FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism and automatic plugging device

By designing independently driven FPC clamping modules and photoinductors, precise clamping of FPCs of different sizes is solved, and the flexibility and production efficiency of existing equipment are improved.

CN223141275UActive Publication Date: 2025-07-22SUZHOU JINGLAI OPTO CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422397979.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-09-30
Publication Date
2025-07-22
Estimated Expiration
2034-09-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

When facing FPC automatic plug-in equipment in different sizes and specifications, the flexibility of the clamping module is insufficient, which affects the flexibility and efficiency of the production line.

Method used

A FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism is designed, using two sets of independent drive clamping modules with symmetrical settings, equipped with drive components and clamping components, and precise clamping is achieved through synchronous screws and photoinductors, reducing waiting time and adjustment time.

Benefits of technology

It improves the equipment's adaptability to FPCs in different sizes and shapes, reduces production waiting time, improves production line efficiency, ensures clamping accuracy and stability, and reduces the risk of mechanical failure.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides an FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism and an automatic plugging device, and the mechanism comprises an installation module which is provided with an installation hole and is cooperatively installed with a rotating mechanism on a manipulator; the linear module is fixedly connected with the bottom surface of the mounting module, and a linear rail is arranged on one side of the linear module; the two clamping modules are symmetrically arranged on the two sides of the linear module, and each clamping module independently clamps one end of the FPC; and the visual unit is arranged on the mounting module and located above the middle position of the two clamping modules. Through symmetrical arrangement and independent operation capability of the two groups of clamping modules, the mechanism can accurately and independently clamp the two ends of the FPC. The independently-controlled clamping module allows the FPC to be clamped simultaneously or quickly in sequence, and the waiting and adjusting time in the production process is shortened. According to the design, the adaptability of the clamping process is remarkably improved, the mechanism can flexibly adapt to FPCs of different sizes and shapes, and the application range of equipment is widened.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model belongs to the field of comprehensive testing of display panels, and particularly relates to an FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism and an automatic plugging device. Background Art

[0002] In the context of modern industrial automation, although the automatic plugging technology of FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) has achieved precise alignment with connectors, with the continuous demand of the manufacturing industry for improving production efficiency, the deficiencies of existing automatic plugging structures have gradually emerged, especially in scenarios where rapid adaptation to production changes and model conversions is required. In current technical practices, the automatic clamping and plugging process of FPC is usually limited by the flexibility of the clamping module. Specifically, among the two groups of clamping modules, only one group can be adjusted in position, while the other group is designed to be in a fixed position. This design restricts the adaptability of the device to FPCs of different sizes and specifications, thus affecting the flexibility and efficiency of the production line. To meet the market demand for higher production efficiency, there is an urgent need to develop a new type of automatic plugging mechanism that can significantly reduce the time for FPC plugging and optimize the switching efficiency between different models. Summary of the Utility Model

[0003] To solve all or part of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, the utility model provides an FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism and an automatic plugging device. The two groups of clamping modules driven independently allow the two ends of the FPC to be clamped simultaneously or in a fast sequential manner, reducing the waiting time in production, thereby improving the efficiency of the production line.

[0004] To achieve the above object, the utility model provides the following technical solutions:

[0005] An FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism, comprising: a mounting module, on which mounting holes are provided and which is cooperatively mounted with a rotating mechanism on a robot arm; a linear module, fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the mounting module, with a linear guide rail provided on one side; two groups of clamping modules, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the linear module, and each group of clamping modules independently clamps one end of the FPC; a vision unit, provided on the mounting module and located above the middle position between the two clamping modules. Through the symmetrical arrangement and independent operation ability of the two groups of clamping modules, the mechanism can accurately and independently clamp the two ends of the FPC. The independently controlled clamping modules allow the FPC to be clamped simultaneously or in a fast sequential manner, reducing the waiting and adjustment time during the production process. This design significantly improves the adaptability of the clamping process, enabling the mechanism to flexibly handle FPCs of different sizes and shapes, thereby expanding the application range of the device.

[0006] Each of the clamping modules includes a driving component and a clamping component. The driving component provides power to control the movement of the clamping component on the driving component. Since each clamping module is equipped with an independent driving component, they can individually adjust the position of the clamping component, thereby achieving precise clamping of the FPC.

[0007] The driving component includes a power source, a transmission member, and a synchronous lead screw that are connected. The power source provides power to the transmission member, and the transmission member transmits the power to the synchronous lead screw. The synchronous lead screw rotates to drive the movement of the clamping component. This can ensure that the power generated by the power source can be efficiently and stably transmitted to the clamping component to achieve precise control.

[0008] Mounting seats are provided at both ends of the linear module; the power source is mounted on the side of the back of the linear module, and its output end is mounted on the mounting seat; the synchronous lead screw is mounted on the side of the front of the linear module, and its input end is mounted on the mounting seat, corresponding to the output end of the power source; the transmission member connects the output end of the power source and the input end of the synchronous lead screw. The modular design of the entire driving component enables each component to be independently replaced or upgraded, facilitating future maintenance and expansion.

[0009] The clamping component includes a moving part. A guide rail slider is provided on one side of the moving part, and a clamping part is provided on the opposite side. The guide rail slider is movably mounted on the linear guide rail, and the clamping part is used to clamp one end of the FPC. The separated design of the guide rail slider and the linear guide rail makes maintenance and replacement more convenient. Especially when the slider is worn or needs to be replaced, maintenance work can be carried out quickly. The clamping part can be adjusted according to the size and shape of different FPCs to adapt to the clamping requirements of different specifications of FPCs.

[0010] An installation through hole is provided on the moving part, and an internal thread is provided in the installation through hole, which is matched with the forward and reverse thread of the synchronous lead screw. The moving part is mounted on the synchronous lead screw through the installation through hole. The design of the forward and reverse thread allows the moving part to move bidirectionally on the synchronous lead screw, providing a greater adjustment range and flexibility to adapt to different clamping requirements.

[0011] The output end of the power source transmits power to the transmission member and the synchronous lead screw. The moving part moves on the synchronous lead screw as the synchronous lead screw rotates, and drives the clamping component to move along the linear guide rail. This design allows the clamping component to quickly adjust its position when needed to adapt to FPCs of different sizes and shapes.

[0012] It also includes two sets of symmetrically arranged sensing devices. Each set of the sensing devices includes a sensing piece disposed on the clamping assembly and a sensor disposed on the mounting module, and the sensing piece is matched with the sensor. The sensor provides real-time feedback, enabling the control system to precisely control the movement of the clamping assembly and improving the response speed and operation accuracy of the mechanism.

[0013] The sensing piece is mounted above the moving part; the sensing piece is an occlusion piece, and the sensor is a photoelectric inductor. The photoelectric inductor is sensitive to the occlusion of the occlusion piece and can precisely detect the position of the moving part.

[0014] The present utility model also provides an automatic plugging device, and the manipulator in the automatic plugging device adopts the above-mentioned FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism. By integrating the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism, it can adapt to FPCs of different sizes and shapes, enabling the automatic plugging device to quickly switch machine types and resume production in a multi-variety and small-batch production mode, thereby improving production efficiency and the utilization rate of the production line.

[0015] The present utility model has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0016] 1) Through two sets of independently adjustable clamping modules, the present utility model can precisely clamp FPCs of different sizes and shapes, significantly improving the adaptability and flexibility of the automatic plugging device. The independently driven clamping modules allow the two ends of the FPC to be clamped simultaneously or in a fast sequential manner, reducing the waiting time in production, thereby improving the efficiency of the production line. The cooperation between the photoelectric inductor and the occlusion piece provides precise position detection, ensuring the fast and accurate response of the clamping assembly and further optimizing the production process.

[0017] 2) The precise thread fit and the design of the synchronous lead screw ensure the smooth movement and precise positioning of the clamping assembly, improving the accuracy of FPC plugging. The modular design of the drive component is easy to maintain and replace, reducing the risk of mechanical failures and enhancing the reliability and stability of the device. The real-time feedback mechanism of the sensing device enables the control system to timely adjust the clamping force and position, ensuring the stability of the clamping process and reducing operation errors. Description of the Drawings

[0018] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of the present utility model, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the following described drawings are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and those of ordinary skill in the art can also obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative efforts.

[0019] Figure 1This is a schematic structural diagram of the manipulator and the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism in Embodiment 1 of the present utility model.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism in the first perspective in Embodiment 1 of the present utility model.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram of the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism in the second perspective in Embodiment 1 of the present utility model.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a partial schematic structural diagram of the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism in Embodiment 1 of the present utility model.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic structural diagram of an automatic plugging device in Embodiment 2 of the present utility model.

[0024] Reference numerals: 1 - mounting module; 2 - linear module; 21 - linear guide; 3 - clamping module; 31 - driving component; 311 - power source; 312 - transmission part; 313 - synchronous lead screw; 32 - clamping component; 321 - moving part; 322 - guide rail slider; 323 - clamping part; 4 - vision unit; 5 - sensing device; 6 - manipulator. Detailed implementation manners

[0025] Next, the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of the present utility model will be described clearly and completely. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present utility model, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0026] The implementation of the present utility model will be described in detail below in combination with specific embodiments.

[0027] Embodiment 1

[0028] In the embodiment of the present utility model, with reference to Figures 1 - 4As shown, a FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism is provided, which mainly includes the following parts: a mounting module 1, a linear module 2, a clamping module 3, and a vision unit 4. The mounting module 1 is designed with dedicated mounting holes that match the rotating mechanism of the manipulator 6 to achieve precise installation. The linear module 2 is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the mounting module 1. One side of the linear module 2 is equipped with a linear rail 21 for guiding the movement of the clamping module 3. This opening and closing mechanism is provided with two groups of clamping modules 3, which are arranged symmetrically on both sides of the linear module 2. Each group of clamping modules 3 has the ability to operate independently and can precisely clamp one end of the FPC to ensure the flexibility and reliability of the operation. To further improve the operation accuracy, a vision unit 4 is provided above the mounting module 1. It is located in the middle of the two groups of clamping modules 3 and is responsible for monitoring the entire clamping process to ensure the precise positioning and operation of the FPC. The operation of the entire opening and closing mechanism is coordinated and managed by an integrated control system to ensure the stability and efficiency of the entire clamping process.

[0029] In this embodiment, each group of clamping modules 3 includes a driving component 31 and a clamping component 32. The main function of the driving component 31 is to provide stable power to ensure that the clamping component 32 can move precisely along the set path. The driving component 31 consists of three main parts: a power source 311, a transmission part 312, and a synchronous lead screw 313. Through precise connection and coordination, they jointly ensure the efficient and accurate operation of the clamping component 32. The power source 311 is a driving motor responsible for generating the necessary power. The power is transmitted from the output end of the power source 311 to the transmission part 312, and then through the transmission of the transmission part 312, the power is delivered to the synchronous lead screw 313. The rotational movement of the synchronous lead screw 313 directly drives the clamping component 32 to achieve precise control of its position. Mounting seats are provided at both ends of the linear module 2 to fix and support the power source 311 and the synchronous lead screw 313. The power source 311 is installed on the back side edge of the linear module 2, and its output end is connected to the mounting seat. The synchronous lead screw 313 is installed on the front side edge of the linear module 2, and its input end is also installed on the mounting seat, corresponding precisely to the output end of the power source 311. The transmission part 312 is responsible for connecting the output end of the power source 311 and the input end of the synchronous lead screw 313 to form a closed-loop power transmission circuit to ensure the efficient transmission of power.

[0030] The clamping assembly 32 includes a moving part 321 and a clamping part 323. One end of the moving part 321 is equipped with guide rail sliders 322, which can smoothly move along the linear guide 21, ensuring the smooth operation of the clamping assembly 32. The other end opposite to the guide rail sliders 322 is the clamping part 323, which is specifically used to firmly clamp one end of the FPC for precise operation. To achieve precise cooperation with the synchronous lead screw 313, mounting through holes are designed on the moving part 321, and internal threads are provided in these through holes. These internal threads perfectly match the positive and negative thread of the synchronous lead screw 313, enabling the moving part 321 to be movably mounted on the synchronous lead screw 313 through the mounting through holes. This design not only ensures the structural stability but also facilitates assembly and maintenance. The power source 311 transmits power through its output end to the transmission part 312, and the transmission part 312 then drives the synchronous lead screw 313 to rotate. As the synchronous lead screw 313 rotates, it drives the moving part 321 to move along its axis, and this action drives the clamping assembly 32 to make precise position adjustments along the linear guide 21. This power transmission mechanism not only improves the response speed of the clamping assembly 32 but also ensures the accuracy and reliability of the operation.

[0031] In addition, this opening and closing mechanism also integrates two groups of induction devices 5 arranged symmetrically, which are crucial for ensuring the accuracy of operation and improving the intelligence of the overall system. Each group of induction devices 5 consists of an induction piece on the clamping assembly 32 and a sensor on the mounting module 1, and they cooperate with each other to achieve precise detection. In this embodiment, the induction piece is installed above the moving part 321 in the form of a shielding piece, and the sensor uses a photoelectric inductor. This highly sensitive sensor can accurately capture the signal from the induction piece, thereby realizing real-time monitoring of the position and state of the clamping assembly 32.

[0032] Embodiment 2

[0033] The present utility model also provides an automatic plugging device. With reference to Figure 5 as shown, the manipulator 6 in this device adopts the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism described in Embodiment 1, which not only improves the automatic plugging efficiency of the device but also reduces the technical requirements for operators of the device, thereby improving the overall production yield and market competitiveness.

[0034] The plugging process of the automatic plugging device includes the following steps: 1) The manipulator 6 moves the independent automatic opening and closing mechanism to the preset working position, and uses the vision unit 4 to identify and position the FPC placed on the feeding platform; 2) The two groups of clamping modules 3 operate independently through their respective drive components 31. The drive component 31 adjusts the clamping component 32 to the optimal position. At the same time, the sensing device 5 works in coordination with the moving part 321 on the synchronous lead screw 313 to ensure that the moving part 321 can move to the exact distance suitable for FPC clamping; 3) After the clamping component 32 reaches the appropriate position, precise clamping of the FPC is performed.

[0035] The present utility model has made innovative improvements on the basis of the prior art. Through the addition of two carefully designed drive components 31, the independent operation of the left and right clamping components 32 is realized without changing the existing clamping logic. This innovative structural design greatly improves the working efficiency of the automatic plugging device. Especially when dealing with multi-variety and small-batch production tasks, the device can quickly perform model switching and machine restart operations. In addition, the present utility model simplifies the operation process, reduces the need for the technical expertise of operators, and thus reduces the operation difficulty. These improvements not only improve production efficiency but also enhance the market adaptability and competitiveness of the device.

[0036] Generally speaking, the present utility model provides a more flexible and efficient FPC automatic plugging solution for the automated production line, meeting the growing demand of modern manufacturing for automation technology.

[0037] It should be noted that for those of ordinary skill in the art of this technology, without departing from the principle of the present utility model, several improvements and modifications can still be made to the present utility model, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the scope of protection of the claims of the present utility model.

Claims

1. An FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism, characterized in that, Comprising: An installation module (1) with installation holes thereon, which is installed in cooperation with the rotating mechanism on the manipulator (6); A linear module (2) fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the installation module (1), with a linear guide (21) provided on one side; Two groups of clamping modules (3) symmetrically arranged on both sides of the linear module (2), and each group of the clamping modules (3) independently clamps one end of the FPC; A vision unit (4) arranged on the installation module (1), above the middle position between the two clamping modules (3).

2. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that Each group of the clamping modules (3) includes a driving component (31) and a clamping component (32), and the driving component (31) provides power to control the clamping component (32) to move on the driving component (31).

3. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 2, wherein, The driving component (31) includes a power source (311), a transmission member (312) and a synchronous lead screw (313) connected to each other. The power source (311) provides power to the transmission member (312), the transmission member (312) transmits the power to the synchronous lead screw (313), and the synchronous lead screw (313) rotates to drive the clamping component (32) to move.

4. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, Mounting seats are arranged at both ends of the linear module (2); the power source (311) is installed on the side of the back surface of the linear module (2), and its output end is installed on the mounting seat; the synchronous lead screw (313) is installed on the side of the front surface of the linear module (2), and its input end is installed on the mounting seat, corresponding to the output end of the power source (311); the transmission member (312) connects the output end of the power source (311) and the input end of the synchronous lead screw (313).

5. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The clamping component (32) includes a moving part (321), with a guide rail slider (322) arranged on one side of the moving part (321) and a clamping part (323) arranged on the opposite side. The guide rail slider (322) is movably installed on the linear guide (21), and the clamping part (323) is used to clamp one end of the FPC.

6. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, An installation through hole is provided on the moving part (321), with internal threads provided in the installation through hole, which are matched with the positive and negative threads of the synchronous lead screw (313), and the moving part (321) is installed on the synchronous lead screw (313) through the installation through hole.

7. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The output end of the power source (311) transmits power to the transmission member (312) and the synchronous lead screw (313). The moving part (321) moves on the synchronous lead screw (313) as the synchronous lead screw (313) rotates, and drives the clamping component (32) to move along the linear guide (21).

8. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 5, wherein, It further includes two groups of induction devices (5) arranged symmetrically. Each group of the induction devices (5) includes an induction sheet arranged on the clamping component (32) and a sensor arranged on the installation module (1), and the induction sheet cooperates with the sensor.

9. The opening and closing mechanism according to claim 8, wherein, The induction sheet is installed above the moving part (321); the induction sheet is an occlusion sheet, and the sensor is a photoelectric inductor.

10. An automatic plugging device, characterized in that, The manipulator (6) in the automatic plugging device adopts the FPC clamping independent automatic opening and closing mechanism described in any one of claims 1-9.

Citation Information

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