Plasma arc welding positioning device for color sorter feed hopper and method of use

Abstract

This invention discloses a plasma arc welding positioning device and its usage method for a color sorter feed hopper. It includes a vertical rail with several electrically driven lifting mechanisms mounted on it. A first electrically driven push rod is mounted on the side wall of each lifting mechanism. An adjustable-angle adsorption component is mounted on the telescopic end of the first electrically driven push rod. An XYZ three-axis moving module is mounted on the top of the vertical rail. An inner flexible cooling component is mounted at the bottom of the Z-axis drive end of the XYZ three-axis moving module for cooling the back of the weld seam during welding. This invention relates to the field of welding auxiliary equipment technology. This invention achieves multi-degree-of-freedom positioning of the sheet metal in the hopper through the coordinated operation of multiple electrically driven lifting mechanisms and the adsorption component. The inner flexible cooling component, driven by the XYZ three-axis moving module, provides flexible cooling to the back of the weld seam, solving the problems of welding stress causing deformation of thin-walled sheet metal and residual stress and cracks caused by rigid clamping hindering stress release in existing plasma arc welding of sheet metal in hoppers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of welding auxiliary equipment technology, and in particular to a positioning device and its usage method for plasma arc welding of sheet metal in the feed hopper of a color sorter. Background Technology

[0002] A color sorter is a device that uses photoelectric detection technology to separate materials. It is widely used in the sorting and processing of materials such as grains, ores, and plastics. The feed hopper of a color sorter is the channel through which materials enter the sorting area, and it is usually welded together from multiple thin-walled sheet metal parts. The quality of the welds on the sheet metal of the feed hopper directly affects the hopper's sealing performance, strength, and appearance, and is a key process in the manufacturing of the feed hopper.

[0003] The welding of sheet metal for the feed hopper mainly employs plasma arc welding. Plasma arc welding involves concentrated heat input, resulting in intense heating of the weld seam and near-weld zone during the welding process. After welding, the weld metal is constrained by the surrounding cooled metal during cooling and contraction, preventing free contraction and thus generating residual stress in the weld seam and near-weld zone. The accumulation of welding thermal stress can cause significant welding deformation in thin-walled sheet metal, such as angular deformation and waviness, severely affecting the dimensional accuracy and assembly quality of the feed hopper, leading to out-of-tolerance assembly clearances or even making assembly impossible.

[0004] To address the welding deformation problem of thin-walled sheet metal, traditional processes often employ rigid clamping and positioning methods. This involves using rigid clamps or blocks to forcibly compress and constrain the sheet metal, limiting deformation during welding. However, while rigid clamping and positioning can restrain macroscopic deformation to some extent, it creates a rigid clamping effect at the weld joint, hindering the release of welding stress and potentially leading to residual stress and cracks after welding. Unreleased welding stress causes the sheet metal to spring back after the clamps are removed, or it may fail prematurely during subsequent use due to the superposition of residual stress and working stress.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a plasma arc welding positioning device and its application method that can flexibly support the weld during the welding process, fully release welding stress, and thus avoid deformation during thin-walled sheet metal welding. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the problem that welding stress causes sheet metal deformation in the plasma arc welding of thin-walled sheet metal in the feed hopper of existing color sorters, and that traditional rigid clamping positioning methods hinder stress release and easily generate residual stress and cracks, the present invention aims to provide a plasma arc welding positioning device and its usage method for the feed hopper of a color sorter.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper, comprising a vertical rail, several electric lifting mechanisms mounted on the vertical rail, a first electric push rod mounted on the side wall of the electric lifting mechanism, an adjustable-angle adsorption component mounted on the telescopic end of the side of the first electric push rod, an XYZ three-axis moving module mounted on the top of the vertical rail, and an inner flexible cooling component mounted on the bottom of the Z-axis transmission end of the XYZ three-axis moving module for cooling when welding against the back of the weld.

[0008] In the above technical solution, the vertical rail serves as the supporting foundation of the device, and multiple electric lifting mechanisms are arranged vertically and vertically along the height direction of the vertical rail. Each electric lifting mechanism is connected to an adsorption component via a first electric push rod, which is used to adsorb and clamp the sheet metal of the hopper. Through the lifting and lowering of the electric lifting mechanism, the extension and retraction of the first electric push rod, and the angle adjustment of the adsorption component, the sheet metal of the hopper can be positioned in space with multiple degrees of freedom, thereby precisely controlling the docking angle and fitting gap of the two sheet metal pieces of the hopper. The XYZ three-axis moving module is set at the top of the vertical rail, which can drive the flexible cooling component of the inner lining to move in three directions in space, allowing the flexible cooling component of the inner lining to extend into the narrow space inside the hopper and fit against the back of the weld for cooling during welding. The flexible cooling component of the inner lining uses a flexible material to fit against the back of the weld, which not only achieves rapid cooling and heat dissipation of the weld, but also does not create a rigid clamping effect on the weld, thereby fully releasing welding stress and reducing sheet metal deformation.

[0009] Preferably, the side wall of the vertical rail is provided with teeth, and the electric lifting mechanism includes a U-shaped block that is slidably sleeved on the outer wall of the vertical rail. A first motor is mounted on the side wall of the U-shaped block, and a first gear disposed inside the U-shaped block is shaft-connected to the output end of the first motor. The first gear meshes with the teeth. In this structure, the U-shaped block sleeved on the outer wall of the vertical rail forms a sliding guide. The first motor drives the first gear to rotate, and the first gear meshes with the teeth on the side wall of the vertical rail, realizing precise lifting and lowering of the U-shaped block along the vertical rail. The lifting position accuracy is high, and it has good self-locking performance.

[0010] Preferably, the adsorption assembly includes a second motor fixedly mounted on the telescopic end of the first electric push rod. A movable block is shaft-connected to the output end of the second motor. A rectangular plate is fixedly mounted on the end of the movable block. Several mounting holes are formed on the side wall of the rectangular plate, and cylinders are fixedly mounted inside the mounting holes. Electric suction cups are fixedly mounted on the telescopic ends of the cylinders. In this structure, the second motor drives the movable block to rotate, adjusting the adsorption angle of the rectangular plate and the electric suction cups on it. Multiple cylinders drive multiple electric suction cups to extend and retract, adapting to sheet metal surfaces of hoppers with different curvatures and shapes, achieving reliable multi-point adsorption with uniform adsorption force distribution, and preventing localized deformation of the sheet metal during adsorption and positioning.

[0011] Preferably, the flexible cooling assembly includes a third motor fixedly mounted at the bottom of the Z-axis transmission end of the XYZ three-axis moving module. A second electric push rod is shaft-connected to the output end of the third motor. A rectangular plate is fixedly connected to the telescopic end of the second electric push rod. Two rotating shafts rotatably pass through the side wall of the rectangular plate. Two meshing second gears are fixedly sleeved on the outer walls of the two rotating shafts. Two symmetrically arranged support rods are fixedly mounted on the outer walls of the two second gears. A fourth motor is fixedly mounted on the side wall of the rectangular plate. The output end of the fourth motor is shaft-connected to the end of one of the rotating shafts. Flexible components are mounted on the ends of the two support rods. The third motor adjusts the angle of the second electric push rod so that the telescopic rod of the second electric push rod is located on the centerline of the angle formed by the weld joints of the two hopper sheet metal parts. The fourth motor adjusts the angle of the two support rods through the two second gears so that the two support rods are perpendicular to the two hopper sheet metal parts. In this structure, two second gears mesh with each other. When the fourth motor drives one of the shafts to rotate, the two support rods swing synchronously in opposite directions and symmetrically, thereby precisely controlling the opening and closing angles of the two support rods so that the two support rods are perpendicular to the inner sidewalls of the two hopper sheet metals, ensuring that the flexible components can be completely covered and pressed against the inner sidewalls of the hopper sheet metals.

[0012] Preferably, the flexible component includes two rectangular blocks fixedly mounted to the ends of two support rods. Each rectangular block has an internal mounting groove and a groove at its bottom communicating with the mounting groove. A micro-motor is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the mounting groove, and a winding wheel is shaft-connected to the output end of the micro-motor. A support roller is rotatably mounted below the groove where the mounting groove and the groove communicate. A graphene-based flexible film is wound onto the two winding wheels located on the two rectangular blocks. The graphene-based flexible film passes through the groove and is supported on the outer wall of the support roller. The bottom of the graphene-based flexible film is flush with the bottom of the rectangular blocks. The two support rods are perpendicular to the two hopper sheet metals, ensuring that the bottom of the rectangular blocks is completely pressed against the inner wall of the hopper sheet metal. When adjusting the opening and closing angle of the two support rods, the micro-motor is driven synchronously, causing the two winding wheels to simultaneously release or wind up the graphene-based flexible film. In this structure, the graphene-based flexible film has good thermal conductivity and flexibility, allowing it to adhere to the back of the weld, rapidly dissipating the heat generated during welding and achieving efficient cooling of the back of the weld. The bottom of the graphene-based flexible film is flush with the bottom of the rectangular block, allowing it to fit snugly against the back of the weld when the rectangular block is attached to the inner wall of the sheet metal. As the opening and closing angle of the support rod changes, the winding wheel simultaneously releases or winds up the film, ensuring it maintains appropriate tension and preventing it from becoming loose or overly tensile.

[0013] Preferably, the rectangular block has an angled opening on the side closest to the graphene-based flexible film, with the opening tilted towards the film. A rectangular groove is formed on the sidewall of the rectangular block away from the opening, connected to the opening via an air duct. A cooler is installed inside one of the grooves, its outlet directing cool air towards the opening. After being guided by the opening, the cool air is blown onto the graphene-based flexible film, and then sequentially passes through the opening and groove on the other rectangular block. In this structure, the cool air generated by the cooler is guided by the rectangular groove, air duct, and opening to the surface of the graphene-based flexible film, providing forced cooling and enhancing its heat dissipation capacity. The cool air flows sequentially through the openings and grooves of the two rectangular blocks, forming a complete cooling airflow circulation, improving cooling efficiency.

[0014] Preferably, a U-shaped rubber is fixedly connected between the two rectangular blocks. The U-shaped end face of the U-shaped rubber is sealed to the side wall of the rectangular block. The open end face of the U-shaped rubber is elastically pressed against the top surface of the graphene-based flexible film. A pressure rod is fixedly connected to the middle of the graphene-based flexible film inside the U-shaped rubber. The two ends of the pressure rod are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the U-shaped rubber. A third electric push rod is fixedly installed at the center of the top of the U-shaped rubber. The bottom of the telescopic end of the third electric push rod is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the pressure rod. A connecting rod is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the telescopic rod of the third electric push rod. The two ends of the connecting rod are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the U-shaped rubber. The third electric actuator drives its telescopic rod, pressing the graphene-based flexible film at the pressure rod against the gap on the back of the weld. The top of the U-shaped rubber is supported, and the graphene-based flexible films on both sides of the pressure rod remain perpendicular to the sidewalls of the rectangular block. Simultaneously, the sidewalls of the U-shaped rubber at all connecting rods and the pressure rod also remain perpendicular to the sidewalls of the rectangular block. This ensures that the open end face below the U-shaped rubber maintains a good elastic fit with the top surface of the graphene-based flexible film, preventing significant air leakage, or even eliminating air leakage altogether. In this structure, the U-shaped rubber, supported by the pressure rod and connecting rods, forms a flexible sealing cover over the graphene-based flexible film. The third electric actuator drives the pressure rod to press the middle of the film against the gap on the back of the weld, ensuring full adhesion between the film and the back of the weld. Simultaneously, the open end face below the U-shaped rubber remains elastically fitted against the top surface of the film, ensuring the sealing of the cooling air duct and preventing cooling air leakage from the top surface of the film, ensuring that the cold air is concentrated on the weld area.

[0015] A method for using a plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper includes the following steps: S1. Two suction components of two electric lifting mechanisms suction a piece of hopper sheet metal. By adjusting the lifting height of the two electric lifting mechanisms, the length of the extension end of the first electric push rod, and the angle of the suction components, the spatial posture of the hopper sheet metal can be adjusted. S2. The two adsorption components of the other two electric lifting mechanisms adsorb another piece of hopper sheet metal. By adjusting the lifting height of the two electric lifting mechanisms, the length of the extension end of the first electric push rod, and the angle of the adsorption components, the spatial posture of the hopper sheet metal can be adjusted. S3. By using the electric lifting mechanism to lift and lower, the weld seams of the sheet metal of the two hoppers are aligned and fitted together. S4. Adjust the position of the flexible cooling component of the inner lining by using the XYZ three-axis moving module, and the flexible cooling component of the inner lining fits against the back of the weld. S5. Plasma arc welding is used to weld the sheet metal seams of the two hoppers. At the same time, the flexible cooling component inside absorbs the heat during welding, which makes the weld seam cool down quickly. Due to the adhesion of the flexible material, there is no hard clamping of the weld seam, which can release the stress during welding.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects achieved by the present invention are as follows: 1. This invention uses flexible material to adhere to the back of the weld, which is different from the traditional rigid clamping and positioning method. The flexible adhesion does not create a hard clamp on the weld, allowing the welding stress to be fully released. This fundamentally solves the problems of welding stress causing deformation of thin-walled sheet metal and rigid clamping hindering stress release, resulting in residual stress and cracks. It significantly improves the dimensional accuracy and assembly quality of the feed hopper.

[0017] 2. This invention employs a flexible cooling component with an inner lining that is attached to the back of the weld for cooling. The graphene-based flexible film has excellent thermal conductivity, enabling it to rapidly dissipate the high heat generated by plasma arc welding, achieving efficient heat dissipation on the back of the weld. This effectively prevents oxidation and grain coarsening on the back of the weld, improving its mechanical properties. Simultaneously, the forced air cooling formed by the angled airflow from the cold air blower further enhances the cooling effect.

[0018] 3. This invention achieves precise adjustment of the hopper sheet metal in multiple degrees of freedom, such as lifting, extension, and angle, through the coordinated operation of multiple electric lifting mechanisms, the first electric push rod, and the adsorption component. The docking angle and fitting gap of the two hopper sheet metals can be precisely controlled, which fundamentally solves the problems of poor accuracy, misalignment, and warping caused by traditional manual positioning, and significantly improves the quality and consistency of weld formation.

[0019] 4. By adjusting the lifting position of the electric lifting mechanism on the vertical rail, the rectangular plate of the adsorption component and the rectangular block of the flexible component are aligned on both sides of the sheet metal. This allows the outer side of the sheet metal to be evenly adsorbed by the rectangular plate and the inner side to be evenly adhered to by the rectangular block, achieving uniform clamping on both sides of the sheet metal. This avoids tilting and uneven local stress caused by inconsistent clamping positions on both sides of the sheet metal, further improving the alignment accuracy and forming quality of the weld.

[0020] 5. The present invention enables the flexible cooling component of the inner lining to adapt to the included angle formed by the weld joint of the two hopper sheet metals through the linkage adjustment of the third motor, the second electric push rod and the fourth motor. The flexible component always maintains a vertical fit with the inner side wall of the sheet metal, adapting to the welding requirements of sheet metals of feed hoppers with different included angles and shapes, and has strong versatility.

[0021] 6. The present invention uses a flexible sealing structure composed of a U-shaped rubber, a pressure rod, a connecting rod and a third electric push rod to ensure that the graphene-based flexible film is fully bonded to the back of the weld while maintaining good airtightness. The cooling air is concentrated on the weld area, avoiding cooling air leakage, improving cooling efficiency and reducing energy consumption. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the vertical rail and the electric lifting mechanism of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the adsorption component of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the rectangular plate portion in the adsorption assembly of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the support rod of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the second gear transmission part of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the flexible component of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the graphene-based flexible film perpendicular to the rectangular block when the flexible component of the present invention is in operation.

[0023] In the diagram: 1. Vertical rail; 11. Gear; 2. Electric lifting mechanism; 21. U-shaped block; 22. First motor; 23. First gear; 3. First electric push rod; 4. Adsorption assembly; 41. Second motor; 42. Movable block; 43. Rectangular plate; 44. Mounting hole; 45. Cylinder; 46. Electric suction cup; 5. Flexible cooling lining assembly; 51. Third motor; 52. Second electric push rod; 53. Rectangular plate; 54. Rotating shaft; 55. 56. Second gear; 57. Fourth motor; 58. Flexible component; 59. Support rod; 50. Rectangular block; 51. Mounting slot; 52. Groove; 53. Recess; 54. Winding wheel; 55. Support roller; 56. Graphene-based flexible film; 577. Slanted opening; 578. Rectangular groove; 579. U-shaped rubber; 580. Pressure rod; 581. Third electric push rod; 582. Connecting rod; 583. Air cooler; 6. XYZ three-axis moving module. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification.

[0025] Please see Figures 1 to 8 It should be understood that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., illustrated in the accompanying drawings of this specification are only for the purpose of assisting those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed herein, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which the present invention can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportional relationships, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and objectives that the present invention can produce, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed herein. Furthermore, the terms used in this specification, such as "above," "below," "left," "right," "front," "back," "middle," and "one," are only for clarity of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, should also be considered within the scope of the present invention.

[0026] This invention provides a technical solution: a plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper, the main body of the device including a vertical rail 1, several electric lifting mechanisms 2, a first electric push rod 3, an adsorption component 4, an inner flexible cooling component 5, and an XYZ three-axis moving module 6.

[0027] The vertical rail 1 and its equipped structure can be configured in multiple sets for positioning sheet metal on the four sides of the color sorter feed hopper.

[0028] The vertical rail 1 is a vertically installed column, and a row of teeth 11 is opened on its side wall along the height direction. Several electric lifting mechanisms 2 are installed on the vertical rail 1, and the electric lifting mechanisms 2 can be raised and lowered along the height direction of the vertical rail 1.

[0029] The electric lifting mechanism 2 includes a U-shaped block 21, a first motor 22, and a first gear 23. The U-shaped block 21 is U-shaped and slidably fitted onto the outer wall of the vertical rail 1, forming a sliding guide engagement with the vertical rail 1. The first motor 22 is fixedly mounted on the side wall of the U-shaped block 21, and its output shaft extends into the U-shaped block 21 and is shaft-connected to the first gear 23. The first gear 23 meshes with the teeth 11 on the side wall of the vertical rail 1. When the first motor 22 drives the first gear 23 to rotate, the first gear 23 rolls along the teeth 11, thereby driving the U-shaped block 21 and its components to rise and fall along the vertical rail 1. The gear meshing transmission provides precise lifting position and good self-locking properties.

[0030] Each electric lifting mechanism 2 has a first electric push rod 3 installed on the side wall of the U-shaped block 21. The first electric push rod 3 extends and retracts in the horizontal direction. An adsorption assembly 4 is installed at the extension end of the first electric push rod 3.

[0031] The adsorption assembly 4 includes a second motor 41, a movable block 42, a rectangular plate 43, mounting holes 44, a cylinder 45, and an electric suction cup 46. The second motor 41 is fixedly mounted on the telescopic end of the first electric push rod 3. The output shaft of the second motor 41 is connected to the movable block 42, driving the movable block 42 to rotate around a horizontal axis. A rectangular plate 43 is fixedly mounted on the end of the movable block 42. Several mounting holes 44 are provided on the side wall of the rectangular plate 43, and a cylinder 45 is fixedly mounted in each mounting hole 44. The telescopic end of the cylinder 45 is fixedly mounted with the electric suction cup 46. The second motor 41 drives the movable block 42 to rotate, adjusting the adsorption angle of the rectangular plate 43 and the electric suction cup 46. Each cylinder 45 extends and retracts independently, allowing the electric suction cup 46 to adapt to sheet metal surfaces with different curvatures, achieving reliable multi-point adsorption.

[0032] The flexible cooling assembly 5 is installed at the bottom of the Z-axis drive end of the XYZ three-axis moving module 6. The XYZ three-axis moving module 6 is a conventional three-axis linear moving module, which can drive the flexible cooling assembly 5 to move and position in the X, Y, and Z directions in space. The flexible cooling assembly 5 includes a third motor 51, a second electric push rod 52, a rectangular plate 53, a rotating shaft 54, a second gear 55, a fourth motor 56, a flexible component 57, and a support rod 58.

[0033] The third motor 51 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the Z-axis transmission end of the XYZ three-axis moving module 6. Its output shaft is shaft-connected to the second electric push rod 52. The third motor 51 can drive the second electric push rod 52 to swing and adjust the angle. The telescopic end of the second electric push rod 52 is fixedly connected to a rectangular plate 53. Two rotating shafts 54 are rotatably connected to the side wall of the rectangular plate 53. Two meshing second gears 55 are fixedly sleeved on the outer walls of the two rotating shafts 54. Two symmetrically arranged support rods 58 are fixedly installed on the outer walls of the two second gears 55 respectively. The fourth motor 56 is fixedly installed on the side wall of the rectangular plate 53. Its output end is shaft-connected to the end of one of the rotating shafts 54. When the fourth motor 56 drives the rotating shaft 54 ​​to rotate, the two meshing second gears 55 drive the two support rods 58 to swing synchronously and symmetrically in opposite directions, thereby adjusting the opening and closing angle of the two support rods 58.

[0034] Flexible component 57 is mounted at the ends of two support rods 58. Flexible component 57 includes a rectangular block 571, a mounting groove 572, a recess 573, a take-up roller 574, a support roller 575, and a graphene-based flexible film 576. A rectangular block 571 is fixedly mounted at the ends of each of the two support rods 58. The mounting groove 572 is formed inside each rectangular block 571, and a recess 573 communicating with the mounting groove 572 is formed at the bottom of the rectangular block 571. A micromotor (not shown) is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the mounting groove 572, and the output shaft of the micromotor receives the take-up roller 574. The support roller 575 is rotatably mounted below the junction of the mounting groove 572 and the recess 573. A graphene-based flexible film 576 is wound together on two take-up rollers 574 in two rectangular blocks 571. The graphene-based flexible film 576 passes through the connection between the mounting groove 572 and the recess 573 and is supported on the outer wall of the support roller 575, with its bottom flush with the bottom of the rectangular block 571. When adjusting the opening and closing angle of the two support rods 58, the micro motor is driven synchronously, causing the two take-up rollers 574 to release or rewind the graphene-based flexible film 576 simultaneously, ensuring that the film always maintains appropriate tension.

[0035] A rectangular block 571 has a slanted opening 577 on the side closest to the graphene-based flexible film 576, with the opening 577 tilted towards the graphene-based flexible film 576. A rectangular groove 578 is formed on the sidewall of the rectangular block 571 away from the slanted opening 577, and the rectangular groove 578 is connected to the slanted opening 577 via an air duct. A cooler 583 is installed inside one of the rectangular grooves 578, and its outlet directs cool air towards the slanted opening 577. The cool air is guided by the slanted opening 577 and blown towards the graphene-based flexible film 576, then sequentially passes through the slanted opening 577 and the rectangular groove 578 on the other rectangular block 571, forming a complete cooling airflow path.

[0036] A U-shaped rubber 579 is fixedly connected between two rectangular blocks 571. The U-shaped end face of the U-shaped rubber 579 is sealed to the side wall of the rectangular block 571, and the open end face at the bottom of the U-shaped rubber 579 elastically abuts against the top surface of the graphene-based flexible film 576. A pressure rod 580 is fixedly connected to the center of the graphene-based flexible film 576 inside the U-shaped rubber 579. Both ends of the pressure rod 580 are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the U-shaped rubber 579. A third electric push rod 581 is fixedly installed at the center of the top of the U-shaped rubber 579. The bottom of the telescopic end of the third electric push rod 581 is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the pressure rod 580. A connecting rod 582 is fixedly threaded through the outer wall of the telescopic rod of the third electric push rod 581. Both ends of the connecting rod 582 are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the U-shaped rubber 579.

[0037] A method for using a plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper, comprising the following steps: S1. Positioning of the first hopper sheet metal: The electric suction cups 46 of the two suction components 4 of the two electric lifting mechanisms 2 adsorb the first hopper sheet metal. The electric lifting mechanism 2 is driven to rise and fall along the vertical rail 1 by the first motor 22, the length of the telescopic end of the first electric push rod 3 is adjusted, and the movable block 42 is driven to rotate by the second motor 41 to adjust the angle of the suction component 4, thereby precisely adjusting the spatial posture of the hopper sheet metal.

[0038] S2, Positioning of the second hopper sheet metal: The two adsorption components 4 of the other two electric lifting mechanisms 2 adsorb the second hopper sheet metal, and adjust the spatial posture of the hopper sheet metal in the same way as S1.

[0039] S3. Weld alignment: By adjusting the lifting and lowering mechanism 2 and the posture of the adsorption component 4, the weld seams of the two hopper sheet metals are precisely aligned and fitted together, so that the two sheet metals are joined to form the required angle.

[0040] S4. Cooling component positioning: The flexible cooling component 5 is moved to the weld position by the XYZ three-axis moving module 6. The third motor 51 adjusts the angle of the second electric push rod 52 so that the telescopic rod of the second electric push rod 52 is located on the center line of the angle formed by the weld joint of the two hopper sheet metals. The fourth motor 56 adjusts the opening and closing angle of the two support rods 58 through the two second gears 55 so that the two support rods 58 are perpendicular to the two hopper sheet metals respectively, thereby driving the bottom of the two rectangular blocks 571 to completely cover and press against the inner side wall of the hopper sheet metal, and the graphene-based flexible film 576 adheres to the back of the weld.

[0041] S5. Welding and Cooling: Plasma arc welding is used to weld the seams of the two hopper sheet metal pieces. During welding, the graphene-based flexible film 576 of the flexible cooling component 5 adheres to the back of the weld seam, rapidly dissipating welding heat. Simultaneously, the cooling fan 583 blows cool air onto the graphene-based flexible film 576 through the inclined nozzle 577, enhancing cooling. The third electric push rod 581 drives the pressure rod 580, causing the graphene-based flexible film 576 at the pressure rod 580 to press firmly against the gap on the back of the weld seam. The open end face below the U-shaped rubber 579 maintains elastic contact with the top surface of the film, ensuring a sealed cooling airflow channel. Because the graphene-based flexible film 576 is a flexible material, it does not create a rigid contact when adhering to the back of the weld seam, allowing welding stress to be fully released and effectively preventing sheet metal deformation. After the weld seam rapidly cools and solidifies, welding is complete, and the device resets to enter the next welding cycle.

[0042] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Anyone skilled in the art can modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the number of electric lifting mechanisms can be flexibly increased or decreased according to the size and shape of the hopper sheet metal; the number and arrangement of electric suction cups in the adsorption assembly can be adjusted according to the surface shape of the sheet metal; the graphene-based flexible film can be replaced with other film materials with good thermal conductivity and flexibility; the air cooler can be replaced with other air-cooled or liquid-cooled cooling sources. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed in this invention should still be covered by the claims of this invention.

Claims

1. A plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper and its usage method, comprising a vertical rail (1), characterized in that: Several electric lifting mechanisms (2) are installed on the vertical rail (1). A first electric push rod (3) is installed on the side wall of the electric lifting mechanism (2). An adjustable angle adsorption component (4) is installed on the telescopic end of the side of the first electric push rod (3). An XYZ three-axis moving module (6) is installed on the top of the vertical rail (1). An inner flexible cooling component (5) is installed at the bottom of the Z-axis transmission end of the XYZ three-axis moving module (6) for cooling when welding the back of the weld.

2. The plasma arc welding positioning device for the feed hopper of a color sorter and its method of use according to claim 1, characterized in that: The side wall of the vertical rail (1) is provided with teeth (11). The electric lifting mechanism (2) includes a U-shaped block (21) that is slidably sleeved on the outer wall of the vertical rail (1). A first motor (22) is installed on the side wall of the U-shaped block (21). The output end of the first motor (22) is shaft-connected to a first gear (23) disposed inside the U-shaped block (21). The first gear (23) meshes with the teeth (11).

3. The plasma arc welding positioning device for the feed hopper of a color sorter and its method of use according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adsorption assembly (4) includes a second motor (41) fixedly installed at the telescopic end of the first electric push rod (3). The output end of the second motor (41) is connected to a movable block (42). A rectangular plate (43) is fixedly installed at the end of the movable block (42). Several mounting holes (44) are opened on the side wall of the rectangular plate (43). A cylinder (45) is fixedly installed inside the mounting hole (44). An electric suction cup (46) is fixedly installed at the telescopic end of the cylinder (45).

4. The plasma arc welding positioning device for the feed hopper of a color sorter and its method of use according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner lining flexible cooling assembly (5) includes a third motor (51) fixedly installed at the bottom of the Z-axis transmission end of the XYZ three-axis moving module (6). The output end of the third motor (51) is axially connected to a second electric push rod (52). The telescopic end of the second electric push rod (52) is fixedly connected to a rectangular plate (53). The side wall of the rectangular plate (53) is rotatably connected to two rotating shafts (54). The outer walls of the two rotating shafts (54) are fixedly sleeved with two meshing second gears (55). The outer walls of the two second gears (55) are fixedly installed with two symmetrically arranged support rods (58). The side wall of the rectangular plate (53) is fixedly installed with a fourth motor (56). The output end of the fourth motor (56) is axially connected to the end of one of the rotating shafts (54). The ends of the two support rods (58) are equipped with flexible components (57).

5. The plasma arc welding positioning device for the feed hopper of a color sorter and its method of use according to claim 4, characterized in that: The flexible component (57) includes two rectangular blocks (571) fixedly installed at the ends of two support rods (58). The rectangular blocks (571) have an internal mounting groove (572). The bottom of each rectangular block (571) has a groove (573) communicating with the mounting groove (572). A micro-motor is fixedly installed on the inner wall of the mounting groove (572). A winding wheel (574) is shaft-connected to the output end of the micro-motor. The groove (573) is located within the mounting groove (571). 72) A support roller (575) is rotatably mounted below the groove (573). A graphene-based flexible film (576) is wound together on the two winding rollers (574) located in the two rectangular blocks (571). The graphene-based flexible film (576) passes through the mounting groove (572) and is supported on the outer wall of the support roller (575) at the connection between the groove (573). The bottom of the graphene-based flexible film (576) is flush with the bottom of the rectangular block (571).

6. The plasma arc welding positioning device for the feed hopper of a color sorter and its method of use according to claim 5, characterized in that: The rectangular block (571) has a bevel (577) on the side near the graphene-based flexible film (576). The bevel (577) is inclined toward the graphene-based flexible film (576). The rectangular block (571) has a rectangular groove (578) on the side wall away from the bevel (577). The rectangular groove (578) is connected to the bevel (577) through an air duct. A cooler (583) is installed inside one of the rectangular grooves (578). The air outlet of the cooler (583) is directed toward the bevel (577) to deliver cool air. After being guided by the bevel (577), the cool air blows toward the graphene-based flexible film (576). Then the cool air passes through the bevel (577) and the rectangular groove (578) on the other rectangular block (571) in sequence.

7. The plasma arc welding positioning device for the feed hopper of a color sorter and its method of use according to claim 6, characterized in that: A U-shaped rubber (579) is fixedly connected between the two rectangular blocks (571). The U-shaped end face of the U-shaped rubber (579) is sealed to the side wall of the rectangular block (571). The open end face of the U-shaped rubber (579) is elastically pressed against the top surface of the graphene-based flexible film (576). A pressure rod (580) is fixedly connected to the middle of the graphene-based flexible film (576) inside the U-shaped rubber (579). The two ends of the U-shaped rubber (579) are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the U-shaped rubber (579). A third electric push rod (581) is fixedly installed at the center of the top of the U-shaped rubber (579). The bottom of the telescopic end of the third electric push rod (581) is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the pressure rod (580). A connecting rod (582) is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the telescopic rod of the third electric push rod (581). The two ends of the connecting rod (582) are fixedly connected to the inner wall of the U-shaped rubber (579).

8. A method of using a plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper, employing the plasma arc welding positioning device for a color sorter feed hopper as described in any one of claims 1-7, comprising the following steps: S1. The two adsorption components (4) of the two electric lifting mechanisms (2) adsorb a piece of hopper sheet metal. The angle of the hopper sheet metal can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the telescopic ends of the two electric lifting mechanisms (2) and the angle of the adsorption components (4). S2. The two adsorption components (4) of the other two electric lifting mechanisms (2) adsorb another piece of hopper sheet metal. By adjusting the length of the telescopic ends of the two electric lifting mechanisms (2) and the angle of the adsorption components (4), the angle of the hopper sheet metal can be adjusted. S3, by lifting the electric lifting mechanism (2), the weld seams of the two hopper sheet metals are aligned and fitted together; S4, the position of the inner flexible cooling component (5) is adjusted by the XYZ three-axis moving module (6), and the inner flexible cooling component (5) fits against the back of the weld. S5, plasma arc welding is used to weld the weld seams of the sheet metal in the two hoppers. At the same time, the flexible cooling component (5) absorbs the heat during welding, which makes the weld seam cool down quickly. Due to the adhesion of the flexible material, the weld seam is not rigidly pressed, which can release the stress during welding.

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