steering cover 100 into the positioning and sealing module 2, so that its cylindrical inner cavity fits over the profile 21. The outer circumferential surface of the profile 21 forms a small clearance fit with the inner wall of the inner cavity, radially positioning the steering cover 100. At this time, the open edge of the steering cover 100 contacts the annular sealing ring 22, and the mating holes 104 on the connecting part 103 correspond one-to-one with the fastener holes 12 on the bearing platform 11.

[0067] Step 3: The information reading component 6 scans the preset identification code on the steering cover 100 to read the process parameter information associated with the product, including but not limited to: the clamping force or clamping stroke required by the clamping module 4, the inflation pressure, holding time and leakage rate threshold for air tightness testing, and the pushing stroke and pushing force required by the pushing module 5. The control system automatically calls up the corresponding detection and assembly parameters based on the read information and supplies them to the clamping drive source 41, the drive source of the pushing module 5, and the air tightness testing equipment connected to the air inlet 115, so that each actuator can automatically adjust parameters such as stroke, pressure, and cycle according to the product model.

[0068] Step 4: The clamping drive source 41 drives the clamping seat 43 to move downward along the guide member 44, causing the fixed clamping body 451 and the floating clamping body 452 to move downward synchronously. The floating clamping body 452 first contacts the surface of the steering cover 100, and adaptively conforms to the product surface and provides uniform clamping force through the elastic compression of the elastic member 454. The fixed clamping body 451 then clamps a specific position on the steering cover 100, firmly pressing the steering cover 100 against the positioning sealing module 2. At the same time, the elastic filler 46 is inserted into the through-hole 102 at the upper end of the steering cover 100, and the through-hole 102 is closed by interference fit and the volume of the internal cavity is reduced.

[0069] Step 5: The airtightness testing equipment supplies testing gas to the workstation through the air inlet 115. The testing gas enters the gas flow channel 114 inside the support platform 11 through the air inlet 115, and enters the internal chamber of the steering cover 100 from the gas outlet 3. The testing gas establishes a certain pressure in the sealed space formed between the internal chamber and the positioning sealing module 2. The airtightness testing equipment monitors the pressure change or gas leakage rate in this sealed space to determine whether the airtightness of the steering cover 100 meets the preset requirements.

[0070] Step 6: Only after the airtightness test result meets the preset conditions will the push module 5 drive the push action part 51 to perform the fastener installation action. The push action part 51 moves upward, passes through the lower opening of the fastener hole 12 and enters the hole, pushing the fastener 105 upward, pushing it out of the fastener hole 12 and into the mating hole 104 on the connecting part 103 of the steering cover 100, thus completing the fastener installation. If the airtightness test fails, the push module 5 will not operate, the control system will issue an alarm signal, and the operator will be prompted to handle the defective product.

[0071] Step 7: After the airtightness test and fastener assembly are completed, the marking drive 71 of the marking execution component 7 drives the marking action part 72 to move toward the steering cover 100, and makes dots or engraves on the surface of the steering cover 100 to form a physical mark indicating that the product has completed all testing and assembly processes and the results are qualified.

[0072] Step 8: The pressure drive source 41 drives the pressure seat 43 to rise, causing the fixed pressure body 451 and the floating pressure body 452 to leave the surface of the steering cover 100, releasing the pressure on the steering cover 100.

[0073] Step 9: The operator or automatic material handling device removes the steering cover 100, which has completed all processes, from the positioning and sealing module 2, and enters the next work cycle.

[0074] In summary, the steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing composite workstation provided by this invention integrates the positioning and sealing module 2, the clamping module 4, the pushing module 5, the information reading component 6, and the marking execution component 7 into the same workstation, realizing fully automated operation of the steering cover 100 from positioning, testing, assembly, and marking. Its "test airtightness first, then install bolts after passing" sequence configuration eliminates rework waste of defective products from the source of the process, significantly improving production efficiency and product quality. Its information reading component 6 enables automatic identification and retrieval of process parameters, giving the workstation flexible production capabilities. Its marking execution component 7 provides permanent quality status identification, improving the reliability of quality management. The entire workstation has a compact structure, complete functions, and a high degree of automation, fully meeting the actual needs of mass production of automotive steering system components.

[0075] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of the composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing provided by this invention. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this invention. The descriptions of the embodiments above are merely for the purpose of helping to understand this invention and its core ideas. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications to this invention without departing from its principles, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this invention.

Claims

1. A composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover, characterized in that, The device includes a base, which has a support platform. The support platform is provided with a positioning and sealing module and a gas outlet. The positioning and sealing module is used to radially position the steering cover and form a sealing fit with its opening edge. The gas outlet is located on the upper end face of the positioning and sealing module and is used to supply detection gas to the internal cavity of the steering cover. The base is also provided with a clamping module, which is movably disposed above the bearing platform. The clamping module includes a clamping drive source and multiple clamping action parts. The clamping drive source is used to drive the clamping action parts to move along a first direction to press the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module. The support platform is also provided with fastener holes, which are located on the outer periphery of the positioning and sealing module and correspond to the mating holes on the outer connecting part of the steering cover; the base is also provided with a push module, which is located below the support platform. The push module has a push function part, which is arranged opposite to the fastener holes. The push module is used to drive the push function part through the fastener holes and push the fasteners into the mating holes; After the clamping module presses the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module, the gas outlet supplies detection gas to the internal chamber of the steering cover to perform a sealing test. After the sealing test meets the preset conditions, the pushing module drives the pushing action to perform a fastener installation action.

2. The composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 1, characterized in that... The base has a first support layer, a second support layer and a third support layer stacked in a vertical direction, a first installation space is formed between the first support layer and the second support layer, and a second installation space is formed between the second support layer and the third support layer; The support platform is alternatively installed on the second support layer; the pushing module is disposed in the first installation space; the clamping module is disposed in the second installation space and is connected to the third support layer.

3. The composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 2, characterized in that... The positioning and sealing module includes a profile protruding from the support platform and an annular sealing ring surrounding the profile. The profile is used to extend into the cylindrical inner cavity of the steering cover to position the steering cover, and the annular sealing ring is used to abut and seal against the open end face of the steering cover.

4. The composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 1, characterized in that... The clamping module includes a clamping seat, a guide member, and multiple clamping bodies. The clamping seat is disposed in the second installation space and connected to the third bearing layer through the vertically arranged guide member. Each guide member is slidably inserted through the third bearing layer. The clamping bodies extend downward from the clamping seat, and the lower end of each clamping body forms the clamping action part.

5. A composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 4, characterized in that... The pressure-holding body is divided into a fixed pressure-holding body and a floating pressure-holding body; the fixed pressure-holding body is fixedly connected to the pressure seat; The upper end of the floating pressure body is provided with a reduced diameter section, and an elastic element is sleeved on the reduced diameter section. After each floating pressure body passes through the pressure seat, it is fixed relative to the pressure seat by a limiting structure. Each elastic element is elastically pressed between the corresponding floating pressure body and the pressure seat. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element, each floating pressure body can float and press against the surface of the steering cover.

6. A composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 4, characterized in that... The clamping seat is also provided with an elastic filler, which extends vertically toward the bearing platform. The elastic filler is used to press the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module when the clamping module presses the steering cover against the positioning and sealing module. It is used to interfere with the through-hole at the upper end of the steering cover and extend into the internal cavity of the steering cover to close the through-hole and reduce the volume of the internal cavity.

7. A composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 3, characterized in that... The bearing platform has an annular mounting groove and a boss located inside the annular mounting groove on one side of its surface facing the clamping module, and the annular sealing ring is embedded in the annular mounting groove. The boss has a connection hole for connecting with the second bearing layer, and the surface of the fixed boss also has a gas flow channel extending from the connection hole to the annular mounting groove.

8. A composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover according to claim 2, characterized in that... The second support layer is provided with an information reading component, which is used to read the preset identification code on the steering cover to obtain process parameter information associated with the steering cover.

9. A composite workstation for steering cover fastener assembly and airtightness testing according to claim 2, characterized in that... The second support layer is further provided with a marking execution component, which includes a marking drive and a marking action part connected to the output end of the marking drive; the marking execution component is used to form physical marks on the surface of the steering cover after the testing and assembly process of the steering cover is completed, so as to characterize the processing status of the workpiece.

10. A composite workstation for assembling and testing the fasteners of a steering cover according to claim 1, characterized in that... The side of the support platform is provided with an air inlet for connecting to the test air source.

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