Pipe feeding mechanism, automatic pipe feeding device and pipe cutting equipment

Abstract

The utility model provides a pipe feeding mechanism, an automatic pipe feeding device and pipe cutting equipment. The pipe feeding mechanism comprises a feeding plate which is movably arranged on a rack, one end of the feeding plate is a feeding end, and the feeding end can extend out of the rack or retract to correspond to a distributing and pushing mechanism along with movement of the feeding plate; the pipe clamping assembly is arranged at the feeding end in a lifting mode, and the pipe clamping assembly can be opened and closed to clamp or loosen the pipe; when the feeding end retracts to correspond to the position of the material distributing and pushing mechanism, the pipe clamping assembly can descend to be lower than the material distributing and pushing mechanism so as to receive the single pipe pushed by the material distributing and pushing mechanism. After the pipe clamping assembly receives the pipe, the pipe clamping assembly ascends to be higher than the fence structure of the cutting machine, and the feeding end extends out of the rack. According to the pipe feeding mechanism, collision during feeding is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of laser processing technology, and more specifically, it relates to a pipe feeding mechanism, an automatic pipe feeding device, and a pipe cutting equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Before cutting pipes, laser pipe cutting machines can use a pipe feeding device to feed the pipes. In related technologies, the pipe feeding device lifts multiple pipes stacked in the hopper to a conveying unit, where they are conveyed layer by layer. Then, a pipe clamping assembly clamps each pipe, adjusts its position, and transfers it to the pipe cutting machine, completing the feeding process. However, in actual use, some pipe cutting machines have relatively high enclosure structures. During the process of transferring the pipes to the cutting machine, the clamping assembly and the pipes are prone to colliding with the enclosure structure, causing damage to the equipment or materials. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a pipe feeding mechanism that can prevent collisions during material feeding.

[0004] The technical solution adopted in this application embodiment is: to provide a pipe feeding mechanism, suitable for an automatic pipe feeding device, the automatic pipe feeding device including a frame and a material dispensing and pushing mechanism disposed on the frame, the pipe feeding mechanism including:

[0005] A feeding plate is movably mounted on the frame, one end of which is a feeding end. This feeding end can extend outside the frame or retract to correspond to the position of the material dispensing and pushing mechanism as the feeding plate moves.

[0006] A tube clamping assembly is vertically and flexibly disposed at the feeding end, and the tube clamping assembly can be opened and closed to clamp or release the tube.

[0007] When the feeding end retracts to a position corresponding to the material distribution and pushing mechanism, the pipe clamping assembly can descend below the material distribution and pushing mechanism to receive a single pipe pushed by the material distribution and pushing mechanism.

[0008] After the pipe clamping assembly receives the pipe, the pipe clamping assembly rises above the enclosure structure of the cutting machine, and the feeding end extends outside the frame.

[0009] Furthermore, the pipe feeding mechanism further includes a lifting assembly, which comprises:

[0010] Mounting bracket, which is mounted on the feeding end;

[0011] The lever includes a first end and a second end that are spaced apart from each other, and a hinge portion located between the first end and the second end, the hinge portion being hinged to the mounting bracket, and the clamping tube assembly being disposed at the first end; and

[0012] A first actuator, which is extendable or retractable, has one end hinged to the mounting bracket and the other end hinged to the second end.

[0013] Furthermore, the lifting assembly also includes an auxiliary link having a third end and a fourth end that are far apart from each other. The third end is hinged to the clamping tube assembly, and the fourth end is hinged to the mounting bracket. The distance between the first end and the third end is equal to the distance between the hinge and the fourth end.

[0014] Furthermore, the clamping assembly includes a clamping seat and two clamping members. The clamping seat is vertically and flexibly disposed at the feeding end, and the two clamping members are disposed on the clamping seat and can move closer to or further away from each other.

[0015] Furthermore, the clamping assembly further includes a driving assembly, the driving assembly comprising:

[0016] A gear is rotatably mounted on the clamping seat;

[0017] Two racks are slidably disposed on the clamping seat, the two racks are respectively located on both sides of the gear and mesh with the gear, and a clamping member is correspondingly disposed on one of the racks;

[0018] A second driver is connected to one of the racks to drive the rack to slide.

[0019] Furthermore, the pipe clamping assembly also includes a first roller, which is rotatably disposed on the clamping seat and lower than the two clamping members, and the axis of the first roller is horizontally arranged and perpendicular to the axis of the clamped pipe.

[0020] This application embodiment also provides an automatic pipe feeding device, including a frame, a feeding and coiling mechanism, a conveying mechanism, a material dispensing and pushing mechanism, and a pipe feeding mechanism as described above;

[0021] The frame has a material storage groove;

[0022] The feeding and winding mechanism includes a lifting belt and a winding shaft. The winding shaft is rotatably mounted on the frame. One end of the lifting belt is connected to one side of the opening of the storage groove. After the lifting belt extends and passes through the storage groove and the other side of the opening in sequence, the other end of the lifting belt is connected to the winding shaft.

[0023] The conveying mechanism is mounted on the frame, and one end is connected to the opening of the storage groove;

[0024] The material distribution and pushing mechanism is vertically mounted at the other end of the conveying mechanism. The material distribution and pushing mechanism can be lowered to a position below the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism to receive a single pipe, or raised to push the pipe to the pipe clamping assembly.

[0025] Furthermore, the automatic pipe feeding device also includes an anti-stacking component, which includes a limiting plate disposed above the conveying mechanism and a connecting rod connected to the limiting plate. The connecting rod is height-adjustable on the frame. The limiting plate is located at one end of the conveying mechanism near the slot. A conveying channel for a single layer of pipe is formed between the limiting plate and the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism.

[0026] Furthermore, it also includes a length measuring mechanism, which includes a fixed baffle, a movable baffle, and a driving member. The fixed baffle and the movable baffle are respectively located at both ends of the pipe clamping assembly along the length of the pipe. The driving member is used to drive the movable baffle to move toward the fixed baffle. The driving member has a starting position and can determine the length of the pipe based on the distance between the starting position and the movable baffle when it stops moving.

[0027] This application embodiment also provides a pipe cutting device, including a cutting machine, and further including the pipe feeding mechanism or the automatic pipe feeding device as described above. The cutting machine includes a enclosure structure and an auxiliary support. The cutting machine is located on the side where the feeding end extends. The height of the enclosure structure is lower than the height of the pipe clamping assembly after it is raised. The auxiliary support can be raised and lowered to receive the pipe clamped by the pipe clamping assembly.

[0028] The beneficial effects of the pipe feeding mechanism provided in this application embodiment are as follows: In the pipe feeding mechanism of this application embodiment, by setting a liftable pipe clamping assembly on a movable feeding plate, the height and position of the pipe clamping assembly can be flexibly adjusted during the receiving and conveying of pipes. When the feeding end retracts to correspond to the position of the distributing and pushing mechanism, the pipe clamping assembly can descend below the distributing and pushing mechanism to receive a single pipe. After receiving the pipe, the pipe clamping assembly can rise to a position higher than the cutting machine's enclosure structure, and the feeding end extends outside the frame. In this way, throughout the entire process of transferring the pipe to the pipe cutting machine, the pipe clamping assembly and the clamped pipe are always positioned higher than the enclosure structure, effectively avoiding collisions between the pipe clamping assembly and the pipe and the enclosure structure, and greatly reducing the risk of equipment or material damage caused by collisions. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the automatic pipe feeding device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a front view of the automatic pipe feeding device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the pipe feeding mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 A front view of the pipe feeding mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of the pipe feeding mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0035] The following are the labeling elements in the figure:

[0036] 10. Automatic pipe feeding device;

[0037] 11. Frame; 111. Material storage groove;

[0038] 12. Feeding and winding mechanism; 121. Lifting belt; 122. Winding reel;

[0039] 13. Conveying mechanism;

[0040] 14. Material distribution and pushing mechanism;

[0041] 15. Anti-stacking assembly; 151. Limiting plate; 152. Connecting rod;

[0042] 16. Length measuring mechanism; 161. Fixed baffle; 162. Movable baffle; 163. Driving component;

[0043] 17. Pipe feeding mechanism; 171. Feeding plate; 1711. Feeding end; 172. Pipe clamping assembly; 1721. Clamping seat; 1722. Clamping element; 1723. Drive assembly; 17231. Gear; 17232. Rack; 17233. Second driver; 1724. First roller; 173. Lifting assembly; 1731. Mounting bracket; 1732. Lever; 17321. First end; 17322. Second end; 17323. Hinge; 1733. First driver; 1734. Auxiliary connecting rod; 17341. Third end; 17342. Fourth end;

[0044] 20. Enclosure structure. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0046] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0047] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 The pipe feeding mechanism 17 provided in the embodiments of this application will now be described. The pipe feeding mechanism 17 provided in the embodiments of this application is applicable to the automatic pipe feeding device 10.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3 The automatic pipe feeding device 10 includes a frame 11, a feeding and winding mechanism 12, a conveying mechanism 13, and a material dispensing and pushing mechanism 14.

[0051] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The frame 11 is the basic framework structure of the entire automatic pipe feeding device 10, serving to support and fix other components. The frame 11 provides a stable mounting platform for the material dispensing and pushing mechanism 14, the feeding plate 171, the pipe clamping assembly 172, and other related components, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the relative positions of each component during operation and withstanding various forces and vibrations generated throughout the feeding process. The frame 11 has a storage groove 111 for storing multiple pipes to be processed. When used in conjunction with a cutting machine, the frame 11 is located on one side of the cutting machine.

[0052] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The feeding and lifting mechanism 12 is used to lift the pipe in the storage groove 111 to the conveying mechanism 13, and then the conveying mechanism 13 conveys the pipe in a single layer to the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14. The material distribution and pushing mechanism 14 lifts and moves forward the single pipe conveyed by the conveying mechanism 13 each time, so that it reaches the pipe clamping assembly 172 of the pipe feeding mechanism 17.

[0053] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The pipe feeding mechanism 17 includes a feeding plate 171 and a pipe clamping assembly 172.

[0054] The feeding plate 171 is movably disposed on the frame 11. One end of the feeding plate 171 is the feeding end 1711. The feeding end 1711 can extend out of the frame 11 or retract to the position corresponding to the material dispensing and pushing mechanism 14 as the feeding plate 171 moves.

[0055] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The feeding plate 171 can be connected to the frame 11 via a guide structure (such as a guide rail and a slider) and is equipped with a drive device, such as a motor, gear, or rack and pinion drive, to achieve its movement function. In some embodiments, the feeding plate 171 is connected to the frame 11 via a guide rail, the feeding plate 171 is provided with a rack and pinion structure 17232, and the frame 11 is provided with a rotatable gear. The gear meshes with the rack and pinion structure, and the motor can drive the gear to rotate, thereby allowing the feeding plate 171 to extend or retract on the frame 11. In this way, the feeding end 1711 can flexibly extend outside the frame 11 according to the work requirements, following the overall movement of the feeding plate 171, to facilitate the delivery of pipes to the target position, such as feeding towards the cutting machine; it can also retract to a position that accurately corresponds to the position of the dispensing and pushing mechanism 14, thereby smoothly connecting to the subsequent pipe receiving operation.

[0056] Reference Figure 5 The pipe clamping assembly 172 is vertically and flexibly mounted on the feeding end 1711. The pipe clamping assembly 172 can open and close to clamp or release the pipe. The pipe clamping assembly 172 includes clamping members 1722 that can move closer or further apart. Their opening and closing actions are controlled by a dedicated drive assembly 1723, such as an electric push rod or a pneumatic gripper drive device. When the pipe needs to be clamped, the drive assembly 1723 drives the clamping members to move closer together, using appropriate clamping force to firmly fix the pipe; when the pipe reaches the target position and needs to be lowered, the drive assembly 1723 controls the clamping members to move further apart, releasing the pipe.

[0057] Reference Figure 3 The tube clamping assembly 172 is connected to the feeding end 1711 via a specific lifting mechanism. This lifting mechanism can be a screw jack, a cylinder-driven linkage structure, or other devices capable of linear lifting motion. Using these structures, the tube clamping assembly 172 can be adjusted vertically on the feeding end 1711 to meet the needs of different working stages.

[0058] When the feeding end 1711 retracts to a position corresponding to the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14, the pipe clamping assembly 172 can descend below the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14 to receive a single pipe pushed by the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14.

[0059] The feeding plate 171 is in the retracted state, with its feeding end 1711 corresponding to the position of the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14. At this time, the pipe clamping assembly 172 descends to a height lower than that of the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14, and the entire device is ready to receive the pipe. The material distribution and pushing mechanism 14 pushes a single pipe over, and since the pipe clamping assembly 172 has descended to a suitable low position, it can smoothly receive the pushed pipe. Subsequently, the pipe clamping assembly 172 clamps the pipe to ensure that the pipe will not loosen or fall off during subsequent conveying.

[0060] After the pipe clamping assembly 172 receives the pipe, the pipe clamping assembly 172 rises above the enclosure structure 20 of the cutting machine, and the feeding end 1711 extends outside the frame 11.

[0061] After receiving the pipe, the pipe clamping assembly 172 begins to rise until it reaches a height higher than the enclosure structure 20 of the cutting machine. At the same time, the feeding end 1711 of the feeding plate 171 extends outward and gradually moves outward from the frame 11, delivering the pipe clamped by the pipe clamping assembly 172 to the area where the cutting machine is located, until it reaches the appropriate feeding position, accurately delivering the pipe to the cutting machine and releasing the pipe, preparing for the subsequent cutting operation.

[0062] Based on the above structure, the pipe feeding mechanism 17 of this embodiment, through the lifting and lowering of the pipe clamping assembly 172 and the telescopic cooperation of the feeding end 1711 of the feeding plate 171, allows the pipe to cleverly avoid the cutting machine's enclosure structure 20 during transportation, effectively preventing collisions between the pipe clamping assembly 172, the pipe, and the enclosure structure 20. This not only avoids equipment damage caused by collisions, reducing maintenance costs and equipment downtime, but also ensures the appearance quality of the pipe, preventing scratches, deformation, and other problems on the pipe surface, thus ensuring the quality of subsequent processing.

[0063] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The pipe feeding mechanism 17 further includes a lifting assembly 173, which includes a mounting bracket 1731, a lever 1732, and a first driver 1733.

[0064] The mounting bracket 1731 is located at the feeding end 1711. The mounting bracket 1731 is the basic support structure of the entire lifting assembly 173. It is set on the feeding end 1711 and serves to fix and support other components. The connection between the mounting bracket 1731 and the feeding end 1711 is stable and reliable, for example, by welding, bolting, or high-strength clamping, ensuring that the mounting bracket 1731 itself will not loosen or shift during the entire pipe feeding and lifting process. This provides a stable mounting base for the lever 1732 and the first actuator 1733, ensuring that they can work together according to the predetermined movement pattern.

[0065] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4 The mounting bracket 1731 is J-shaped, with its curved lower end used to hinge the first driver 1733, and its vertical portion is fixed to the feed plate 171.

[0066] The lever 1732 includes a first end 17321 and a second end 17322 that are far apart from each other, and also includes a hinge portion 17323 located between the first end 17321 and the second end 17322. The hinge portion 17323 is hinged to the mounting bracket 1731, and the clamping tube assembly 172 is disposed at the first end 17321.

[0067] Lever 1732 is a key component in the lifting assembly 173 that enables force transmission and motion conversion. The hinge portion 17323 of lever 1732 is connected to the mounting bracket 1731 via a pin or hinge, allowing lever 1732 to rotate flexibly relative to the mounting bracket 1731 around the hinge point. The clamping assembly 172 is mounted on the first end 17321 of lever 1732. Thus, when lever 1732 rotates around the hinge portion 17323, it drives the clamping assembly 172 to move upwards or downwards, achieving vertical position adjustment of the clamping assembly 172 and meeting the height requirements of the clamping assembly 172 at different working stages.

[0068] The first actuator 1733 is extendable or retractable. One end of the first actuator 1733 is hinged to the mounting bracket 1731, and the other end is hinged to the second end 17322. The first actuator 1733 is a device that provides power for the rotation of the lever 1732. It has the function of being extendable or retractable and can be an electric actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or a pneumatic actuator, etc.

[0069] When the first actuator 1733 extends or retracts, it applies a force to the second end 17322 of the lever 1732. Due to the hinged relationship between the lever 1732 and the mounting bracket 1731 and the principle of force interaction, the lever 1732 rotates around the hinge 17323, thereby driving the clamping assembly 172 mounted on the first end 17321 to move up or down. For example, when the first actuator 1733 extends, it pushes the second end 17322 of the lever 1732, causing the lever 1732 to rotate clockwise around the hinge 17323 (assuming the viewing direction), and the clamping assembly 172 located at the first end 17321 will descend accordingly; conversely, when the first actuator 1733 retracts, the lever 1732 rotates counterclockwise, and the clamping assembly 172 rises.

[0070] During the operation of the pipe feeding mechanism 17, when the pipe clamping assembly 172 needs to descend to receive the pipe pushed by the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14, the first driver 1733 extends and applies an outward pushing force to the second end 17322 of the lever 1732. The lever 1732 rotates clockwise with the hinge part 17323 as the fulcrum, and the first end 17321 where the pipe clamping assembly 172 is located will descend to a suitable position below the material distribution and pushing mechanism 14, ready to receive the pipe.

[0071] When the pipe clamping assembly 172 has successfully clamped the pipe and it is necessary to raise the pipe above the enclosure structure 20 of the cutting machine, the first driver 1733 shortens. At this time, the first driver 1733 pulls the second end 17322 of the lever 1732, and the lever 1732 rotates counterclockwise around the hinge 17323, driving the pipe clamping assembly 172 to rise to the specified height. Then, the feeding end 1711 of the feeding plate 171 can extend outside the frame 11 to feed the pipe to the cutting machine. The whole process achieves flexible and accurate vertical position adjustment of the pipe clamping assembly 172 through the ingenious cooperation of the lever 1732 and the driver, ensuring the smooth progress of the pipe feeding process.

[0072] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The lifting assembly 173 further includes an auxiliary connecting rod 1734, which has a third end 17341 and a fourth end 17342 that are far apart from each other. The third end 17341 is hinged to the clamping tube assembly 172, and the fourth end 17342 is hinged to the mounting bracket 1731. The distance between the first end 17321 and the third end 17341 is equal to the distance between the hinge portion 17323 and the fourth end 17342.

[0073] The third end 17341 of the auxiliary connecting rod 1734 is hinged to the pipe clamping assembly 172, while the fourth end 17342 is hinged to the mounting bracket 1731. The distance between the first end 17321 and the third end 17341 is equal to the distance between the hinge part 17323 and the fourth end 17342, so that the lever 1732, the auxiliary connecting rod 1734, the mounting bracket 1731, and the pipe clamping assembly 172 form a structure similar to a parallelogram. In mechanical motion, the parallelogram structure has good stability. For the lifting assembly 173 of the pipe feeding mechanism 17, when the pipe clamping assembly 172 is lifting, especially after clamping the pipe, it may be subjected to forces in various directions, such as the weight of the pipe and inertial forces.

[0074] Due to the parallelogram-like structure formed by lever 1732 and auxiliary link 1734, these forces can be more evenly distributed and balanced. Just as the four sides of a parallelogram constrain each other, the movement trajectory of clamp assembly 172 is restricted by this structure, making its vertical lifting and lowering movements more stable.

[0075] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The clamping assembly includes a clamping seat 1721 and two clamping members 1722. The clamping seat 1721 is movably mounted on the feeding end 1711, and the two clamping members 1722 are mounted on the clamping seat 1721 and can move closer to or further away from each other.

[0076] The clamping seat 1721 serves as the basic support component of the tube clamping assembly. It is mounted on the feeding end 1711 and can be raised and lowered. Specifically, the clamping seat 1721 is mounted on the first end 17321 of the lever 1732, thereby realizing its raising and lowering function.

[0077] Two clamping elements 1722 can be symmetrically distributed and installed on the clamping base 1721. The two clamping elements 1722 can move closer to each other or further away from each other on the clamping base 1721 to complete the clamping and releasing operations of the pipe. This action is controlled by a specific drive component 1723 (the working principle of the drive component 1723 will be described in detail later). When the pipe needs to be clamped, the drive component 1723 drives the two clamping elements 1722 to move closer to each other until they are tightly attached to the outer wall of the pipe, firmly fixing the pipe in place; when the pipe is transported to a designated position and needs to be lowered, the drive component 1723 will cause the two clamping elements 1722 to move further away from each other, releasing the clamping of the pipe and allowing the pipe to smoothly detach from the clamping assembly to enter the next processing stage.

[0078] Reference Figure 5 The clamping assembly further includes a drive assembly 1723, which includes a gear 17231, two racks 17232, and a second driver 17233.

[0079] The gear 17231 is rotatably disposed on the clamping seat 1721, and the rack 17232 is slidably disposed on the clamping seat 1721. The two racks 17232 are respectively located on both sides of the gear 17231 and mesh with the gear 17231. One clamping member 1722 is correspondingly disposed on one rack 17232.

[0080] Two racks 17232 are slidably mounted on the clamping base 1721. They are elongated in structure and have tooth profiles that match the teeth of the gear 17231. They slide along the preset linear guide rail or groove on the clamping base 1721. This mounting method can ensure that the racks 17232 can move smoothly and linearly when driven, and can also precisely limit the movement trajectory of the racks 17232 to prevent them from deviating or deviating from the predetermined movement path.

[0081] Each rack 17232 is connected to a corresponding clamping element 1722. When the rack 17232 slides under the drive of the gear 17231, it directly drives the clamping element 1722 connected to it to move. The two racks 17232 are located on both sides of the gear 17231 and mesh with the gear 17231. This arrangement ensures that when one rack 17232 slides in one direction under the action of the driving force, the other rack 17232 will slide in the opposite direction under the transmission of the gear 17231. This achieves the synchronous movement of the two clamping elements 1722 moving closer or further away from each other, ensuring that the clamping and loosening operations of the pipe can be carried out in a coordinated and accurate manner.

[0082] The second actuator 17233 is connected to one of the racks 17232 to drive the rack 17232 to slide. The second actuator 17233 is a device that provides power to the rack 17232, and common types include electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, or hydraulic actuators. One end of it is connected to one of the racks 17232.

[0083] When the pipe needs to be clamped, the second actuator 17233 starts working, causing the rack 17232 to slide in one direction along the clamping seat 1721. Since the gear 17231 meshes with this rack 17232, the gear 17231 will begin to rotate under the drive of the rack 17232, while the other rack 17232 meshing with the gear 17231 will slide in the opposite direction due to the rotation of the gear 17231. This causes the two clamping members 1722 connected to the two racks 17232 to move closer together, ultimately clamping the pipe. In this process, the precise transmission of the gear 17231 and rack 17232 ensures the synchronous movement of the two clamping members 1722 and applies an appropriate clamping force to the pipe, thus stably fixing the pipe in place.

[0084] When the pipe is delivered to the designated position and needs to be released, the second driver 17233 changes its working state, causing the connected rack 17232 to slide back. Similarly, through the transmission of the gear 17231, the other rack 17232 also slides in the opposite direction, thereby causing the two clamping parts 1722 to move away from each other, releasing the clamping state on the pipe. The pipe can then smoothly detach from the clamping assembly and enter the subsequent processing stage.

[0085] Furthermore, in the initial stage of clamping the pipe, regardless of the initial position of the pipe between the two clamping members 1722, since the two clamping members 1722 approach the pipe through the symmetrical movement of the gear 17231 and rack 17232, they will move towards the center from both sides of the pipe simultaneously, so that the pipe is in the center of the two clamping members 1722 after being clamped, ensuring the positional accuracy of the pipe in the subsequent conveying and processing process.

[0086] Reference Figure 5 In some embodiments, the clamping member 1722 is a second roller, which is rotatably mounted on the rack 17232, and the axis of the second roller is vertically oriented. The clamping member 1722, being a second roller, is a cylindrical structure with an outer cylindrical surface, and its axis is vertically oriented, that is, perpendicular to the ground. The second roller is rotatably mounted on the rack 17232 via a suitable rotating shaft. The rotating shaft and the rack 17232 are reliably connected, for example, through a bearing connection, to ensure that the roller can rotate flexibly and smoothly around its own vertical axis, while being firmly fixed on the rack 17232, so that it will not loosen, fall off, or jam during linear movement with the rack 17232.

[0087] After the pipe clamping assembly clamps the pipe, the outer cylindrical surface of the second roller contacts the outer wall of the pipe. Since the second roller is rotatably mounted on the rack 17232, when the pipe needs to move along its own length direction, such as during length measurement operations, the relative movement between the pipe and the second roller is rolling friction rather than sliding friction.

[0088] For example, when the length measuring mechanism 16 (composed of a fixed baffle 161, a movable baffle 162, and a driving component 163, etc.) starts working, and the movable baffle 162 is driven to move towards the fixed baffle 161 to measure the length of the pipe, the pipe will be pushed by a certain external force and tend to move along the length direction. At this time, at the part where the pipe contacts the second roller, the second roller will rotate around its own vertical axis under the action of the friction of the pipe, and the pipe will slide relatively smoothly between the two second rollers along the length direction, thus realizing the movement requirement of the pipe. Using a rotatable second roller as a clamping component 1722 greatly reduces the resistance to pipe movement, allowing the pipe to easily adjust its position according to the drive of the measuring mechanism. The movable baffle 162 can accurately fit against the other end of the pipe, and then the length of the pipe can be accurately obtained according to the relevant parameters of the driving component 163, improving the accuracy and reliability of the length measurement operation.

[0089] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 5 The pipe clamping assembly further includes a first roller 1724, which is rotatably disposed on the clamping seat 1721 and lower than the two clamping members 1722. The axis of the first roller 1724 is horizontally arranged and perpendicular to the axis of the clamped pipe.

[0090] The first roller 1724 can be mounted on the clamping seat 1721 by means of bearing housing, which ensures that the first roller 1724 can rotate flexibly around its own horizontal axis, and at the same time ensures that it can maintain a reliable connection under long-term use and under the pressure of pipes, and will not loosen or shift, thus affecting normal operation.

[0091] After the pipe clamping assembly grips the pipe, the pipe is positioned between the two clamping members 1722 and clamped and fixed. At this time, the pipe is placed above the first roller 1724. When operations such as pipe length measurement are required, and the pipe tends to move along its own length direction, since the first roller 1724 is rotatably mounted on the clamping seat 1721 and its axis is perpendicular to the pipe axis, a rolling friction relationship is formed between the pipe and the first roller 1724.

[0092] For example, when the drive unit 163 in the length measuring mechanism 16 drives the movable baffle 162 to move toward the fixed baffle 161 to measure the length of the pipe, the pipe is pushed by an external force, and the part of its bottom that contacts the first roller 1724 will cause the first roller 1724 to rotate around its own horizontal axis. The pipe is like on a "track" (the rolling support surface formed by the first roller 1724), and can slide relatively smoothly along the length direction, realizing the function of assisting the movement of the pipe in the pipe clamping assembly, which facilitates the accurate operation of length measurement.

[0093] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This application embodiment also provides an automatic pipe feeding device 10, including a frame 11, a feeding and winding mechanism 12, a conveying mechanism 13, a material dispensing and pushing mechanism 14, and a pipe feeding mechanism 17 as described above.

[0094] The frame 11 has a storage groove 111. The frame 11 is the basic framework of the entire automatic pipe feeding device 10, which supports and fixes other mechanical components. The storage groove 111 is used to store the pipes to be processed, providing a relatively centralized and orderly space for pipe storage, which facilitates the smooth progress of subsequent feeding operations.

[0095] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2The feeding and winding mechanism 12 includes a lifting belt 121 and a winding shaft 122. The winding shaft 122 is rotatably mounted on the frame 11. One end of the lifting belt 121 is connected to one side of the opening of the storage groove 111. The lifting belt 121 extends sequentially through the storage groove 111 and the other side of the opening, and the other end of the lifting belt 121 is connected to the winding shaft 122. The lifting belt 121 has a certain strength and flexibility, can withstand the weight of the pipe, and can complete the winding and unwinding action under the drive of the winding shaft 122. One end of the lifting belt 121 is connected to one side of the opening of the storage groove 111, then extends through the inside of the storage groove 111 and the other side of the opening, and the other end is connected to the winding shaft 122. This arrangement allows the lifting belt 121 to fully contact the pipe in the storage groove 111, thereby driving the pipe to rise in subsequent actions.

[0096] The winding shaft 122 is rotatably mounted on the frame 11 and can be driven to rotate by a power device such as a motor. When the winding shaft 122 rotates, it winds or releases the lifting belt 121. For example, when the winding shaft 122 rotates clockwise (assuming the direction), the lifting belt 121 will be gradually wound onto the winding shaft 122, thereby lifting the pipe located in the storage groove 111 upwards, realizing the lifting action of the pipe from a lower storage position to the subsequent conveying position, laying the foundation for the start of the entire feeding process.

[0097] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The conveying mechanism 13 is mounted on the frame 11, with one end connected to the opening of the storage groove 111. The function of the conveying mechanism 13 is to transport the pipes lifted from the storage groove 111 by the lifting belt 121 towards the distribution and pushing mechanism 14. The conveying mechanism 13 may consist of a conveyor chain, a drive sprocket, a driven sprocket, and a matching motor. The motor drives the drive sprocket to rotate, and relying on the friction between the conveyor chain and the pipes, the pipes are moved smoothly forward on the conveyor belt, ensuring that the pipes can orderly enter the corresponding position of the next processing stage according to the predetermined route, thus ensuring the continuity of the entire feeding process.

[0098] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2The material distribution and pushing mechanism 14 is vertically and flexibly located at the other end of the conveying mechanism 13. The material distribution and pushing mechanism 14 can descend below the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism 13 to receive a single pipe, or rise to push the pipe to the clamping assembly 172. The material receiving mechanism can descend below the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism 13, at which point it is positioned to receive a single pipe conveyed from the conveyor belt, preventing multiple pipes from entering simultaneously and causing confusion in subsequent processing. After successfully receiving a single pipe, it can rise to a suitable height and push the pipe to the clamping assembly 172, achieving accurate transfer of the pipe from the conveying mechanism 13 to the clamping assembly 172, playing a crucial connecting role in the entire feeding process.

[0099] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The automatic pipe feeding device 10 also includes an anti-stacking component 15. The anti-stacking component 15 includes a limiting plate 151 disposed above the conveying mechanism 13 and a connecting rod 152 connected to the limiting plate 151. The connecting rod 152 is height-adjustable on the frame 11. The limiting plate 151 is located at one end of the conveying mechanism 13 near the slot. A conveying channel for a single layer of pipe is formed between the limiting plate 151 and the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism 13.

[0100] The limiting plate 151 is disposed above the conveying mechanism 13, specifically at one end of the conveying mechanism 13 near the opening of the storage groove 111. The limiting plate 151 is elongated, and its length direction is basically consistent with the conveying direction of the pipe.

[0101] The connecting rod 152 serves to connect the limiting plate 151 to the frame 11, and its height is adjustable when mounted on the frame 11. One end of the connecting rod 152 is securely connected to the limiting plate 151, which can be achieved through welding, bolting, or the use of a special connector, ensuring that the limiting plate 151 and the connecting rod 152 move synchronously and are firmly connected during operation. The other end is connected to the frame 11 via a height-adjustable mounting structure, such as a threaded adjustment structure. By rotating the mounting part of the connecting rod 152 on the frame 11, it can be raised or lowered vertically.

[0102] During the operation of the automatic pipe feeding device 10, when the pipe is lifted from the storage groove 111 by the lifting belt 121 and begins to be conveyed by the conveying mechanism 13, the pipe will move towards the end of the conveying mechanism 13. Since the limiting plate 151 of the anti-stacking component 15 is located at the end of the conveying mechanism 13 near the groove opening, and a conveying channel for only a single layer of pipe is formed between the limiting plate 151 and the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism 13, when multiple pipes are stacked together and attempt to pass through this area, the upper pipes will be blocked by the limiting plate 151, and only the bottom layer of pipes can move smoothly along the conveying channel on the conveyor belt, thereby achieving the anti-stacking function of the pipes.

[0103] Moreover, depending on the different specifications of the actual conveying pipes (such as pipe diameter) or different production needs, the operator can adjust the height of the connecting rod 152 on the frame 11, thereby changing the height position of the limiting plate 151, to flexibly adjust the height space of the conveying channel, ensuring that only a single layer of pipes can be accurately allowed to pass through at all times, adapting to the pipe conveying requirements under different conditions.

[0104] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The automatic pipe feeding device 10 also includes a length measuring mechanism 16, which includes a fixed baffle 161, a movable baffle 162, and a driving member 163. The fixed baffle 161 and the movable baffle 162 are located at the two ends of the pipe clamping assembly 172 along the length of the pipe. The driving member 163 is used to drive the movable baffle 162 to move toward the fixed baffle 161. The driving member 163 has a starting position and can determine the length of the pipe based on the distance between the starting position and the movable baffle 162 when it stops moving.

[0105] The fixed baffle 161 is a relatively stationary component in the length measuring mechanism 16. It is installed at one end of the pipe clamping assembly 172 along the length of the pipe and remains fixed in position. It is connected to the frame 11 or other stable support structure via a robust connection method (such as welding or bolting) to ensure that its position does not change throughout the entire measurement process and during pipe conveying and clamping operations. The fixed baffle 161 possesses high strength and rigidity, capable of withstanding the impact forces that may occur during pipe contact, and its surface is typically relatively flat to better fit the pipe end, ensuring measurement accuracy.

[0106] The movable baffle 162 corresponds to the fixed baffle 161 and is located at the other end of the pipe clamping assembly 172 along the length of the pipe. The movable baffle 162 can move under the action of the driving component 163. The movable baffle 162 also needs to have sufficient strength to cope with contact and pushing with the pipe. Its installation method must ensure that it can move flexibly along the length of the pipe and maintain a stable movement trajectory. For example, it can be connected to the frame 11 through a guide rail slider structure, so that the movable baffle 162 can slide smoothly in the straight direction defined by the guide rail without deviation, jamming or other situations that affect the measurement.

[0107] The driving component 163 is a key component that provides power to the movable baffle 162, enabling its movement. Specifically, the driving component 163 is a motor, gear, and rack mechanism. The driving component 163 is connected to the movable baffle 162, and the connection method must ensure effective power transmission to drive the movable baffle 162 to achieve linear motion. The driving component 163 has a defined starting position. When it is necessary to measure the length of the pipe, the driving component 163 can push or pull the movable baffle 162 towards the fixed baffle 161 according to the set requirements.

[0108] After the pipe is clamped by the pipe clamping assembly 172 and is in a relatively stable state, the length measuring mechanism 16 starts to work. The driving component 163 pushes the movable baffle 162 to move along the length of the pipe towards the direction where the fixed baffle 161 is located.

[0109] As the movable baffle 162 moves, it gradually approaches the other end of the pipe until it contacts the end of the pipe and pushes the pipe (due to the rolling contact between the pipe and the clamping assembly 172, the pipe can move to a certain extent along the thrust of the movable baffle 162). Finally, the movable baffle 162 stops moving, at which point it, together with the fixed baffle 161, clamps the pipe in the middle. Because the driving component 163 has a starting position, the length of the pipe can be accurately determined based on the distance between the starting position of the driving component 163 and the position of the movable baffle 162 when it stops moving.

[0110] This application embodiment also provides a pipe cutting device, including a cutting machine, and a pipe feeding mechanism 17 as described in any of the above embodiments or an automatic pipe feeding device 10 as described in any of the above embodiments. The cutting machine includes a enclosure structure 20 and an auxiliary support. The cutting machine is located on the side where the feeding end 1711 extends. The height of the enclosure structure 20 is lower than the height of the pipe clamping assembly 172 after it is raised. The auxiliary support can be raised and lowered to receive the pipe clamped by the pipe clamping assembly 172.

[0111] The enclosure structure 20 is part of the cutting machine and mainly serves a protective function, preventing debris, sparks, and other contaminants generated during the cutting process from flying into the surrounding environment, ensuring the safety of operators, and maintaining a relatively clean work area. The enclosure structure 20 is usually made of sturdy materials with certain protective properties, such as sheet metal, and surrounds the cutting area to form a relatively enclosed protective space.

[0112] Because the enclosure structure 20 is lower than the height of the pipe clamping assembly 172 after it rises, the pipe clamping assembly 172 will not collide with the enclosure structure 20 when it lifts the pipe and sends it to the cutting machine during the pipe feeding process, ensuring smooth feeding. The enclosure structure 20 is usually made of sturdy materials with certain protective properties, such as metal sheets, and surrounds the perimeter of the cutting area to form a relatively enclosed protective space.

[0113] The auxiliary support is vertically mounted on the cutting machine. Its main function is to receive the pipe clamped and fed by the pipe clamping assembly 172, providing stable support for the pipe during cutting. After the pipe clamping assembly 172, carrying the pipe, reaches a suitable position above the cutting machine, the auxiliary support rises to the corresponding height, contacting and supporting the pipe. This ensures the pipe maintains a stable posture during cutting, preventing swaying or shifting due to suspension or unstable support, which could affect cutting accuracy. The lifting function of the auxiliary support is generally achieved through a drive device such as a cylinder or electric push rod, and its surface is usually treated with anti-slip and wear-resistant materials to better contact the pipe and ensure effective support.

[0114] The pipe feeding mechanism 17 is responsible for accurately conveying the pipes from their initial position to the cutting machine. The feeding task is completed through a series of coordinated actions, including the movement of the feeding plate 171, the clamping, lifting, and opening / closing of the pipe clamping assembly 172. The automatic pipe feeding device 10 encompasses a complete feeding process, from pipe storage, lifting, and distribution to delivery to the feeding mechanism. Together, they ensure that the pipes are delivered to the cutting machine in an orderly and efficient manner, providing a source of pipes for the cutting operation and guaranteeing the continuous and stable operation of the cutting equipment.

[0115] Understandably, due to the long length of the pipe, the automatic pipe feeding device 10 has multiple feeding and lifting mechanisms 12, conveying mechanisms 13, material dispensing and pushing mechanisms 14, and pipe feeding mechanisms 17. Multiple feeding and lifting mechanisms 12 are arranged at intervals along the length of the pipe, multiple conveying mechanisms 13 are arranged at intervals along the length of the pipe, and multiple pipe feeding mechanisms 17 are arranged at intervals along the length of the pipe.

[0116] The pipe cutting equipment of this application embodiment includes the pipe feeding mechanism 17 in any of the above embodiments, and therefore has the beneficial effects brought by the pipe feeding mechanism 17 in any of the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0117] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A pipe feeding mechanism, applicable to an automatic pipe feeding device, the automatic pipe feeding device comprising a frame and a material dispensing and pushing mechanism disposed on the frame, characterized in that, The pipe feeding mechanism includes: A feeding plate is movably mounted on the frame, one end of which is a feeding end. This feeding end can extend outside the frame or retract to correspond to the position of the material dispensing and pushing mechanism as the feeding plate moves. A tube clamping assembly is vertically and flexibly disposed at the feeding end, and the tube clamping assembly can be opened and closed to clamp or release the tube. When the feeding end retracts to a position corresponding to the material distribution and pushing mechanism, the pipe clamping assembly can descend below the material distribution and pushing mechanism to receive a single pipe pushed by the material distribution and pushing mechanism. After the pipe clamping assembly receives the pipe, the pipe clamping assembly rises above the enclosure structure of the cutting machine, and the feeding end extends outside the frame.

2. The pipe feeding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pipe feeding mechanism further includes a lifting assembly, which comprises: Mounting bracket, which is mounted on the feeding end; The lever includes a first end and a second end that are spaced apart from each other, and a hinge portion located between the first end and the second end, the hinge portion being hinged to the mounting bracket, and the clamping tube assembly being disposed at the first end; and A first actuator, which is extendable or retractable, has one end hinged to the mounting bracket and the other end hinged to the second end.

3. The pipe feeding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lifting assembly further includes an auxiliary link having a third end and a fourth end that are far apart from each other. The third end is hinged to the clamping tube assembly, and the fourth end is hinged to the mounting bracket. The distance between the first end and the third end is equal to the distance between the hinge and the fourth end.

4. The pipe feeding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping assembly includes a clamping seat and two clamping members. The clamping seat is vertically and flexibly disposed at the feeding end, and the two clamping members are disposed on the clamping seat and can move closer to or further away from each other.

5. The pipe feeding mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The clamping assembly further includes a driving assembly, the driving assembly comprising: A gear is rotatably mounted on the clamping seat; Two racks are slidably disposed on the clamping seat, the two racks are respectively located on both sides of the gear and mesh with the gear, and a clamping member is correspondingly disposed on one of the racks; A second driver is connected to one of the racks to drive the rack to slide.

6. The pipe feeding mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pipe clamping assembly further includes a first roller, which is rotatably disposed on the clamping seat and below the two clamping members. The axis of the first roller is horizontally arranged and perpendicular to the axis of the clamped pipe.

7. An automatic pipe feeding device, characterized in that, It includes a frame, a feeding and coiling mechanism, a conveying mechanism, a material dispensing and pushing mechanism, and a pipe feeding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 6; The frame has a material storage groove; The feeding and winding mechanism includes a lifting belt and a winding shaft. The winding shaft is rotatably mounted on the frame. One end of the lifting belt is connected to one side of the opening of the storage groove. After the lifting belt extends and passes through the storage groove and the other side of the opening in sequence, the other end of the lifting belt is connected to the winding shaft. The conveying mechanism is mounted on the frame, and one end is connected to the opening of the storage groove; The material distribution and pushing mechanism is vertically mounted at the other end of the conveying mechanism. The material distribution and pushing mechanism can be lowered to a position below the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism to receive a single pipe, or raised to push the pipe to the pipe clamping assembly.

8. The automatic pipe feeding device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The automatic pipe feeding device also includes an anti-stacking component, which includes a limiting plate disposed above the conveying mechanism and a connecting rod connected to the limiting plate. The connecting rod is height-adjustable on the frame. The limiting plate is located at one end of the conveying mechanism near the slot. A conveying channel for a single layer of pipe is formed between the limiting plate and the conveying surface of the conveying mechanism.

9. The automatic pipe feeding device according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a length measuring mechanism, which includes a fixed baffle, a movable baffle, and a driving component. The fixed baffle and the movable baffle are respectively located at both ends of the pipe clamping assembly along the length of the pipe. The driving component is used to drive the movable baffle to move toward the fixed baffle. The driving component has a starting position and can determine the length of the pipe based on the distance between the starting position and the movable baffle when it stops moving.

10. A pipe cutting device, characterized in that, The device includes a cutting machine, and also includes a pipe feeding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 6 or an automatic pipe feeding device as described in any one of claims 7 to 9. The cutting machine includes a enclosure structure and an auxiliary support. The cutting machine is located on the side where the feeding end extends. The height of the enclosure structure is lower than the height of the pipe clamping assembly after it is raised. The auxiliary support is liftable to receive the pipe clamped by the pipe clamping assembly.

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