AUTOMATIC TRANSITION SYSTEM PROVIDING AUTOMATIC LOADING, UNLOADING AND CURRENT TRANSITION OF PRODUCTS IN CATAPHORESIS PLANTS.

Abstract

This invention relates to an automatic transfer system (5) that enables the vehicle cabins (3) to be suspended (1) and transported along the coating line in cataphoresis coating plants, the high current to be safely and uninterruptedly transmitted to the cabin, and the product to be automatically detached from the hanger (1) and lowered onto the skid (6) after the coating process. The system consists of a hanger (1), a hooked rigid arm (2), a cabin transport apparatus (4), an automatic current transfer system (5), a skid (6), and a conveyor (7). It enables the vehicle cabin (3) to be connected to the cabin transport apparatus (4) with a pin safety (8), the continuity of the current to be maintained during the tilt movement thanks to the multi-axis structure and spring pressure, and the mechanical and electrical connections to be automatically disconnected after coating without operator intervention. The system improves coating quality, ensures process safety and efficiency, and reduces energy consumption. Figure 1.

Description

1 TARIFF AUTOMATIC LOADING AND UNLOADING OF PRODUCTS IN CATAPHORESIS PLANTS AND AUTOMATIC SWITCHING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES CURRENT FLOW. TECHNICAL AREA 5 This invention is particularly useful in cataphoresis (electrophoretic) applications in automotive production lines. (paint) coating facilities, loading, unloading and current transfer processes of products It relates to a system for automation. More specifically, suspending the products throughout the coating process involves electrical... Continuous and uninterrupted transmission of the current, automatic processing of the product after coating. rigid structure that enables the separation of parts and their transfer to a transport platform (skid) An automatic system with hook conveyor and spring-loaded multi-axis current transfer mechanism. It includes the system. PREVIOUS TECHNIQUE 15 Cataphoresis (electrophoretic paint) coating facilities are used in many sectors, especially the automotive industry. In many industries, to increase the corrosion resistance of metal surfaces. These are the basic production processes used. The products to be coated in these facilities—mostly vehicle cabin or body panels—numerous chemical primers lined up one after another It passes through the processing tank, the electrophoretic paint tank, and the drying oven. The process is 20 For the product to move smoothly, it must be transported suspended along the line, and the high current... uninterrupted delivery of the product and transportation of the product on the line after coating. They need to be transferred to their platforms. In existing facilities, these processes are generally semi-automatic with the following limitations: 25 This is done either manually or through manual systems. Attaching the product to the hanger. In this stage, products in traditional cataphoresis lines are connected to chain conveyors. bolted connections, clamps or fixed hooks onto a fixed mounting bracket They are assembled. In these systems: - Physical intervention by operators is mandatory when suspending the product. 30 - Tightening bolted connections takes time and poses safety risks. - Adapters are frequently needed to accommodate different cabin geometries. being changed or readjusted, which affects setup times. It increases. 2 In addition, bolt connections withstand vibrations, load transfer, and a 10° angle throughout the process. It can loosen during tilt (cradle) movements that can reach this level; this This situation negatively affects both the positional accuracy of the product and the current flow. It has an effect. During the cataphoresis process, the product electrochemically transfers paint particles to the surface. It requires a high current to precipitate as sediment. In current techniques, the current Transmission is usually via fixed cables or bolted electrical terminals. This is being done. The connection points cannot adapt to angular changes and tilting. During movement, contact loss at the connection, sparks, high resistance, or even current 10 Irregularities can occur. These contact losses affect the coating layer; Uneven paint distribution, low coating thickness, visible "shadows" on the surface. This leads to quality problems such as the "effect". However, in existing systems Electrical connections are exposed to chemicals. Highly corrosive substances in the cataphoresis line. Cable heads, terminals, and metal surfaces exposed to the environment will degrade over time to 15 It wears down, increasing operating and maintenance costs. In cataphoresis tanks, the product is placed in a specific container to prevent air pockets from remaining inside. It is tilted to the right or left at an angle. In current systems: - The connection between the hanger and the product is not flexible. 20 - A mechanical-electrical design to accommodate multi-axis motion. Because they are not present, the product's position may shift during tilting; the hooks It can be strained, the current can be interrupted, the product can shake and collide on the production line. or it may create a risk of scratching. This is problematic in terms of both safety and product quality. This is a significant shortcoming in this respect. 25 In current techniques, at the end of the coating process, the product is manually removed from the hanger and bolted down. All connections must be loosened by the operator and the suspension equipment. It usually enters the furnace along with the product. As a result of this, unnecessary thermal mass is generated. transportation, high energy consumption, loss of furnace capacity, heat treatment time of 30 This leads to its lengthening. It provides automatic switching over the skid, connecting itself. There is no system that can solve it on its own. 3 In current techniques, the product is suspended, and the current connection is made. Critical stages such as detaching the coated product from the hanger require human intervention. This requires. This situation increases the risk of operator-related errors, cycle extending production times, increasing workplace safety risks, and creating a need for full automation. It cannot meet these standards. However, modern factory standards allow processes to reach 5 designed to require minimal human intervention It requires. The application with publication number US5319840A, which is included in the known state of the art, Mounting of the vehicle body on transport jigs and top-bottom 10 after coating It focuses on body separation. This document describes vehicle body handling jigs and assembly. The processes are being defined, and the connection systems are either manual or fixed connections. It is based on a rigid hook connection that can be automatically detached. It has no mechanism. The link self-regulates through weight transfer. Unwinding and operator-free unloading are not included in US5319840A. Current flow 15 There is no spring-loaded, multi-axis, tilt-compatible structure available for this. In the document Current transmission is provided via static terminals; it adapts to angular changes. There is no adjusting pin or cup structure. Tilt movement coating. It is not related to quality and is a mechanism that ensures the continuity of the current. It is not available. There is no solution for protection against cataphoresis tank chemicals. Therefore, 20 such as an inverted dish structure designed to protect electrical contact surfaces. No solution is available. There is no automated loading and unloading line. Therefore, the structure mentioned in file number US5319840A is a mechanical jig. Based on the principle of transport, the automatic detachable linkage offered by the invention is very It does not include axial current transfer and process integration features. 25 Application number US7685699B2 concerns vehicle body framing and robotics. It is a system developed for positioning. However, the file mentions The hook structure is flexible and not rigid or automatically detachable. Hook a feature such as the system self-resolving through weight transfer after coating 30 It is not found in the file with publication number US7685699B2. Current transfer system It is completely absent. This document covers electrical contact, current transmission, and contact during tilting. It does not include functions such as surface continuity. The file provides chemical protection. There is no inverted dish structure. It is a special design for the cataphoresis chemical environment. 4 Not available. Multi-axis contact or current continuity adapted for tilt. There is no mechanism that provides a complete solution for the cataphoresis process. Automation is not involved. The clamps used in this document and Framing systems integrate transport, current transmission and automatic disconnection. It cannot provide. 5 Previous technical documents described the invention as an automatically detachable rigid hook mechanism. spring-loaded multi-axis current transfer, current continuity during tilt movement, inverted dish structure. with chemical protection, fully automated loading-coating-unloading integration. It does not include critical and innovative features such as these. Therefore, the current technology is 10 It cannot provide the integrated solution required by cataphoresis facilities. A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This invention enables the suspension of products in cataphoresis coating plants, using high current. uninterrupted transmission to the product, tilt 15 performed during the coating process adapting to its movements and automatically removing the product from the hanger after coating. The process of separating the components and transferring them to the skid is automated and secure. It is related to a system that performs this function. Within the scope of the invention, the vehicle cabin is suspended via a cabin transport apparatus 20 The rigid, hook-and-loop connection structure that enables the connection is required during the coating process. Spring-loaded and multi-axis automatic current switching that transfers electrical current to the product. The mechanism involves the tilting movement of the product during the coating tank. rigid arms that ensure safe transport, and when the coating process is complete The product detaches from the hanger and slides onto the skid without any operator intervention. 25 The system that enables automatic downloads works as a whole. The system uses a highly chemically resistant, inverted dish-shaped shield to prevent current passage. securing it with a structure prevents tilting movements from interrupting the flow. The product should not be damaged, and the transfer of the product from hanger to slide should be done without an operator in 30 minutes. and all these processes are carried out in full compliance with the cataphoresis line. It provides features that allow it to be operated by an automated crane. This invention facilitates manual connection, power cable assembly and disassembly, and carrier operations. unnecessary entry of equipment into the oven, power outages, and manual removal of the product from the hanger. Problems arising from the current technique, such as separation, are eliminated; the process It is being made safer, faster, more energy-efficient, and automated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 shows the front view of the vehicle cab suspended on the cataphoresis line. Figure 2 shows a side view of the cabin during its descent into the tanks. During the exit phase. It is its symmetrical counterpart. Figure 3 shows the position of the automatic current switching system during the lowering process (vertical 10°). situation). Figure 4A shows the level position of the current flow system at the beginning of the tilt motion. Figure 4B shows the +10° angular position of the current flow system during tilt motion. Figure 4C shows the -10° angular position of the current flow system during tilt motion. Figure 5A shows the current flow system at the beginning of the plunge-emerge motion. It is the location. Figure 5B shows the +10° angular angle of the current flow system during the immersion-emergence motion. It is the location. Figure 5C shows the current flow system at an angle of -10° during the immersion-emergence motion. It is the location. 20 REFERENCE NUMBERS GIVEN IN THE FIGURES 1- Hanger 2- Rigid arm with hook 3- Vehicle cabin 25 4- Cabin transport device 5- Automatic current switching system 6- Skid 7- Conveyor 8- Pin safety 30 9- Automated crane 10-Tank DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 6 This invention is for the suspension (1) of products (vehicle cabins (3)) in cataphoresis coating facilities. taking, delivering high current to the product in the safest and uninterrupted way, coating Maintaining current continuity and coating during tilt movements of the process. Afterwards, the product is automatically detached from the hanger (1) and lowered onto the skid. 5 steps completely without operator intervention, safe, fast and energy efficient. It is related to the automatic passage system (5) which enables it to be carried out in this way. The invention includes: hanger (1), hooked rigid arm (2), vehicle cabin (3), cabin transport apparatus (4), automatic current transfer system (5), skid (6) and conveyor (7) elements It consists of 10 elements. Each element plays a critical role at a different stage of the process. the simultaneous mechanical-electrical contact structure that these elements establish with each other Thanks to this, the process runs smoothly. The product is first prepared for suspension (1). During the mechanical connection phase, the vehicle The cabin (3) is the product that will be subjected to cataphoresis coating. Vehicle cabin (3), process 15 It is transmitted both mechanically and via electrical current throughout. It is subjected to electro-chemical coating. Therefore, the vehicle cabin (3) The attachment to the suspension (1) must transmit the loads safely at the same time. It must also create a suitable contact surface for current flow. Cabinet carrying apparatus (4) It is the element on which the vehicle cab (3) is mounted. The vehicle cab (3) is suspended (1) rigid and 20 ensuring a secure connection and the correct contact surface for current flow. main that ensures that it is in position and automatically separates from the hanger (1) after coating. It is an intermediate structure. The vehicle cabin (3) is connected to the cabin carrier (4) with pins. 25 The safety pin (8) is safe against vibrations and movements of the vehicle throughout the process. It keeps the position of the cabin (3) fixed. Rigid arms with hooks (2) are located at the bottom of the sling (1). Cabin transport By passing through the hooks (4) on the apparatus, the vehicle cabin (3) is locked to the hanger (1), 30 During the process, while the cabinet is tilting (cradle) 10°, breakage or loosening occurs. It provides durable handling against play, skid after coating (6) It enables automatic separation during lowering. Its rigid structure is particularly effective. This is critical for the safe transfer of dynamic loads during coating. 7 The sling (1) is the main support element carried by the automated crane (9). Plant It moves along with the vehicle cab (3) along with the 12 tanks (10) inside. Suspension (1) also the mechanical counterpart of the automatic current switching system (5) It contains 5 Automatic current switching system (5); direct transmission of high current to the cabinet, tilt uninterrupted current transmission at every angle during its movement, thanks to spring pressure. and strong contact, multi-axis movement capability of suspension (1) and vehicle cab (3) adaptation to angular changes between them, contact within with the inverted bowl form 10 protecting the surfaces from chemicals, when the vehicle cabin (3) is lowered (6) It enables automatic separation. Thanks to this system, unlike previous techniques; cable and screw connection, operator manually removing high-current cables, to the furnace disadvantages such as entering with the unnecessary weight of the hanger (1) are completely eliminated It has been removed. 15 During the cataphoresis process, hanger (1), hooked rigid arm (2) and automatic current switching Moving along the cataphoresis line of 12 tanks by carrying the vehicle cabin (3) with the system (5). is doing. The vehicle cab (3) reduces the buoyancy resistance when diving into tanks (10) and from inside the cab (3) To facilitate air evacuation, it is suspended (1) forward by means of an automated crane (9). The correct angle is made 10°. When the diving process is completed, the sling (1) is straightened again. The system switches to this position and performs a tilt movement from side to side. Automatic current flow is used throughout this entire process. The transition system (5) moves in accordance with the movement made, continuous current 25 It facilitates the transition. The vehicle cab (3) is designed to allow easy emptying of the chemical liquid when exiting the tank (10). The suspension (1) is angled 10° backwards by means of an automated crane (9). After the cabin comes out of the tank (10), the hanger (1) returns to the flat position. This Automatic current transfer system during movements (5) with multi-axis and spring structure 30 They are acting in harmony. Tilt (cradle) motion in cataphoresis tanks (10) vehicle cabin (3), closed section To prevent air from accumulating in certain areas, a tilt movement of approximately 10° to the right and left is performed. 8 It is advanced. At this stage, the rigid hooks located in the hooked rigid arm (2) are attached to the vehicle cab (3) safe suspension (1) designed with multi-axis structure automatic current The transition system (5) provides current despite angular changes. This situation especially for "homogeneous electrochemical reaction" which determines coating quality It is of critical importance. 5 For automatic separation of the product after coating, namely the vehicle cabin (3) from the hanger (1) When the coating is finished, the automated crane (9) transfers the hanger (1) to the conveyor (7) line. It brings. Skid (6), baking after coating of the vehicle cabin (3) and subsequent It is a lightweight platform that enables transportation in processes. Unlike the hanger (1), 10 It fits inside the furnace but has a much smaller mass, thus reducing energy consumption. It significantly reduces heat treatment time and increases process efficiency. The automated crane (9) lowers the hanger (1) onto the skid (6) on the conveyor (7). The conveyor devices (4) are in contact with each other until the hooks separate. It continues to lower. The conveyor (7) moves the skid (6) back and forth 15 It allows the hooks to move further apart along the vertical axis. During lowering, the hook between the cabin transport device (4) and the hooked rigid arm (2) The hook connection naturally disengages with weight transfer. During this time, the current... The transition system (5) is also separated from contact thanks to its spring structure. Both systems 20 It automatically disconnects without operator intervention. Last As an automated crane (9), it pulls back the empty hanger (1) and the next product He is returning to the beginning of the line to pick it up. 30

Claims

9 REQUESTS 1- This invention is used in cataphoresis coating facilities, for products, especially vehicle cabins. (3) suspension (1) of high current uninterrupted throughout the coating process 5 automatic release of the product from the hanger after delivery and coating (1) an automatic passage system (5) that enables it to be separated and lowered onto the skid (6) It is related to and its characteristic is; - the main load-bearing element carried by the automated crane (9), and the vehicle Transport of the cabin (3) between 12 tanks (10) along the cataphoresis line 10 mechanical connection of the current transfer system (5) at least one hanger (1) that houses its surface, - located in the lower part of the hanger (1), opposite the cabin carrier (4) By passing over the hooks, the vehicle cab (3) is securely suspended (1) Its rigid structure ensures secure attachment and prevents breakage or loosening during tilting motion. 15 or a rigid arm with at least one hook providing resistance to play (2), - a product that has undergone electro-chemical coating and is both mechanically resistant. electrophoretic dyeing process via transport and current transfer system (5) to a vehicle cabin to which a high current is applied (3), - an intermediate structure which rigidly and securely connects the vehicle cab (3) to the suspension (1), 20 Position stability against vibrations and movements thanks to the safety pin (8). providing the correct contact surface suitable for current flow. at least one cabin carrying apparatus (4) that holds it in position, - with spring contact unit that transmits high current directly to the cabinet (3) continuously With its multi-axial structure that provides pressure, it allows for an angular 25° movement during tilt motion. Adapting to changes, with its inverted bowl shape, it traps air inside. protecting the contact surfaces from chemical effects and the product skide (6) an automatic current switching system that automatically cuts off contact when lowered (5), - Transportation of the coated product during baking and subsequent processes 30 It is a lightweight platform that provides lower mass compared to suspension (1). thanks to which energy efficiency is achieved at least one skide (6), - by moving the skid (6) back and forth, the vehicle cab (3) can be securely closed. positioning and automatic transfer to the next processing steps It is characterized by having a conveyor (7) that provides 2- The invention is an automated access control system as defined in Claim 1, and its characteristic is; Contact 5 thanks to the air trapping inside the automatic current switching system (5). an inverted surface that protects its surfaces from the chemical liquids in the electrophoresis bath. It is characterized by its bowl-shaped form. 3- The invention is an automated access control system as defined in Claim 1, and its feature is; automatic. by keeping the contact pressure constant throughout the current transmission of the current transmission system (5) It has a spring-loaded design that ensures current continuity, 10 It is the characterization of the situation. 20 30

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