Detection device for conveying anode plate in place
By designing a device for detecting the position of anode plates and combining it with an intelligent gantry robot, the automation and safety of the copper smelting process have been improved. This solves the problem of the lack of detection devices in existing technologies, reduces the labor intensity of workers, and improves production efficiency.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202423101951.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-16
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-28
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-12-16
AI Technical Summary
The lack of an anode plate positioning detection device in the copper smelting process limits the efficient operation of intelligent gantry robots, resulting in high labor intensity and poor safety for workers.
A detection device comprising a mounting block, a stop bar assembly, an anti-collision assembly, and a controller was designed. The device detects the position of the anode plate by means of proximity switches and interlocking switches, and is combined with an intelligent gantry robot for automated operation.
It improves the automation and safety of the anode plate handling process, reduces manual operation, lowers costs, increases production efficiency and system reliability, and extends equipment lifespan.
Smart Images

Figure CN223486213U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of anode plate transportation in copper smelting, and specifically to a detection device for delivering anode plates to their designated positions. Background Technology
[0002] In copper smelting, the high temperatures inside the furnace transform copper ore or scrap copper into flowing molten copper. This hot liquid is then precisely guided through a specially designed chute into an anode plate mold. After the anode plate is formed, a robotic arm removes the individual anode plates from the mold and places them smoothly into a water tank for cooling. During this stage, a conveyor system within the water tank plays a crucial role, continuously transporting several cooling anode plates from one end of the tank to the other. From there, they are moved by forklifts for storage or transferred to the next processing station.
[0003] In current operations, the final step involves manually operating forklifts to move and stack the anode plates. However, this manual operation is not only physically demanding but also poses challenges to worker health and safety due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, humidity, and potentially harmful gases. To address this, the factory has introduced an intelligent gantry robot as a solution. This advanced automation equipment significantly reduces worker workload without sacrificing efficiency. Designed for repetitive and high-precision tasks, the intelligent gantry robot can accurately and quickly pick up individual anode plates from the tank. For the entire system to operate efficiently, a reliable anode plate arrival detection device is essential. However, current technology lacks such equipment; therefore, designing a device capable of detecting anode plate arrival has become a pressing issue. Summary of the Invention
[0004] To address the shortcomings of existing water tanks that lack anode plate positioning detection devices and are inconvenient for use with intelligent truss robotic arms, this invention provides a detection device for anode plate delivery positioning detection. This device has a simple overall structure and can be easily used with truss systems.
[0005] To achieve the above purpose, the technical solution of the utility model is as follows:
[0006] A detection device for conveying an anode plate to the correct position includes two symmetrically arranged mounting blocks, a stop rod assembly, an anti-collision assembly, a controller, and a control switch and a proximity switch connected to the controller. Both the controller and the switches are located on the outer wall of the mounting blocks. The controller activates the control switch upon receiving a signal from the proximity switch. The stop rod assembly is primarily a U-shaped rod with two rotatable rollers mounted in the middle. A connecting rod is connected to each end, forming an inverted "U"-shaped connecting rod. The connecting rod is rotatably mounted on the top of the mounting blocks, with its end extending outwards after passing through the mounting blocks. A counterweight is fixedly connected to the end of the connecting rod, and the counterweight swings with the rotation of the "U"-shaped connecting rod, intermittently engaging with the proximity switch.
[0007] Furthermore, the mounting block is an inverted concave plate, with a rotating sleeve on the top of the concave plate to engage with the connecting rod, and a controller and a proximity switch mounted on the outer side wall. The notch of the concave plate engages with the side of the water tank, completing the connection between the detection device and the water tank; simply engaging the notch of the concave plate with the side of the water tank is sufficient for a secure installation, greatly simplifying the installation and maintenance process, improving space utilization, and avoiding additional occupation of production workshop area.
[0008] Furthermore, the concave plate also has a threaded hole with a connecting notch on its side, and a screw is concealed in the threaded hole. After the concave plate is inserted into the water tank, the screw is screwed in, and the screw presses against the water tank, making the concave plate firmly connected to the water tank; the use of the screw provides an additional mechanical locking mechanism, effectively preventing loosening due to vibration or impact, and also allows for fine-tuning during installation to ensure precise alignment of the detection device with the water tank.
[0009] Furthermore, one of the connecting rods is formed by combining two short rods, which are connected by a hinge that can be vertically folded. This hinge allows the connecting rod to rotate as a whole during testing without hindering its movement, and it can be folded when needed, making the structure flexible and reliable. The design of this connecting rod allows its shape to be adjusted according to actual needs, thereby optimizing space utilization, avoiding interference with other equipment or structures, and facilitating quick disassembly and reinstallation from the water tank during maintenance or cleaning, simplifying the operation process and reducing downtime.
[0010] Furthermore, an anti-collision mechanism is installed on the top of the mounting block to limit the movement of the roller. The anti-collision mechanism is located on the side of the roller near the end of the water tank. When the anode plate is in position and drives the roller to rotate, the anti-collision mechanism limits the movement of the roller. This mechanism effectively prevents the anode plate from moving out of the truss's pick-up position due to excessive deflection angle of the "U"-shaped connecting rod, and also prevents the anode plate from damaging the water tank. The anti-collision mechanism ensures precise position control of the anode plate throughout the entire detection and picking process, avoiding operational errors or equipment damage caused by positional deviations, and enhancing overall stability.
[0011] Furthermore, the mounting block is equipped with a rotating seat on top; the anti-collision mechanism includes an L-shaped plate, one end of which is rotatably mounted in the rotating seat via a pin. A connecting frame is also provided on the top surface of the L-shaped plate, and a brake plate that engages with the roller is provided at the end of the L-shaped plate near the roller. A bolt rod is movably mounted on the connecting frame. During installation, the end of the bolt rod abuts against the inner wall of the end of the water tank. During use, the anode plate abuts against the roller, driving the "U"-shaped connecting rod to rotate along the end of the water tank. After rotation, the roller abuts against the brake plate, limiting the entire "U"-shaped connecting rod and thus limiting the anode plate, after which the anode plate can be clamped. The rotatable nature of the L-shaped plate simplifies installation and maintenance, making equipment debugging more convenient, reducing wear between mechanical parts, and extending service life. The bolt rod end abuts against the inside of the water tank, and when the anti-collision mechanism brakes, it can transmit the impact force to the inner wall of the water tank for dispersion, effectively preventing damage to the water tank from impact and extending the service life of the equipment.
[0012] How to use this utility model:
[0013] The controller uses a microcontroller, and the roller's installation position corresponds to the ear of the anode plate. During installation, two mounting blocks are respectively inserted into the side plate of the water tank near the end, completing the connection between the detection device and the water tank. Then, the interlocking switch is connected to the switch of the intelligent truss installed in the factory, so that the intelligent truss starts simultaneously when the interlocking switch is turned on. In use, several anode plates move from one end of the water tank to the other end via the water tank's transmission mechanism. When they reach the end of the water tank, the two ear portions of the anode plates contact the roller. At this point, the anode plates continue to move towards the end of the water tank along with the transmission mechanism, and the ear portions of the anode plates... The roller is pressed against the anode plate, causing it to deflect downwards. Simultaneously, due to the gravity of the anode plate, the entire "U"-shaped linkage drives the weight to swing in the direction of the transmission mechanism. When the weight swings to the detection position of the proximity switch, the proximity switch detects the target and sends a signal to the controller. This completes the detection and feedback of the anode plate's arrival. Afterwards, the controller opens the linkage switch, causing the intelligent truss to open. Then, the robotic arm of the intelligent truss performs the plate removal operation. Once the anode plate is removed, the weight returns to a vertical position under gravity, leaving the detection range of the detection switch. The detection device then resets and waits for the next anode plate to arrive for detection.
[0014] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects:
[0015] 1. This utility model improves the automation and safety of the anode plate handling process in copper smelting. By monitoring the anode plate position in real time and linking it with the intelligent truss robot, it achieves seamless docking and efficient operation, reducing the exposure time of workers in high temperature, humidity and harmful environments. Its simple structure and easy installation and maintenance design reduce costs and improve system reliability. When used with the intelligent truss, it greatly reduces the physical labor burden of workers, frees employees from heavy work, significantly improves production efficiency and ensures production safety.
[0016] 2. This utility model allows for secure installation by simply inserting the concave plate notch into the side of the water tank, greatly simplifying the installation and maintenance process. It not only improves space utilization and avoids occupying additional production workshop area, but also provides an additional mechanical locking mechanism to effectively prevent loosening caused by vibration or impact, thus improving installation stability. The two short rods of one of the connecting rods are hinged together by a vertically folding hinge, which affects the overall rotation of the connecting rod while also allowing it to be folded when needed, making the structure flexible and reliable.
[0017] 3. The anti-collision mechanism of this utility model ensures precise position control of the anode plate throughout the entire detection and gripping process, avoiding operational errors or equipment damage caused by positional deviations, enhancing overall stability, and simplifying installation and maintenance due to the rotatable nature of the L-shaped plate, making equipment debugging more convenient, reducing wear between mechanical parts, and extending service life. The bolt rod end abuts against the inside of the water tank, and when the anti-collision mechanism brakes, it can transmit the impact force to the inner wall of the water tank for dispersion, which can effectively prevent the impact from damaging the water tank and extend the service life of the equipment. Attached Figure Description
[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a detection device used for delivering anode plates to their designated positions.
[0019] Figure 2 This is a partial enlarged schematic diagram of a detection device used for conveying anode plates into position.
[0020] Attached image labels:
[0021] Mounting block—1, Rotating seat—11, Stop arm assembly—2, U-shaped rod—21, Roller—22, Connecting rod—23, Counterweight—24, Anti-collision mechanism—3, L-shaped plate—31, Pin shaft—32, Connecting frame—33, Brake plate—34, Bolt rod—35, Controller—4, Proximity switch—5. Detailed Implementation
[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0023] Embodiment 1: A detection device for transporting an anode plate in place, comprising two symmetrically arranged mounting blocks 1, a stop rod assembly 2, an anti-collision assembly, a controller 4, and a linkage switch and a proximity switch 5 connected to the controller 4. The controller 4 and the switch are both on the outer wall of the mounting block 1. The controller 4 controls the opening of the linkage switch when receiving the signal from the proximity switch 5. The main body of the stop rod assembly 2 is a U-shaped rod 21. Two rollers 22 are rotatably installed in the middle of the U-shaped rod 21, and a connecting rod 23 is connected to both ends, forming an inverted "ji" - shaped connecting rod. The connecting rod 23 is rotatably installed on the top of the mounting block 1, and the end of the connecting rod 23 extends out of the mounting block 1 and then extends outward. A weight 24 is fixedly connected to the end of the connecting rod 23. The weight 24 swings as the "ji" - shaped connecting rod rotates, and intermittently cooperates with the proximity switch 5.
[0024] The controller 4 uses a single - chip microcomputer. The installation position of the roller 22 corresponds to the ear part of the anode plate. During installation, the two mounting blocks 1 are respectively clamped into the side plates of the water tank near the end, completing the connection between the detection device and the water tank. Then, the linkage switch is connected to the switch of the intelligent truss installed in the factory, so that the intelligent truss starts simultaneously when the linkage switch is turned on. During use, several anode plates move from one end of the water tank to the other end through the transmission mechanism of the water tank. When reaching the end of the water tank, the two ear parts of the anode plate contact the roller 22. At this time, the anode plate continues to move towards the end of the water tank along with the transmission mechanism of the water tank. At this time, the ear part of the anode plate adheres to the roller 22, causing it to deflect downward. At the same time, due to the gravity of the anode plate, the entire "ji" - shaped connecting rod drives the weight 24 to swing in the direction of the transmission mechanism. When the weight 24 swings to the detection position of the proximity switch 5, the proximity switch 5 detects the target and feeds back a signal to the controller 4. Thus, the in - place detection and feedback of the anode plate are realized. Then, the controller 4 turns on the linkage switch to activate the intelligent truss. Then, the manipulator of the intelligent truss performs the operation of taking the plate. When the anode plate is taken away, the weight 24 returns to the vertical state under the action of gravity, leaving the detection range of the detection switch, and the detection device is reset. Then, it waits for the next anode plate to be in - place for detection.
[0025] Embodiment 2: The difference from Embodiment 1 is that the mounting block 1 is an inverted concave plate. A rotating sleeve for cooperating with the connecting rod 23 is provided at the top of the concave plate, and the controller 4 and the proximity switch 5 are installed on the outer side wall. The notch of the concave plate is clamped into the side of the water tank, completing the connection between the detection device and the water tank. Only by clamping the notch of the concave plate into the side of the water tank can the stable installation be completed, greatly simplifying the installation and maintenance process, not only improving the space utilization rate but also avoiding additional occupation of the production workshop area.
[0026] The concave plate also has a threaded hole with a connecting notch on its side, and a screw is screwed into the threaded hole. After the concave plate is inserted into the water tank, the screw is screwed in, and the screw presses against the water tank, making the concave plate firmly connected to the water tank; the use of the screw provides an additional mechanical locking mechanism, effectively preventing loosening caused by vibration or impact, and also allows for fine-tuning during installation to ensure precise alignment of the detection device with the water tank.
[0027] The top of the mounting block 1 is equipped with an anti-collision mechanism 3 that works in conjunction with the roller 22 to limit its movement. The anti-collision mechanism 3 is located on the side of the roller 22 near the end of the water tank. When the anode plate is in position and drives the roller 22 to rotate, the anti-collision mechanism 3 limits the movement of the roller 22. This mechanism effectively prevents the anode plate from moving out of the truss's pick-up position due to excessive deflection angle of the "U"-shaped connecting rod, and also prevents the anode plate from damaging the water tank. The anti-collision mechanism 3 ensures precise position control of the anode plate throughout the entire detection and pick-up process, avoiding operational errors or equipment damage caused by positional deviations, and enhancing overall stability.
[0028] The mounting block 1 is an inverted concave plate. The top of the concave plate is equipped with a rotating sleeve that matches the connecting rod 23. A controller 4 and a proximity switch 5 are installed on the outer wall. The notch of the concave plate is inserted into the side of the water tank to complete the connection between the detection device and the water tank. Stable installation can be completed simply by inserting the notch of the concave plate into the side of the water tank, which greatly simplifies the installation and maintenance process, improves space utilization, and avoids occupying additional production workshop area.
[0029] The concave plate also has a threaded hole with a connecting notch on its side, and a screw is screwed into the threaded hole. After the concave plate is inserted into the water tank, the screw is screwed in, and the screw presses against the water tank, making the concave plate firmly connected to the water tank; the use of the screw provides an additional mechanical locking mechanism, effectively preventing loosening caused by vibration or impact, and also allows for fine-tuning during installation to ensure precise alignment of the detection device with the water tank.
[0030] The top of the mounting block 1 is equipped with an anti-collision mechanism 3 that works in conjunction with the roller 22 to limit its movement. The anti-collision mechanism 3 is located on the side of the roller 22 near the end of the water tank. When the anode plate is in position and drives the roller 22 to rotate, the anti-collision mechanism 3 limits the movement of the roller 22. This mechanism effectively prevents the anode plate from moving out of the truss's pick-up position due to excessive deflection angle of the "U"-shaped connecting rod, and also prevents the anode plate from damaging the water tank. The anti-collision mechanism 3 ensures precise position control of the anode plate throughout the entire detection and pick-up process, avoiding operational errors or equipment damage caused by positional deviations, and enhancing overall stability.
[0031] Example 3: Unlike Example 2, one of the connecting rods 23 is formed by combining two short rods, which are connected by a hinge that allows for vertical folding. This hinge does not hinder the overall rotation of the connecting rod 23 during testing and allows it to be folded when needed, resulting in a flexible and reliable structure. The design of this connecting rod 23 allows its shape to be adjusted according to actual needs, thereby optimizing space utilization, avoiding interference with other equipment or structures, and facilitating quick disassembly and reinstallation from the water tank during maintenance or cleaning, simplifying the operation process and reducing downtime.
[0032] The mounting block 1 is provided with a rotating seat 11 on its top; the anti-collision mechanism 3 includes an L-shaped plate 31, one end of which is rotatably mounted in the rotating seat 11 via a pin 32. The top surface of the L-shaped plate 31 is also provided with a connecting frame 33, and the end of the L-shaped plate 31 near the roller 22 is provided with a brake plate 34 that cooperates with the roller 22; the connecting frame 33 is movably provided with a bolt rod 35. During installation, the end of the bolt rod 35 abuts against the inner wall of the end of the water tank. During use, the anode plate abuts against the roller 22, driving the "U"-shaped connecting rod to rotate along the end of the water tank. After rotation, the roller 22 abuts against the brake plate 34, realizing the limit of the entire "U"-shaped connecting rod, thereby completing the limit of the anode plate, after which the anode plate can be clamped. The rotatable characteristic of the L-shaped plate 31 simplifies installation and maintenance, makes equipment debugging more convenient, reduces wear between mechanical parts, and extends service life. The end of the bolt rod 35 abuts against the inside of the water tank, and when the anti-collision mechanism 3 brakes, it can transmit the force generated by the impact to the inner wall of the water tank for dispersion, which can effectively avoid damage to the water tank caused by the impact and extend the service life of the equipment.
[0033] Numerous specific details are set forth in this specification. However, it will be understood that embodiments of this invention may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.
[0034] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and not to limit it. Although the utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this utility model.
Claims
1. A detection device for conveying an anode plate into position, characterized in that: It includes two symmetrically arranged mounting blocks (1), a gear lever assembly (2), an anti-collision assembly, a controller (4), and a linkage switch and a proximity switch (5) connected to the controller (4). The controller (4) and the switches are both on the outer wall of the mounting block (1). When the controller (4) receives the signal from the proximity switch (5), it controls the linkage switch to turn on. The main body of the gear lever assembly (2) is a U-shaped rod (21). Two rollers (22) are rotatably installed in the middle of the U-shaped rod (21). A connecting rod (23) is connected to both ends, forming an inverted "ji" - shaped connecting rod. The connecting rod (23) is rotatably installed at the top of the mounting block (1), and the end of the connecting rod (23) extends outwards after passing through the mounting block (1). A weight (24) is fixedly connected to the end of the connecting rod (23). The weight (24) swings as the "ji" - shaped connecting rod rotates, and intermittently cooperates with the proximity switch (5).
2. The detection device for conveying an anode plate to the correct position as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The mounting block (1) is an inverted concave plate. A rotating sleeve for the connecting rod (23) is provided at the top of the concave plate, and the controller (4) and the proximity switch (5) are installed on the outer side wall.
3. The detection device for conveying an anode plate to the correct position as described in claim 2, characterized in that: A threaded hole communicating with the notch is further provided on the side of the concave plate, and a screw is installed in the threaded hole.
4. The detection device for conveying an anode plate to the correct position as described in claim 1, characterized in that: One of the connecting rods (23) is formed by combining two short rods, and the two short rods are hinged together so that they can be vertically folded.
5. A detection device for conveying an anode plate to the correct position as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that: An anti - collision mechanism (3) for limiting the rollers (22) is installed at the top of the mounting block (1). The anti - collision mechanism (3) is arranged on one side of the roller (22) close to the end of the water tank.
6. The detection device for conveying an anode plate to the correct position as described in claim 5, characterized in that: A rotating seat (11) is provided at the top of the mounting block (1). The anti - collision mechanism (3) includes an L - shaped plate (31). One end of the L - shaped plate (31) is rotatably installed in the rotating seat (11) through a pin shaft (32) provided. A connecting frame (33) is further provided on the top surface of the L - shaped plate (31), and a braking plate (34) for the roller (22) is provided at one end of the L - shaped plate (31) close to the roller (22). A bolt rod (35) is movably provided on the connecting frame (33).