Automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of non-standard automatic press-fitting devices, and provides an automatic steel ball press-fitting machine for workpieces. The feeding unit is arranged on one side of the machine table; the steel ball press-fitting unit is arranged on the machine table; the material receiving unit is arranged on the side, away from the feeding unit, of the machine table and comprises a material disc mounting position on which a plurality of material discs are stacked; the material distributing piece is arranged on the material disc mounting position; the supporting table is movably arranged below the charging tray mounting position; and the conveying unit is arranged on the machine table and used for conveying the workpieces subjected to steel ball assembly to the material disc on the supporting table. Compared with the prior art, by integrating the feeding unit, the steel ball press-fitting unit, the material receiving unit and the conveying unit, full-process automation of the steel ball press-fitting process is achieved, manual participation is remarkably reduced, and labor intensity is lowered.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the technical field of non-standard automated pressing devices, specifically relating to an automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, the process of pressing steel balls into workpieces typically relies on manual operation of traditional pressing devices such as hydraulic presses and pneumatic presses. While this method can achieve basic pressing functions, it has significant technical limitations. First, in manual operation, operators need to frequently intervene in the pressing process, including positioning the workpiece, loading the steel balls, and manually adjusting pressing parameters. This results in high labor intensity, concentrated workload, and susceptibility to human error affecting pressing accuracy and product quality. Second, traditional pressing equipment usually lacks automated loading and unloading functions. Workpiece conveying, post-pressing removal, and steel ball replenishment all require manual operation, further reducing production efficiency.

[0003] Furthermore, the subsequent processing of the workpieces after the steel ball pressing is completed also faces efficiency bottlenecks. In existing technologies, the pressed workpieces need to be manually transported to the tray and the workpieces placed one by one into the tray. This process not only consumes a lot of manpower, but also easily causes workpieces to be bumped or steel balls to fall off during frequent handling and operation, affecting the finished product qualification rate. Especially in mass production scenarios, the inefficiency of manual operation and the high intensity of repetitive labor make it difficult for the overall production process to meet the demands of modern industry for efficient and intelligent manufacturing.

[0004] In summary, existing technologies in the steel ball pressing process generally suffer from problems such as low automation, high dependence on manual labor, and limited production efficiency. There is an urgent need for an innovative device that can automate the entire steel ball pressing process, reduce manual intervention, and improve operational efficiency in order to solve industry pain points and promote the upgrading of manufacturing processes. Utility Model Content

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide an automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, in view of the current state of the prior art.

[0006] The technical solution adopted by this utility model to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: an automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces is proposed, including: a machine base;

[0007] A feeding unit, which is located on one side of the machine tool, is used to transport the workpiece to be assembled;

[0008] A steel ball pressing unit, which is installed on the machine base, is used to press steel balls into the workpiece;

[0009] A receiving unit, located on the side of the machine away from the feeding unit, includes: a tray mounting position on which multiple trays are stacked, each tray receiving the workpiece after steel ball pressing; a separating component located on the tray mounting position, the separating component having a first support state and a tray separating state; when in the first support state, the separating component is supported on the bottom of the stacked trays; when in the tray separating state, the separating component releases support on the bottommost tray; and a support platform movably located below the tray mounting position, the support platform having a tray-removing state and a second support state; when in the tray-removing state, it receives the separated bottommost tray; when in the second support state, the support platform moves to a predetermined position and one end is raised.

[0010] A conveying unit, which is disposed on the machine platform, is used to convey the workpieces that have completed steel ball assembly to the tray on the support platform.

[0011] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the material distribution component includes:

[0012] At least two sets of support components are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the tray mounting position, and each set of support components includes:

[0013] The first support block is movably mounted on the tray mounting position and can move laterally to support the bottom of the lowest tray.

[0014] The second support block is positioned above the first support block and is movably inserted into the gap between the bottommost and second-to-last material trays; wherein,

[0015] When the material distribution component is in the first support state, the two sets of the first support blocks extend synchronously to form a supporting plane;

[0016] When the material distribution component switches to the tray distribution state, the second support block inserts into the gap and forms a limiting support for the second-to-last tray, and the first support block retracts to release the support for the bottom tray.

[0017] In the above-mentioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, each of the support components includes a first driving member corresponding to the first support block and a second driving member corresponding to the second support block. The first support block is disposed at the output end of the first driving member to drive the first support block to move relative to the material tray mounting position, and the second support block is disposed at the output end of the second driving member to drive the second support block to move relative to the material tray mounting position.

[0018] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the receiving unit further includes:

[0019] A support is movably disposed below the material tray mounting position. The support platform is rotatably disposed on the support. A third driving member is disposed on the support. One end of the support platform is connected to the output end of the third driving member to drive the support platform to rotate relative to the support.

[0020] The fourth driving component is provided on both sides of the support. Each fourth driving component has several suction cups at its output end. The fourth driving component is used to drive the suction cups to adsorb the bottommost material tray.

[0021] The fifth driving component is provided at one end of the support platform and opposite to each other. Both output ends of the fifth driving components are provided with baffle plates. The baffle plates and the outer wall of the material tray on the support platform form a baffle part, which is used to limit the workpiece placed in the material tray.

[0022] The sixth driving component is provided below the material tray mounting position, and the support is connected to the output end of the sixth driving component to drive the support to move on the material tray mounting position.

[0023] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the steel ball pressing unit includes:

[0024] A first support is provided on the machine base, and a first station is provided on the first support for positioning the workpiece to be assembled.

[0025] A transfer component, which is located on one side of the first workstation, is used to transport the workpiece on the loading unit to the first workstation;

[0026] A seventh driving component is erected on the first bracket and located above the first workstation, and the output end of the seventh driving component is provided with a second bracket.

[0027] The eighth driving component is vertically mounted on the second support. The output end of the eighth driving component is provided with a pressing block. The pressing block is provided with a plurality of pressing heads. The pressing heads are used to press the steel ball to be assembled into the workpiece.

[0028] The ninth driving component is horizontally mounted on the second bracket;

[0029] A movable seat is mounted on the second bracket and is positioned opposite to the ninth driving member. Several pressure heads are movably inserted into the movable seat. The movable seat is provided with a first material passage hole and a second material passage hole.

[0030] A receiving block, connected to the output end of the ninth driving component and movably inserted into the movable base, is provided with a third material passage hole. The receiving block includes a receiving position and a pressing position; wherein,

[0031] When the receiving block is in the receiving position, the third material passage hole is aligned with the first material passage hole, allowing the steel ball to pass through the first material passage hole and then enter the third material passage hole;

[0032] When the receiving block is in the pressing position, the third material passage is aligned with the second material passage for transporting the steel ball in the third material passage to the workpiece.

[0033] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the transfer assembly includes:

[0034] The second station is set on the machine platform and located between the feeding unit and the steel ball pressing unit;

[0035] A first two-dimensional conveying platform is set on one side of the second workstation, and a first gripper is movably mounted on it. The first gripper is used to convey the workpiece on the loading unit to the second workstation.

[0036] A tenth driving component is disposed on the second workstation. The output end of the tenth driving component passes through the side wall of the second workstation and moves against the workpiece on the second workstation to push the workpiece to a preset position.

[0037] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the steel ball pressing unit further includes a detection component, which includes:

[0038] The fastener has a loading state and a fixing state. The loading state is used to place the workpiece on the fastener, and the fixing state is used to position and clamp the workpiece.

[0039] The eleventh driving component is vertically arranged on one side of the fixing component, and a connecting block is provided at the output end of the eleventh driving component.

[0040] An mounting block is disposed on the connecting block;

[0041] A detection rod, movably disposed at one end of the fixing member along its own axis and elastically connected to the mounting block, wherein one end of the detection rod movably passes through the fixing member, and the mounting position on the workpiece for mounting steel balls is located on the moving path of the detection rod; the detection rod has a first moving state and a second moving state; wherein,

[0042] When in the first moving state, the end of the detection rod passes through the fixing member and stops moving due to the obstruction of the steel ball at the mounting position;

[0043] When in the second moving state, the end of the detection rod passes through the fixing member and the mounting position in sequence, or the end of the detection rod passes through the fixing member and pushes the steel ball to displace relative to the mounting position along the axial direction of the detection rod.

[0044] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, a stepped hole is provided on the mounting block, with the smaller end of the stepped hole facing the fixing member. The detection rod, along the moving direction, is sequentially provided with a main body, a stepped portion, and a detection portion. The main body and the stepped portion are located within the larger end of the stepped hole, with one end of the main body passing through the bottom wall of the mounting block and exposed outside the mounting block. The stepped portion movably abuts against the end face of the stepped hole transitioning from the smaller end to the larger end. One end of the detection portion passes through the smaller end of the stepped hole and is exposed outside the fixing member. A spring is provided within the larger end of the stepped hole, sleeved on the outside of the main body. One end of the spring abuts against the stepped portion, and the other end abuts against the bottom wall of the stepped hole away from the smaller end.

[0045] When the eleventh driving component moves the connecting block, the maximum force exerted by the spring on the detection rod is less than the bonding force between the steel ball and the mounting position of the workpiece.

[0046] In the aforementioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the fixing component includes: a third bracket; a third station, which is disposed on the third bracket and provided with a positioning groove, the positioning groove being used to position the workpiece to be inspected; and a twelfth driving component, which is disposed on the third bracket, the output end of the twelfth driving component being provided with a pressing block, the twelfth driving component driving the pressing block to move closer to or further away from the third station, so that the fixing component switches between the feeding state and the fixing state.

[0047] A fourth bracket is provided on the mounting block, and a first sensor is provided on the fourth bracket. The sensing end of the first sensor is positioned facing the main body, and the first sensor is used to detect the length of the main body exposed on the mounting block.

[0048] In the above-mentioned automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, the feeding unit includes: a fifth support; a conveyor belt disposed on the fifth support; a fourth station, wherein multiple fourth stations are arranged at intervals on the conveyor belt, the fourth stations are used to place the workpieces to be assembled, and the conveyor belt is used to drive the multiple fourth stations to reciprocate in a cyclical manner; and a second sensor disposed on the fifth support for detecting the workpieces in the fourth stations.

[0049] The conveying unit includes: a second two-dimensional conveying platform disposed on the machine base; a second gripper disposed on the second two-dimensional conveying platform for gripping and releasing workpieces; and a third two-dimensional conveying platform disposed on the machine base and located above the receiving unit, wherein a third gripper is disposed on the third two-dimensional conveying platform for conveying workpieces on the second gripper to the material tray.

[0050] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects.

[0051] (1) By integrating the feeding unit, steel ball pressing unit, receiving unit and conveying unit, the entire process of steel ball pressing is automated, which significantly reduces manual intervention and labor intensity. For example, the feeding unit can automatically convey the workpiece to be assembled, the pressing unit realizes the precise pressing of steel balls through a precision mechanical structure, and the conveying unit can automatically transfer the pressed workpiece to the material tray. This design not only improves production efficiency, but also avoids errors that may occur in manual operation, thereby improving product quality and production consistency.

[0052] (2) By setting at least two sets of support components and coordinating the actions of the first and second support blocks, the automatic separation and orderly support of the material tray are realized. In addition, the design of the lateral moving support components further improves the stability and positioning accuracy of the material tray separation process, effectively reducing the need for manual intervention, thereby further improving the working efficiency and automation level of the receiving unit.

[0053] (3) By setting up a first station, a transfer component and a multi-stage drive (seventh to ninth drive), the steel ball pressing process is made efficient and precise. This structural design, through the coordinated movement of the second support and the moving seat, combined with the switching of the receiving block between the receiving position and the pressing position, can achieve stable feeding and precise pressing of steel balls. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces according to this utility model.

[0055] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional view of the structure of the transport unit and the installation of the receiving unit.

[0056] Figure 3 This is a 3D view of the support platform in the receiving unit when it is in the tray-retrieving state.

[0057] Figure 4 This is a 3D view of the support platform in the receiving unit when it is in the second support state.

[0058] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A 3D view of the structure behind the hidden material tray mounting position.

[0059] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle.

[0060] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A 3D view of the hidden material tray installation location.

[0061] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A view from another direction.

[0062] Figure 9 This is a 3D view of the feeding unit.

[0063] Figure 10 This is a 3D diagram of the transfer component.

[0064] Figure 11 This is a 3D view of the steel ball pressing unit.

[0065] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A 3D view hidden behind the movable base.

[0066] Figure 13 It is a 3D diagram of the movable seat.

[0067] Figure 14 This is a 3D view of the detection component.

[0068] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A 3D view showing the hidden mounting block and the fourth bracket.

[0069] Figure 16 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the transport unit structure.

[0070] In the diagram, 100 is the machine base; 200 is the feeding unit; 210 is the fifth support; 220 is the conveyor belt; 230 is the fourth station; 240 is the second sensor; 300 is the steel ball pressing unit; 310 is the first support; 311 is the first station; 320 is the transfer component; 321 is the second station; 322 is the first two-dimensional conveying platform; 323 is the first gripper; 324 is the tenth drive component; 330 is the seventh drive component; 33 1. Second support; 340. Eighth drive component; 341. Pressing block; 342. Press head; 350. Ninth drive component; 360. Moving seat; 361. First material passage hole; 362. Second material passage hole; 370. Receiving block; 371. Third material passage hole; 380. Detection component; 381. Fixing component; 381a. Third support; 381b. Third station; 381c. Positioning groove; 381d. Twelfth drive component; 381e. Pressing block; 382. Eleventh driving component; 382a. Connecting block; 383. Mounting block; 384. Detection rod; 384a. Stepped section; 384b. Detection section; 385. Spring; 386. Fourth bracket; 387. First sensor; 400. Receiving unit; 410. Material tray mounting position; 420. Distributing component; 421. First support block; 422. Second support block; 423. First driving component; 424. Second drive component; 430. Support; 431. Third drive component; 440. Fourth drive component; 441. Suction cup; 450. Fifth drive component; 451. Material stop plate; 460. Sixth drive component; 470. Support platform; 500. Conveying unit; 510. Second two-dimensional conveying platform; 520. Second gripper; 530. Third two-dimensional conveying platform; 540. Third gripper; 600. Workpiece; 700. Material tray. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The following are specific embodiments of the present invention, which are described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0072] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of the present invention are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0073] like Figures 1 to 16 As shown, the present invention provides an automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces, comprising: a machine base 100, a feeding unit 200, a steel ball pressing unit 300, a receiving unit 400, and a conveying unit 500.

[0074] Specifically, the feeding unit 200 is located on one side of the machine base 100 and is used to transport the workpiece 600 to be assembled; the steel ball pressing unit 300 is located on the machine base 100 and is used to press steel balls into the workpiece 600; the receiving unit 400 is located on the side of the machine base 100 away from the feeding unit 200, and includes: a tray mounting position 410, on which multiple trays 700 are stacked, each tray 700 being used to receive the workpiece 600 after steel ball pressing; and a distributing component 420, which is located on the tray mounting position 410, the distributing component 420 including a first support state and a tray distributing state, when in the first support state, distributing materials. The component 420 is supported at the bottom of the stacked trays 700. When in the tray separation state, the component 420 releases its support from the bottom tray 700. The support platform 470 is movably disposed below the tray mounting position 410. The support platform 470 has a tray-removing state and a second support state. When in the tray-removing state, it is used to receive the separated bottom tray 700. When in the second support state, the support platform 470 moves to a predetermined position and one end is raised. The conveying unit 500 is disposed on the machine base 100 and is used to convey the workpiece 600 that has completed steel ball assembly to the tray 700 on the support platform 470.

[0075] During operation, the loading unit 200 begins transporting the workpiece 600. The workpiece 600 can be placed on the loading unit 200 by an automatic feeding mechanism such as a robotic arm, or it can be placed manually by an operator. After the loading unit 200 transports the workpiece 600 to the ball bearing pressing unit 300, the ball bearing pressing unit 300 begins pressing the workpiece 600 with ball bearings. After the ball bearing pressing unit 300 completes the pressing of the ball bearings into the workpiece 600, the conveying unit 500 transfers the workpiece 600 to the receiving unit 400.

[0076] In its initial state, support platform 470 is in the second support state (refer to...). Figure 4 At this point, the conveying unit 500 places the workpiece 600 on the inclined tray 700. After the workpiece 600 is placed on the tray 700, it slides downward along the inclined direction of the tray 700 under its own weight and automatically arranges itself in the tray 700, thus completing the entire pressing and collection process.

[0077] Once the tray 700 on the support platform 470 is full, the fully loaded tray 700 can be transferred to a designated location using an automated device such as a robotic arm or a two-dimensional conveying platform. Subsequently, the support platform 470 switches to the tray-retrieving state (see [reference]). Figure 3Simultaneously, the material distribution unit 420 switches to the tray distribution state, releasing the support for the lowest tray 700 on the tray mounting position 410, allowing the tray 700 to fall under its own weight onto the support platform 470. The support platform 470, receiving the new tray 700, switches back to the second support state, awaiting the loading of the next batch of workpieces 600. Once the tray 700 is full again, the above actions are repeated until all workpieces 600 in the same batch are pressed into place.

[0078] This solution achieves full automation of the steel ball pressing process by integrating a feeding unit 200, a steel ball pressing unit 300, a receiving unit 400, and a conveying unit 500. Compared to the traditional method relying on manual operation of hydraulic and pneumatic presses in existing technologies, this device significantly reduces manual intervention and labor intensity. For example, the feeding unit 200 can automatically transport the workpiece 600 to be assembled, the pressing unit achieves precise pressing of steel balls through a precision mechanical structure, and the conveying unit 500 can automatically transfer the pressed workpiece 600 to the material tray 700. This design not only improves production efficiency but also avoids errors that may occur in manual operation, thereby improving product quality and production consistency.

[0079] Referring to 1 to 8, the material distribution component 420 includes at least two sets of support components spaced apart on the outer periphery of the tray mounting position 410. Each set of support components includes: a first support block 421, which is movably disposed on the tray mounting position 410 and can move laterally to support the bottom of the lowest tray 700; and a second support block 422, which is disposed above the first support block 421 and is movably inserted into the gap between the lowest tray 700 and the second-to-last tray 700. When the material distribution component 420 is in the first support state, the two sets of first support blocks 421 extend synchronously to form a support plane. When the material distribution component 420 switches to the tray distribution state, the second support block 422 inserts into the gap and forms a limiting support for the second-to-last tray 700, and the first support block 421 retracts to release the support for the lowest tray 700.

[0080] In the initial state, the material distribution unit 420 is in the first support state, and the first support block 421 abuts against the bottom of the stacked trays 700, so that the entire stack of trays 700 is stably held on the tray mounting position 410. After the support platform 470 moves to the tray-retrieving state and is located directly below the stacked trays 700, the second support block 422 moves first and inserts into the gap between the bottom tray 700 and the second-to-last tray 700 (see reference). Figure 6 Subsequently, the first support block 421 retracts, releasing its support for the bottom tray 700, allowing the tray 700 to fall under its own weight and land on the support platform 470.

[0081] After the bottom tray 700 is transferred to the support platform 470, the first support block 421 extends again, and then the second support block 422 retracts and resets, so that the stacked trays 700 are pressed against the first support block 421 again, thereby switching the material distribution component 420 back to the first support state.

[0082] By setting at least two sets of support components and coordinating the actions of the first and second support blocks 422, the automatic separation and orderly support of the material trays 700 are achieved. Compared to the traditional method of relying on manual handling and placement of the material trays 700, the material separating component 420 can stably support the entire stack of material trays 700 in the first support state, and quickly release the bottom material tray 700 when switching to the tray separating state, cooperating with the support platform 470 to complete the tray retrieval operation, significantly shortening the material tray 700 replacement time. In addition, the laterally moving support component design further improves the stability and positioning accuracy during the separation process of the material trays 700, effectively reducing the need for manual intervention, thereby further improving the working efficiency and automation level of the receiving unit 400.

[0083] Furthermore, each support component includes a first drive member 423 corresponding to the first support block 421 and a second drive member 424 corresponding to the second support block 422. The first support block 421 is disposed at the output end of the first drive member 423 to drive the first support block 421 to move relative to the material tray mounting position 410. The second support block 422 is disposed at the output end of the second drive member 424 to drive the second support block 422 to move relative to the material tray mounting position 410.

[0084] Preferably, the first driving component 423 and the second driving component 424 are cylinders. By setting these two cylinders, the movements of each support block are independent and controllable, which facilitates precise control of the action sequence, improves the response speed and reliability of the material distribution process, and also facilitates later maintenance and replacement, thus improving the maintainability of the whole machine.

[0085] Furthermore, the receiving unit 400 also includes: a support 430, a fourth drive component 440, a fifth drive component 450, and a sixth drive component 460.

[0086] Specifically, the support 430 is movably disposed below the material tray mounting position 410, the support platform 470 is rotatably disposed on the support 430, the support 430 is provided with a third driving member 431, and one end of the support platform 470 is connected to the output end of the third driving member 431 to drive the support platform 470 to rotate relative to the support 430.

[0087] Preferably, the third driving component 431 is a cylinder. By rotatably mounting the support platform 470 on the support 430 and driving it to rotate by the third driving component 431, the support platform 470 can switch between a tray-retrieving state and a second support state, thereby realizing the tilting placement function of the tray 700. This design facilitates the smooth removal or transfer of subsequent workpieces 600, avoids material jamming, and improves the connection efficiency between receiving and discharging materials.

[0088] The support 430 has a fourth driving member 440 arranged opposite to each other on both sides. Each fourth driving member 440 has several suction cups 441 at its output end. The fourth driving member 440 is used to drive the suction cups 441 to adsorb the bottommost material tray 700.

[0089] Preferably, the fourth driving component 440 is a cylinder. The suction cup 441 is fixed to the output end of the fourth driving component 440 by a bracket. When the dispensing component 420 is in the dispensing state, the stacked trays 700 may be unable to separate smoothly from the upper trays 700 due to mutual friction. At this time, the fourth driving component 440 drives the suction cup 441 to rise, so that the suction cup 441 can pick up the lower tray 700. Then, the fourth driving component 440 drives the suction cup 441 to reset, and the tray 700 is normally transferred to the support platform 470.

[0090] A fifth driving member 450 is provided at one end of the support platform 470. Both output ends of the two fifth driving members 450 are provided with baffle plates 451. The baffle plates 451 and the outer wall of the material tray 700 on the support platform 470 form a baffle part, which is used to limit the workpiece 600 placed in the material tray 700.

[0091] Preferably, the fifth driving component 450 is a cylinder. When the workpiece 600 moves from one end of the inclined tray 700 to the other under its own weight, it may cause the workpiece 600 to be ejected from the tray 700. The baffle plate 451 can form a baffle together with the outer wall of the tray 700 at the end of the workpiece 600's movement path, effectively preventing the workpiece 600 from being ejected from the tray 700.

[0092] A sixth drive unit 460 is provided below the material tray mounting position 410, and a support 430 is connected to the output end of the sixth drive unit 460 to drive the support 430 to move on the material tray mounting position 410.

[0093] Preferably, the sixth driving component 460 is a linear guide rail, or a transmission mechanism consisting of a motor and a lead screw. By setting the sixth driving component 460 below the material tray mounting position 410 to drive the movement of the support 430, the automatic switching of the support platform 470 between the receiving position and the discharging position is realized, further improving the automation level of the receiving mechanism, reducing manual intervention, and improving the continuity of operation and production cycle.

[0094] Reference Figure 1 , Figures 10 to 13 The steel ball pressing unit 300 includes:

[0095] A first support 310 is disposed on the machine base 100. A first station 311 is disposed on the first support 310. The first station 311 is used to position the workpiece 600 to be assembled.

[0096] A transfer component 320 is disposed on one side of the first station 311 and is used to transport the workpiece 600 on the loading unit 200 to the first station 311;

[0097] The seventh driving component 330 is vertically mounted on the first bracket 310 and located above the first work station 311. The output end of the seventh driving component 330 is provided with a second bracket 331.

[0098] The eighth driving component 340 is vertically mounted on the second bracket 331. The output end of the eighth driving component 340 is provided with a pressing block 341. The pressing block 341 is provided with a plurality of pressing heads 342. The pressing heads 342 are used to press the steel balls to be assembled into the workpiece 600.

[0099] The ninth driving component 350 is horizontally mounted on the second bracket 331;

[0100] The movable seat 360 is disposed on the second bracket 331 and is disposed opposite to the ninth driving member 350. A plurality of pressure heads 342 are movably inserted into the movable seat 360. The movable seat 360 is provided with a first material passage hole 361 and a second material passage hole 362.

[0101] A receiving block 370 is connected to the output end of the ninth driving member 350 and movably inserted into the movable base 360. The receiving block 370 is provided with a third material passage hole 371, and includes a receiving position and a pressing position.

[0102] When the receiving block 370 is in the receiving position, the third material passage 371 is aligned with the first material passage 361, allowing the steel ball to pass through the first material passage 361 and then enter the third material passage 371.

[0103] When the receiving block 370 is in the pressing position, the third material passage 371 is aligned with the second material passage 362, so as to transport the steel ball in the third material passage 371 to the workpiece 600.

[0104] The seventh drive unit 330, the eighth drive unit 340, and the ninth drive unit 350 are preferably cylinders. The transfer assembly 320 serves as a transfer component between the feeding unit 200 and the ball bearing pressing unit 300, used to transport the workpiece 600 from the feeding unit 200 to the first station 311. After the workpiece 600 is transported to the first station 311, the seventh drive unit 330 actuates and drives the second support 331 to move towards the first station 311 until the moving seat 360 presses against the workpiece 600 on the first station 311, thereby fixing the workpiece 600.

[0105] At this time, the pressure head 342 on the pressure block 341 is outside the receiving block 370. After the workpiece 600 is positioned and clamped, the receiving block 370 is in the receiving position (see reference). Figure 12 This aligns the third feed hole 371 with the first feed hole 361. Subsequently, the automatic feeding mechanism delivers steel balls to the first feed hole 361, and the steel balls pass through the first feed hole 361 and the third feed hole 371 sequentially into the receiving block 370. Next, the ninth drive unit 350 drives the receiving block 370 from the receiving position to the pressing position (see reference). Figure 11 This aligns the third feed hole 371 with the second feed hole 362, at which point the steel ball falls into the mounting hole on the workpiece 600 under its own weight.

[0106] Subsequently, the eighth driving component 340 is activated, causing the pressing head 342 on the pressing block 341 to pass through the moving seat 360, the third material passage hole 371 and the second material passage hole 362 in sequence, pressing the steel ball into the workpiece 600, thus completing the pressing operation of the steel ball.

[0107] It is worth noting that the aforementioned automatic feeding mechanism is existing technology and will not be described in detail here.

[0108] This solution achieves high efficiency and precision in the steel ball pressing process by setting up a first station 311, a transfer component 320, and multi-stage drive components (seventh to ninth drive components 350). Compared with the traditional manual pressing method using hydraulic or pneumatic presses, this structural design, through the coordinated movement of the second support 331 and the moving seat 360, combined with the switching of the receiving block 370 between the receiving position and the pressing position, can achieve stable feeding and precise pressing of steel balls.

[0109] For example, the dynamic alignment design between the third feed hole 371 on the receiving block 370 and the first and second feed holes 362 ensures smooth transmission of steel balls before pressing; while the multi-point pressing structure of the press head 342 improves the uniformity of pressure distribution during the pressing process. This improvement significantly reduces manual intervention, increases pressing efficiency, and also helps to improve product quality and process consistency.

[0110] Furthermore, refer to Figure 10The transfer component 320 includes: a second station 321, which is set on the machine base 100 and located between the feeding unit 200 and the steel ball pressing unit 300; a first two-dimensional conveying platform 322, which is set on one side of the second station 321, on which a first gripper 323 is movably set, the first gripper 323 being used to transport the workpiece 600 on the feeding unit 200 to the second station 321; and a tenth drive member 324, which is set on the second station 321, the output end of the tenth drive member 324 passing through the side wall of the second station 321 and movably abutting against the workpiece 600 on the second station 321, for pushing the workpiece 600 to a preset position.

[0111] A two-dimensional transport platform is a type of platform that can operate in two mutually perpendicular directions (e.g., Figure 10 A device or system that performs precise movement in both horizontal and vertical directions (as shown). This platform is widely used in automated production lines, precision manufacturing, laboratory automation, semiconductor processing, and other fields to achieve automatic positioning, handling, and placement of materials, workpieces, or other objects.

[0112] The tenth driving component 324 is preferably a cylinder, and the first gripper 323 adopts a design of two gripping blocks driven by a double-headed cylinder. The action of the double-headed cylinder causes the two gripping blocks to move closer or further apart, thereby realizing the gripping and releasing operation of the first gripper 323 on the workpiece 600.

[0113] After the loading unit 200 transports the workpiece 600 to the predetermined position (i.e., the position that the first two-dimensional transport platform 322 can grasp), the first two-dimensional transport platform 322 uses its first gripper 323 to grasp the workpiece 600 from the loading unit 200 and transfer it to the second station 321. Subsequently, the tenth drive member 324 actuates, pushing one end of the workpiece 600 to move it to the preset position on the second station 321, ensuring the consistency of the position of each workpiece 600 before the pressing of the steel balls.

[0114] Through the coordinated operation of the second station 321, the first two-dimensional transport platform 322, and the tenth drive component 324, the automatic transfer of workpiece 600 from the loading unit 200 to the pressing unit is solved. Compared to the traditional method of manually handling workpiece 600 to the pressing position, this transfer component 320 utilizes the linkage mechanism between the gripper and the two-dimensional platform to achieve precise positioning and stable transport of workpiece 600. Furthermore, the pushing function of the tenth drive component 324 can be used to further calibrate the position of workpiece 600 on the second station 321, ensuring the smooth progress of subsequent pressing operations. This design not only reduces the tedium of manual operation but also improves the positioning accuracy of workpiece 600 before pressing, thereby indirectly improving the consistency and efficiency of the overall process.

[0115] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 The steel ball pressing unit 300 also includes a detection component 380, which includes:

[0116] The fixing member 381 has a feeding state and a fixing state. The feeding state is used to place the workpiece 600 on the fixing member 381, and the fixing state is used to position and clamp the workpiece 600.

[0117] The eleventh driving component 382 is vertically arranged on one side of the fixing component 381, and the output end of the eleventh driving component 382 is provided with a connecting block 382a.

[0118] Mounting block 383 is disposed on connecting block 382a;

[0119] A detection rod 384 is movably disposed at one end of a fixing member 381 along its own axis and elastically connected to a mounting block 383. One end of the detection rod 384 is movably inserted into the fixing member 381, and the mounting position on the workpiece 600 for mounting steel balls is located on the moving path of the detection rod 384. The detection rod 384 has a first moving state and a second moving state.

[0120] When in the first moving state, the end of the detection rod 384 passes through the fixing member 381 and stops moving due to the obstruction of the steel ball in the mounting position;

[0121] When in the second moving state, the end of the detection rod 384 passes through the fixing member 381 and the mounting position in sequence, or the end of the detection rod 384 passes through the fixing member 381 and pushes the steel ball to displace relative to the mounting position along the axial direction of the detection rod 384.

[0122] This solution, by incorporating a fixing component 381 with both feeding and fixed states, and an axially movable detection rod 384, along with the two movement states of the detection rod 384, can automatically determine whether the steel ball is leaking pressure and whether the bonding force between the steel ball and the mounting position meets the standard. Compared to traditional methods relying on manual visual inspection and destructive sampling, this solution significantly improves inspection efficiency and accuracy, while achieving non-destructive 100% inspection and enhancing product quality control.

[0123] It should be noted that the number of detection rods 384 in this solution is not limited to one; the number corresponds to the number of steel balls that need to be detected on the workpiece 600.

[0124] The eleventh driving component 382 is preferably a pneumatic cylinder. By setting the eleventh driving component 382 and connecting blocks 382a and 383, and elastically connecting the detection rod 384 to the mounting block 383, the detection rod 384 can automatically switch to different movement states under the drive of the eleventh driving component 382. This structure achieves automated control of the detection action, improves the response speed and operational convenience of the detection mechanism, reduces manual intervention, and is suitable for online detection in continuous production processes.

[0125] Furthermore, the mounting block 383 is provided with a stepped hole, the small end of which faces the fixing member 381. The detection rod 384 is provided with a main body, a step portion 384a, and a detection portion 384b in sequence along the moving direction. The main body and the step portion 384a are located inside the large end of the stepped hole, and one end of the main body passes through the bottom wall of the mounting block 383 and is exposed outside the mounting block 383. The step portion 384a moves against the end face of the stepped hole from the small end to the large end. The detection portion 384a... One end of 4b passes through the small end of the stepped hole and is exposed outside the fixing member 381. A spring 385 is provided in the large end of the stepped hole. The spring 385 is sleeved on the outside of the main body. One end of the spring 385 abuts against the step portion 384a, and the other end abuts against the bottom wall of the stepped hole away from the small end. When the eleventh driving member 382 drives the connecting block 382a to move, the maximum force of the spring 385 on the detection rod 384 is less than the bonding force between the steel ball and the mounting position of the workpiece 600.

[0126] During operation, when the steel ball on workpiece 600 is the correct size and the pressing is normal, the eleventh drive member 382 moves the connecting block 382a and the mounting block 383, thereby pushing the detection rod 384 towards the fixing member 381. During the movement of the detection rod 384, the end of the detection part 384b first contacts the steel ball on workpiece 600. Then, the detection rod 384 stops moving, while the eleventh drive member 382 continues to move the connecting block 382a and compress the spring 385. When the detection rod 384 stops moving while the connecting block 382a continues to move the mounting block 383, the length of the main body of the detection rod 384 exposed outside the mounting block 383 gradually increases.

[0127] If there is no steel ball at the mounting position on the workpiece 600, the detection rod 384 will continue to move when the eleventh drive member 382 moves the connecting block 382a and the mounting block 383. During this process, since the end of the detection part 384b fails to touch the steel ball, the spring 385 will not be compressed, and the length of the main body of the detection rod 384 exposed outside the mounting block 383 will not change.

[0128] When the size or pressing of the steel ball at the mounting position on the workpiece 600 is abnormal, the eleventh drive component 382 moves the connecting block 382a and the mounting block 383, causing the detection rod 384 to move synchronously until the end of its detection part 384b contacts the steel ball. At this time, the detection rod 384 will also stop moving, but because the spring 385 is further compressed and the force is transmitted to the steel ball through the detection rod 384, this may cause the steel ball to be pushed out of the workpiece 600 or to be displaced relative to the workpiece 600. This will change the length of the part of the main body of the detection rod 384 that extends out of the mounting block 383.

[0129] It should be noted that when the eleventh driving component 382 moves the connecting block 382a, the maximum force exerted by the spring 385 on the detection rod 384 is less than the bonding force between the steel ball and the mounting position of the workpiece 600, thereby preventing the spring force of the spring 385 from being too large and pushing the qualified steel ball out of the workpiece 600.

[0130] Furthermore, the fixing member 381 includes: a third bracket 381a; a third station 381b, which is disposed on the third bracket 381a and provided with a positioning groove 381c, the positioning groove 381c being used to position the workpiece 600 to be inspected; and a twelfth driving member 381d, which is disposed on the third bracket 381a, the output end of the twelfth driving member 381d being provided with a pressing block 381e, the twelfth driving member 381d driving the pressing block 381e to move closer to or further away from the third station 381b, so that the fixing member 381 switches between the feeding state and the fixing state;

[0131] The twelfth driving component 381d is preferably a cylinder. By configuring the third support 381a, the third station 381b, and the twelfth driving component 381d, and utilizing the pressing block 381e, the workpiece 600 is clamped and positioned, ensuring that the workpiece 600 maintains a stable position during inspection and avoiding inspection errors caused by workpiece 600 displacement. Simultaneously, this structure facilitates automated loading and unloading operations, improving the overall integration and efficiency of the equipment.

[0132] A fourth bracket 386 is provided on the mounting block 383, and a first sensor 387 is provided on the fourth bracket 386. The sensing end of the first sensor 387 is positioned facing the main body, and the first sensor 387 is used to detect the length of the main body exposed on the mounting block 383.

[0133] This design incorporates a fourth bracket 386 with a first sensor 387 mounted on the mounting block 383. The first sensor 387 detects changes in the exposed length of the main body of the detection rod 384, allowing real-time monitoring of the rod's movement and thus determining whether the steel ball is properly installed. This structure enables digital output of the detection signal, facilitating integration with the control system and enhancing the system's intelligence and automation.

[0134] It is worth mentioning that the feeding unit 200 includes: a fifth support 210; a conveyor belt 220, which is disposed on the fifth support 210; a fourth station 230, on which multiple fourth stations 230 are arranged at intervals, the fourth stations 230 being used to place the workpieces 600 to be assembled, and the conveyor belt 220 being used to drive the multiple fourth stations 230 to reciprocate in a cyclical manner; and a second sensor 240, which is disposed on the fifth support 210, for detecting the workpieces 600 in the fourth stations 230.

[0135] Through the coordination of conveyor belt 220, fourth station 230, and two-dimensional transport platform, the entire process of workpiece 600 from loading to unloading is automated. Compared with the traditional manual loading and handling method, the reciprocating motion of conveyor belt 220 can continuously transport workpiece 600 placed in fourth station 230 to a position that the transfer component 320 can grasp, thereby realizing continuous loading of workpiece 600, while the setting of second sensor 240 ensures the status monitoring of workpiece 600 during the transport process.

[0136] The conveying unit 500 includes: a second two-dimensional conveying platform 510, which is disposed on the machine base 100; a second gripper 520, which is disposed on the second two-dimensional conveying platform 510 for gripping and releasing the workpiece 600; and a third two-dimensional conveying platform 530, which is disposed on the machine base 100 and located above the receiving unit 400, wherein the third two-dimensional conveying platform 530 is provided with a third gripper 540, which is used to convey the workpiece 600 on the second gripper 520 to the material tray 700.

[0137] The coordinated design of the second and third two-dimensional transport platforms 530 and the grippers enables precise grasping and positioning of the workpiece 600, avoiding potential workpiece displacement or damage during manual operation. This design significantly improves production efficiency while reducing the intensity of manual labor.

[0138] It should be noted that in this invention, the use of terms such as "first," "second," and "a" is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified. The terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two elements or the interaction between two elements, unless otherwise explicitly specified. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0139] Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other, but only if they are feasible for those skilled in the art. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

[0140] The specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may make various modifications or additions to the described specific embodiments or use similar methods to substitute them, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An automatic steel ball press-fitting machine for workpieces, characterized in that, include: Machine tool; A feeding unit, which is located on one side of the machine tool, is used to transport the workpiece to be assembled; A steel ball pressing unit, which is installed on the machine base, is used to press steel balls into the workpiece; A receiving unit, located on the side of the machine away from the feeding unit, includes: a tray mounting position on which multiple trays are stacked, each tray receiving the workpiece after steel ball pressing; a separating component located on the tray mounting position, the separating component having a first support state and a tray separating state; when in the first support state, the separating component is supported on the bottom of the stacked trays; when in the tray separating state, the separating component releases support on the bottommost tray; and a support platform movably located below the tray mounting position, the support platform having a tray-removing state and a second support state; when in the tray-removing state, it receives the separated bottommost tray; when in the second support state, the support platform moves to a predetermined position and one end is raised. A conveying unit, which is disposed on the machine platform, is used to convey the workpieces that have completed steel ball assembly to the tray on the support platform.

2. The automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The material separating component includes: At least two sets of support components are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the tray mounting position, and each set of support components includes: The first support block is movably mounted on the tray mounting position and can move laterally to support the bottom of the lowest tray. The second support block is positioned above the first support block and is movably inserted into the gap between the bottommost and second-to-last material trays; wherein, When the material distribution component is in the first support state, the two sets of the first support blocks extend synchronously to form a supporting plane; When the material distribution component switches to the tray distribution state, the second support block inserts into the gap and forms a limiting support for the second-to-last tray, and the first support block retracts to release the support for the bottom tray.

3. The automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Each of the support components includes a first drive component corresponding to the first support block and a second drive component corresponding to the second support block. The first support block is disposed at the output end of the first drive component to drive the first support block to move relative to the material tray mounting position. The second support block is disposed at the output end of the second drive component to drive the second support block to move relative to the material tray mounting position.

4. The automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving unit also includes: A support is movably disposed below the material tray mounting position. The support platform is rotatably disposed on the support. A third driving member is disposed on the support. One end of the support platform is connected to the output end of the third driving member to drive the support platform to rotate relative to the support. The fourth driving component is provided on both sides of the support. Each fourth driving component has several suction cups at its output end. The fourth driving component is used to drive the suction cups to adsorb the bottommost material tray. The fifth driving component is provided at one end of the support platform and opposite to each other. Both output ends of the fifth driving components are provided with baffle plates. The baffle plates and the outer wall of the material tray on the support platform form a baffle part, which is used to limit the workpiece placed in the material tray. The sixth driving component is provided below the material tray mounting position, and the support is connected to the output end of the sixth driving component to drive the support to move on the material tray mounting position.

5. The automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The steel ball pressing unit includes: A first support is provided on the machine base, and a first station is provided on the first support for positioning the workpiece to be assembled. A transfer component, which is located on one side of the first workstation, is used to transport the workpiece on the loading unit to the first workstation; A seventh driving component is erected on the first bracket and located above the first workstation, and the output end of the seventh driving component is provided with a second bracket. The eighth driving component is vertically mounted on the second support. The output end of the eighth driving component is provided with a pressing block. The pressing block is provided with a plurality of pressing heads. The pressing heads are used to press the steel ball to be assembled into the workpiece. The ninth driving component is horizontally mounted on the second bracket; A movable seat is mounted on the second bracket and is positioned opposite to the ninth driving member. Several pressure heads are movably inserted into the movable seat. The movable seat is provided with a first material passage hole and a second material passage hole. A receiving block, connected to the output end of the ninth driving component and movably inserted into the movable base, is provided with a third material passage hole. The receiving block includes a receiving position and a pressing position; wherein, When the receiving block is in the receiving position, the third material passage hole is aligned with the first material passage hole, allowing the steel ball to pass through the first material passage hole and then enter the third material passage hole; When the receiving block is in the pressing position, the third material passage is aligned with the second material passage for transporting the steel ball in the third material passage to the workpiece.

6. The automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The relay component includes: The second station is set on the machine platform and located between the feeding unit and the steel ball pressing unit; A first two-dimensional conveying platform is set on one side of the second workstation, and a first gripper is movably mounted on it. The first gripper is used to convey the workpiece on the loading unit to the second workstation. A tenth driving component is disposed on the second workstation. The output end of the tenth driving component passes through the side wall of the second workstation and moves against the workpiece on the second workstation to push the workpiece to a preset position.

7. The automatic steel ball pressing machine for workpieces as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The steel ball pressing unit also includes a detection component, which includes: The fastener has a loading state and a fixing state. The loading state is used to place the workpiece on the fastener, and the fixing state is used to position and clamp the workpiece. The eleventh driving component is vertically arranged on one side of the fixing component, and a connecting block is provided at the output end of the eleventh driving component. An mounting block is disposed on the connecting block; A detection rod, movably disposed at one end of the fixing member along its own axis and elastically connected to the mounting block, wherein one end of the detection rod movably passes through the fixing member, and the mounting position on the workpiece for mounting steel balls is located on the moving path of the detection rod; the detection rod has a first moving state and a second moving state; wherein, When in the first moving state, the end of the detection rod passes through the fixing member and stops moving due to the obstruction of the steel ball at the mounting position; When in the second moving state, the end of the detection rod passes through the fixing member and the mounting position in sequence, or the end of the detection rod passes through the fixing member and pushes the steel ball to displace relative to the mounting position along the axial direction of the detection rod.

8. An automatic steel ball press-fitting machine for workpieces as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The mounting block has a stepped hole, with the smaller end of the stepped hole facing the fixing member. The detection rod, along the moving direction, has a main body, a step, and a detection part arranged sequentially. The main body and the step are located inside the larger end of the stepped hole, with one end of the main body passing through the bottom wall of the mounting block and exposed outside the mounting block. The step and the end face of the stepped hole transitioning from the smaller end to the larger end move against each other. One end of the detection part passes through the smaller end of the stepped hole and is exposed outside the fixing member. A spring is installed inside the larger end of the stepped hole, sleeved on the outside of the main body. One end of the spring abuts against the step, and the other end abuts against the bottom wall of the stepped hole away from the smaller end. When the eleventh driving component moves the connecting block, the maximum force exerted by the spring on the detection rod is less than the bonding force between the steel ball and the mounting position of the workpiece.

9. An automatic steel ball press-fitting machine for workpieces as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The fixing component includes: a third bracket; a third station, which is disposed on the third bracket and provided with a positioning groove, the positioning groove being used to position the workpiece to be inspected; and a twelfth driving component, which is disposed on the third bracket, the output end of the twelfth driving component being provided with a pressing block, the twelfth driving component driving the pressing block to move closer to or further away from the third station, so that the fixing component switches between the feeding state and the fixing state. A fourth bracket is provided on the mounting block, and a first sensor is provided on the fourth bracket. The sensing end of the first sensor is positioned facing the main body, and the first sensor is used to detect the length of the main body exposed on the mounting block.

10. An automatic steel ball press-fitting machine for workpieces as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding unit includes: a fifth support; a conveyor belt disposed on the fifth support; a fourth station, wherein multiple fourth stations are arranged at intervals on the conveyor belt, the fourth stations being used to place the workpieces to be assembled, and the conveyor belt being used to drive the multiple fourth stations to reciprocate in a cyclical motion; and a second sensor disposed on the fifth support for detecting the workpieces in the fourth stations. The conveying unit includes: a second two-dimensional conveying platform disposed on the machine base; a second gripper disposed on the second two-dimensional conveying platform for gripping and releasing workpieces; and a third two-dimensional conveying platform disposed on the machine base and located above the receiving unit, wherein a third gripper is disposed on the third two-dimensional conveying platform for conveying workpieces on the second gripper to the material tray.

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