A positioning and drilling device for automotive steering gear

Abstract

This utility model relates to the technical field of automotive steering gear processing equipment, specifically a positioning and drilling device for automotive steering gears. Two limiting components are symmetrically arranged on the upper end of the processing table. One limiting component is fixed to the upper end of the processing table. The limiting component includes a fixing frame and a positioning block. The positioning block is located inside the fixing frame. The inner side of the fixing frame has a T-shaped groove, and the inner side of the positioning block has a clamping groove. The outer side of the positioning block has a limiting block that inserts into the T-shaped groove. This device achieves a breakthrough through a dual flexible structure of "detachable processing table + replaceable positioning block": the processing table is detachably fixed by means of the slots, openings, limiting grooves, and screws of the support platform. A suitable processing table can be quickly replaced according to the workpiece size. Positioning blocks with different clamping grooves can be replaced without disassembling the entire limiting component, significantly shortening changeover time, effectively improving production continuity, and meeting the diverse production needs of automotive steering gears.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of automotive steering gear processing equipment, specifically a positioning and drilling device for automotive steering gears. Background Technology

[0002] The automotive steering gear is the core functional component of the automotive steering system. Its structural precision directly determines the vehicle's steering flexibility and driving safety, and the positioning and drilling process is a key step in the production and processing of automotive steering gears.

[0003] Currently, the industry generally adopts the traditional model of "machining table + special clamping mold + drilling equipment" for positioning and drilling of automotive steering gears: first, the automotive steering gear is placed in the preset position of the machining table, and then the steering gear is clamped and fixed by the clamping mold adapted to the machining table. After the clamping is stable, the drilling equipment completes the drilling operation according to the preset program.

[0004] With the diversification of automobile models, the specifications and structures of automotive steering gears are becoming increasingly different, highlighting the design flaws of existing clamping molds. Existing clamping molds are mostly integrated rigid structures, and their connection methods with the processing table or clamping mechanism (such as welding or multiple bolt fastenings) make it difficult to quickly disassemble and replace the molds themselves. Furthermore, the clamping slots and limit dimensions of the molds are customized for specific steering gear specifications, only compatible with a single model or a few steering gears with similar shapes. When drilling is required for automotive steering gears of different specifications and structures, operators must use special tools to disassemble the original mold, clean the installation station, and then reposition and install the new, compatible mold. The entire replacement process is cumbersome and time-consuming, severely impacting production continuity and potentially causing the positioning reference of the clamping mechanism to shift due to repeated disassembly, indirectly reducing the accuracy of subsequent drilling. Utility Model Content

[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this utility model provides a positioning and drilling device for automotive steering gears.

[0006] (II) Technical Solution To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a positioning and drilling device for an automobile steering gear, comprising a support platform, a control box at the lower end of the support platform, a detachable processing table on the support platform, and two limiting components symmetrically arranged at the upper end of the processing table, one of which is fixed to the upper end of the processing table. The limiting component includes a fixed frame and a positioning block. The positioning block is located inside the fixed frame. The fixed frame has a T-shaped groove inside, and the positioning block has a clamping groove inside. The positioning block has a limiting block that is inserted into the T-shaped groove on the outside. The upper end of the limiting block has a locking rod. The upper end of the locking rod is fixedly equipped with a locking knob. The locking rod is inserted into the limiting block and threadedly connected to the limiting block. The lower end of the locking knob contacts the upper end of the fixed frame. A fixing sleeve is fixedly installed on the outer side of one of the fixing frames. A fixing seat is provided at the front end of the processing table, and a drive rod is provided through the fixing seat. The drive rod is slidably connected to the fixing seat. A first cavity is provided inside the fixing sleeve. A pressure sensor is fixedly installed inside the first cavity. The front end of the drive rod is inserted into the first cavity. A lifting assembly is fixedly installed at the upper end of the fixing seat. A limiting rod is provided at the output end of the lifting assembly through the fixing seat. The bottom end of the limiting rod abuts against the drive rod. The lifting assembly, pressure sensor and control box are all connected by electrical signals.

[0007] To facilitate the replacement of the processing table, the present invention includes the following improvements: the support table is provided with a hollow groove, one side of which has an opening, and the processing table slides into the hollow groove along the opening. The two sides of the processing table are fixed to the support table with screws. The two sides of the processing table are provided with limiting grooves, and the support table passes through the limiting grooves.

[0008] To improve the stability of the drive rod during use, the present invention includes the following improvements: two second cavities are symmetrically arranged on the outer side of the fixed base and the fixed sleeve; two bent rods are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the drive rod; the front end of the bent rod is inserted into the second cavity and connected to one end of the spring; and the other end of the spring is fixed inside the second cavity.

[0009] To improve the stability of the fixed seat during sliding, the present invention includes the following improvements: two fixed blocks are symmetrically arranged on the front end of the processing table, and two guide rods are symmetrically arranged on the outer side of the fixed seat, penetrating the fixed blocks, with the guide rods slidably connected to the fixed blocks.

[0010] Furthermore, an improvement of this utility model is that the outer wall of the locking knob is provided with anti-slip texture.

[0011] Furthermore, an improvement of this utility model is that the fixing block, the fixing seat, and the processing table are integrated into a single structure.

[0012] (III) Beneficial Effects Compared with the prior art, this utility model provides a positioning and drilling device for automotive steering gear, which has the following advantages: This device achieves a breakthrough through a dual flexible structure of "detachable processing table + replaceable positioning block": the processing table is detachable and fixed by means of the slots, openings, limit slots and screws of the support table, and the appropriate processing table can be quickly replaced according to the workpiece size. The positioning block of different clamping slots can be replaced without disassembling the entire limit assembly, which greatly shortens the changeover time, effectively improves production continuity and meets the diversified production needs of automotive steering systems. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a top view of the present invention; Figure 3 This is the front view of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the limiting rod in this utility model; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the pressure sensor and spring in this utility model.

[0014] In the diagram: 1. Support platform; 2. Machining table; 3. Limiting groove; 4. Screw; 5. Fixing bracket; 6. Positioning block; 7. Clamping groove; 8. T-shaped slide; 9. Locking rod; 10. Locking knob; 11. Fixing sleeve; 12. Drive rod; 13. Fixing base; 14. First cavity; 15. Pressure sensor; 16. Second cavity; 17. Spring; 18. Bending rod; 19. Guide rod; 20. Fixing block; 21. Lifting assembly; 22. Limiting rod; 23. Control box. Detailed Implementation

[0015] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0016] Please see Figures 1-5 This utility model proposes a positioning and drilling device for automotive steering gear, including a support platform 1, a control box 23 at the lower end of the support platform 1, a detachable processing table 2 on the support platform 1, and two limiting components symmetrically arranged at the upper end of the processing table 2, one of which is fixed to the upper end of the processing table 2. The limiting component includes a fixing frame 5 and a positioning block 6. The positioning block 6 is located inside the fixing frame 5. The fixing frame 5 has a T-shaped slide groove inside, and the positioning block 6 has a clamping groove 7 inside. The positioning block 6 has a limiting block that is inserted into the T-shaped slide groove on the outside. The upper end of the limiting block has a locking rod 9. The upper end of the locking rod 9 is fixedly equipped with a locking knob 10. The locking rod 9 is inserted into the limiting block and threadedly connected to the limiting block. The lower end of the locking knob 10 contacts the upper end of the fixing frame 5. A fixing sleeve 11 is fixedly installed on the outer side of one of the fixing frames 5. A fixing seat 13 is provided at the front end of the processing table 2, and a drive rod 12 is also provided through the fixing seat 13. The drive rod 12 is slidably connected to the fixing seat 13. A first cavity 14 is provided inside the fixing sleeve 11. A pressure sensor 15 is fixedly installed inside the first cavity 14. The front end of the drive rod 12 is inserted into the first cavity 14. A lifting assembly 21 is fixedly installed at the upper end of the fixing seat 13. A limiting rod 22 is provided at the output end of the lifting assembly 21 through the fixing seat 13. The bottom end of the limiting rod 22 abuts against the drive rod 12. The lifting assembly 21, the pressure sensor 15 and the control box 23 are all connected by electrical signals.

[0017] 1. Basic equipment assembly and initial commissioning: First, place the support platform 1 on a flat processing station to ensure that it has stable support as the load-bearing foundation of the entire equipment; The control box 23 is then installed at the lower end of the support platform 1, connected to the power supply, and its electrical signal transmission function is debugged to ensure the reliability of subsequent linkage response with the pressure sensor 15 and the lifting assembly 21.

[0018] The support platform 1 has a slot, and one side of the slot has an opening. The processing table 2 slides into the slot along the opening, and both sides of the processing table 2 are fixed to the support platform 1 by screws 4. The processing table 2 has a limiting groove 3 on both sides, and the support platform 1 passes through the limiting groove 3.

[0019] According to the specifications of the automotive steering gear to be processed, select a suitable processing table 2, slide the processing table 2 into the slot along the opening of the slot on the support table 1, and use the structure of the support table 1 through the limiting slots 3 on both sides of the processing table 2 to achieve initial positioning. Then, use screws 4 to fasten the two sides of the processing table 2 to the support table 1 to complete the detachable fixing of the processing table 2, thus avoiding the risk of displacement of the processing table 2 during the processing process from the source.

[0020] 2. Fitting and fixing of positioning block 6: For the contour of the automotive steering gear to be processed, select a positioning block 6 whose inner clamping groove 7 is perfectly matched with the contour of the workpiece.

[0021] The outer wall of the locking knob 10 is provided with anti-slip texture.

[0022] During operation, first hold the locking knob 10 with anti-slip texture on the outer wall (the anti-slip texture can prevent your hand from slipping), and turn it counterclockwise to drive the locking rod 9 out of the limit block (the locking rod 9 and the limit block are threaded). Next, pull the positioning block 6 upwards so that the limiting block on the outside of the positioning block 6 is pulled out from the T-shaped groove on the inside of the fixing frame 5, thus completing the disassembly of the old positioning block 6.

[0023] Align the outer limit block of the new positioning block 6 with the T-shaped groove of the fixing frame 5 and insert it until the positioning block 6 fits against the inner side of the fixing frame 5. Then turn the locking knob 10 clockwise to push the locking rod 9 back into the limit block until the lower end of the locking knob 10 is in close contact with the upper end of the fixing frame 5. The positioning block 6 is stably locked onto the fixing frame 5 by the threaded fastening force, ensuring that the positioning block 6 will not loosen during subsequent clamping.

[0024] 3. Workpiece clamping and automatic positioning locking: Two second cavities 16 are symmetrically arranged on the outer side of the fixing frame 5 and the fixing sleeve 11. Two bent rods 18 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the drive rod 12. The front end of the bent rod 18 is inserted into the second cavity 16 and connected to one end of the spring 17. The other end of the spring 17 is fixed inside the second cavity 16.

[0025] The automotive steering gear workpiece to be processed is placed between two limiting components. The operator pushes the drive rod 12, which causes the bent rods 18 on both sides to retract into the second cavity 16. The bent rods 18 compress the spring 17 fixed inside the second cavity 16 (the other end of the spring 17 is fixed inside the second cavity 16, and provides buffering force and restoring force through elastic deformation). The front end of the processing table 2 is symmetrically fixed with two fixing blocks 20 on the fixed base 13. Two guide rods 19 are symmetrically arranged on the outer side of the fixed base 13, passing through the fixing blocks 20. The guide rods 19 are slidably connected to the fixing blocks 20.

[0026] The fixing block 20, the fixing seat 13, and the processing table 2 are an integrated structure.

[0027] At the same time, the guide rod 19 slides along the fixed block 20 to prevent the fixed frame 5 from shifting when it slides, and to ensure that the two positioning blocks 6 are always close to the workpiece in a parallel direction.

[0028] As the drive rod 12 continues to advance, the clamping groove 7 on the inner side of the positioning block 6 gradually conforms to the contour of the workpiece, achieving initial clamping; When the front end of the drive rod 12 extends into the first cavity 14 inside the fixed sleeve 11 and contacts the detection end of the pressure sensor 15 fixed inside the first cavity 14, the pressure sensor 15 transmits the real-time pressure signal to the control box 23.

[0029] When the control box 23 detects that the pressure value has reached the preset rated range (ensuring that the clamping force is sufficient to stabilize the workpiece while avoiding excessive pressure that could damage the workpiece), it immediately sends an electrical signal to the lifting assembly 21 to start the lifting assembly 21. The limit rod 22 at the output end of the lifting assembly 21 quickly descends through the fixed seat 13 until the bottom end of the limit rod 22 tightly abuts against the drive rod 12. The friction between the two is used to lock and fix the position of the drive rod 12, ultimately enabling the two positioning blocks 6 to stably clamp the workpiece and complete the automated positioning.

[0030] 4. Drilling operation and subsequent adjustments and replacements: After positioning, use handheld drilling equipment or other drilling devices to drill holes at the preset positions of the automotive steering gear workpiece.

[0031] If you need to replace the automotive steering gear parts of different specifications, you do not need to disassemble the entire limiting assembly. Just repeat step 2 and replace the positioning block 6 that fits the inner clamping groove 7. If a larger processing table 2 needs to be replaced, simply unscrew the screws 4 that fix the processing table 2, slide the processing table 2 out along the opening of the slot in the support table 1, replace the new processing table 2, and then re-fix it according to step 1. The operation is convenient and efficient.

[0032] This device uses the control box 23 to link the electrical signals of the pressure sensor 15 and the lifting assembly 21, integrating the positioning process of "manual pushing - pressure detection - automatic locking" into one. This eliminates the need for manual intervention to judge the clamping force, reducing operation steps and waiting time. Drilling can be performed directly after positioning, with a smooth workflow. Compared to traditional manual positioning, the processing time per cycle is significantly shortened, making it particularly suitable for mass production scenarios and effectively improving overall processing efficiency.

[0033] Control box 23 (core control unit): 1. Recommended Model Selection: Core controller: Siemens S7-1200 series PLC (such as CPU 1214C DC / DC / DC). Power module: Compatible with Siemens PM1207 power supply (24V DC, 2.5A). Human-Computer Interaction (HMI): Weintek TK6071IP Touch Screen (7-inch, 800×480 resolution); Outer casing: Custom-made industrial-grade waterproof and dustproof box (material: cold-rolled steel plate, protection level: IP54); Pressure sensor 15 (pressure detection unit): 1. Recommended Model Selection: Brand and Model: Omron E8F2 series pressure sensor 15 (e.g., E8F2-AN04); 2. Selection criteria: Detection scenario adaptation: The device needs to detect the contact pressure of 12 pairs of sensors on the drive rod (the range is small, usually 0-50N can meet the clamping requirements). The E8F2 series supports small range selection such as 0-10N / 0-50N / 0-100N, with an accuracy of ±1%FS, avoiding detection errors caused by excessive range. Signal compatibility: Outputs 4-20mA analog signals, which can be directly connected to the PLC expansion module (SM1231) of control box 23 without additional signal conversion; Ease of installation: The sensor is small in size (about 20mm in diameter) and can be embedded in the first cavity 14 of the fixing sleeve 11. It also has an M5 threaded mounting hole for easy fixing to the inner wall of the cavity. Environmental tolerance: IP65 protection rating, can withstand metal shavings and oil stains during processing, operating temperature -10~60℃, suitable for workshop environment.

[0034] Lifting assembly 21 (drive locking unit, including electrical drive part): 1. Recommended Model Selection; Core drive: Electric linear actuator (Brand: Thomson, Model: EMC25 series); Drive motor: Matching DC servo motor (24V DC, power 100W). Control module: Servo driver (Brand: Panasonic, Model: MADKT1505E); 2. Selection criteria: Drive requirements adaptation: The lifting component 21 needs to drive the limit rod 22 to descend quickly and lock the drive rod 12 through friction. The EMC25 electric push rod has a thrust of 2500N and the stroke can be customized to meet the requirements of "fast response + sufficient pressure locking". Control precision: The servo motor, combined with the driver, can achieve closed-loop position control. The control box 23 PLC sends pulse signals to precisely control the downward stroke of the push rod (error ≤ 0.1mm), avoiding excessive descent of the limit rod 22 and damage to the drive rod 12. Signal linkage: The driver supports RS485 communication and can receive start / stop and travel signals from the control box 23, while also providing feedback on component status (such as whether it is in position), thus achieving automated control.

[0035] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The term "embodiment" appearing in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it specifically limit its independence or connection with other embodiments. In principle, in this application, as long as there are no technical contradictions or conflicts, the technical features mentioned in each embodiment can be combined in any way to form corresponding implementable technical solutions.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, the technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the use of related terms herein is merely for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit this application.

[0037] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A positioning and drilling device for an automotive steering gear, comprising a support platform (1), a control box (23) at the lower end of the support platform (1), and a detachable processing table (2) on the support platform (1), characterized in that: Two limiting components are symmetrically arranged at the upper end of the processing table (2), one of which is fixed at the upper end of the processing table (2); The limiting component includes a fixed frame (5) and a positioning block (6). The positioning block (6) is located inside the fixed frame (5). The fixed frame (5) has a T-shaped groove inside. The positioning block (6) has a clamping groove (7) inside. The positioning block (6) has a limiting block inserted into the T-shaped groove on the outside. The upper end of the limiting block has a locking rod (9). The upper end of the locking rod (9) is fixedly equipped with a locking knob (10). The locking rod (9) is inserted into the limiting block and threadedly connected to the limiting block. The lower end of the locking knob (10) contacts the upper end of the fixed frame (5). A fixed sleeve (11) is fixedly installed on the outside of one of the fixed frames (5). A fixed seat (13) is provided at the front end of the processing table (2), and a drive rod (12) is also provided through the fixed seat (13). The drive rod (12) is slidably connected to the fixed seat (13). A first cavity (14) is provided inside the fixed sleeve (11). A pressure sensor (15) is fixedly installed inside the first cavity (14). The front end of the drive rod (12) is inserted into the first cavity (14). A lifting assembly (21) is fixedly installed at the upper end of the fixed seat (13). A limiting rod (22) is provided at the output end of the lifting assembly (21) through the fixed seat (13). The bottom end of the limiting rod (22) abuts against the drive rod (12). The lifting assembly (21) and the pressure sensor (15) are all connected to the control box (23) by electrical signals.

2. The positioning and drilling device for an automotive steering gear according to claim 1, characterized in that: The support platform (1) has a slot, and an opening is provided on one side of the slot. The processing table (2) slides into the slot along the opening, and the two sides of the processing table (2) are fixed to the support platform (1) by screws (4). The two sides of the processing table (2) are provided with limiting grooves (3), and the support platform (1) passes through the limiting grooves (3).

3. The positioning and drilling device for an automotive steering gear according to claim 2, characterized in that: Two second cavities (16) are provided on the outer side of the fixed seat (13) symmetrical to the fixed sleeve (11). Two bent rods (18) are provided on both sides of the drive rod (12). The front end of the bent rod (18) is inserted into the second cavity (16) and connected to one end of the spring (17). The other end of the spring (17) is fixed inside the second cavity (16).

4. The positioning and drilling device for an automotive steering gear according to claim 3, characterized in that: The front end of the processing table (2) is symmetrically fixed with two fixed blocks (20). Two guide rods (19) that pass through the fixed blocks (20) are symmetrically arranged on the outside of the fixed blocks (13). The guide rods (19) are slidably connected to the fixed blocks (20).

5. A positioning and drilling device for an automotive steering gear according to claim 4, characterized in that: The outer wall of the locking knob (10) is provided with anti-slip texture.

6. The positioning and drilling device for an automotive steering gear according to claim 5, characterized in that: The fixing block (20), the fixing seat (13), and the processing table (2) are an integrated structure.

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