An adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of automotive manufacturing technology and provides an adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts. The mechanism includes a fixed base, a first support rod, a second support rod, and an electrode assembly. The fixed base has a vertically mounted first and second support rods that can slide up and down relative to it. A first magnet and a second magnet are fixedly connected to the first and second support rods, respectively. The electrode assembly is mounted on the fixed base via an insulating sleeve. The electrode assembly includes an electrode, an electrode fixing base, and a lower electrode arm connected in sequence. The top of the electrode extends upward to form a positioning post for mounting the workpiece. Springs are mounted on the first and second support rods. The lower end of the spring abuts against the fixed base, and the upper end abuts against the bottom of the first or second magnet, allowing the magnet to slide with the support rod and compress the spring. This invention solves the problems of workpiece rotation and unreliable clamping in traditional positioning mechanisms.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model applies to the field of automotive manufacturing technology, and in particular relates to an adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts. Background Technology

[0002] In the automotive manufacturing industry, the automated welding process for parts places extremely high demands on the positioning accuracy and clamping stability of the workpieces. During the welding process, the workpiece must be precisely and firmly fixed in three-dimensional space to ensure accurate weld position and stable weld quality. Currently, most widely used welding positioning mechanisms employ a structure of rigid positioning pins in conjunction with external clamps. After the workpiece is fitted into the positioning pin, it is fixed by applying clamping force from the outside using jaws or pneumatic clamps.

[0003] However, these traditional positioning devices have obvious drawbacks in practical applications. First, relying solely on external grippers for fixation means that when the grippers loosen or the clamping force is insufficient, the workpiece is prone to circumferential rotation or axial movement on the positioning post, causing the welding start position to deviate and severely affecting the accuracy of the welding trajectory. To solve the above technical problems, this invention designs an adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts. Utility Model Content

[0004] This utility model provides an adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts, aiming to solve the problems of workpiece rotation and unreliable clamping in traditional positioning mechanisms. The technical solution is as follows: An adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts includes a fixed base, a first support rod, a second support rod, and an electrode assembly. The fixed base is vertically mounted with a first support rod and a second support rod that can slide up and down relative to the fixed base. A first magnet and a second magnet are respectively fixed to the first support rod and the second support rod. The fixed base is equipped with an electrode assembly through an insulating sleeve. The electrode assembly includes an electrode, an electrode fixing base, and a lower electrode arm that are electrically connected in sequence. The top end of the electrode extends upward to form a positioning post for mounting the workpiece.

[0005] Based on the above technical solution, springs are fitted on the first and second support rods. The lower end of the spring abuts against the fixed base, and the upper end abuts against the bottom of the first or second magnet, so that the magnet can slide with the support rod and compress the spring.

[0006] Preferably, both the first support rod and the second support rod are provided with external thread sections, and both the first support rod and the second support rod are threadedly connected with a first adjusting nut and a second adjusting nut.

[0007] Preferably, both the first adjusting nut and the second adjusting nut are located below the fixed base, and are tightened together by screwing on the first adjusting nut and the second adjusting nut.

[0008] Beneficial effects Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: 1. By setting magnets on the support rod, the workpiece is automatically attracted and fixed using magnetic force, significantly enhancing the clamping stability of the workpiece on the positioning column. Even if the external jaws loosen, it can effectively prevent the workpiece from axial movement or circumferential rotation during welding, solving the problems of easy offset and loosening in traditional purely mechanical positioning, and improving welding accuracy and product consistency. 2. The support rod is equipped with external threads and double adjusting nuts, allowing for precise setting of the positioning height by manually adjusting the extension length of the support rod to meet the production needs of different workpieces. 3. The electrode assembly is installed through an insulating sleeve, integrating conductivity, positioning, and magnetic attraction functions. Its compact structure effectively prevents current shunting; simultaneously, the fixing seat is equipped with an opening and screw assembly, enabling quick disassembly and replacement of the electrode assembly, significantly shortening maintenance time and improving the maintainability and production continuity of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0009] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only one embodiment of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other embodiments can be derived from the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0010] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model after the workpiece is installed; Figure 2 : Exploded view of the structure of this utility model; Figure 3 : A schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model; Figure 4 : A schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing base described in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0011] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples: The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0012] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0013] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this 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, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0014] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, an adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts includes a fixed base 1, a first support rod 21, a second support rod 22, and an electrode assembly 5. The fixed base 1 is vertically provided with a first support rod 21 and a second support rod 22 that can slide up and down relative to the fixed base 1; a first magnet 31 and a second magnet 32 ​​are respectively fixed to the first support rod 21 and the second support rod 22.

[0015] When the workpiece 9, made of ferromagnetic material, is placed on the positioning post 4 and comes into contact with or near the magnet, the magnetic force can firmly attract the workpiece 9 to the predetermined position. This effectively solves the problem that traditional pure mechanical positioning can easily lead to workpiece rotation, axial movement, or even detachment, significantly improving the stability and reliability of positioning and ensuring the accuracy of the welding process.

[0016] The electrode assembly 5 is mounted on the mounting base 1 via an insulating sleeve 6. The electrode assembly 5 includes an electrode 51, an electrode mounting base 52, and a lower electrode arm 53, which are connected in sequence and electrically. The top of the electrode 51 extends upward to form a positioning post 4 for mounting the workpiece. The electrode 51 is in direct contact with the workpiece 9 and is made of a copper alloy such as chromium-zirconium copper, which has good conductivity, high temperature resistance, and wear resistance. The positioning post 4 at its top is used for mounting and initially positioning the workpiece, and simultaneously conducts a strong welding current from the electrode to the surface of the workpiece during welding to form a weld point. The electrode mounting base 52 serves as a connection and support, and the bottom of the lower electrode arm 53 is connected to the output cable of the welding power supply or directly fixed to the lower arm of the welding machine. The lower electrode arm 53 carries the transmission of a large current from the power supply to the electrode and transmits the welding pressure applied by the robot or welding machine to the electrode 51 through the electrode mounting base, ultimately acting on the workpiece 9. The three components are connected in sequence and electrically, forming a complete conductive path with low resistance and high reliability from the power supply to the workpiece, ensuring that the welding current can be transmitted efficiently and stably, reducing energy loss, and guaranteeing welding quality.

[0017] In existing designs, some conductive positioning structures do not employ reliable insulation design, which can easily cause current shunting in processes such as resistance spot welding. This not only reduces the welding energy utilization rate but may also cause the positioning mechanism itself to overheat and be damaged, affecting equipment lifespan and welding consistency.

[0018] In welding processes such as resistance spot welding, the welding current needs to be precisely conducted through electrode 51 to the designated weld point on the workpiece. The insulating sleeve 6 electrically isolates the electrode assembly 5 from the mounting base 1 and its connected metal structure (grounded or connected to another pole), effectively blocking the path of welding current leakage through the mounting base. This ensures that most of the welding current flows through the contact area between the electrode and the workpiece, thereby guaranteeing sufficient and stable welding energy and improving welding quality and consistency.

[0019] Springs 20 are fitted on the first support rod 21 and the second support rod 22. The lower end of the spring 20 abuts against the fixed base 1, and the upper end abuts against the bottom of the first magnet 31 or the second magnet 32, so that the magnet can slide with the support rod and compress the spring.

[0020] Spring 20 provides elastic restoring force for the up-and-down sliding of the support rod and the magnet. When the workpiece 9 is fitted into the positioning post 4, it may exert downward pressure on the magnet or support rod, causing the compressed spring to move downward; as a buffer element, spring 20 can effectively absorb external impacts and high-frequency vibrations.

[0021] During workpiece installation or welding, minor height errors or assembly deviations may occur. The elastic deformation capability of the spring allows the magnet and positioning post to float and adjust automatically to the actual position of the workpiece, achieving flexible contact and avoiding workpiece deformation, inaccurate positioning, or structural damage caused by rigid jamming. This ensures good and stable adsorption contact between the magnet and the workpiece.

[0022] Both the first support rod 21 and the second support rod 22 have external threaded sections, and both the first support rod 21 and the second support rod 22 are threadedly connected to a first adjusting nut 71 and a second adjusting nut 72. The purpose of the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72 is to adjust the height of the first support rod 21 and the second support rod 22.

[0023] Specifically, the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72 are both located below the fixed base 1. They are tightened together by screwing on the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72. During adjustment, the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72 are pre-screwed into the threaded section at the bottom of the support rod, and the tightness between the two adjusting nuts needs to be loosened. First, slightly loosen one of the nuts (such as the second adjusting nut 72), and manually move the support rod up or down. Since the nut is not fully tightened at this time, the support rod can slide freely in the hole of the fixed base. When the support rod reaches the desired target height, stop moving it. Simultaneously or sequentially tighten the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72, bringing them closer together and pressing them against each other on the threads of the support rod. When the two nuts are forcefully pressed together, the huge frictional force generated between them will firmly clamp the support rod, preventing it from rotating on the threads or sliding axially.

[0024] In another embodiment, the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72 are located on the upper and lower sides of the fixed base 1, respectively. Tightening the first adjusting nut 71 presses it against the upper surface of the fixed base 1, while simultaneously tightening the second adjusting nut 72 presses it against the lower surface of the fixed base 1. During adjustment, the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72 are loosened simultaneously or separately, so that they no longer press against the upper and lower surfaces of the fixed base. At this time, the support rod can slide freely up and down in the hole of the fixed base, without being constrained by the nuts. The support rod can be manually pushed or pulled upwards or downwards. After adjustment, the first adjusting nut 71 is tightened downwards to press it against the upper surface of the fixed base 1. The second adjusting nut 72 is tightened upwards to press it against the lower surface of the fixed base 1. This bidirectional pressing generates friction, locking the relative position between the support rod and the fixed base.

[0025] like Figure 4 As shown, the mounting base 1 has a mounting hole 11 and an opening; the opening communicates with the mounting hole 11, and a through screw assembly 8 is provided at the opening for locking or loosening the opening, so as to facilitate quick replacement of the electrode assembly 5.

[0026] When electrode assembly 5 needs to be replaced, simply loosen screw assembly 8; the opening will open, allowing the electrode assembly (such as the electrode holder) to be easily removed or installed. After replacement, retighten the screw assembly; the opening will close, the mounting hole will return to its original position, and the electrode assembly will be securely clamped. The entire process does not require disassembling the entire holder or other major structures, significantly reducing replacement time and improving production efficiency.

[0027] The screw assembly 8 includes a screw, a washer, and a nut. A fixing hole 12 is formed in the fixing base 1, through which the screw passes. The nut is threaded to the end of the screw, and the washer is positioned between the screw head and the outer side of the fixing base 1. The screw passes through the fixing hole 12, and the nut is tightened at its end, generating a strong axial tensile force through the threaded joint. This force acts on both sides of the opening of the fixing base, causing it to close, thereby applying a uniform radial clamping force to the electrode assembly installed in the mounting hole. This ensures the electrode assembly is firmly fixed and prevents it from loosening or shifting due to vibration or impact during welding.

[0028] The first support rod 21 and the second support rod 22 are slidably fitted with the fixed base 1 via a sliding sleeve, ensuring that the support rods can slide smoothly in the vertical direction. The sliding sleeve 10 is fixedly embedded in the mounting hole of the fixed base 1, and its inner wall is in clearance fit with the outer wall of the support rod. As a dedicated guide element, the sliding sleeve forms a stable clearance fit with the outer wall of the support rod, providing high-precision linear guidance for the up and down sliding of the support rod.

[0029] When in use, install the entire positioning mechanism onto the welding fixture or robot end effector via the fixed base 1, ensuring a stable connection. If the positioning height needs to be adjusted, first loosen the first adjusting nut 71 and the second adjusting nut 72, and move the support rod up and down by hand or tool until the required working height is reached. Adjust the height to match the height of the positioning column 4 to ensure that the workpiece 9 can be installed smoothly.

[0030] An automated robotic arm or a manual operator places the ferromagnetic workpiece 9 to be welded onto the positioning post 4 at the top of the electrode 51 from above. When the workpiece 9 contacts or approaches the first magnet 31 and the second magnet 32, the magnetic force firmly attracts it, preventing the workpiece from rotating or axially shifting after the grippers release. If the workpiece 9 has minor assembly errors or is subjected to stress, the support rod can float slightly up and down under the action of the spring 20 to absorb the impact and maintain good contact.

[0031] The welding power source delivers a large current to the workpiece through the lower electrode arm 53, electrode holder 52, and electrode 51 to complete resistance spot welding. The insulating sleeve 6 ensures that the current is not diverted from the holder, guaranteeing concentrated welding energy.

[0032] After welding, the robotic arm grippers hold the workpiece, the magnetic attraction is overcome, and the workpiece can be easily removed from the positioning post.

[0033] If the electrode assembly needs to be replaced, loosen the screw assembly 8 at the opening of the fixing base 1, remove the electrode assembly 5 from the mounting hole 11, insert the new or refurbished electrode assembly into the mounting hole, and tighten the screw assembly 8 again to firmly clamp the electrode assembly.

[0034] It should be noted that the electrode assembly, positioning post, and insulating sleeve in this embodiment are general standard parts or components known to those skilled in the art. Their structure and principle can be learned by those skilled in the art through technical manuals or conventional experimental methods.

[0035] The present invention has been described above by way of example, but the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Any modifications or variations made based on the present invention shall fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. An adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts, characterized in that: It includes a fixed base (1), a first support rod (21), a second support rod (22) and an electrode assembly (5); the fixed base (1) is vertically provided with a first support rod (21) and a second support rod (22) that can slide up and down relative to the fixed base (1); a first magnet (31) and a second magnet (32) are respectively fixed on the first support rod (21) and the second support rod (22); the fixed base (1) is equipped with an electrode assembly (5) through an insulating sleeve (6); the electrode assembly (5) includes an electrode (51), an electrode fixed base (52) and a lower electrode arm (53) that are electrically connected in sequence; the top of the electrode (51) extends upward to form a positioning post (4) for mounting the workpiece (9).

2. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: Springs (20) are fitted on the first support rod (21) and the second support rod (22). The lower end of the spring (20) abuts against the fixed seat (1), and the upper end abuts against the bottom of the first magnet (31) or the second magnet (32), so that the magnet can slide with the support rod and compress the spring.

3. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 2, characterized in that: Both the first support rod (21) and the second support rod (22) are provided with external thread sections, and both the first support rod (21) and the second support rod (22) are threadedly connected with a first adjusting nut (71) and a second adjusting nut (72).

4. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first adjusting nut (71) and the second adjusting nut (72) are both located below the fixed base (1). The first adjusting nut (71) and the second adjusting nut (72) are tightened together by screwing them.

5. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first adjusting nut (71) and the second adjusting nut (72) are located on the upper and lower sides of the fixed seat (1), respectively. By screwing the first adjusting nut (71), it is pressed against the upper surface of the fixed seat (1), and at the same time, the second adjusting nut (72) is screwed against the lower surface of the fixed seat (1).

6. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mounting base (1) has an installation hole (11) and an opening; the opening is connected to the mounting hole (11), and a through screw assembly (8) is provided at the opening for locking or loosening the opening, so as to facilitate quick replacement of the electrode assembly (5).

7. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 4, characterized in that: The screw assembly (8) includes a screw, a washer and a nut. A fixing hole (12) is provided on the fixing seat (1). The screw passes through the fixing hole (12). The nut is threaded to the end of the screw. The washer is disposed between the head of the screw and the outside of the fixing seat (1).

8. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first support rod (21) and the second support rod (22) are slidably fitted with the fixed seat (1) through a sliding sleeve.

9. The adjustable positioning mechanism for automated welding of automotive parts according to claim 8, characterized in that: The sliding sleeve (10) is fixedly embedded in the mounting hole of the fixed base (1), and its inner wall is in clearance fit with the outer wall of the first support rod (21) and the second support rod (22).

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