Die switching equipment

Abstract

The mold switching equipment comprises a mold changing channel, a plurality of mold storage positions located on the two sides of the mold changing channel correspondingly, a working storage position communicating with the end of the mold changing channel, and conveying mechanisms arranged in the mold changing channel and each mold storage position. The first recognition mechanisms are arranged in the mold storage positions, the second recognition mechanisms are arranged in the working storage positions, and the control system is connected with the first recognition mechanisms, the second recognition mechanisms and the conveying mechanism. According to the utility model, the defect that the existing flanging die switching equipment cannot confirm the matching property of the vehicle type and the die in advance is overcome, the die model can be identified in advance at the die storage location, the matching property of the vehicle type and the die can be confirmed in advance, and a dual detection mechanism ensures that high-precision die matching can be realized before automatic switching; and re-switching and production line shutdown caused by mismatching of the molds are effectively avoided, and the continuity and stability of production are further guaranteed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of automobile production technology, and in particular to a mold switching device. Background Technology

[0002] The front and rear doors, hood, and rear hood of a car body-in-white, collectively known as "four doors and two hoods," are key components in automobile manufacturing, produced using efficient door and hood flanging production lines. Currently, flanging machine systems on welding production lines are typically equipped with multiple mold bays, employing a 1-for-N-for-suppliers model to ensure production continuity and flexibility. During model changes, the system uses a precise push-pull chain mechanism to smoothly move the mold from the flanging machine to an empty bay. Then, a spare mold from another bay is automatically pushed and pulled into the flanging machine, achieving automatic, rapid, and accurate mold switching. This automated process significantly improves production efficiency, laying a solid foundation for efficient, precise, and intelligent automobile manufacturing.

[0003] However, current flanging machine systems typically check the mold number or workpiece only after the mold has been switched to the flanging machine station. This makes it impossible to confirm the compatibility between the vehicle model and the mold in advance. If a model mismatch occurs, the mold needs to be switched again, which will prolong the downtime of the production line and affect production efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing flanging mold switching equipment that cannot confirm the matching between vehicle models and molds in advance, and to provide a mold switching device. This invention can identify mold models in advance at the mold storage location, confirm the matching between vehicle models and molds in advance, and the dual detection mechanism ensures high-precision mold matching before automatic switching, effectively avoiding re-switching and production line downtime caused by mold mismatch, and further ensuring the continuity and stability of production.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0006] A mold switching device includes a mold changing channel, a plurality of mold storage positions located on both sides of the mold changing channel, a working storage position connected to the end of the mold changing channel, and a conveying mechanism disposed in the mold changing channel and each mold storage position; it also includes a first identification mechanism disposed in each mold storage position, a second identification mechanism disposed in the working storage position, and a control system connected to the first identification mechanism, the second identification mechanism and the conveying mechanism respectively.

[0007] This invention features a second identification mechanism for mold model recognition, normally installed in the working storage location, to confirm the compatibility between the mold and the vehicle model. In each mold storage location, a first identification mechanism is also installed. This first mechanism accurately identifies the information of the mold currently stored in the location, allowing for advance mold model identification and confirmation of vehicle model and mold compatibility. The second identification mechanism then re-identifies the mold model and verifies its compatibility with the vehicle model through the control system. This dual detection mechanism ensures high-precision mold matching before automatic switching, effectively preventing re-switching and production line downtime due to mold mismatch, further guaranteeing production continuity and stability.

[0008] Furthermore, the first identification mechanism includes an on-site detection sensor located at the bottom of each mold storage location and a mold model identification sensor located on one side of each mold storage location, wherein the on-site detection sensor and the mold model identification sensor are connected to the control system.

[0009] The first identification mechanism confirms the occupancy status of the mold storage location through the on-site detection sensor, identifies the mold model through the mold model identification sensor, and quickly identifies the storage location containing the mold. It can also specifically identify the mold model of the mold storage location, thereby facilitating the control system to control the conveying mechanism to retrieve the mold from the corresponding mold storage location.

[0010] Furthermore, the on-site detection sensor is an infrared sensor, a pressure sensor, or a proximity sensor; the mold model identification sensor is an RFID reader / writer.

[0011] Furthermore, the second identification mechanism includes a first lifting mechanism located in the work bay and a wireless transmission coupler located at the output end of the first lifting mechanism, wherein the first lifting mechanism and the wireless transmission coupler are connected to the control system.

[0012] The second identification mechanism uses a liftable wireless transmission coupler with non-contact communication. Since the working position needs to perform edge-turning operations, in order to avoid the working space of the edge-turning machine, a first lifting mechanism is set to lift the wireless transmission coupler. When the mold moves, the second identification mechanism can be lowered below the surface of the working position to avoid interference.

[0013] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism includes a first push-pull mechanism in the mold changing channel, a second push-pull mechanism disposed in each mold storage position and with its axis perpendicular to the first push-pull mechanism, a first transverse conveying wheel distributed in each mold storage position, a second transverse conveying wheel disposed in the mold changing channel, a longitudinal conveying wheel disposed in the mold changing channel, a second lifting mechanism connected to the second transverse conveying wheel, and a template placed on the first push-pull mechanism for carrying the mold; when the second lifting mechanism rises, the second transverse conveying wheel and the first transverse conveying wheel are on the same plane, and when the second lifting mechanism descends, the height of the second transverse conveying wheel is lower than that of the longitudinal conveying wheel.

[0014] The second transverse conveyor roller is raised / lowered via a second lifting mechanism. The lifting height (upper plane) of the second transverse conveyor roller is consistent with the upper plane height of the roller of the first transverse conveyor roller in each mold storage position, ensuring that molds in each mold storage position can smoothly enter and exit the mold storage position and mold changing channel area. After the second transverse conveyor roller descends, it disengages from the mold, and the mold can be placed on the roller of the longitudinal conveyor roller. At this time, the roller of the longitudinal conveyor roller meets the support requirements for longitudinal sliding. The upper surface height of the roller of the longitudinal conveyor roller in the mold changing channel is consistent with the guide rail height of the template when changing molds in the flanging machine, ensuring that the template can be smoothly pushed into the worktable of the working position.

[0015] Furthermore, the first push-pull mechanism includes a guide rail, a hook disposed on the guide rail, and a drive mechanism for driving the hook to reciprocate on the guide rail, and the template is provided with a pull hole that cooperates with the hook; the structure of the second push-pull mechanism is the same as that of the first push-pull mechanism.

[0016] Furthermore, the drive mechanism includes a servo drive motor and a frequency converter. The frequency converter is used for speed control, and it is equipped with a motor energy-consuming braking resistor.

[0017] Furthermore, the template has a reserved hole for the second identification mechanism to extend out. It should be noted that the reserved hole is located at the opening of the corresponding mold signal coupler.

[0018] Furthermore, the number of mold storage locations is four, and the four mold storage locations are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mold changing channel.

[0019] Furthermore, mold blocking devices are provided between the mold changing channel and each mold storage position, in the middle of the mold changing channel, and between the mold changing channel and the working storage position.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0021] This invention features a second identification mechanism for mold model recognition, normally installed in the working storage location, to confirm the compatibility between the mold and the vehicle model. In each mold storage location, a first identification mechanism is also installed. This first mechanism accurately identifies the information of the mold currently stored in the location, allowing for advance mold model identification and confirmation of vehicle model and mold compatibility. The second identification mechanism then re-identifies the mold model and verifies its compatibility with the vehicle model through the control system. This dual detection mechanism ensures high-precision mold matching before automatic switching, effectively preventing re-switching and production line downtime due to mold mismatch, further guaranteeing production continuity and stability. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is an application illustration in one embodiment;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the mold changing channel and mold storage location in one embodiment;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a working storage location in one embodiment;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a side view of the mold-changing channel in one embodiment;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the conveying direction of the mold changing channel and mold storage location in one embodiment;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the template transmission process in one embodiment.

[0028] 1-Mold changing channel, 2-Mold storage space, 3-Working storage space, 4-First identification mechanism, 5-Second identification mechanism, 50-Reserved installation position, 51-First lifting mechanism, 52-Wireless transmission coupler, 41-On-site detection sensor, 42-Mold model identification sensor, 6-First push-pull mechanism, 61-First transverse conveyor wheel, 62-Second transverse conveyor wheel, 63-Longitudinal conveyor wheel, 64-Second lifting mechanism, 65-Hook, 66-Drive mechanism, 7-Template, 8-Blocking device. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only, representing schematic diagrams rather than actual physical objects, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent. To better illustrate the embodiments of the present invention, some components in the drawings may be omitted, enlarged, or reduced, and do not represent the actual dimensions of the product. It is understandable to those skilled in the art that some well-known structures and their descriptions may be omitted in the drawings.

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of 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 not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0031] In the accompanying drawings of this utility model, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this patent. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0032] Example 1

[0033] This embodiment takes a mold switching device used in the flanging process as an example:

[0034] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a mold switching device includes a mold changing channel 1, a plurality of mold storage positions 2 located on both sides of the mold changing channel 1, a working storage position 3 connected to the end of the mold changing channel 1, and a conveying mechanism disposed in the mold changing channel 1 and each mold storage position 2; it also includes a first identification mechanism 4 disposed in each mold storage position 2, a second identification mechanism 5 disposed in the working storage position 3, and a control system that connects the first identification mechanism 4, the second identification mechanism 5 and the conveying mechanism respectively.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, there are four mold storage locations 2, which are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mold changing channel 1. The four mold storage locations 2 are designated as A, B, C, and D. The mold changing channel 1 is area F, which consists of areas F1 and F2.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown in this embodiment, the work station 3 is the workbench of the flanging machine. A transport robot is also provided on one side of the workbench to transport the workpiece to the flanging machine for flanging operation. Then, the transport robot transports the flanged workpiece away to complete one flanging operation.

[0037] like Figure 2As shown, the first identification mechanism 4 includes an on-site detection sensor 41 located at the bottom of each mold storage position 2, and a mold model identification sensor 42 located on one side of each mold storage position 2. The on-site detection sensor 41 and the mold model identification sensor 42 are connected to the control system.

[0038] The first identification mechanism 4 confirms the occupancy status of the mold storage location 2 by using the on-site detection sensor 41 and identifies the mold model by using the mold model identification sensor 42. The on-site detection sensor 41 quickly identifies the storage location where the mold is placed and can specifically identify the mold model of the mold storage location 2 where the mold is stored, thereby facilitating the control system to control the conveying mechanism to retrieve the mold from the corresponding mold storage location 2.

[0039] like Figure 3 As shown, the second identification mechanism 5 includes a first lifting mechanism 51 located in the working position 3, and a wireless transmission coupler 52 located at the output end of the first lifting mechanism 51. The first lifting mechanism 51 and the wireless transmission coupler 52 are connected to the control system.

[0040] like Figure 3 As shown in this embodiment, a reserved installation position 50 for the second identification mechanism 5 is also provided in the working storage position 3, which can meet the subsequent vehicle model detection requirements for pipe transfer.

[0041] The second identification mechanism 5 adopts a liftable wireless transmission coupler 52 with non-contact communication. Since the working position 3 needs to perform edge-turning operations, in order to avoid the working space of the edge-turning machine, the first lifting mechanism 51 is set to lift the wireless transmission coupler 52. When the mold moves, the second identification mechanism 5 can be lowered below the surface of the working position 3 to avoid interference.

[0042] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the conveying mechanism includes a first push-pull mechanism 6 in the mold changing channel 1, a second push-pull mechanism 60 disposed in each mold storage position 2 and with its axis perpendicular to the first push-pull mechanism 6, a first transverse conveying wheel 61 distributed in each mold storage position 2, a second transverse conveying wheel 62 disposed in the mold changing channel 1, a longitudinal conveying wheel 63 disposed in the mold changing channel 1, a second lifting mechanism 64 connecting the second transverse conveying wheel 62, and a template 7 placed on the first push-pull mechanism 6 for supporting the mold; when the second lifting mechanism 64 rises, the second transverse conveying wheel 62 and the first transverse conveying wheel 61 are on the same plane; when the second lifting mechanism 64 falls, the height of the second transverse conveying wheel 62 is lower than that of the longitudinal conveying wheel 63.

[0043] like Figure 1As shown, area F has two junction areas, F1 and F2, where molds move laterally and longitudinally. This area satisfies both lateral and longitudinal sliding. The second lateral conveyor roller 62 is lifted / lowered via the second lifting mechanism 64. The upper plane of the roller of the second lateral conveyor roller 62 is consistent with the upper plane of the roller of the first lateral conveyor roller 61 in each mold storage position 2, ensuring that the molds in each mold storage position 2 can smoothly enter and exit the mold storage position 2 and the mold changing channel 1 area. After the second lateral conveyor roller 62 descends, it disengages from the mold, and the mold can be placed on the roller of the longitudinal conveyor roller 63. At this time, the roller of the longitudinal conveyor roller 63 meets the support requirements for longitudinal sliding. The upper surface height of the roller of the longitudinal conveyor roller 63 in the mold changing channel 1 is consistent with the guide rail height of the template when changing molds in the flanging machine, ensuring that the template can be smoothly pushed into the worktable of the work storage position 3.

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the first push-pull mechanism 6 includes a guide rail, a hook 65 disposed on the guide rail, and a drive mechanism 66 for driving the hook 65 to reciprocate on the guide rail. The template 7 is provided with a pull hole that cooperates with the hook 65. The structure of the second push-pull mechanism 60 is the same as that of the first push-pull mechanism 6.

[0045] In this embodiment, the drive mechanism 66 includes a servo drive motor and a frequency converter. The frequency converter is used for speed control, and it is equipped with a motor energy-consuming braking resistor.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, the template 7 has a reserved hole for the extension of the second identification mechanism 5. It should be noted that the reserved hole is located at the opening of the corresponding mold signal coupler.

[0047] like Figure 1 and Figure 6As shown, under normal production conditions, one set of molds is used in the flanging machine at work station 3. Mold station 2 has three sets of molds in storage, as shown in stations A, C, and D, and one empty station, as shown in station B. The storage station status is random. During automatic switching, the first push-pull mechanism 6 of stations A, B, C, D, and station F automatically links together. First, the mold in the flanging machine at work station 3 is pulled out and sent to the empty station B. Then, the next mold to be produced is identified, its corresponding storage station is located, and it is pulled out and sent to the work station. After the switch is completed, each piece of equipment automatically returns to its original set position, and the control system enters standby mode, waiting for the next mold change request. The introduction of the automatic mold switching system significantly reduces the need for overhead cranes during mold changes, thereby reducing the number of overhead cranes required. This not only reduces equipment investment and maintenance costs and optimizes the production site layout, but also achieves a highly efficient configuration of 1 mold for 3 spares. This design significantly reduces the frequency of mold hoisting and replacement during flexible production line changes for multiple models, with a reduction of up to 80%, greatly improving production efficiency and flexibility.

[0048] In this embodiment, a second identification mechanism 5 for mold model recognition is normally installed in the working storage position 3 to confirm the matching between the mold and the vehicle model. In this embodiment, a first identification mechanism 4 for mold model recognition is installed in each mold storage position 2. The first identification mechanism 4 can accurately identify the information of the mold stored in the current mold storage position 2, and can perform mold model recognition in advance in the mold storage position 2 to confirm the matching between the vehicle model and the mold. The second identification mechanism 5 identifies the mold model again and checks whether the vehicle model and the mold match through the control system. This dual detection mechanism ensures that high-precision mold matching can be achieved before automatic switching, effectively avoiding the need for re-switching and production line downtime due to mold mismatch, and further ensuring the continuity and stability of production.

[0049] Example 2

[0050] This embodiment is similar to Embodiment 1, except that in this embodiment:

[0051] In this embodiment, the on-site detection sensor 41 is an infrared sensor, a pressure sensor, or a proximity sensor; the mold model identification sensor 42 is an RFID reader / writer.

[0052] The other structures and principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 1.

[0053] Example 3

[0054] This embodiment is similar to Embodiment 1, except that in this embodiment:

[0055] like Figure 2As shown, mold blocking devices 8 are also provided between the mold changing channel 1 and each mold storage position 2, in the middle of the mold changing channel 1, and between the mold changing channel 1 and the working storage position 3.

[0056] In this embodiment, the blocking device 8 consists of a blocking block and a third lifting mechanism connected to the blocking block.

[0057] The other structures and principles of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 1.

[0058] Obviously, the above embodiments of this utility model are merely examples for clearly illustrating this utility model, and are not intended to limit the implementation of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can make other variations or modifications based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A mold switching device, characterized in that, It includes a mold changing channel (1), several mold storage positions (2) located on both sides of the mold changing channel (1), a working storage position (3) connected to the end of the mold changing channel (1), and a conveying mechanism provided in the mold changing channel (1) and each mold storage position (2); it also includes a first identification mechanism (4) provided in each mold storage position (2), a second identification mechanism (5) provided in the working storage position (3), and a control system that connects the first identification mechanism (4), the second identification mechanism (5) and the conveying mechanism respectively.

2. The mold switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first identification mechanism (4) includes an on-site detection sensor (41) located at the bottom of each mold storage position (2) and a mold model identification sensor (42) located on one side of each mold storage position (2). The on-site detection sensor (41) and the mold model identification sensor (42) are connected to the control system.

3. The mold switching device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The on-site detection sensor (41) is an infrared sensor, a pressure sensor, or a proximity sensor; the mold model identification sensor (42) is an RFID reader / writer.

4. The mold switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second identification mechanism (5) includes a first lifting mechanism (51) located in the work bay (3) and a wireless transmission coupler (52) located at the output end of the first lifting mechanism (51). The first lifting mechanism (51) and the wireless transmission coupler (52) are connected to the control system.

5. A mold switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism includes a first push-pull mechanism (6) in the mold changing channel (1), a second push-pull mechanism (60) located in each mold storage position (2) and whose axis is perpendicular to the first push-pull mechanism (6), a first transverse conveying wheel (61) distributed in each mold storage position (2), a second transverse conveying wheel (62) located in the mold changing channel (1), a longitudinal conveying wheel (63) located in the mold changing channel (1), a second lifting mechanism (64) connecting the second transverse conveying wheel (62), and a template (7) placed on the first push-pull mechanism (6) for carrying the mold; when the second lifting mechanism (64) rises, the second transverse conveying wheel (62) and the first transverse conveying wheel (61) are on the same plane; when the second lifting mechanism (64) falls, the height of the second transverse conveying wheel (62) is lower than that of the longitudinal conveying wheel (63).

6. A mold switching device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first push-pull mechanism (6) includes a guide rail, a hook (65) provided on the guide rail, and a drive mechanism (66) for driving the hook (65) to reciprocate on the guide rail. The template (7) is provided with a pull hole that cooperates with the hook (65). The structure of the second push-pull mechanism (60) is the same as that of the first push-pull mechanism (6).

7. A mold switching device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (66) includes a servo drive motor and a frequency converter.

8. A mold switching device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The template (7) is also provided with a reserved hole for the second identification mechanism (5) to extend.

9. A mold switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of mold storage positions (2) is four, and the four mold storage positions (2) are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mold changing channel (1).

10. A mold switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A mold blocking device (8) is also provided between the mold changing channel (1) and each mold storage position (2), and between the mold changing channel (1) and the working storage position (3).

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