Connecting device

By designing connection devices that adapt to different models of robotic arms and industrial equipment, compatible components and signal exchange components are used to solve the complex connection problem of robotic arms and industrial equipment, achieving rapid adaptation and replacement, simplifying the operation process, and realizing integrated transmission of electrical signals and gases.

CN223261022UActive Publication Date: 2025-08-22HONGFUJIN PRECISION ELECTRONICS ZHENGZHOU
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422324132.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-09-23
Publication Date
2025-08-22
Estimated Expiration
2034-09-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Different models of robotic arms and industrial equipment have different signals input and output methods, resulting in complex connections and cumbersome operational processes, especially when re-wiring is required when replacing robotic arms or industrial equipment.

Method used

A connection device is provided, including a cabinet, a signal transmission mechanism and a gas transmission mechanism. A multiple connector is provided in the cabinet. The signal transmission mechanism is adapted to different models of robotic arms and industrial equipment through compatible components and signal exchange components. The gas transmission mechanism realizes gas supply and extraction, simplifying the connection process.

Benefits of technology

It realizes rapid adaptation and replacement of different models of robotic arms and industrial equipment, reduces the process of re-wiring, improves the convenience of connection and replacement, and realizes the integrated transmission of electrical signals and gases.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides a connecting device which is used for being connected with mechanical arms and industrial equipment, the industrial equipment is used for conveying, machining or detecting products, the connecting device comprises a cabinet, a first space and a second space are arranged in the cabinet, a plurality of first connectors and a plurality of second connectors are arranged on the cabinet, each first connector is used for being connected with the corresponding mechanical arm, and each second connector is used for being connected with the corresponding mechanical arm; each second connector is used for being connected with corresponding industrial equipment; the signal transmission mechanism is accommodated in the first space, and the signal transmission mechanism is connected with the plurality of first joints and the plurality of second joints; a plurality of wiring terminals are arranged on the signal transmission device, and each wiring terminal is used for being connected with the corresponding first connector, the second connector or another wiring terminal; and the gas transmission mechanism is contained in the second space, the gas transmission mechanism is used for being connected with the mechanical arm, and the gas transmission mechanism is used for connecting gas and transmitting the gas to the mechanical arm and / or enabling the gas extracted from the mechanical arm to pass through.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of automation equipment, and in particular to a connecting device. Background Art

[0002] On automated production lines, robotic arms can work with various types of industrial equipment to transport, process, and inspect products. The robotic arm needs to be connected to the industrial equipment via signal cables, allowing the industrial equipment to receive signals from the robotic arm and coordinate with it to grasp and release products. The robotic arm can also receive signals from the industrial equipment to coordinate with the industrial equipment in transporting and processing products.

[0003] Currently, different robot arm models have different signal input and output methods (for example, the voltage, pin number, and signal format of the electrical signal may vary), as well as the number of air intake and exhaust ports configured. Therefore, when deploying different robot arm models on an automated production line, different connection rules must be followed to connect the robot arm to the industrial equipment and to connect the air pipe to the robot arm, resulting in a complex operation process. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the above, it is necessary to provide a connecting device to solve the above defects.

[0005] An embodiment of the present application provides a connection device for connecting to a robotic arm and industrial equipment, the industrial equipment being used to transmit, process or detect products, the connection device comprising: a cabinet, a first space and a second space being set in the cabinet, a plurality of first connectors and a plurality of second connectors being set on the cabinet, each first connector being used to connect to a corresponding robotic arm, and each second connector being used to connect to a corresponding industrial equipment; a signal transmission mechanism, the signal transmission mechanism being accommodated in the first space, the signal transmission mechanism being connected to the plurality of first connectors and to the plurality of second connectors; a plurality of wiring terminals being arranged on the signal transmission device, each wiring terminal being used to connect to a corresponding first connector, a second connector or another wiring terminal; a gas transmission mechanism, the gas transmission mechanism being accommodated in the second space, the gas transmission mechanism being used to connect to the robotic arm, the gas transmission mechanism being used to access gas and transmit gas to the robotic arm, and / or being used to allow gas extracted from the robotic arm to pass through.

[0006] Optionally, the multiple wiring terminals include multiple compatible terminals and multiple exchange terminals, and the signal transmission mechanism includes: a first compatible component, at least some of the compatible terminals are arranged on the first compatible component; on the first compatible component, some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding first connector, and some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the second connector; a signal exchange component, the signal exchange component is located between the first compatible component and the gas transmission mechanism, and multiple exchange terminals are arranged on the signal exchange component, each exchange terminal is used to connect to the corresponding compatible terminal or the second connector; wherein the first compatible component is used to output the signal received from the first connector to the signal exchange component and / or the second connector, and output the signal received from the signal exchange component to the first connector; the signal exchange component is used to adjust the electrical parameters and / or data system of the signal received from the second connector, and output the adjusted signal to the first compatible component.

[0007] Optionally, the multiple compatible terminals include multiple first terminals and multiple second terminals, and the first compatible component includes: a first input end unit, multiple first terminals are set on the first input end unit, and each first terminal on the first input end unit is used to connect to the corresponding first connector or second connector; a first output end unit, the first output end unit is located between the first input end unit and the signal exchange component, multiple second terminals are set on the first output end unit, and each second terminal on the first output end unit is used to connect to the corresponding first connector or exchange terminal.

[0008] Optionally, the connecting device also includes: a first socket, the first socket is movably connected to the inner wall of the cabinet, the first socket is arranged between the first space and the second space, the signal exchange component is arranged on the first socket, and a first adsorption component is arranged on the side of the first socket facing the inside of the cabinet, and the first adsorption component is used to be adsorbed on the inner wall of the cabinet.

[0009] Optionally, the first space and the second space are arranged in the vertical direction, and an opening is set on one side of the cabinet in the first horizontal direction, and the vertical direction is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. The connecting device also includes: a first cabinet door, which is rotatably connected to the cabinet, and the first cabinet door is used to partially block the opening of the cabinet and to block the first space; a second cabinet door, which is rotatably connected to the cabinet, and the second cabinet door is arranged in the vertical direction with the first cabinet door, and the second cabinet door is used to partially block the opening of the cabinet and to block the second space.

[0010] Optionally, the signal transmission mechanism also includes: a second compatible component, some compatible terminals are arranged on the second compatible component, the second compatible component is arranged on the side of the first cabinet door facing the first space, on the second compatible component, some compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding first connector, some compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding second connector, and some compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding exchange terminals; wherein, the second compatible component is used to output the signal received from the robotic arm to the signal exchange component and / or the second connector, and output the signal received from the signal exchange component to the robotic arm; the signal exchange component is used to output the adjusted signal to the second compatible component.

[0011] Optionally, the connecting device also includes: a processor, which is arranged on the side of the first cabinet door facing the first space, the processor is used to connect to the robotic arm and industrial equipment, and the processor is used to monitor the working status of the robotic arm and / or industrial equipment; a display, which is arranged on the side of the first cabinet door away from the first space, the display is connected to the processor, and the processor is used to output status information to the display so that the display displays the working status of the robotic arm and industrial equipment.

[0012] Optionally, the connecting device also includes: a lighting lamp, which is arranged on the inner wall of the cabinet; a detection switch, which is connected to the lighting lamp, and is used to detect that the first cabinet door is opened and to light the lighting lamp.

[0013] Optionally, the connecting device also includes: a second receiving member, the second receiving member is movably connected to the inner wall of the cabinet, the second receiving member is arranged in the second space, the gas transmission mechanism is arranged on the second receiving member, and a second adsorption member is arranged on the side of the second receiving member facing the inside of the cabinet, and the second adsorption member is used to be adsorbed on the inner wall of the cabinet.

[0014] Optionally, the gas transmission mechanism includes: multiple positive pressure solenoid valves, each positive pressure solenoid valve is used to connect to a corresponding robotic arm, and each positive pressure solenoid valve is used to receive gas and transport gas to the robotic arm; multiple negative pressure solenoid valves, each negative pressure solenoid valve is used to connect to a corresponding robotic arm, and each negative pressure solenoid valve is used to receive gas output by the robotic arm; multiple vacuum generators, the vacuum generators are used to connect to the corresponding positive pressure solenoid valves to receive gas output by the robotic arm through the positive pressure solenoid valves; multiple negative pressure gauges, the negative pressure gauges are used to connect to the corresponding positive pressure solenoid valves or negative pressure solenoid valves to detect and display the vacuum degree corresponding to the positive pressure solenoid valves or negative pressure solenoid valves.

[0015] Through the connection device provided by this application, the staff connects the cable of the robotic arm to the first connector corresponding to the model of the robotic arm, and connects the cable of the industrial equipment to the second connector corresponding to the model of the industrial equipment, thereby realizing the communication connection between the robotic arm and the industrial equipment. The connection device can be adapted to various models of robotic arms and various models of industrial equipment. When the robotic arm or industrial equipment needs to be replaced, the staff can replace the robotic arm or industrial equipment by re-plugging the cable from the first connector or the second connector, saving the staff the process of rewiring and improving the convenience of connecting and replacing the robotic arm or industrial equipment. At the same time, the connection device can supply or extract gas to the robotic arm through the gas transmission mechanism while realizing the transmission of electrical signals between the industrial equipment and the robotic arm, thereby realizing the integration of electrical control of the robotic arm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 This is a usage scenario diagram of the connecting device in an embodiment of the present application.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a first structural diagram of the connecting device in an embodiment of the present application.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a second structural diagram of the connecting device in an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the connecting device in an embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of the first partial structure of the connecting device in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of the second partial structure of the connecting device in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the third partial structure of the connecting device in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth partial structure of the connecting device in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 9 This is a fifth partial structural diagram of the connecting device in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the sixth partial structure of the connecting device in the embodiment of the present application.

[0021] Description of main component symbols:

[0022] Connecting device 100

[0023] Robotic Arm 200

[0024] Processing unit 201

[0025] Industrial Equipment 300

[0026] Cabinet 10

[0027] First Space 11

[0028] Second Space 12

[0029] First connector 13

[0030] Second connector 14

[0031] Observation Port 15

[0032] Protective plate 16

[0033] Gas filter 17

[0034] Power connector 18

[0035] Heat sink 19

[0036] Handle 111

[0037] Switch unit 112

[0038] First cabinet door 20

[0039] Second cabinet door 30

[0040] Signal transmission mechanism 40

[0041] First compatible component 41

[0042] First input terminal unit 411

[0043] First output terminal unit 412

[0044] Second compatible component 42

[0045] Second input terminal unit 421

[0046] Second output terminal unit 422

[0047] Signal exchange component 43

[0048] Gas transmission mechanism 50

[0049] Positive pressure solenoid valve 51

[0050] Negative pressure solenoid valve 52

[0051] Vacuum generator 53

[0052] Negative pressure gauge 54

[0053] First receiving member 60

[0054] First adsorption member 61

[0055] Processor 70

[0056] Display 80

[0057] lighting 90

[0058] Detection switch 110

[0059] The second receiving member 120

[0060] The second adsorption member 121 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments.

[0062] In this application, the term "plurality" refers to two or more. In addition, it should be understood that in the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used only for the purpose of distinguishing descriptions and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or order.

[0063] In the description of the embodiments of this application, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. Rather, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0064] See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 The present invention provides a connection device 100 and its application scenarios. The connection device 100 can achieve a wired connection with a robotic arm 200 and an industrial device 300. The connection device 100 can transmit signals output by the robotic arm 200 to the industrial device 300, and vice versa, enabling the robotic arm 200 and the industrial device 300 to cooperate in processing products.

[0065] It can be understood that the industrial equipment 300 can be a device used to transmit, process or detect products during the production and processing of products.

[0066] It is understood that the robotic arm 200 is provided with a processing unit 201, which can run a preset computer program to control the movement of the robotic arm 200. The processing unit 201 can achieve a wired communication connection with the industrial equipment 300 via the connection device 100. The processing unit 201 can output a signal to the industrial equipment 300 when the robotic arm 200 needs to grasp or move a product, causing the industrial equipment 300 to stop transmitting, processing, or inspecting the product, and then the robotic arm 200 can grasp and move the product. The processing unit 201 can also output a signal to the industrial equipment 300 after moving the product into place and releasing the product, causing the industrial equipment 300 to detect, process, or inspect the product according to preset rules. Similarly, the industrial equipment 300 can output a signal to the processing unit 201 to instruct the robotic arm 200 to move or stop moving the product.

[0067] It is understood that the robotic arm 200 may be provided with a capture unit capable of sucking or grabbing the product. In the embodiments of the present application, the type of the capture unit is not specifically limited. For example, the capture unit may be, but is not limited to, a pneumatic gripper, a suction cup, or the like.

[0068] In an embodiment of the present application, the connecting device 100 can also be connected to a gas drive device (not shown), which can be in communication with the connecting device 100, and the connecting device 100 can be in communication with the pneumatic mechanism in the robotic arm 200. The gas drive device can supply and exhaust air to the robotic arm 200 through the connecting device 100, thereby enabling the cylinder, suction cup, and other mechanisms in the robotic arm 200 to continue to operate.

[0069] Please also refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 FIG. 1 shows a connection device 100 provided by the present application. The height direction of the connection device 100 can be defined as the vertical direction, the length direction as the first horizontal direction, and the width direction as the second horizontal direction. For example, the vertical direction can be Figure 2 and Figure 3 The Z direction shown, the first horizontal direction can be Figure 2 and Figure 3 The X direction shown, the second horizontal direction can be Figure 2 and Figure 3 Y direction shown.

[0070] Please also refer to Figure 4In some embodiments, the connecting device 100 may include a cabinet 10, a first cabinet door 20, and a second cabinet door 30. A first space 11 and a second space 12 are provided in the cabinet 10, and the first space 11 and the second space 12 are arranged in the vertical direction. An opening is provided on one side of the cabinet 10 in the second horizontal direction so that the first space 11 and the second space 12 can be exposed. The first cabinet door 20 and the second cabinet door 30 can both be rotatably connected to the cabinet 10, and the first cabinet door 20 and the second cabinet door 30 can cooperate to completely block the opening of the cabinet 10. The first cabinet door 20 can block the first space 11, and the second cabinet door 30 can block the second space 12.

[0071] The connection device 100 may also include a signal transmission mechanism 40 and a gas transmission mechanism 50. The signal transmission mechanism 40 may be housed in the first space 11, and the gas transmission mechanism 50 may be housed in the second space 12. The signal transmission mechanism 40 is used to transmit electrical signals between the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300; the gas transmission mechanism 50 is used to connect to the gas drive device and the robotic arm 200 to facilitate the intake and exhaust of gas within the robotic arm 200.

[0072] It is understood that a rotatable connection is achieved by a rotating connector, which allows two components to rotate relative to each other. In the embodiments of the present application, the type of rotating connector is not specifically limited. For example, the rotating connector may include, but is not limited to, a hinge, a pin, a bearing, etc.

[0073] For example, the first cabinet door 20 and the second cabinet door 30 may be hinged to one side of the cabinet 10 in the first horizontal direction by hinges, and door locks are provided on both the first cabinet door 20 and the second cabinet door 30 .

[0074] In some embodiments, the cabinet 10 is provided with a plurality of first connectors 13 on one side in the first horizontal direction and a plurality of second connectors 14 on the other side. The plurality of first connectors 13 can be plugged into the cables of the robotic arm 200, and the plurality of second connectors 14 can be plugged into the cables of the industrial equipment 300. Specifically, different models of robotic arms 200 can plug cables into the corresponding first connectors 13, and different models of industrial equipment 300 can plug cables into the corresponding second connectors 14. The signal transmission mechanism 40 is electrically connected to the plurality of first connectors 13 and the plurality of second connectors 14. Specifically, each type of robotic arm 200 can correspond to at least one first connector 13, and each type of industrial equipment 300 can correspond to at least one second connector 14. The connecting device 100 can adapt to multiple models of robotic arms 200 and multiple models of industrial equipment 300.

[0075] It is understood that each cable can include multiple signal lines, and each first structure and each second connector 14 includes terminals that can correspond one-to-one with multiple signal lines. As the types of the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 change, the function of each signal line in the cable can be different. Therefore, when each robotic arm 200 is connected to the industrial equipment 300, each signal line of the robotic arm 200 needs to be connected to the terminal or connector specified by the industrial equipment 300 according to the manual of the robotic arm 200. In the embodiment of the present application, the multiple first connectors 13 and the multiple second connectors 14 can respectively adapt to multiple types of robotic arms 200 and multiple types of industrial equipment 300. Depending on the model of the selected robotic arm 200, the staff can plug the cable of the robotic arm 200 into the corresponding first connector 13 according to preset rules. The multiple terminals in the first connector 13 can be connected to the signal transmission mechanism 40, and multiple signal channels corresponding to the multiple terminals can be formed in the signal transmission mechanism 40, and each signal channel can be connected to the corresponding terminal in the second connector 14; the connector or terminal of the industrial equipment 300 can be connected to a cable, and the staff can connect the cable to the second connector 14 corresponding to the model of the industrial equipment 300 according to preset rules. In this way, the corresponding terminals or connectors in the industrial equipment 300 can be connected to the robotic arm 200 through multiple signal channels in the signal transmission mechanism 40.

[0076] Through the connecting device 100 provided in the embodiment of the present application, the staff connects the cable of the robotic arm 200 to the first connector 13 corresponding to the model of the robotic arm 200, and connects the cable of the industrial equipment 300 to the second connector 14 corresponding to the model of the industrial equipment 300, thereby realizing the communication connection between the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300. The connecting device 100 provided in the present application can be adapted to various models of robotic arms 200 and various models of industrial equipment 300. When the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300 needs to be replaced, the staff can replace the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300 by re-plugging and unplugging the cable from the first connector 13 or the second connector 14. Compared with the related field, each time the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300 is replaced, it is necessary to rewire the multiple terminals in the wiring cabinet connecting the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 in accordance with the instructions of the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300, so that each signal line in the cable of the robotic arm 200 can be connected to the specified terminal or connector in the industrial equipment 300. The connecting device 100 provided in the present application saves the staff the process of rewiring and can improve the convenience of connecting and replacing the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300.

[0077] In some embodiments, a plurality of connection terminals are provided on the signal transmission mechanism 40. Each terminal in the first connector 13 can be electrically connected to at least one connection terminal, and each terminal in the second connector 14 can be electrically connected to at least one connection terminal, thereby achieving electrical connection between the signal transmission mechanism 40 and the first connector 13 and the second connector 14.

[0078] Please also refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the plurality of connection terminals may include a plurality of compatible terminals. The signal transmission mechanism 40 may include a first compatible component 41 and a second compatible component 42. The plurality of compatible terminals may be disposed on the first compatible component 41 and the second compatible component 42, respectively. The plurality of exchange terminals may be disposed on the signal exchange component 43.

[0079] The first compatible component 41 can be located in the first space 11 and fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the cabinet 10. On the first compatible component 41, some compatible terminals can be electrically connected to the first connector 13, and some compatible terminals can be electrically connected to the second connector 14. When the signal output by the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 can be directly recognized by the industrial device 300, the signal output by the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 can be transmitted through the first connector 13 and the compatible terminal connected to the first connector 13 to the compatible terminal connected to the second connector 14, and then transmitted to the industrial device 300 through the second connector 14. When the signal output by the industrial device 300 can be directly recognized by the robotic arm 200, the industrial device 300 can transmit the signal to the compatible terminal connected to the first connector 13 through the second connector 14 and the compatible terminal connected to the second connector 14, and then transmit the signal to the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 through the first connector 13.

[0080] The second compatible component 42 can be located within the first space 11 and fixedly mounted on the side of the first cabinet door 20 facing the first space 11. On the second compatible component 42, some compatible terminals can be directly connected to the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 via signal lines, and some compatible terminals can be electrically connected to the second connector 14. When the signal output by the robotic arm 200 unit can be directly recognized by the industrial device 300, the signal output by the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 can be transmitted to the compatible terminal on the second compatible component 42 via the signal line, and then transmitted to the industrial device 300 via the second connector 14 and the compatible terminal connected thereto. When the signal output by the industrial device 300 can be directly recognized by the robotic arm 200, the industrial device 300 can transmit the signal to the second connector 14 and the compatible terminal connected thereto, and then transmit the signal to the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 via the compatible terminal connected to the signal line of the robotic arm 200.

[0081] It is understood that both the first compatible component 41 and the second compatible component 42 are configured with circuits and relays. The first compatible component 41 can achieve electrical connection between the wiring terminals of the first connector 13 and the corresponding wiring terminals of the second connector 14. When the first connector 13 is connected to the cable of the robot arm 200 and the second connector 14 is connected to the cable of the industrial equipment 300, the wiring terminals of the first connector 13 and the wiring terminals of the second connector 14 can be connected through the corresponding compatible terminals and the circuits where the compatible terminals are located, thereby achieving electrical signal transmission.

[0082] The compatible terminals on the second compatible component 42 enable direct connection to the signal lines of the robotic arm 200. The compatible terminals connected to the signal lines and the compatible terminals corresponding to the wiring terminals of the second connector 14 connected to the cable can be connected through the circuit inside the second compatible component 42, enabling transmission of electrical signals between the second connector 14 and the robotic arm 200. In this way, the connection device 100 can be compatible with robotic arms 200 equipped with cables through the first compatible component 41 and the first connector 13. It can also be compatible with robotic arms 200 not equipped with cables through the second compatible component 42, allowing direct connection to external devices via multiple signal lines that are not integrated into a cable. This can increase the number of robotic arms 200 that the connection device 100 can adapt to, expanding the use scenarios of the connection device 100.

[0083] In the embodiments of the present application, there is no specific limitation on the fixing method during the fixed installation and fixed connection. For example, the fixing method may include, but is not limited to, screw fixing, bolt fixing, welding fixing, snap fixing, etc.

[0084] In some embodiments, the plurality of connection terminals may include a plurality of exchange terminals. The signal transmission mechanism 40 may further include a signal exchange component 43. The signal exchange component 43 is disposed on a side of the first compatible component 41 facing the second space 12. The plurality of exchange terminals are disposed on the signal exchange component 43. Each exchange terminal can be connected to a corresponding compatible terminal or a corresponding second connector 14.

[0085] It is understood that in some scenarios, the electrical parameters and / or data system of the signal output by industrial device 300 may exceed the range that can be recognized by robotic arm 200, resulting in the robotic arm 200 being unable to directly recognize the signal from industrial device 300. The electrical parameters of the signal include voltage and frequency, and the data system may include binary, decimal, hexadecimal, etc.

[0086] The signal exchange component 43 may be equipped with electronic components such as resistors, inductors, and capacitors, as well as various chips for adjusting electrical parameters and / or data formats, thereby changing the electrical parameters and / or data formats of the signals passing through the signal exchange component 43. Some of the exchange terminals in the signal exchange component 43 may be electrically connected to corresponding terminals of the second connector 14, and some of the exchange terminals may be electrically connected to corresponding compatible terminals on the first compatible component 41 and the second compatible component 42. When the robotic arm 200 is connected to the corresponding first connector 13 and the industrial device 300 is connected to the corresponding second connector 14, the signal output by the industrial device 300 can flow through the second connector 14 to the signal exchange component 43. The signal exchange component 43 now has multiple exchange terminals connected to the first connector 13, which is already connected to the cable, and multiple exchange terminals connected to the second connector 14, which is already connected to the cable. When these exchange terminals are connected, at least part of the circuit in the signal exchange component 43 can be connected. The connected circuit can adjust the electrical parameters and / or signal system of the signal entering from the second connector 14 so that the adjusted electrical parameters and signal system meet the recognition requirements of the robotic device connected to the first connector 13, that is, the adjusted signal can be recognized by the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200. The recognized signal can then be transmitted to the first connector 13 through the compatible terminal connected to the first connector 13, and then transmitted to the robotic arm 200. In this way, communication connections between various types of industrial devices 300 and the robotic arm 200 can be achieved.

[0087] In some embodiments, the plurality of compatible terminals may include a first terminal and a second terminal. The first compatible component 41 may include a first input terminal unit 411 and a first output terminal unit 412. The first input terminal unit 411 and the first output terminal unit 412 are arranged in a vertical direction. Circuits and relays are provided in the first input terminal unit 411 and the first output terminal unit 412. A plurality of first terminals are provided on the first input terminal unit 411, wherein some of the first terminals can be electrically connected to the corresponding first connector 13, and some of the first terminals can be electrically connected to the corresponding second connector 14. When the signal output by the processing unit 201 of the robot arm 200 can be directly recognized by the industrial equipment 300, the signal output by the processing unit 201 of the robot arm 200 can be transmitted to the first terminal connected to the second connector 14 through the first connector 13 and the first terminal connected to the first connector 13, and then transmitted to the industrial equipment 300 through the second connector 14.

[0088] The first output terminal unit 412 is located between the first input terminal unit 411 and the signal exchange component 43. A plurality of second terminals are provided on the first output terminal unit 412, some of which can be connected to corresponding first connectors 13, and some of which can be connected to corresponding exchange terminals. When the industrial equipment 300 outputs a signal to the robotic arm 200, the signal can be transmitted to the signal exchange component 43 via the second connector 14 and the exchange terminal connected to the second connector 14. The signal exchange component 43 adjusts the signal and transmits the adjusted signal to the first output terminal unit 412 via the exchange terminal connected to the second terminal. The first output terminal unit 412 can transmit the adjusted signal to the first connector 13 via the second terminal connected to the first connector 13, thereby transmitting the adjusted signal to the robotic arm 200.

[0089] In other embodiments, some of the exchange terminals can be connected to the first connector 13 and the corresponding first terminals on the first input end unit 411. When the signal processed by the robot 200 cannot be directly recognized by the industrial equipment 300, the signal output by the processing unit 201 of the robot 200 can be transmitted to the signal exchange component 43 through the first connector 13 and the exchange terminal connected to the first connector 13. The signal exchange component 43 can adjust the electrical parameters and / or data of the signal, and then transmit the adjusted signal to the first input end unit 411 through the first terminal connected to the exchange terminal, and then transmit it to the robot 200 through the first input end unit 411 and the second connector 14. The principle of adjusting the signal output by the signal exchange component 43 for the robot 200 is the same or similar to the principle of adjusting the signal output by the industrial equipment 300, and both are common principles in the relevant field, which will not be repeated here.

[0090] In other embodiments, the composition of the second compatible component 42 and the type and connection method of the compatible terminals in the second compatible component 42 may be the same as or similar to the composition of the first compatible component 41 and the type and connection method of the compatible terminals in the first compatible component 41, and are not further described here.

[0091] For example, the second compatible component 42 may include a second input unit 421 and a second output unit 422. The second input unit 421 and the second output unit 422 are spaced apart in a vertical direction. The second input unit 421 is provided with a plurality of first terminals, and the second output unit 422 is provided with a plurality of second terminals. Some of the first terminals on the second input unit 421 can be directly connected to the robot arm 200 via signal lines, while some of the first terminals can be connected to corresponding second connectors 14 or corresponding switching terminals. Some of the second terminals on the second output unit 422 can be connected to corresponding first connectors 13 or corresponding switching units.

[0092] Please also refer to Figure 7In some embodiments, the connecting device 100 may further include a first receiving member 60. The first receiving member 60 is movably connected to the inner wall of the cabinet 10 in the second horizontal direction. The first receiving member 60 is located between the first space 11 and the second space 12 to separate the first space 11 and the second space 12. The first receiving member 60 can receive the signal exchange component 43, and the signal exchange component 43 is fixedly mounted on the side of the first receiving member 60 facing the first space 11. A plurality of first adsorption members 61 are fixedly mounted on the side of the first receiving member 60 facing the inside of the cabinet 10. The plurality of first adsorption members 61 are spaced apart in the first horizontal direction and can be adsorbed on the inner wall of the cabinet 10.

[0093] In the embodiment of the present application, there is no specific limitation on the type of the first adsorption member 61. For example, the material of the inner wall of the cabinet 10 may be a ferromagnetic material, and the first adsorption member 61 may be a magnet.

[0094] It is understood that the movable connection is achieved by a movable connecting member, which can enable the two components to move linearly relative to each other. In the embodiments of the present application, the type of movable connecting member is not specifically limited. For example, the movable connecting member can be, but is not limited to, a linear guide rail.

[0095] It is understood that the movement of the first receiving member 60 facilitates the connection of the signal lines on the signal exchange assembly 43 and the maintenance of the signal exchange assembly 43. The first suction member 61 adsorbs the inner wall of the cabinet 10, which keeps the first receiving member 60 relatively fixed to the cabinet 10, reduces the movement of the signal exchange assembly 43 after the connection device 100 is connected to the robot arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300, and prevents the signal lines connected to the signal exchange assembly 43 from being disconnected or loosened.

[0096] In some embodiments, the connecting device 100 may further include a processor 70. The processor 70 is fixedly mounted on the side of the first cabinet door 20 facing the first space 11. The processor 70 and the second compatible component 42 are arranged in a vertical direction. The processor 70 can be directly connected to the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 through a signal line. When the number of exchange terminals on the signal exchange component 43 is insufficient, the transmission of some signals between the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 can be achieved through the processor 70. The processor 70 can receive signals from the processing unit 201 of the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 through the signal line; the processor 70 can adjust the electrical parameters and / or data system of the signal according to a preset computer program, and then output the signal to the industrial equipment 300 or the robotic arm 200 through the signal line.

[0097] In other embodiments, the processor 70 can be connected to the first connector 13 and / or the second connector 14 via a signal line, and the functions implemented are the same or similar to when the processor 70 is directly connected to the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 via a signal line, and will not be repeated here.

[0098] In the embodiments of the present application, there is no specific limitation on the type of the processor 70. For example, the processor 70 may be, but is not limited to, a programmable logic controller (PLC), a central processing unit (CPU), or the like.

[0099] In some embodiments, the processor 70 can also monitor the operating status of the robotic arm 200 and / or the industrial equipment 300 and generate status information corresponding to the operating status. The connection device 100 can also include a display 80, which is fixedly mounted on a side of the first cabinet door 20 facing away from the first space 11. The display 80 is electrically connected to the processor 70. The processor 70 can output status information to the display 80, which can then display the operating status of the robotic arm 200 and / or the industrial equipment 300 based on the status information.

[0100] In the embodiments of this application, the content of the operating status is not specifically limited. For example, the operating status of robot arm 200 may include whether the power supply and gas supply are normal, the internal temperature of robot arm 200, and the internal air pressure of robot arm 200. The operating status of industrial equipment 300 may be related to the type of industrial equipment 300, such as the test results of a detection device, whether a transmission device is transmitting, or whether a stamping device is stamping.

[0101] It can be understood that the processor 70 can obtain detection information from sensors of the robotic arm 200 and / or the industrial equipment 300, and determine the working status of the robotic arm 200 and / or the industrial equipment 300 through the detection information, thereby obtaining status information.

[0102] In other embodiments, the display 80 may be fixedly mounted on a side of the second cabinet door 30 facing away from the second space 12 .

[0103] In some embodiments, the connection device 100 may further include a lamp 90 and a detection switch 110. The lamp 90 is fixedly mounted on the top of the cabinet 10 and is located within the first space 11. The detection switch 110 may be fixedly mounted on a side wall of the cabinet 10 and is located within the first space 11. The detection switch 110 is electrically connected to the lamp 90 and can control the power on and off of the lamp 90, that is, can control the lighting and shutoff of the lamp 90.

[0104] The detection switch 110 can detect whether the first cabinet door 20 is closed, and trigger the lighting lamp 90 to turn off when the first cabinet door 20 is closed, and trigger the lighting lamp 90 to light up when the first cabinet door 20 is opened.

[0105] In the embodiments of the present application, there is no specific limitation on the type of detection switch 110. For example, the detection switch 110 may be, but is not limited to, a magnetic switch, a travel switch, a micro switch, or the like. For example, the detection switch 110 may be a magnetic switch, and the first cabinet door 20 may be made of a ferromagnetic material. When the first cabinet door 20 is closed, it may be attracted by the detection switch 110, at which point the detection switch 110 is disconnected, thereby turning off the light 90.

[0106] It can be understood that, through the cooperation of the lighting lamp 90 and the detection switch 110 , when the first cabinet door 20 is opened, the lighting lamp 90 illuminates the first space 11 , which can facilitate the maintenance of the connecting device 100 by the staff.

[0107] Please also refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, the connecting device 100 may further include a second receiving member 120. The second receiving member 120 is movably connected to the inner wall of the cabinet 10 in the second horizontal direction. The second receiving member 120 is located in the second space 12. The second receiving member 120 can receive the gas transmission mechanism 50. A plurality of second adsorption members 121 are fixedly mounted on one side of the second receiving member 120 facing the inside of the cabinet 10. The plurality of second adsorption members 121 are spaced apart in the first horizontal direction and can adsorb the inner wall of the cabinet 10.

[0108] In the embodiment of the present application, there is no specific limitation on the type of the second adsorption member 121. For example, the material of the inner wall of the cabinet 10 may be a ferromagnetic material, and the second adsorption member 121 may be a magnet.

[0109] It can be understood that the movement of the second receiving member 120 can facilitate the staff to inspect the gas transmission mechanism 50 on the second receiving member 120, and facilitate the staff to connect the gas transmission mechanism 50 to the gas pipe, thereby improving the convenience of the staff's operation.

[0110] Please also refer to Figure 10In some embodiments, the gas transmission mechanism 50 may include multiple positive pressure solenoid valves 51, multiple negative pressure solenoid valves 52, multiple vacuum generators 53, and multiple negative pressure gauges 54. The multiple positive pressure solenoid valves 51, multiple negative pressure solenoid valves 52, multiple vacuum generators 53, and multiple negative pressure gauges 54 are all fixedly mounted on the second receiving member 120. The multiple positive pressure solenoid valves 51 are located on the side of the multiple negative pressure solenoid valves 52 in the first horizontal direction that is closer to the first connector 13. The multiple negative pressure gauges 54 are located on the side of the multiple negative pressure solenoid valves 52 in the first horizontal direction that is closer to the second connector 14. The multiple vacuum generators 53 are located on the side of the multiple negative pressure gauges 54 in the second horizontal direction that is farther from the second cabinet door 30. The multiple positive pressure solenoid valves 51 may be spaced apart in the first horizontal direction and / or the second horizontal direction, the multiple negative pressure solenoid valves 52 may be spaced apart in the first horizontal direction and / or the second horizontal direction, the multiple negative pressure gauges 54 may be spaced apart in the second horizontal direction and / or the vertical direction, and the multiple vacuum generators 53 may be arranged vertically.

[0111] Each positive pressure solenoid valve 51 can be connected to a corresponding robotic arm 200 and communicate with a gas channel in the robotic arm 200. The positive pressure solenoid valve 51 can output gas to the corresponding robotic arm 200, thereby driving a pneumatic mechanism such as a cylinder in the robotic arm 200 to work.

[0112] Each negative pressure solenoid valve 52 can be connected to a corresponding robotic arm 200 and communicate with the gas channel within the robotic arm 200. The negative pressure solenoid valve 52 can pump air into the corresponding robotic arm 200, receiving the gas within the robotic arm 200, thereby driving the vacuum suction cup and other mechanisms within the robotic arm 200 that operate by negative pressure.

[0113] Each vacuum generator 53 can be connected to one or more corresponding positive pressure solenoid valves 51, and the positive pressure solenoid valves 51 connected to the vacuum generator 53 can be in communication with the gas channel within the robotic arm 200. The vacuum generator 53 can drive the positive pressure solenoid valve 51 to draw air into the corresponding robotic arm 200, receiving the gas within the robotic arm 200, thereby driving the vacuum suction cup and other mechanisms within the robotic arm 200 that operate by negative pressure.

[0114] Each negative pressure gauge 54 can be connected to the corresponding negative pressure solenoid valve 52 or the positive pressure solenoid valve 51 connected to the vacuum generator 53. Each negative pressure gauge 54 can detect the vacuum degree of the corresponding positive pressure solenoid valve 51 or the negative pressure solenoid valve 52 and display the detected vacuum degree.

[0115] It is understood that a viewing port 15 may be provided on the side of the cabinet 10 where the second connector 14 is provided. The viewing port 15 is provided in correspondence with the multiple negative pressure gauges 54. A protective plate 16 may be fixedly mounted on the viewing port 15. The protective plate 16 may be made of a light-transmitting material, through which the vacuum level displayed by each negative pressure gauge 54 may be viewed. In the embodiments of the present application, the material of the protective plate 16 is not specifically limited. For example, the material of the protective plate 16 may be, but is not limited to, glass, acrylic, etc.

[0116] In some embodiments, a gas filter 17 may be fixedly mounted on one side of the cabinet 10 where the first connector 13 is provided. The gas filter 17 may be connected to the robotic arm 200 and communicate with the gas passage within the robotic arm 200. Each positive pressure solenoid valve 51 for supplying gas to the robotic arm 200 may be connected to the gas filter 17, thereby achieving connection with the robotic arm 200. The gas filter 17 may filter the gas entering the robotic arm 200, thereby reducing impurities in the gas entering the robotic arm 200.

[0117] In some embodiments, the cabinet 10 may also be fixedly mounted with a power connector 18 and a heat sink 19, and rotatably connected to a handle 111. The power connector 18 can be electrically connected to the power supply of the connection device 100. The power connector 18 can be connected to the robotic arm 200 via a cable. The robotic arm 200 can receive power from the connection device 100 via the power connector 18, thereby enabling the robotic arm 200 to operate. The heat sink 19 can drive air through the cabinet 10 in a first horizontal direction, thereby removing heat from the cabinet 10. The handle 111 facilitates the transport of the cabinet 10 by staff.

[0118] A switch unit 112 may be fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the cabinet 10. The switch unit 112 may be connected to a power source (not shown) and electrically connected to the various electrically driven components of the connection device 100. The switch unit 112 may connect or disconnect the power source from the connection device 100, thereby enabling or disabling the connection between the connection device 100 and the power source, thereby enabling or disabling the connection device 100.

[0119] It can be understood that the power connector 18 can be electrically connected to the switch unit 112 , and can obtain power from the switch unit 112 and transmit power to the robotic arm 200 .

[0120] It can be understood that the switch unit 112 may include a main switch for controlling whether the entire connection device 100 is powered on or not, and a plurality of sub-switches for controlling whether each component is powered on or not.

[0121] In some embodiments, fixing clips may be fixedly installed on the inner wall of the cabinet 10 , the side of the first cabinet door 20 facing the first space 11 , and the first receiving member 60 . The fixing clips may fix the signal lines to improve the neatness inside the cabinet 10 .

[0122] It can be understood that through the connecting device 100 provided in this application, the staff connects the cable of the robotic arm 200 to the first connector 13 corresponding to the model of the robotic arm 200, and connects the cable of the industrial equipment 300 to the second connector 14 corresponding to the model of the industrial equipment 300, thereby realizing the communication connection between the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300. The connecting device 100 provided in the present application can be adapted to various models of robotic arms 200 and various models of industrial equipment 300. When the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300 needs to be replaced, the staff can replace the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300 by re-plugging and unplugging the cable from the first connector 13 or the second connector 14. Compared with the related field, each time the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300 is replaced, it is necessary to rewire the multiple terminals in the wiring cabinet connecting the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300 in accordance with the instructions of the robotic arm 200 and the industrial equipment 300, so that each signal line in the cable of the robotic arm 200 can be connected to the specified terminal or connector in the industrial equipment 300. The connecting device 100 provided in the present application saves the staff the process of rewiring and can improve the convenience of connecting and replacing the robotic arm 200 or the industrial equipment 300.

[0123] At the same time, the connecting device 100 can supply or extract gas to the robotic arm 200 through the gas transmission mechanism 50 while realizing the transmission of electrical signals between the industrial equipment 300 and the robotic arm 200, thereby realizing the integration of electrical control of the robotic arm 200.

[0124] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present application is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that the present application can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential features of the present application. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be considered exemplary and non-restrictive in all respects, and the scope of the present application is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and all variations that come within the meaning and range of equivalents of the claims are intended to be encompassed within the present application.

Claims

1. A connecting device for connecting to a robotic arm and industrial equipment, wherein the industrial equipment is used for transmitting, processing or detecting products, characterized in that: The connecting device comprises: A cabinet, wherein a first space and a second space are provided in the cabinet, and a plurality of first connectors and a plurality of second connectors are provided on the cabinet, each of the first connectors is used to connect to a corresponding robotic arm, and each of the second connectors is used to connect to a corresponding industrial device; a signal transmission mechanism, the signal transmission mechanism being accommodated in the first space, the signal transmission mechanism being connected to a plurality of the first connectors and a plurality of the second connectors; a plurality of connection terminals being provided on the signal transmission device, each of the connection terminals being used to connect to a corresponding first connector, the second connector, or another connection terminal; A gas transmission mechanism is housed in the second space, the gas transmission mechanism is used to connect to the robotic arm, the gas transmission mechanism is used to receive gas and transmit gas to the robotic arm, and / or is used to allow gas extracted from the robotic arm to pass through.

2. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of connection terminals include a plurality of compatible terminals and a plurality of exchange terminals, and the signal transmission mechanism includes: a first compatible component, wherein at least some of the compatible terminals are provided on the first compatible component; on the first compatible component, some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding first connector, and some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the second connector; a signal exchange component, the signal exchange component being located between the first compatible component and the gas transmission mechanism, a plurality of exchange terminals being provided on the signal exchange component, each of the exchange terminals being used to connect to a corresponding compatible terminal or the second connector; The first compatible component is used to output the signal received from the first connector to the signal exchange component and / or the second connector, and to output the signal received from the signal exchange component to the first connector; the signal exchange component is used to adjust the electrical parameters and / or data system of the signal received from the second connector, and output the adjusted signal to the first compatible component.

3. The connecting device according to claim 2, characterized in that The plurality of compatible terminals include a plurality of first terminals and a plurality of second terminals, and the first compatible component includes: a first input terminal unit, wherein a plurality of first terminals are provided on the first input terminal unit, and each of the first terminals on the first input terminal unit is used to connect to a corresponding first connector or second connector; A first output end unit, wherein the first output end unit is located between the first input end unit and the signal exchange component, and a plurality of second terminals are provided on the first output end unit. On the first output end unit, each second terminal is used to connect to a corresponding first connector or the exchange terminal.

4. The connecting device according to claim 2, wherein: The connecting device further comprises: A first supporting member, the first supporting member is movably connected to the inner wall of the cabinet, the first supporting member is arranged between the first space and the second space, the signal exchange component is arranged on the first supporting member, and a first adsorption member is arranged on the side of the first supporting member facing the inside of the cabinet, and the first adsorption member is used to be adsorbed on the inner wall of the cabinet.

5. The connecting device according to claim 2, wherein: The first space and the second space are arranged in a vertical direction, the cabinet is provided with an opening on one side in a first horizontal direction, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction, and the connecting device further comprises: a first cabinet door, the first cabinet door being rotatably connected to the cabinet, the first cabinet door being used to partially cover the opening of the cabinet and to cover the first space; A second cabinet door is rotatably connected to the cabinet, the second cabinet door and the first cabinet door are arranged in the vertical direction, and the second cabinet door is used to partially block the opening of the cabinet and to block the second space.

6. The connecting device according to claim 5, characterized in that The signal transmission mechanism further includes: a second compatible component, wherein some of the compatible terminals are provided on the second compatible component, and the second compatible component is provided on a side of the first cabinet door facing the first space, and on the second compatible component, some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding first connectors, some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding second connectors, and some of the compatible terminals are used to connect to the corresponding exchange terminals; The second compatible component is used to output the signal received from the robotic arm to the signal exchange component and / or the second connector, and to output the signal received from the signal exchange component to the robotic arm; the signal exchange component is used to output the adjusted signal to the second compatible component.

7. The connecting device according to claim 5, characterized in that The connecting device further comprises: a processor, the processor being disposed on a side of the first cabinet door facing the first space, the processor being configured to be connected to the robotic arm and the industrial equipment, and the processor being configured to monitor the working status of the robotic arm and / or the industrial equipment; A display is arranged on a side of the first cabinet door facing away from the first space, the display is connected to the processor, and the processor is used to output status information to the display so that the display shows the working status of the robotic arm and the industrial equipment.

8. The connecting device according to claim 5, characterized in that The connecting device further comprises: an illuminating lamp, the illuminating lamp being arranged on the inner wall of the cabinet; A detection switch is connected to the lighting lamp, and the detection switch is used to detect that the first cabinet door is opened and to light the lighting lamp.

9. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting device further comprises: A second receiving member is movably connected to the inner wall of the cabinet, the second receiving member is arranged in the second space, the gas transmission mechanism is arranged on the second receiving member, and a second adsorption member is arranged on the side of the second receiving member facing the inside of the cabinet, and the second adsorption member is used to be adsorbed on the inner wall of the cabinet.

10. The connection device according to claim 1, wherein: The gas transmission mechanism comprises: A plurality of positive pressure solenoid valves, each of which is used to connect to a corresponding robotic arm, and each of which is used to receive gas and deliver gas to the robotic arm; a plurality of negative pressure solenoid valves, each of which is used to connect to a corresponding robotic arm and receive gas output by the robotic arm; a plurality of vacuum generators, each of which is used to connect to the corresponding positive pressure solenoid valve to receive the gas output by the robotic arm through the positive pressure solenoid valve; A plurality of negative pressure gauges are used to connect to the corresponding positive pressure solenoid valve or the negative pressure solenoid valve to detect and display the vacuum degree corresponding to the positive pressure solenoid valve or the negative pressure solenoid valve.