Pipe expander and intelligent pipe expander

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of pipe expander and intelligent pipe expanding equipment, it is related to automatic pipe expanding technical field.The pipe expander includes: base, inside is provided with driver, for driving the rotation of the core rod of mechanical pipe expander;Flat head base, it is set in the front of the base, the rotating seat of the mechanical pipe expander is set at the flat head base;Elastic buffer mechanism, the flat head base is connected with the base, the elastic buffer is used to make the flat head base move back and forth, and the flat head base is kept at the specified position in front of the base by the elastic reset of the elastic buffer mechanism;First automatic lock, it is set in the flat head base, the first automatic lock is used to make the flat head base with the rotating seat fixed or loose;And second automatic lock, it is set in the base, the second automatic lock is used to make the base with the core rod transmission connection or loose.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of automated tube expansion technology, and more specifically, to a tube expander and intelligent tube expander equipment. Background Technology

[0002] At present, expansion joint is one of the main connection methods between heat exchange tubes and tube sheets. In order to improve the efficiency and quality of expansion joint, articulated arm robots are being used more and more frequently in the field of expansion joint, gradually replacing manual expansion joint.

[0003] However, both intelligent and automatic tube expanders require the use of mechanical tube expanders, such as three-groove straight tube expanders, during the tube expander operation. Since mechanical tube expanders are consumables, they need to be replaced in time after a period of use and when they are worn to a certain extent, in order to ensure the tube expander accuracy and efficiency of the intelligent tube expander.

[0004] However, during the replacement of mechanical tube expanders, the relatively secure fixing of the expanders makes it time-consuming and laborious for operators to remove them from the machine head. This severely impacts the replacement efficiency of mechanical tube expanders, resulting in low replacement efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the above problems, this utility model provides a tube expander for use as a mechanical tube expander, the tube expander comprising:

[0006] The base contains a driver that drives the core rod of the mechanical expander to rotate.

[0007] A flat-head seat is located in front of the machine base, and the rotating seat of the mechanical tube expander is located at the flat-head seat;

[0008] An elastic buffer mechanism connects the flat-head seat to the base. The elastic buffer is used to move the flat-head seat back and forth, and the elastic reset of the elastic buffer mechanism keeps the flat-head seat at a specified position in front of the base.

[0009] A first automatic locking device is disposed at the flat-head seat, and the first automatic locking device is used to fix or loosen the flat-head seat from the rotating seat; and

[0010] A second automatic locking device is provided at the base, and the second automatic locking device is used to drive the connection or disconnection between the base and the core rod.

[0011] Optionally, the first automatic locking device includes a first cylinder and a first elastic clamping mechanism.

[0012] Both the first cylinder and the first elastic clamping mechanism are located at the flat head seat. The rotating seat is located at the opening and closing position of the first elastic clamping mechanism. The first cylinder is connected to the first elastic clamping mechanism. The first cylinder is used to drive the first elastic clamping mechanism to open and close. By opening and closing the first elastic clamping mechanism, the first elastic clamping mechanism clamps or releases the rotating seat.

[0013] Optionally, the flat-head base is an upright plate-shaped structural member, and the plate surface of the flat-head base has a first through hole.

[0014] The first elastic clamping mechanism includes:

[0015] A clamping plate is vertically disposed in the first through hole. The surface of the clamping plate has a second through hole. The rotating seat is inserted into the second through hole. The clamping plate has a groove that passes through the front and back of the clamping plate. The groove passes through the second through hole from the bottom surface of the clamping plate and extends to a position near the top of the clamping plate.

[0016] The clamping arm has an arc-shaped structure and is placed in the first through hole. One end of the clamping arm is connected to the side wall of the first through hole, and the other end of the clamping arm is provided with a movable protrusion. The piston rod of the first cylinder is connected to the movable protrusion. The first cylinder is used to drive the movable protrusion to move up and down. The clamping plate is placed between the clamping arm and the bottom surface of the first through hole.

[0017] Optionally, the first elastic clamping mechanism further includes:

[0018] A vertical spring is positioned vertically opposite to the piston rod of the first cylinder, and the vertical spring vertically presses against the movable protrusion; and

[0019] A retaining mechanism is provided at the flat-head seat, the retaining mechanism being used to keep the vertical spring pushing against the movable protrusion;

[0020] The retaining mechanism is a bolt. The first cylinder is located at the bottom of the flat-head seat, and the retaining mechanism is located at the top of the flat-head seat. The threaded end of the retaining mechanism is set downward and is fitted with an adjusting nut. The vertical spring is sleeved in the retaining mechanism and is placed between the adjusting nut and the movable protrusion.

[0021] Optionally, the second automatic locking device includes a second cylinder and a second elastic clamping mechanism, and a drive shaft is provided inside the base.

[0022] The second cylinder is located at the base.

[0023] The second elastic clamping mechanism detachably connects the rear end of the core rod to the drive shaft.

[0024] The second cylinder drives the second elastic clamping mechanism to move, so that the second elastic clamping mechanism is connected to or disconnected from the rear end of the core rod.

[0025] Optionally, the rear end of the core rod is provided with an outer annular groove, the outer annular groove is arranged around the axial direction of the core rod, and the cross-sectional shape of the outer annular groove is an arc shape that is concave towards the axis of the core rod;

[0026] The second elastic clamping mechanism includes:

[0027] A connecting sleeve is provided, the rear end of which is connected to the drive shaft. The side wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with an installation hole that extends radially. The rear end of the core rod is inserted into the connecting through hole. The cross-section of the rear end of the core rod and the cross-section of the inner hole of the connecting sleeve are both regular polygons with the same shape. The installation hole is connected to the outer annular groove.

[0028] A radially moving body is disposed in the mounting hole, the radial length of the radially moving body being greater than the diameter depth of the mounting hole; and

[0029] An adjustment mechanism is fitted outside the connecting sleeve. The adjustment mechanism is connected to the second cylinder. The second cylinder drives the adjustment mechanism to move back and forth, so that the radial moving body is simultaneously locked in the mounting hole and the outer annular groove, or so that the radial moving body is disengaged from the outer annular groove.

[0030] Optionally, the radially moving body is a ball bearing, and the adjusting mechanism includes:

[0031] A movable sleeve is fitted over the connecting sleeve. The inner wall of the movable sleeve is provided with a first annular protrusion and an inner annular groove. Both the first annular protrusion and the inner annular groove are axially arranged around the core rod. The inner annular groove is located in front of the first annular protrusion. The first annular protrusion is used to simultaneously engage the radially movable body in the mounting hole and the outer annular groove. The inner annular groove is used to accommodate the radially movable body so that it can disengage from the outer annular groove.

[0032] A connecting ring is fitted over the movable sleeve. The connecting ring is connected to the piston rod of the second cylinder. The inner ring groove has a conical surface near the protrusion of the first ring that is inclined towards the front of the connecting sleeve.

[0033] Optionally, there are two second cylinders arranged diagonally about the core rod, and both second cylinders are parallel to the core rod; the mounting hole is one and is opened at one edge of the connecting sleeve.

[0034] Optionally, the outer wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a second annular protrusion, the second annular protrusion being located at the middle of the connecting sleeve.

[0035] An axial spring is fitted at the front of the connecting sleeve. The axial spring is positioned between the second annular protrusion and the first annular protrusion. The axial spring is used to push the moving sleeve forward.

[0036] In addition, this utility model also provides an intelligent tube expander, including the tube expander mentioned above.

[0037] The technical effects of this utility model include at least the following:

[0038] When replacing the mechanical tube expander, the first automatic locking device loosens the flat-head seat from the rotating seat of the mechanical tube expander, and simultaneously the second automatic locking device loosens the machine base from the mandrel. The operator then pulls the sleeve of the mechanical tube expander forward, separating the rotating seat and the rear end of the mandrel from the expander. This quickly completes the disassembly of the mechanical tube expander. Correspondingly, the mandrel of the new mechanical tube expander is inserted into the machine base through the flat-head seat, aligning the corresponding rotating seat with the flat-head seat. The first automatic locking device then secures the flat-head seat to the rotating seat, and the second automatic locking device connects the machine base to the mandrel. This quickly completes the installation of the new mechanical tube expander. The elastic buffer mechanism keeps the flat-head seat in a designated position in front of the machine base, allowing the sleeve of the mechanical tube expander to be positioned close to the front end of the mandrel. After the mechanical tube expander is loosened, simply pulling the sleeve forward will pull out the front end of the mandrel along with it. Alternatively, a mechanical clamping mechanism can be used. The actuator pushes the flat head forward, causing the elastic buffer mechanism to move the flat head backward, thus extending the front end of the core rod longer, making it easier for the mechanical clamping mechanism to clamp the front end of the core rod.

[0039] In this way, through the coordinated operation of the base, flat head, elastic buffer mechanism, first automatic locking device, and second automatic locking device, the tube expander automatically clamps and releases the mechanical tube expander, thus facilitating quick and easy replacement of the mechanical tube expander. This significantly improves the replacement efficiency of the mechanical tube expander. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the tube expander according to a specific embodiment of the present utility model;

[0041] Figure 2 A schematic front view of the tube expander according to a specific embodiment of this utility model;

[0042] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view along line AA in the diagram;

[0043] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged diagram of point B in the image. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this utility model. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this utility model and are not intended to limit it. Embodiments of this utility model can be implemented in many ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this utility model. Therefore, this utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0045] It is understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this utility model may be used to describe various technical terms herein, but should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. However, unless specifically stated otherwise, these technical terms are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one technical term from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this utility model, the first receiving device and the second receiving device are different receiving devices, the first surface and the second surface are different surfaces, and the first plane, the second plane, the third plane, and the fourth plane are different planes. In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, "a plurality of" or "several" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "setting," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the horizontal height of the first feature is higher than the horizontal height of the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the horizontal height of the first feature is lower than the horizontal height of the second feature.

[0048] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as "fixed to" or "set on" another component, or similar terms such as "fixed to" or "set on," it can be directly on the other component or may have an intervening component. When a component is considered to be "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or may have an intervening component.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this invention have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0050] In addition, in the attached figures, the Z-axis represents the vertical direction, that is, the up-down direction, and the positive direction of the Z-axis (that is, the direction the arrow points to) represents up, and the negative direction of the Z-axis (that is, the direction opposite to the positive direction of the Z-axis) represents down; the Y-axis represents the horizontal direction, that is, the left-right direction; the X-axis represents the vertical direction, that is, the front-back direction, and the positive direction of the X-axis (that is, the direction the arrow points to) represents forward, and the negative direction of the X-axis (that is, the direction opposite to the positive direction of the X-axis) represents backward; it should also be noted that the aforementioned representations of the Z, Y, and X axes are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0051] See Figures 1 to 4 This embodiment provides a tube expander for mechanical tube expanders, the tube expander comprising:

[0052] The base 1 is equipped with a driver inside, which is used to drive the core rod 31 of the mechanical tube expander to rotate;

[0053] A flat-head seat 2 is disposed in front of the machine base 1, and the rotating seat 33 of the mechanical tube expander is disposed at the flat-head seat 2;

[0054] The elastic buffer mechanism connects the flat-head seat 2 to the base 1. The elastic buffer is used to move the flat-head seat 2 back and forth, and to keep the flat-head seat 2 at a specified position in front of the base 1 by the elastic reset of the elastic buffer mechanism.

[0055] A first automatic locking device is disposed at the flat-head seat 2, and the first automatic locking device is used to fix or loosen the flat-head seat 2 from the rotating seat 33; and

[0056] A second automatic locking device is provided at the base 1. The second automatic locking device is used to drive or disengage the base 1 from the core rod 31.

[0057] In this embodiment, when replacing the mechanical tube expander, the first automatic locking device loosens the flat-head seat 2 from the rotating seat 33 of the mechanical tube expander, and simultaneously the second automatic locking device loosens the machine base 1 from the mandrel 31. Then, the operator directly pulls the sleeve of the mechanical tube expander forward, separating the rotating seat 33 and the rear end of the mandrel 31 from the tube expander. This quickly completes the disassembly of the mechanical tube expander. Correspondingly, the mandrel 31 of the new mechanical tube expander is inserted into the machine base 1 through the flat-head seat 2, aligning the corresponding rotating seat 33 with the flat-head seat 2. Then, the first automatic locking device secures the flat-head seat 2 to the rotating seat 33, and the second automatic locking device connects the machine base 1 to the mandrel 31. This quickly completes the installation of the new mechanical tube expander. The elastic buffer mechanism keeps the flat-head seat 2 at a designated position in front of the base 1, allowing the sleeve of the mechanical expander to be positioned close to the front end of the core rod 31. After the mechanical expander loosens, simply pulling the sleeve forward will pull out the front end of the core rod 31 along with it. Alternatively, a mechanical clamping mechanism can be used. The actuator pushes the flat-head seat 2 forward, causing the elastic buffer mechanism to move the flat-head seat 2 backward, thus extending the front end of the core rod 31 further, making it easier for the mechanical clamping mechanism to hold the front end of the core rod 31.

[0058] In this way, through the coordinated operation of the base 1, flat head base 2, elastic buffer mechanism, first automatic locking device, and second automatic locking device, the tube expander automatically clamps and releases the mechanical tube expander, thus facilitating quick and easy replacement of the mechanical tube expander. This significantly improves the replacement efficiency of the mechanical tube expander.

[0059] It should be noted that the mechanical tube expander includes a core rod 31, a sleeve, and a rotating seat 33. The core rod 31 is inserted into the sleeve, and the rotating seat 33 is located at the rear end of the sleeve and is rotatably connected to the sleeve.

[0060] Alternatively, the mechanical tube expander here can be a three-groove straight tube expander. Three expanding rollers are evenly distributed on the outer wall of the sleeve.

[0061] Preferably, the elastic buffer mechanism includes two longitudinal buffer springs 21 and two guide rods 22. Each longitudinal buffer spring 21 is sleeved on one guide rod 22. The front end of the guide rod 22 is fixed to the flat-head seat 2, and the rear end of the guide rod 22 is slidably connected to the machine base 1. The two guide rods 22 are arranged diagonally about the core rod 31. Due to the elastic pushing action of the longitudinal springs on the flat-head seat 2, the flat-head seat 2 is held at a designated position in front of the machine base 1.

[0062] During the tube expansion process, the actuator, such as the robotic arm, pushes the flat-head seat 2 forward, causing the guide rod 22 to slide backward, and the longitudinal spring to deform due to elastic force.

[0063] Furthermore, the first automatic locking device includes a first cylinder 41 and a first elastic clamping mechanism.

[0064] The first cylinder 41 and the first elastic clamping mechanism are both located at the flat head seat 2. The rotating seat 33 is located at the opening and closing position of the first elastic clamping mechanism. The first cylinder 41 is connected to the first elastic clamping mechanism. The first cylinder 41 is used to drive the first elastic clamping mechanism to open and close. Through the opening and closing of the first elastic clamping mechanism, the first elastic clamping mechanism clamps or releases the rotating seat 33.

[0065] Taking advantage of the rapid response of the cylinder compared to the hydraulic cylinder, the piston rod of the first cylinder 41 drives the first elastic clamping mechanism to open and close, so that the first elastic clamping mechanism clamps or releases the rotating seat 33.

[0066] Furthermore, the flat-head base 2 is an upright plate-shaped structural component, and the plate surface of the flat-head base 2 has a first through hole 23.

[0067] The first elastic clamping mechanism includes:

[0068] A clamping plate 42 is vertically disposed in the first through hole 23. A second through hole 48 is formed on the surface of the clamping plate 42. The rotating seat 33 is inserted into the second through hole 48. A groove is formed in the clamping plate 42, extending through the front and back of the clamping plate 42. The groove passes from the bottom surface of the clamping plate 42 through the second through hole 48 and extends to near the top of the clamping plate 42.

[0069] The clamping arm 43 has an arc-shaped structure and is placed in the first through hole 23. One end of the clamping arm 43 is connected to the side wall of the first through hole 23, and the other end of the clamping arm 43 is provided with a movable protrusion. The piston rod of the first cylinder 41 is connected to the movable protrusion. The first cylinder 41 is used to drive the movable protrusion to move up and down. The clamping plate 42 is placed between the clamping arm 43 and the bottom surface of the first through hole 23.

[0070] Preferably, fixing plates are provided at the front and rear of the flat-head base 2 to fix the clamping plate 42 and prevent the clamping plate 42 from moving back and forth.

[0071] In this embodiment, by utilizing the characteristic that the groove does not penetrate the chuck 42 vertically, the clamping force of the chuck 42 on the rotating seat 33 is elastic. During the process of the piston rod of the first cylinder 41 driving the clamping arm 43 and the first through hole to clamp the chuck 42, the chuck 42 undergoes elastic deformation to clamp the rotating seat 33, so that the sleeve of the mechanical expander is tightly connected to the flat head seat 2. When it is necessary to replace the mechanical expander, the piston rod of the first cylinder 41 only needs to push the clamping arm 43 upward by moving the protrusion, so that the chuck 42 can be reset, thereby releasing the rotating seat 33 and realizing the detachment of the rotating seat 33.

[0072] Furthermore, the first elastic clamping mechanism also includes:

[0073] A vertical spring 44 is vertically positioned opposite the piston rod of the first cylinder 41, and the vertical spring 44 vertically presses against the movable protrusion; and

[0074] A retaining mechanism 45 is provided at the flat head seat 2, and the retaining mechanism 45 is used to keep the vertical spring 44 pushing against the movable protrusion.

[0075] The retaining mechanism 45 is a bolt. The first cylinder 41 is located at the bottom of the flat head seat 2. The retaining mechanism 45 is located at the top of the flat head seat 2. The threaded end of the retaining mechanism 45 is set downward and is fitted with an adjusting nut 46. The vertical spring 44 is sleeved in the retaining mechanism 45 and is placed between the adjusting nut 46 and the movable protrusion.

[0076] The vertical spring 44 is constantly pushing downwards, ensuring that the clamping arm 43 always clamps the clamping plate 42 downwards, thus keeping the clamping plate 42 firmly clamped to the rotating seat 33. This prevents the first cylinder 41 from loosening after retracting, which would affect the clamping tightness of the rotating seat 33. Simultaneously, the retaining mechanism 45, which is a bolt with the vertical spring 44 fitted around it, serves as a guide for the vertical spring 44.

[0077] In addition, the compression of the vertical spring 44 can be adjusted by moving the adjusting nut 46 up and down along the bolt.

[0078] Furthermore, the second automatic locking device includes a second cylinder 51 and a second elastic clamping mechanism, and a drive shaft 11 is provided inside the base 1.

[0079] The second cylinder 51 is located at the base 1.

[0080] The second elastic clamping mechanism detachably connects the rear end of the core rod 31 to the drive shaft 11.

[0081] The second elastic clamping mechanism is moved by the second cylinder 51, so that the second elastic clamping mechanism is connected to or disconnected from the rear end of the core rod 31.

[0082] By utilizing the rapid response of the pneumatic cylinder to the hydraulic cylinder, the second elastic clamping mechanism can be quickly connected to or disconnected from the rear end of the core rod 31.

[0083] Furthermore, an outer annular groove 32 is provided at the rear end of the core rod 31. The outer annular groove 32 is arranged around the axial direction of the core rod 31, and the cross-sectional shape of the outer annular groove 32 is an arc shape that is concave towards the axis of the core rod 31.

[0084] The second elastic clamping mechanism includes:

[0085] A connecting sleeve 52 is connected to the drive shaft 11 at its rear end. The side wall of the connecting sleeve 52 is provided with a mounting hole 523, which extends radially. The rear end of the core rod 31 is inserted into the connecting sleeve 52. The cross-section of the rear end of the core rod 31 and the cross-section of the inner hole of the connecting sleeve 52 are both regular polygons with the same shape. The mounting hole 523 communicates with the outer annular groove 32.

[0086] A radially moving body 53 is disposed in the mounting hole 523, wherein the radial length of the radially moving body 53 is greater than the diameter depth of the mounting hole 523; and

[0087] An adjustment mechanism is fitted over the connecting sleeve 52. The adjustment mechanism is connected to the second cylinder 51. The second cylinder 51 drives the adjustment mechanism to move back and forth, so that the radial moving body 53 is simultaneously engaged in the mounting hole 523 and the outer annular groove 32, or so that the radial moving body 53 is disengaged from the outer annular groove 32.

[0088] The second cylinder 51 drives the adjusting mechanism to move back and forth, causing the radially moving body 53 to simultaneously engage in the mounting hole 523 and the outer annular groove 32, or to disengage from the outer annular groove 32. This achieves the connection or disengagement of the rear end of the core rod 31. In particular, the cross-sectional shape of the outer annular groove 32 is an arc shape recessed towards the axis of the core rod 31, making it easier for the radially moving body 53 to disengage from the outer annular groove 32 and preventing the rectangular cross-section of the outer annular groove 32 from hindering the disengagement of the radially moving body 53. This ensures the stability of the disengagement of the radially moving body 53 from the outer annular groove 32.

[0089] It should be noted that the cross-section of the outer annular groove 32 refers to the extension direction perpendicular to the outer annular groove 32.

[0090] Preferably, the cross-section of the rear end of the core rod 31 and the cross-section of the inner hole of the connecting sleeve 52 are both square.

[0091] Furthermore, the radially moving body 53 is a ball bearing, and the adjusting mechanism includes:

[0092] A movable sleeve 54 is fitted over the connecting sleeve 52. The inner wall of the movable sleeve 54 is provided with a first annular protrusion 55 and an inner annular groove 56. Both the first annular protrusion 55 and the inner annular groove 56 are axially arranged around the core rod 31. The inner annular groove 56 is located in front of the first annular protrusion 55. The first annular protrusion 55 is used to simultaneously engage the radially movable body 53 in the mounting hole 523 and the outer annular groove 32. The inner annular groove 56 is used to place the radially movable body 53 so that the radially movable body 53 can disengage from the outer annular groove 32.

[0093] A connecting ring 57 is fitted over the movable sleeve 54. The connecting ring 57 is connected to the piston rod of the second cylinder 51. The inner ring groove 56 has a conical surface that is inclined towards the front of the connecting sleeve 52 near the first ring protrusion 55.

[0094] Preferably, the second cylinder 51 is connected to the connecting ring 57 via a coupling 58.

[0095] When the rear end of the core rod 31 is fixed, the second cylinder 51 drives the connecting ring 57, causing the moving sleeve 54 to move forward. At the same time, the ball in the inner ring groove 56 is still in the mounting hole 523 because its upper part is still in the mounting hole 523. Moreover, the annular surface of the inner ring groove 56 near the first annular protrusion 55 is a conical surface that is inclined towards the front of the connecting sleeve 52. This conical surface guides the upward movement of the ball, allowing the ball to smoothly leave the inner ring groove 56 and fully enter the mounting hole 523 under the upward push of the first annular protrusion 55. At this time, because the diameter of the ball is larger than the diameter of the mounting hole 523, the top of the ball protrudes out of the mounting hole 523 and is simultaneously placed in the outer ring groove 32. In this way, the ball is simultaneously stuck in the mounting hole 523 and the outer ring groove 32, which fixes the rear end of the core rod 31.

[0096] During the process of loosening the core rod 31, the second cylinder 51 drives the connecting ring 57 to move backward, and at the same time moves the moving sleeve 54 backward, causing the first ring protrusion 55 to move backward, so that the mounting hole 523 is aligned with the inner ring groove 56. The cross-section of the outer ring groove 32 is a concave arc shape, which makes it easier for the outer ring groove 32 to push the ball towards the first ring protrusion during the process of pulling the core rod 31 outward, so that the ball disengages from the outer ring groove 32.

[0097] Furthermore, the structural design of the adjustment mechanism significantly reduces the overall size of the second elastic clamping mechanism, while also ensuring flexible and accurate operation.

[0098] Furthermore, there are two second cylinders 51 arranged diagonally about the core rod 31, and both second cylinders 51 are arranged parallel to the core rod 31; there is one mounting hole 523 and it is opened at one edge of the connecting sleeve 52.

[0099] Reduce unnecessary mounting holes 523 and the number of ball bearings to lower costs, while ensuring the sensitivity of fixing and loosening the core rod 31.

[0100] In addition, using two second cylinders 51 simultaneously can increase the pushing force on the reciprocating push of the adjustment mechanism, making the movement response of the moving sleeve 54 rapid.

[0101] Furthermore, a second annular protrusion 521 is provided on the outer wall of the connecting sleeve 52, and the second annular protrusion 521 is located at the middle of the connecting sleeve 52.

[0102] An axial spring 522 is fitted at the front of the connecting sleeve 52. The axial spring 522 is positioned between the second annular protrusion 521 and the first annular protrusion 55. The axial spring 522 is used to push the movable sleeve 54 forward.

[0103] The axial spring 522 is used to push the movable sleeve 54 forward, so that the first annular protrusion 55 is always pressed against the mounting hole 523. This prevents the movable sleeve 54 from moving back and forth easily due to insufficient power of the second cylinder 51, which could cause the rear end of the core rod 31 to loosen easily.

[0104] In addition, this embodiment provides an intelligent tube expander, including the aforementioned tube expander. Since the technical effects achieved by this intelligent tube expander are the same as those of the aforementioned automatic clamp, the intelligent tube expander will not be further explained.

[0105] It should be noted that the tube expander can be installed on the robotic arm of the intelligent tube expander.

[0106] Although the present invention has been disclosed above, its scope of protection is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such changes and modifications will fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A tube expander for use with mechanical tube expanders, characterized in that, The tube expander includes: The base contains a driver that drives the core rod of the mechanical expander to rotate. A flat-head seat is located in front of the machine base, and the rotating seat of the mechanical tube expander is located at the flat-head seat; An elastic buffer mechanism connects the flat-head seat to the base. The elastic buffer is used to move the flat-head seat back and forth, and the elastic reset of the elastic buffer mechanism keeps the flat-head seat at a specified position in front of the base. A first automatic locking device is disposed at the flat-head seat, and the first automatic locking device is used to fix or loosen the flat-head seat from the rotating seat; and A second automatic locking device is provided at the base, and the second automatic locking device is used to drive the connection or disconnection between the base and the core rod.

2. The tube expander according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first automatic locking device includes a first cylinder and a first elastic clamping mechanism. Both the first cylinder and the first elastic clamping mechanism are located at the flat head seat. The rotating seat is located at the opening and closing position of the first elastic clamping mechanism. The first cylinder is connected to the first elastic clamping mechanism. The first cylinder is used to drive the first elastic clamping mechanism to open and close. By opening and closing the first elastic clamping mechanism, the first elastic clamping mechanism clamps or releases the rotating seat.

3. The tube expander according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flat-head base is an upright plate-shaped structural component, and a first through hole is formed on the plate surface of the flat-head base. The first elastic clamping mechanism includes: A clamping plate is vertically disposed in the first through hole. The surface of the clamping plate has a second through hole. The rotating seat is inserted into the second through hole. The clamping plate has a groove that passes through the front and back of the clamping plate. The groove passes through the second through hole from the bottom surface of the clamping plate and extends to a position near the top of the clamping plate. The clamping arm has an arc-shaped structure and is placed in the first through hole. One end of the clamping arm is connected to the side wall of the first through hole, and the other end of the clamping arm is provided with a movable protrusion. The piston rod of the first cylinder is connected to the movable protrusion. The first cylinder is used to drive the movable protrusion to move up and down. The clamping plate is placed between the clamping arm and the bottom surface of the first through hole.

4. The tube expander according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first elastic clamping mechanism further includes: A vertical spring is positioned vertically opposite to the piston rod of the first cylinder, and the vertical spring vertically presses against the movable protrusion; and A retaining mechanism is provided at the flat-head seat, the retaining mechanism being used to keep the vertical spring pushing against the movable protrusion; The retaining mechanism is a bolt. The first cylinder is located at the bottom of the flat-head seat, and the retaining mechanism is located at the top of the flat-head seat. The threaded end of the retaining mechanism is set downward and is fitted with an adjusting nut. The vertical spring is sleeved in the retaining mechanism and is placed between the adjusting nut and the movable protrusion.

5. The tube expander according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second automatic locking device includes a second cylinder and a second elastic clamping mechanism, and a drive shaft is provided inside the base. The second cylinder is located at the base. The second elastic clamping mechanism detachably connects the rear end of the core rod to the drive shaft. The second cylinder drives the second elastic clamping mechanism to move, so that the second elastic clamping mechanism is connected to or disconnected from the rear end of the core rod.

6. The tube expander according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rear end of the core rod is provided with an outer annular groove, which is arranged around the axial direction of the core rod, and the cross-sectional shape of the outer annular groove is an arc shape that is concave towards the axis of the core rod. The second elastic clamping mechanism includes: A connecting sleeve is provided, the rear end of which is connected to the drive shaft. The side wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with an installation hole that extends radially. The rear end of the core rod is inserted into the connecting through hole. The cross-section of the rear end of the core rod and the cross-section of the inner hole of the connecting sleeve are both regular polygons with the same shape. The installation hole is connected to the outer annular groove. A radially moving body is disposed in the mounting hole, the radial length of the radially moving body being greater than the diameter depth of the mounting hole; and An adjustment mechanism is fitted outside the connecting sleeve. The adjustment mechanism is connected to the second cylinder. The second cylinder drives the adjustment mechanism to move back and forth, so that the radial moving body is simultaneously locked in the mounting hole and the outer annular groove, or so that the radial moving body is disengaged from the outer annular groove.

7. The tube expander according to claim 6, characterized in that, The radially moving body is a ball bearing. The adjustment mechanism includes: A movable sleeve is fitted over the connecting sleeve. The inner wall of the movable sleeve is provided with a first annular protrusion and an inner annular groove. Both the first annular protrusion and the inner annular groove are axially arranged around the core rod. The inner annular groove is located in front of the first annular protrusion. The first annular protrusion is used to simultaneously engage the radially movable body in the mounting hole and the outer annular groove. The inner annular groove is used to accommodate the radially movable body so that it can disengage from the outer annular groove. A connecting ring is fitted over the movable sleeve. The connecting ring is connected to the piston rod of the second cylinder. The inner ring groove has a conical surface near the protrusion of the first ring that is inclined towards the front of the connecting sleeve.

8. The tube expander according to claim 7, characterized in that, There are two second cylinders arranged diagonally about the core rod, and both second cylinders are parallel to the core rod; there is one mounting hole, which is opened on one edge of the connecting sleeve.

9. The tube expander according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a second annular protrusion, which is located at the middle of the connecting sleeve. An axial spring is fitted at the front of the connecting sleeve. The axial spring is positioned between the second annular protrusion and the first annular protrusion. The axial spring is used to push the moving sleeve forward.

10. An intelligent tube expander, characterized in that, The tube expander includes any one of claims 1 to 9.

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