Automatic stacking production line

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of tobacco stacking, and particularly relates to an automatic stacking production line. Compared with the prior art, according to the automatic stacking production line provided by the utility model, the first conveying line, the second conveying line and the mechanical arm device are arranged, so that automatic input, overturning, stacking and output operations of cigarette cartons are realized; the feeding guide mechanism and the photoelectric detection door of the first conveying line ensure accurate control of the position and the speed of the cigarette cartons in the conveying process, the PLC further optimizes the running speed of the belt, and accurate positioning and information reading of the cigarette cartons are achieved in combination with the positioning mechanisms and the bar code reading mechanisms which are arranged at all key positions. And through cooperation of the second conveying line and the mechanical arm device, multi-layer stacking and stable output of the cigarette cartons are guaranteed, and the stacking efficiency and the automation degree are overall improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of tobacco palletizing technology, specifically relating to an automated palletizing production line. Background Technology

[0002] After being unpacked on the production line, the cartons of cigarettes need to be neatly arranged on pallets for subsequent packaging and transportation. Currently, there are two common methods for palletizing cigarette cartons in the industry: the first is manual palletizing, where workers manually stack the cartons after unpacking. While simple, this method is inefficient and requires significant physical exertion from the operators. The second method uses existing conveyor lines for automated single-layer palletizing, which offers higher palletizing efficiency and significantly reduces operator workload. However, this automated method cannot simultaneously meet the palletizing needs of various specifications of multi-layer cigarette cartons.

[0003] In summary, existing cigarette palletizing methods each have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of efficiency and labor intensity, but they still fall short in meeting the needs of multi-layer and multi-specification cigarette palletizing.

[0004] The information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background art of the art described herein. Therefore, the background art may contain certain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art in this country. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the shortcomings of the existing technology, this utility model proposes an automated palletizing production line.

[0006] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is as follows:

[0007] An automated palletizing production line includes: a first transport line for inputting cigarette cartons, a second transport line for palletizing and outputting multiple cigarette cartons, and a robotic arm device for flipping cigarette cartons from the first transport line to the second transport line and performing multi-layer palletizing; the first transport line is equipped with a feeding guide mechanism for adjusting the position of the cigarette cartons in the center line of the first transport line, and a photoelectric detection gate for detecting the transport speed of the cigarette cartons; a pallet storage rack is also provided on one side of the second transport line.

[0008] Preferably, the first transport line includes a frame, a belt, and a drive device. The belt and the drive device are mounted on the frame, and transmission rollers are provided at both ends of the belt. The drive device is connected to the transmission rollers to drive the belt to move.

[0009] Preferably, it also includes a detection and control system, including the aforementioned photoelectric detection gate, PLC controller and operation panel, which photoelectrically detects the transport speed of the cigarette packs and controls the belt speed through the PLC controller.

[0010] Furthermore, the feeding guide mechanism consists of guide rails installed on both sides of the belt, parallel to the belt's axial direction. The guide rails are shaped like the number eight, with a larger inlet end and a smaller outlet end. The distance between the guide rails on both sides of the outlet end is equal to the width of the cigarette pack.

[0011] Preferably, the end of the guide rail is provided with a first positioning mechanism, including a first cylinder fixed on one side of the frame and a first positioning plate fixed on the piston end of the first cylinder. The first positioning plate is parallel to the axial direction of the belt. When the cigarette pack moves to the end of the guide mechanism, the cylinder controls the first positioning plate to move inward to press against the side of the cigarette pack, thereby achieving the positioning of the cigarette pack.

[0012] Furthermore, the barcode reading mechanism provided on the opposite side of the positioning mechanism includes a bracket fixed on the frame and a light source and a camera provided on the bracket.

[0013] Preferably, a second positioning mechanism is also provided at the end of the first transport line, including a second cylinder fixed on one side of the frame and a second positioning plate fixed on the piston end of the second cylinder. The second positioning plate is parallel to the axial direction of the belt, and a baffle parallel to it is symmetrically provided on the second positioning plate.

[0014] Preferably, a protective fence is provided on the outside of the robotic arm device.

[0015] Furthermore, the second transport line includes a frame two, in which a plurality of rollers are provided. The ends of the rollers are connected by a transmission chain. One of the rollers is connected to a drive device two, which transmits power to the transmission chain, thereby driving the roller to rotate.

[0016] In summary, due to the adoption of the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0017] Overall, compared to existing technologies, the automated palletizing production line provided by this utility model achieves automatic input, flipping, palletizing, and output operations of cigarette cartons by setting up a first transport line, a second transport line, and a robotic arm device. The feeding guide mechanism and photoelectric detection gate of the first transport line ensure precise control of the position and speed of the cigarette cartons during transportation, the PLC controller further optimizes the belt speed, and the cooperation of the second transport line and the robotic arm device ensures multi-layer palletizing and stable output of cigarette cartons, thus improving overall palletizing efficiency and automation. Attached Figure Description

[0018] This utility model will be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of an automated palletizing production line according to the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first transport line in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can be arranged and designed in various different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely represents selected embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0022] This embodiment provides an automated palletizing production line, see reference. Figure 1-2 ,include:

[0023] First transport line 1: Used to feed cigarette packs into the production line.

[0024] Second transport line 2: Used to stack and output multiple packs of cigarettes.

[0025] Robotic arm device 3: used to flip the cigarette packs from the first transport line 1 to the second transport line 2 and perform multi-layer stacking.

[0026] Feeding guide mechanism 4: used to adjust the cigarette packs to maintain their position in the centerline of the first transport line 1.

[0027] Photoelectric detection gate 5: Used to detect the transport speed of cigarette packs.

[0028] Pallet storage rack 6: Located on one side of the second transport line 2, used for storing pallets.

[0029] The working principle of this embodiment is as follows:

[0030] Cigarette Input and Positioning: Cigarettes are input via the first transport line 1. The first transport line 1 is equipped with a feeding guide mechanism 4, which is a set of guiding devices that mechanically or pneumatically adjust the position of the cigarettes to ensure that the cigarettes are always kept in the centerline of the transport line. This process is monitored in real time by sensors to detect position deviations and adjust the guiding mechanism accordingly.

[0031] Speed ​​detection and synchronization: Installed on the first transport line 1, it is used to detect the transport speed of the cigarette packs. The photoelectric detection gate 5 consists of a transmitter and a receiver. When the cigarette packs pass through, the photoelectric signal is blocked, and the transport speed is detected. This speed data is transmitted to the control system to synchronize the operating speed of the robotic arm and the second transport line 2, ensuring that the cigarette packs can be transferred and stacked smoothly.

[0032] Cigarette Carton Transfer and Flipping: The robotic arm device 3 is driven by a multi-axis servo motor, enabling precise motion control. Equipped with an adaptive gripper, the robotic arm automatically adjusts its gripping force according to the specifications and shape of the cigarette cartons. The robotic arm first grabs a carton of cigarettes from the first transport line 1, then flips it 180 degrees to ensure it is stably placed on the second transport line 2.

[0033] Multi-layer palletizing: In addition to its flipping function, the robotic arm can also perform multi-layer palletizing operations. Through a preset palletizing program, the robotic arm can stack cigarette packs according to a set number of layers and arrangement. After each layer is completed, the robotic arm adjusts its gripping and stacking rhythm based on the speed information fed back from the photoelectric detection gate 5, ensuring a stable and efficient palletizing process.

[0034] Pallet Management: Pallet storage rack 6, located on one side of the second transport line 2, is used to store empty pallets. A robotic arm transfers empty pallets to the second transport line 2, where cigarette packs are stacked. After stacking, the pallets are transported to the end of the second transport line 2 and transferred by forklift.

[0035] The technical effects of this embodiment are as follows:

[0036] Highly efficient automated palletizing: Through the automatic gripping, flipping and palletizing operations of robotic arms, palletizing efficiency is significantly improved, manual intervention is reduced, and the level of automation of the production line is enhanced.

[0037] Precise cigarette positioning and speed control: The feeding guide mechanism 4 and photoelectric detection gate 5 ensure that the cigarettes are always in the correct position during transportation, and the transportation speed is precisely controlled, avoiding grabbing and palletizing failures due to speed mismatch.

[0038] Multi-layer palletizing capability: The multi-axis motion capability and adaptive fixture design of the robotic arm enable it to flexibly cope with palletizing needs of different specifications and layers, meeting diverse production requirements.

[0039] Continuous pallet replacement: The setup and automatic replacement mechanism of the pallet storage rack 6 ensure the continuity and efficiency of the production process, eliminating the need for frequent machine downtime to replace pallets and improving overall production efficiency.

[0040] In summary, through the optimization and improvement of the above technical details, the automated palletizing production line of this embodiment demonstrates significant advantages in terms of efficiency, stability, and flexibility, and can effectively meet the needs of modern production for efficient, automated, and diversified palletizing.

[0041] In one specific implementation, see Figure 2 The first transport line 1 includes a frame, a belt 20, a drive unit, a tensioning device, a guide device, and a support device.

[0042] The first frame provides support and a mounting foundation for other components of the transport line. It is constructed of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy, providing sufficient rigidity and stability. The first frame is connected by bolts and welding to ensure the overall structural stability.

[0043] The belts are typically made of wear-resistant rubber or PVC material, with a non-slip textured surface to prevent the cigarette packs from slipping. The belts have good wear resistance and tensile strength, enabling them to withstand high-frequency transportation operations over extended periods.

[0044] The drive unit includes a motor, a reducer, and a drive roller. The motor, a high-efficiency and energy-saving variable frequency motor, is installed at one end of the frame and can adjust its speed according to production needs. The motor is connected to the reducer via a coupling. The reducer converts the high-speed rotation of the motor into a low-speed, high-torque output to drive the drive roller. The drive roller is connected to the output shaft of the reducer and drives the belt through friction. The motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, which is reduced in speed and increased in torque by the reducer, transmitting power to the drive roller. The drive roller drives the belt along the frame through friction, forming a continuous transport path.

[0045] The support device includes multiple support rollers, evenly distributed inside the belt conveyor within the frame. These rollers are made of high-strength stainless steel or engineering plastics, offering wear resistance and a long service life. The support rollers support the belt and the transported goods above it, reducing belt sagging and friction, and improving transport efficiency.

[0046] The tensioning device is typically installed at the other end of the frame, using either a screw or cylinder for tensioning. By adjusting the extension or retraction of the screw or cylinder, the belt tension is adjusted to ensure smooth, non-slipping belt operation. The belt tension can be adjusted according to actual production needs to ensure optimal transport performance.

[0047] The guiding device is used to guide the conveyor belt along the correct path, prevent it from deviating from the track, and ensure the stability of the cigarette packs during transportation. The guiding device is installed on both sides of the frame, typically using a U-shaped or L-shaped structure, with guide rails made of wear-resistant steel or polymer materials. The guiding device, through side and center guide rails, guides the conveyor belt along the correct path, preventing it from deviating from the track and ensuring the stability of the cigarette packs during transportation.

[0048] In one specific implementation, it also includes a detection and control system, including the photoelectric detection gate 5, a PLC controller, and an operation panel.

[0049] The photoelectric detection gate 5 determines the presence and position of cigarette packs by emitting a light beam and detecting whether it is blocked by the cigarette pack. It consists of a transmitter and a receiver, and is typically installed at a key location on the first transport line 1. The transmitter and receiver communicate via infrared or laser. The working principle is as follows: the transmitter of the photoelectric detection gate 5 emits a light beam, and the receiver receives the beam. When a cigarette pack passes through the photoelectric detection gate 5, the light beam is blocked, and the receiver detects the signal change. By detecting the time interval between cigarette packs passing through the photoelectric detection gate 5, the transport speed of the cigarette packs can be calculated.

[0050] The PLC controller is used to process signals from the photoelectric detection gate 5, perform logic operations, and control outputs to adjust the belt speed. The model and configuration use a mainstream brand programmable logic controller (PLC), which includes multiple input / output ports, a communication interface, and a high-speed counter module.

[0051] The operation panel is used to display system status, set parameters, perform manual control, and system debugging. The operation panel includes a touch screen, a human-machine interface (HMI), buttons, and indicator lights.

[0052] In the above embodiment, the photoelectric detection gate 5 detects the passage of the cigarette packs in real time and transmits the signal to the PLC controller. The PLC controller adjusts the belt speed in real time according to the transport speed of the cigarette packs to ensure that the cigarette packs are transported at a stable speed. Through real-time adjustment, the accumulation or excessive spacing of cigarette packs during transportation is avoided, improving transportation efficiency and the accuracy of cigarette pack stacking.

[0053] In a further embodiment, the feed guiding mechanism 4 is a guide rail installed on both sides of the belt. The guide rail is typically made of wear-resistant metal material, such as stainless steel or aluminum alloy, to ensure its durability and stability during long-term use. The guide rail is arranged in a V-shape, that is, wider at the inlet end and narrower at the outlet end, forming a gradually narrowing channel. The guide rail is installed on both sides of the belt conveyor, parallel to the axis of the belt.

[0054] When in use: When the cigarette packs pass through the inlet of the belt conveyor, they first enter the inlet end of the guide rail.

[0055] Because the guide railings are arranged in a V-shape and the inlet is relatively wide, cigarette packs can smoothly enter the guide channel.

[0056] As the cigarette packs move forward during the conveyor process, the guide rails gradually narrow, guiding the packs to the correct position. The spacing at the exit ends of the guide rails is equal to the width of the cigarette packs, ensuring precise positioning as they pass through the exit. This results in neatly arranged packs at the exit, preventing offset and tilting, and providing reliable assurance for subsequent palletizing or other processing steps.

[0057] In the above embodiments, the figure-eight design of the guide rails effectively guides the cigarette packs into the correct conveying channel, reducing deviation and collisions during the conveying process. This ensures the cigarette packs remain stable throughout the conveying process, improving conveying efficiency and the integrity of the cigarette packs.

[0058] In one specific embodiment, a first positioning mechanism 7 is provided at the end of the guide rail, including a first cylinder 8 fixed to one side of the frame and a first positioning plate 9 fixed to the piston end of the first cylinder 8. The first positioning plate 9 is parallel to the axial direction of the belt. The first cylinder 8 is fixed to one side of the frame and is used to control the movement of the positioning plate. A pneumatic cylinder can be selected to provide stable and controllable thrust. The first positioning plate 9 is fixed to the piston end of the first cylinder 8. The positioning plate is parallel to the axial direction of the belt. When the cigarette pack moves to the end of the guide rail, the first cylinder 8 is activated, pushing the first positioning plate 9 inward. The first positioning plate 9 presses against the side of the cigarette pack, fixing its position on the belt and preventing it from shifting. Through precise control of the cylinder, the spacing between adjacent cigarette packs on the belt can be adjusted to ensure neat arrangement of the cigarette packs.

[0059] In a further embodiment, a barcode reading mechanism 10 is provided on the opposite side of the positioning mechanism, including a bracket 11 fixed to a frame, and a light source 12 and a camera 13 mounted on the bracket. The bracket is fixed to the frame and supports the entire barcode reading mechanism 10. The light source 12 is mounted on the bracket to provide stable illumination for barcode reading. The type of light source 12 is typically LED, providing uniform illumination and reducing reading errors. The camera 13 is fixed to the bracket and is used to capture the barcode image on the cigarette pack. The resolution of the camera 13 should be high enough to ensure clear barcode reading. After the cigarette pack is positioned, the barcode reading mechanism 10 begins to operate. The light source 12 provides uniform illumination to ensure the barcode is clearly visible. The camera 13 captures the barcode image on the cigarette pack and transmits the image to the system for recognition and processing. The system collects the product information of the current cigarette pack and enters it into the database.

[0060] In a further embodiment, a second positioning mechanism 14 is also provided at the end of the first transport line 1, including a second cylinder 15 fixed to one side of the frame and a second positioning plate 16 fixed to the piston end of the second cylinder 15. The second cylinder 15 is fixed to one side of the frame and is used to control the movement of the second positioning plate 16. A pneumatic cylinder is usually selected to provide a stable and controllable thrust. The second positioning plate 16 is fixed to the piston end of the second cylinder 15, parallel to the axis of the belt. When the cigarette pack moves to the end of the first positioning plate 9, the cylinder controls the second positioning plate 16 to move inward to abut against the side of the cigarette pack. A baffle 17 is symmetrically arranged with the second positioning plate 16 and parallel to the second positioning plate 16. It is fixed and is used to cooperate with the second positioning plate 16 to clamp the cigarette pack.

[0061] In use, when the cigarette pack moves from the end of the first transport line 1 to the position of the second positioning plate 16, the second cylinder 15 is activated, pushing the second positioning plate 16 inward. The second positioning plate 16 presses against one side of the cigarette pack, clamping the cigarette pack between the second positioning plate 16 and the baffle 17. Through this step, precise positioning and clamping of the cigarette pack are achieved, ensuring that the cigarette pack is stably in the predetermined position.

[0062] Through the above implementation method, the second positioning mechanism 14 controls the movement of the second positioning plate 16 via the second cylinder 15, so that the cigarette pack can be securely clamped between the second positioning plate 16 and the baffle 17. This design ensures that the cigarette pack will not shift during the gripping and flipping process of the robotic arm, guaranteeing the accuracy and stability of the operation.

[0063] In a further embodiment, a protective fence 18 is provided on the outside of the robotic arm device 3. It is typically made of a robust metal material, such as steel or aluminum alloy, to ensure sufficient strength and durability. The protective fence 18 effectively prevents operators from accidentally entering the robotic arm's working area, avoiding collisions or other safety accidents. It separates the robotic arm's working area from the operator's activity area, forming a physical barrier to ensure the operator's safety.

[0064] In one specific implementation, see Figure 1 The second transport line 2 includes a frame 2, in which a plurality of rollers 19 are provided. The ends of the rollers 19 are connected by a transmission chain. One of the rollers 19 is connected to a drive device. The drive device includes a motor and a reducer. The motor transmits power to the transmission chain through the reducer, thereby driving the roller 19 to rotate.

[0065] The second frame is typically made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy to ensure sufficient strength and corrosion resistance. Several supports are installed on the second frame for mounting and securing the roller 19, ensuring its stability during operation.

[0066] Rollers 19 are typically made of high-strength steel or galvanized steel, offering excellent wear resistance and impact resistance. Rollers 19 are evenly distributed across the frame, forming a continuous conveying surface. The spacing of the rollers 19 is designed according to the specific material dimensions and conveying requirements. The ends of the rollers 19 are interconnected via belts, ensuring that all rollers 19 rotate synchronously, forming a continuous conveyor chain.

[0067] An appropriate power motor is selected to ensure sufficient power to drive the roller 19 system. The motor is typically a three-phase AC motor, characterized by high efficiency and stable operation.

[0068] Speed ​​reducers are used to convert the high-speed rotation of an electric motor into low-speed, high-torque rotation suitable for roller systems. Common types of speed reducers include gear reducers and worm gear reducers.

[0069] The drive chain is used to transmit the power output from the reducer to the roller 19 system. The drive chain typically uses a high-strength chain to ensure the reliability and durability of the transmission.

[0070] Power transmission process:

[0071] The motor is started, and it outputs high-speed rotational power. The high-speed rotation of the motor is converted into low-speed, high-torque rotational power through a reducer, which is suitable for the operating requirements of the roller 19 system. The power output from the reducer is transmitted to one roller 19 through a transmission chain, and this roller 19 transmits the power to other rollers 19 through the transmission chain, ensuring that all rollers 19 rotate synchronously.

[0072] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and are not intended to limit it. Although this 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 of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. An automated palletizing production line, characterized in that, include: A first transport line for inputting cigarette cartons, a second transport line for stacking and outputting multiple cigarette cartons, and a robotic arm device for flipping cigarette cartons from the first transport line to the second transport line and performing multi-layer stacking; the first transport line is equipped with a feeding guide mechanism for adjusting the position of the cigarette cartons in the center line of the first transport line, and a photoelectric detection gate for detecting the transport speed of the cigarette cartons; a pallet storage rack is also provided on one side of the second transport line.

2. The automated palletizing production line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first transport line includes a frame, a belt, and a drive unit. The belt and the drive unit are mounted on the frame. The belt has drive rollers at both ends. The drive unit is connected to the drive rollers to drive the belt.

3. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a detection and control system, including the aforementioned photoelectric detection gate, PLC controller and operation panel, which photoelectrically detects the transport speed of the cigarette packs and controls the belt speed through the PLC controller.

4. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 2, characterized in that, The feeding guide mechanism consists of guide rails installed on both sides of the belt, parallel to the belt's axis. The guide rails are shaped like the number eight, with a larger inlet end and a smaller outlet end. The distance between the guide rails on both sides of the outlet end is equal to the width of the cigarette pack.

5. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 4, characterized in that, The guide rail is provided with a first positioning mechanism at its end, including a first cylinder fixed on one side of the frame and a first positioning plate fixed on the piston end of the first cylinder. The first positioning plate is parallel to the axis of the belt. When the cigarette pack moves to the end of the guide mechanism, the cylinder controls the first positioning plate to move inward to press against the side of the cigarette pack, thereby positioning the cigarette pack.

6. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 5, characterized in that, The barcode reading mechanism is provided on the opposite side of the first positioning mechanism, including a bracket fixed on the frame and a light source and a camera provided on the bracket.

7. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 2, characterized in that, At the end of the first transport line, a second positioning mechanism is also provided, including a second cylinder fixed on one side of the frame and a second positioning plate fixed on the piston end of the second cylinder. The second positioning plate is parallel to the axis of the belt, and a baffle parallel to it is symmetrically provided on the second positioning plate.

8. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The robotic arm device is surrounded by a protective fence.

9. An automated palletizing production line according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second transport line includes a frame, in which a number of rollers are arranged. The ends of the rollers are connected by a transmission chain. One of the rollers is connected to a drive device, which transmits power to the transmission chain to drive the roller to rotate.

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