Method, molded part and joining assembly for joining at least two components

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for joining, in particular welding, at least two components (10, 14), having the features of claim 1, to a molded part (30, 32, 33) for joining, in particular welding, at least two components (10, 14), having the features of claim 7, and to a joining assembly (66) for joining, in particular welding, at least two components (10, 14), having the features of claim 15.

Description

[0001] Title: Method, molded part and joining arrangement for joining at least two components

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a method for joining, in particular welding, at least two components having features of claim 1, a molded part for joining, in particular welding, at least two components having features of claim 7 and a joining arrangement for joining, in particular welding, at least two components having features of claim 15.

[0004] Prismatic sheet metal parts must be precisely positioned and secured to one another for laser welding. Providing the necessary fixtures is very time-consuming and costly. For small batches in flexible sheet metal production, the fixtures are usually operated manually. Programming and running welding programs is time-consuming and usually requires experienced operators.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method, a molded part and a joining arrangement for joining, in particular welding, at least two components, wherein the joining can be automated and implemented economically even for small quantities.

[0006] The above object is achieved by a method for joining at least two components having the features of claim 1. The joining may involve welding, in particular laser welding, tack welding, and / or soldering. The method comprises the following steps:

[0007] Positioning and fixing a first component on a first positioning surface.

[0008] Positioning and fixing a second component on a second positioning surface.

[0009] Joining the first component to the second component at a first joining connection.

[0010] Repositioning and fixing the first component on a third positioning surface.

[0011] Repositioning and fixing the second component on a fourth positioning surface. Specifically, the first component and the second component are repositioned together (simultaneously) after joining at a first joining connection. The second component can still be aligned after repositioning on the fourth positioning surface.

[0012] Joining the first component to the second component at a second joining connection. The (first and / or second) joining connection can be a (first and / or second) joining seam.

[0013] The first and / or the second component can each be designed as sheet metal parts, in particular as prismatic sheet metal parts. The first positioning surface and the third positioning surface can be the same surface. The second positioning surface and the fourth positioning surface can be the same surface. The method can therefore be carried out on a single molded part with two positioning surfaces. Before the first or second component is positioned and fixed, the molded part can be set up. This can be done automatically, for example by means of a set-up robot or by means of a handling device (see below). Manual set-up is also conceivable.

[0014] The process can be automated and carried out economically, even for small batches. Component-specific fixtures are not required. The joining process can be carried out sequentially (one joining connection after the other).

[0015] In the present case, the first component may represent a first section and the second component may represent a second section. The first section and the second section may represent sections of the same component. In other words, the first and second components may form sections of the same component.

[0016] According to a development of the method, the fixing of the first component can be carried out by means of a (first) handling device and / or by means of at least one (first) magnet. Alternatively or additionally, the fixing of the second component can be carried out by means of a (second) handling device and / or by means of at least one (second) magnet. The (first and / or second) handling device can be designed as a robot arm with a suction effector (suction gripper) or as a cobot, e.g. an articulated arm robot. It is also conceivable that the fixing can be implemented by means of a hook and / or vacuum.

[0017] The (first and / or second) handling device can be configured to handle the first or second component, respectively. Handling can mean gripping, moving, transporting, positioning, repositioning, and / or securing.

[0018] In this case, fixing refers in particular to pressing the first and / or second component onto the first, second, third, and / or fourth positioning surface. In other words, a force can be exerted on the first or second component in the direction of the first, second, third, and / or fourth positioning surface. Thus, the respective positioning surface can serve as a support even for non-dimensionally stable components and, in particular, can keep the respective component in shape during the joining process.

[0019] This means that the first or second component can be fixed using simple means.

[0020] According to a development of the method, the first positioning surface and the second positioning surface can be provided on a first molded part. Alternatively or additionally, the third positioning surface and the fourth positioning surface can be provided on a second molded part. The first and the second molded parts can be arranged differently and / or at a distance from one another. It is also conceivable for the first and the second molded parts to be identical. The first molded part can also be converted or retrofitted. Segments or modules can be added, removed and / or replaced. In this way, in particular the length of the molded part and thus of the corresponding positioning surfaces can be varied. The molded part can remain in the same place.

[0021] This allows the positioning areas to be provided using simple means.

[0022] According to a further development of the method, a position and / or orientation of the first component, the second component, the first positioning surface, the second positioning surface, the third positioning surface, and / or the fourth positioning surface can be detected and corrected as needed. This can be implemented using an optical sensor and / or tactilely.

[0023] This allows for simple position control and correction, as well as referencing of the positioning surfaces. Referencing the positioning surfaces is important so that they can be correctly recognized by the handling device(s) and the first or second component can be precisely placed or fixed on the respective positioning surface of the molded part.

[0024] To reference the position surfaces, the position surfaces can be scanned, for example, using a reference element (reference plate) (touch-up method). Contact with the position surfaces can be detected, for example, using a force-moment sensor on the handling device (e.g. a cobot, e.g. an articulated-arm robot). According to a further development of the method, the first position surface, the second position surface, the third position surface and / or the fourth position surface can be cooled. This can be active cooling, e.g. using an integrated water guide. Alternatively or additionally, passive cooling can be used, e.g. using materials with high thermal conductivity (e.g. copper strips).

[0025] This allows the joining process to be optimized. For example, it can prevent the temperature of the first and second components from becoming too high, which could cause them to warp or deform. Furthermore, cooling can have a positive influence or effect on the welding result.

[0026] According to a further development of the method, a gas can be supplied to the first joint before, during, and / or after joining (root gassing). Alternatively or additionally, a gas can be supplied to the second joint before, during, and / or after joining. The gas can be a protective gas, working gas, and / or inert gas.

[0027] The joining process can be further optimized by using gas (root gassing). For example, a weld seam can be protected from oxidation. In particular, the back of a weld seam can be protected from oxidation.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, a gas can be supplied to the first and / or second joint via nozzles, which can be attached, for example, to the side of a handling device (or suction gripper). This can provide protection against oxidation (tarnishing). By providing nozzles on at least two handling devices (or suction grippers), the gas could be specifically "captured" at the joint, which would contribute to better protection against the atmosphere.

[0029] To avoid interference caused by nozzles on a welding optic, two nozzles could be mounted on each side of a handling device (or suction gripper), for example, while the other (opposite) side is free of nozzles. This would allow for flexible selection of one or the other side of the handling device (or suction gripper) depending on the application, accessibility, or requirements.

[0030] The method may include the step:

[0031] Feeding and / or removing the first component, the second component, and / or a fully assembled component (consisting of the first and second components), for example, using workpiece carriers such as pallets or boxes. The feeding and / or removing can be carried out automatically.

[0032] For example, the first and / or the second component can be fed in via a first workpiece carrier. A first handling device can place the first and / or the second component on a chute with mechanical stops in order to grip it precisely (reference it). The first handling device can transfer the first and / or the second component to a second handling device. The first and the second component can then be joined sequentially. After joining, the joined component can, for example, be placed on a second workpiece carrier using the second handling device. The fully joined component can then be removed or transported away using the second workpiece carrier.

[0033] Alternatively, the feed can be implemented using a vertical circulating conveyor. The position and / or orientation of the first or second component can be defined (referenced) by a precisely positioned storage compartment and the recesses contained therein. This allows the position and / or orientation of the first and / or second component to be precisely recorded.

[0034] The feeding of the first or second component can also be implemented using a conveyor belt. The definition of the position (referencing) of the first or second component can be carried out by mechanical stops and / or a V-shaped attachment on the conveyor belt. Analogously, the removal of the finished joined component can also be carried out using a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt for removal can also have mechanical stops and / or a V-shaped attachment in order to define (referencing) the position of the finished joined component.

[0035] As an alternative to mechanically aligning the first component and / or the second component (using a chute, circulating conveyor, and / or mechanical stops), the position or orientation of the first or second component can be carried out using sensors. The above object is further achieved by a molded part for joining at least two components with the features of claim 7. The joining can involve welding, in particular laser welding, tacking, and / or soldering.

[0036] The molded part comprises at least a first segment and at least one second segment. The molded part can comprise a plurality of segments. The first segment and the second segment are designed so that they can be connected to one another. The first segment and the second segment are designed so that they can be connected to one another in a form-fitting manner. The molded part is therefore modular, wherein each segment can form a module. In an assembled state, the first segment and the second segment form a first positioning surface for positioning a first component and a second positioning surface for positioning a second component. The first positioning surface and the second positioning surface are designed such that the first component can be joined to the second component at a joining connection and that the joining connection is arranged in particular at a distance from the molded part.

[0037] Due in particular to the modularity, the molded part can be set up or assembled and / or disassembled again in an automated manner. The molded part can be scaled in length quickly, easily and / or automatically. The individual segments or modules can in particular be combined to form different molded parts. In particular, (different) molded parts can be formed with a different number of segments or modules. The first positioning surface and the second positioning surface can be arranged at an angle of 90° to one another. It is also conceivable that the first and the second positioning surface can be arranged at an angle of 135°, 180°, 225° or 270° to one another. Another angle is also conceivable, in particular in the range from 60° to 90°.

[0038] According to a further development of the molded part, at least one magnet can be arranged on the first positioning surface and / or on the second positioning surface for securing the first and / or second component. Instead of the magnet(s), other securing elements can also be used, for example, one or more hooks or a vacuum device. Thus, securing can also be achieved using hooks and / or a vacuum.

[0039] This allows the fixing of magnetic components (e.g. made of sheet steel) to be implemented using simple means.

[0040] The first segment and / or the second segment can each have at least one bore. The bore can in particular be arranged on the first and / or second positioning surface. The molded part can comprise at least one pin. The pin and the bore can be designed such that the pin can be inserted into the bore. The pin inserted into the bore can serve as a stop for the first and / or the second component. The pin inserted into the bore can serve to define / restrict degrees of freedom of the first or the second component. The first segment and / or the second segment can each have at least one recess. The recess can in particular be arranged outside the first and / or the second positioning surface. This makes it possible to reduce the weight of the segments or the molded part. This can be particularly advantageous if the segments or the molded part, for example.made of steel.

[0041] According to a further development of the molded part, at least one fitting screw with a screw head can be arranged on the first segment. At least one fitting opening can be arranged on the second segment. The fitting opening can be keyhole-shaped and have an undercut. The fitting screw and the fitting opening can be configured such that the fitting screw with the screw head can be hooked through the fitting opening into the undercut. In this way, a positive connection between the first segment and the second segment can be achieved.

[0042] Instead of the fitting screw and / or in addition, the first segment can have a fitting or a (similar) positioning device which can engage or be hooked into an opening with an undercut.

[0043] This allows the first and second segments to be assembled or connected to each other using simple means.

[0044] According to a further development of the molded part, at least one anti-lift cylinder can be arranged on the first segment. At least one anti-lift opening can be arranged on the second segment. The anti-lift cylinder and the anti-lift opening can be configured such that, when the first and second segments are arranged in the assembled state, the anti-lift cylinder engages in the anti-lift opening and thus prevents the second segment from being lifted out.

[0045] This allows for simple implementation of anti-lift protection. For example, during disassembly of the molded part, the unintentional lifting of several segments at once can be prevented, and only the outermost (last) segment can be removed. This also enables automated setup of the molded part, for example, using the handling device or a separate setup device (e.g., a setup robot).

[0046] According to a further development of the molded part, the first segment can have a movable section. The fitting screw can be arranged within the movable section. The second segment can have a movable section. The fitting opening can be arranged within the movable section. The molded part can have a clamping element (e.g. clamping cylinder) for moving the movable sections when the two segments are assembled. The clamping element can be designed to be movable between a release position and a clamped position. The clamping element can be moved mechanically, electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically. In the release position, the segments can be separated from one another. In the release position, the segments can be released. In the clamped position, the segments cannot be separated from one another. In the clamped position, the segments can be clamped together in a force-fitting manner.Alternatively or in addition to the movable sections and the clamping element, at least one screw connection and / or at least one bayonet lock can be provided for the segments.

[0047] It is also conceivable that not only the outermost or last segment can be removed, but, for example, all further segments from the second segment onwards can be removed together.

[0048] This allows the segments to be clamped, locked and / or released using simple means.

[0049] According to a further development of the molded part, the molded part can have at least one gas channel for supplying a gas to the joint (root gassing). The gas channel can extend across the segments. The gas can be a protective gas, working gas, and / or inert gas.

[0050] This allows the joint or its backside to be supplied or covered with a gas (protective or working gas) using simple means (root gassing). This allows, for example, a weld seam or its backside to be protected from oxidation.

[0051] According to a further development of the molded part, the molded part can have at least one cooling device for cooling the first positioning surface and / or the second positioning surface. The cooling device can be configured for active cooling, for example, by means of an integrated water guide (or water channel). Alternatively or additionally, the cooling device can be configured for passive cooling, for example, by means of materials with high thermal conductivity (e.g., copper strips).

[0052] This allows cooling of the first and / or second position surface to be implemented using simple means.

[0053] According to a further development of the molded part, the molded part can be used in carrying out the method according to the above statements.

[0054] With regard to the advantages that can be achieved, reference is made to the relevant explanations of the process. The measures described in connection with the process and / or those explained below can be used to further refine the molded part.

[0055] The above object is further achieved by a joining arrangement for joining at least two components having the features of claim 15. The joining may involve welding, in particular laser welding, tacking, and / or soldering.

[0056] The joining arrangement comprises at least one molded part according to the above instructions.

[0057] The joining arrangement also includes a joining device for joining the components. The joining device can be a robot (or...

[0058] Robot arm, cobot e.g. articulated arm robot) must be equipped for welding, in particular laser welding, tacking and / or soldering.

[0059] The joining arrangement comprises at least one handling device for handling the first component and / or the second component. Handling can mean gripping, moving, transporting, positioning, repositioning, and / or securing. The handling device can be designed as a robot arm with a suction effector (suction gripper) or as a cobot, e.g., an articulated-arm robot.

[0060] The handling device can be configured for setting up the molded part. The handling device can, for example, be designed to be movable on a linear guide. The linear guide can be part of the joining arrangement. The linear guide can increase the range of the handling device. Two or more handling devices can be provided.

[0061] With regard to the advantages that can be achieved, reference is made to the relevant information on the molded part. The measures described in connection with the molded part and / or those explained below can be used to further refine the joining arrangement.

[0062] According to a further development of the joining arrangement, the joining arrangement can comprise at least two processing stations. Each processing station can comprise at least one molded part. In particular, the molded parts can be designed (or assembled) differently at different processing stations. It is also conceivable for the same molded parts to be arranged at different processing stations. For example, a (different) joining connection can be created at each processing station. This allows a large number of joining seams to be implemented quickly and easily, so that the entire joining process can be accelerated.

[0063] According to a further development of the joining arrangement, the processing stations can be arranged on a rotary table (round table). The rotary table can be designed to rotate (automatically). The rotary table or the processing stations can be configured such that the respective processing station can be selected by rotating the rotary table. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the components to be transported to the respective processing station by means of the handling device(s).

[0064] This allows the processing stations to be quickly selected and accessed using simple means.

[0065] According to a further development of the joining arrangement, the joining arrangement can comprise an optical sensor for detecting the position of the components and / or the positioning surfaces. The optical sensor can be designed as a camera or 3D camera. The optical sensor can be active and / or passive.

[0066] This allows for simple position control and correction, as well as referencing of the positioning surfaces. Referencing the positioning surfaces is important so that they can be correctly recognized by the handling device(s) and the first or second component can be precisely placed or fixed on the respective positioning surface of the molded part. To reference the positioning surfaces, the joining arrangement can also include a reference element (reference sheet). The positioning surfaces can be scanned using the reference element (touch-up method).

[0067] According to a further development of the joining arrangement, the joining arrangement can comprise a magazine for storing the segments of the molded part. A setup robot can be provided for setting up the molded part.

[0068] This allows the assembly and setup of the molded part to be carried out automatically and accelerated.

[0069] According to a further development of the joining arrangement, the joining arrangement can be set up to carry out the method according to the above statements.

[0070] With regard to the advantages that can be achieved, reference is made to the relevant explanations of the process. The measures described in connection with the process and / or those explained below can be used to further refine the joining arrangement.

[0071] The joining assembly can be arranged in a protective cabin. The protective cabin can be part of the joining assembly. This allows people to be protected from mechanical impact (e.g., from handling equipment) or radiation (e.g., from the joining device).

[0072] The joining arrangement can be a supply and / or discharge to the

[0073] Feeding and / or removing the first component, the second

[0074] Component and / or a finished, assembled component (consisting of the first and second components), for example, by means of workpiece carriers, e.g., pallets or boxes, or by means of at least one conveyor belt. The feeding and / or removal can be carried out automatically.

[0075] The joining arrangement can comprise a slide with stops in order to define (referencing) the first, the second and / or the finished joined component in its position (position and orientation).

[0076] It is conceivable that at least one conveyor belt of the supply and / or discharge has mechanical stops and / or a V-shaped attachment for defining the position (referencing) of the first, the second and / or the finished joined component.

[0077] The joining arrangement can comprise a vertical circulating conveyor with a storage compartment and customized recesses arranged within the storage compartment. The circulating conveyor can be designed as a component of the supply and / or removal system. The position and / or orientation of the first or second component can be defined (referenced) by the precisely positioned storage compartment and the customized recesses contained therein. This allows the position and / or orientation of the first and / or second component to be precisely recorded.

[0078] Further features, details, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the wording of the claims and from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the drawings: Figs. 1 to 3 show a method for joining two components;

[0079] Fig. 4 shows two components being handled by means of two handling devices;

[0080] Fig. 5 is an exploded view and a section through the exploded view of a molded part;

[0081] Fig. 6 is a side view of an intermediate segment of the molded part according to Fig. 5;

[0082] Fig. 7 is a plan view of the segment according to Fig. 6;

[0083] Fig. 8 is a perspective view and a sectional view of the molded part according to Figure 5 with a clamping element in a release position;

[0084] Fig. 9 is a perspective view and a sectional view of the molded part according to Figure 5 with the clamping element in a clamping position;

[0085] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an optical sensor with a molded part and

[0086] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a joining arrangement.

[0087] In the following description and in the figures, corresponding components and elements have the same

[0088] Reference symbols. For clarity, not all reference symbols are shown in all figures. Figures 1 to 3 show a method for joining at least two components 10, 14. In this case, the joining is laser welding. The method comprises the following steps:

[0089] Positioning and fixing a first component 10 on a first positioning surface 12 (see Figure 1). In Figure 1, the first component 10 is positioned on the first positioning surface 12, so that the first positioning surface 12 in Figure 1 is concealed by the first component 10.

[0090] Positioning and fixing a second component 14 on a second positioning surface 16 (see Figure 1). For clarity, the second component 14 is hidden in Figures 1 to 3.

[0091] Joining the first component 10 to the second component 14 at a first joining connection 18 (see Figure 1). In the present case, the first joining connection 18 runs in the area marked with a dashed line in Figure 1.

[0092] Repositioning and fixing the first component 10 on a third positioning surface 20 (see Figure 2). In Figure 2, the first component 10 is positioned on the third positioning surface 20, so that the third positioning surface 20 in Figure 1 is concealed by the first component 10.

[0093] Repositioning and fixing the second component 14 on a fourth positioning surface 22 (see Figure 2). Since the first and second components 10, 14 are already joined together at the first joining connection 18, the repositioning and fixing of the first and second components 10, 14 can each take place simultaneously. Joining the first component 10 to the second component 14 at a second joining connection 24 (see Figure 2). In the present case, the second joining connection 24 runs in the area marked with a dashed line in Figure 2.

[0094] In the present case, the first and second components 10, 14 are repositioned a second time to create a third joint 21. For this purpose, the first component 10 is repositioned and fixed to a fifth positioning surface 23 (see Figure 3). In Figure 3, the first component 10 is positioned on the fifth positioning surface 23, so that the fifth positioning surface 23 in Figure 1 is concealed by the first component 10.

[0095] In this case, the second component 14 is repositioned and fixed to a sixth position surface 25 (see Figure 3).

[0096] Subsequently, the third joining connection 21 is created. The third joining connection 21 runs in the area marked with a dashed line in Figure 3. Since the first and second components 10, 14 are already joined together at the first and second joining connections 18, 24, the repositioning and fixing of the first and second components 10, 14 can each take place simultaneously.

[0097] In the present case, the first and second positioning surfaces 12, 16 are provided on a first molded part 30 (see Figure 1). The third and fourth positioning surfaces 20, 22 are provided on a second molded part 32 (see Figure 2). The fifth and sixth positioning surfaces 23, 25 are provided on a third molded part 33 (see Figure 3). All three molded parts 30, 32, 33 are designed differently and are adapted to the respective joining seams

[0098] 18, 24, 21 adjusted.

[0099] It is also conceivable for the method to be performed on only one or only two molded parts 30, 32, 33. In the case of one molded part 30, 32, 33, the first, third, and fifth positioning surfaces 12, 20, 23 are then formed as the same surface. Accordingly, the second, fourth, and sixth positioning surfaces 16, 22, 25 are then formed as the same surface. The (re)positioning is then performed on one molded part 30, 32, 33 with two positioning surfaces.

[0100] In the case of two molded parts 30, 32, 33, the first, third, and fifth positioning surfaces 12, 20, 23 are then formed as two different surfaces, each arranged on a different molded part 30, 32, 33. Accordingly, the second, fourth, and sixth positioning surfaces 16, 22, 25 are then formed as two different surfaces, each arranged on a different molded part 30, 32, 33. Repositioning is then performed from a first molded part with two positioning surfaces to a second molded part with two positioning surfaces.

[0101] A position and / or an orientation of the first component 10, the second component 14, the first position surface 12, the second position surface 16, the third position surface 20, the fourth position surface 22, the fifth position surface 23 and / or the sixth position surface can be detected. This allows a

[0102] Referencing of the first and / or second component 10, 14 or the respective positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25 can be performed. This can be done, for example, using an optical sensor 34 (see Figure 10). If necessary, the respective position and / or orientation can be corrected.

[0103] The positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25 can be actively cooled. For this purpose, an integrated water and / or gas line (for conducting water and / or a gas, e.g., air) can be arranged beneath the respective positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25. Alternatively or additionally, the positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25 can be passively cooled. This can be achieved using materials with a high thermal conductivity (e.g., copper strips).

[0104] Before, during, and after joining the first, second, and / or third joints 18, 24, 21, a gas (protective and / or working gas) can be supplied to the respective joints 18, 24, 21 (root gassing). This can be implemented, for example, in a targeted manner using a gas channel 62 (see below).

[0105] The first component 10 and / or the second component 14 can be secured using at least one magnet 28. In the present case, the three molded parts 30, 32, 33 each have several magnets 28 at the respective positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25. This allows components 10, 14 made of magnetic material (e.g., sheet steel) to be secured to the respective positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25.

[0106] Alternatively or additionally, the first component 10 and / or the second component 14 can be secured by means of a respective handling device 70. It is also conceivable that the securing can be carried out by means of hooks and / or by means of a vacuum (not shown).

[0107] Figure 4 shows two components 10, 14 being handled by two handling devices 70. In this case, the handling devices 70 are two robot arms, each having a suction gripper 27 (surface suction device) as an end effector. For clarity, only the respective suction gripper 27 of the handling devices 70 is shown in Figure 4.

[0108] The components 10, 14 can each be gripped by a suction gripper 27 and repositioned on the respective positioning surface 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25. The first or second component 10, 14 can then be fixed to the respective positioning surface 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25 by pressing them onto the respective positioning surface 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25 using the suction grippers 27 or the handling devices 70.

[0109] Figure 5 shows an exploded view and a section through the exploded view of a molded part 30, 32, 33 for joining, in particular laser welding, at least two components 10, 14.

[0110] The molded part 30, 32, 33 comprises at least a first segment 36 and at least one second segment 38. The molded part 30, 32, 33 comprises a first intermediate segment 29 and a second intermediate segment 31, wherein the two intermediate segments 29, 31 differ in their respective longitudinal extension along a longitudinal direction 35. Figure 6 shows a side view and Figure 7 a top view of the second intermediate segment 31 of the molded part 30, 32, 33 according to Figure 5.

[0111] All segments 36, 38, 29, and 31 are designed to be connected to one another (positively). The molded part 30, 32, and 33 can thus be assembled modularly (or length-scaled) by arranging the segments 36, 38, 29, and 31 in a row along the longitudinal direction 35.

[0112] At least one fitting screw 40 with a screw head 42 can be arranged on each of the first segment 36, the first and / or the second intermediate segment 29, 31. In the present case, two fitting screws 40 are arranged on each of the first segment 36, the first and the second intermediate segment 29, 31. At least one fitting opening 44 can be arranged on each of the second segment 38, the first and / or the second intermediate segment 29, 31. In the present case, two fitting openings 44 are arranged on each of the second segment 38, the first and the second intermediate segment 29, 31.

[0113] The fitting openings 44 are each keyhole-shaped and each have an undercut 46. The fitting screws 40 and the fitting openings 44 are designed such that the fitting screws 40 can be hooked with their respective screw heads 42 through the respective fitting opening 44 into the undercut 46. This allows a positive connection along the longitudinal direction 35 to be implemented. In particular, rotation with respect to the longitudinal direction 35 and / or about the movable sections 52 can be prevented. On the first segment 36, the first and / or the second

[0114] Intermediate segment 29, 31 can have at least one

[0115] Anti-lift cylinders 48 may be arranged. In the present case, an anti-lift cylinder 48 is arranged on each of the first segment 36 and the first and second intermediate segments 29, 31 (see Figures 6 and 7).

[0116] At least one anti-lifting opening 50 can be arranged on the second segment 38, the first and / or the second intermediate segment 29, 31. In the present case, one anti-lifting opening 50 is arranged on each of the second segment 38, the first and the second intermediate segment 29, 31.

[0117] The anti-lift cylinders 48 and the anti-lift openings 50 are configured such that, when all segments 36, 38, 29, 31 are arranged in an assembled state, each anti-lift cylinder 48 engages in a respective anti-lift opening 50, thus preventing multiple segments 36, 38, 29, 31 from being lifted out at once. Thus, only the outermost segment 36, 29, 31 in the longitudinal direction 35 can be lifted out at any one time.

[0118] In the assembled state, the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 form a first positioning surface 12 for positioning a first component 10 and a second positioning surface 16 for positioning a second component 14 (cf. Figure 8 or 9). The first positioning surface 12 and the second positioning surface 16 are configured such that the first component 10 can be joined to the second component 14 at a joining connection 18, 24, 21, and that the joining connection 18, 24, 21 is arranged, in particular, at a distance from the molded part 30, 32, 33.

[0119] At least one magnet 28 can be arranged on each of the first positioning surface 12 and / or the second positioning surface 16. In particular, at least one magnet 28 can be arranged on each of the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 that form the first positioning surface 12. In the present case, ten magnets 28 are arranged on each of the first positioning surface 12 and the second positioning surface 16.

[0120] In this case, the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 each have a movable section 52. In this case, a fitting screw 40 of the first segment 36, of the first and second intermediate segments 29, 31 is arranged within the respective movable section 52. In this case, a fitting opening 44 of the second segment 38, of the first and second intermediate segments 29, 31 is arranged within the respective movable section 52.

[0121] The molded part 30, 32, 33 in this case has a clamping element 56 for displacing the movable sections 52 in the assembled state of all segments 36, 38, 29, 31. The clamping element 56 is designed to be movable between a release position 58 and a clamping position 60.

[0122] Figure 8 shows a perspective view and a sectional view of the molded part 30, 32, 33 according to Figure 5 with the clamping element 56 in the release position 58. In the release position 58, the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 can be separated from each other. In the release position, the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 are in particular not connected to each other.

[0123] ( forcefully) tensed.

[0124] Figure 9 shows a perspective view and a sectional view of the molded part 30, 32, 33 according to Figure 5 with the clamping element 56 in the clamping position 60. In the clamping position 60, the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 cannot be separated from one another. In the clamping position 60, the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 are clamped together, particularly (positively).

[0125] The molded part 30, 32, 33 can have at least one gas channel 62 for supplying a gas to the joint 18, 24, 21. In this case, the gas channel 62 extends within the segments 36, 38, 29, 31. In this case, the gas channel 62 is fluidically connected to a plurality of outlet openings 63, so that the gas can be guided through the gas channel 62 and exit from the outlet openings 63. The outlet openings 63 are arranged between the first and second positioning surfaces 12, 16. Thus, the gas can be guided directly to the joint 18, 24, 21 for root gassing.

[0126] The molded part 30, 32, 33 can have at least one cooling device for cooling the first position surface 12 and / or the second position surface 16 (not shown).

[0127] The molded part 30, 32, 33 has a plurality of bores 37 on each of the first and second positioning surfaces 12, 16. The molded part 30, 32, 33 can comprise at least one pin (not shown), wherein the pin and the bores 37 are configured such that the pin can be inserted into one of the bores 37. The pin can serve as a stop and / or to restrict the degree of freedom of the first and / or second component 10, 14. The molded part 30,

[0128] 32, 33 may comprise several such pins.

[0129] The molded part 30, 32, 33 can have at least one recess 39 on at least one segment 36, 38, 29, 31. In the present case, a recess 39 is arranged on each of the first and second intermediate segments 29, 31. This allows for a weight reduction.

[0130] The molded part 30, 32, 33 can be used in the implementation of the method according to the above explanations. The molded part 30, 32, 33 can be used in particular in the implementation of the method shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0131] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of an optical sensor 34 with a molded part 30, 32, 33. A scanning or detection (referencing) of the first position surface 12 of the molded part 30, 32, 33 is shown.

[0132] Figure 11 shows a schematic representation of a joining arrangement 66 for joining, in particular laser welding, at least two components 10, 14.

[0133] The joining arrangement 66 comprises at least one molded part 30, 32, 33 according to the above explanations. The joining arrangement 66 comprises, in particular, at least one molded part 30, 32, 33 shown in Figures 1 to 10. In the present case, the joining arrangement 66 comprises four molded parts 30, 32, 33. The joining arrangement 66 comprises a joining device 68 for joining the components 10, 14. The joining arrangement 66 is embodied in the present case as a laser welding robot.

[0134] The joining arrangement 66 comprises at least one handling device 70 for handling the first component 10 and / or the second component 14. The joining arrangement 66 comprises two handling devices 70 in the present case. The handling devices 70 are designed as robot arms, each with a suction gripper 27 (see Fig. 4).

[0135] The joining arrangement 66 currently comprises four processing stations 72. Each processing station 72 comprises at least one molded part 30, 32, 33. In this case, a different molded part 30, 32, 33 is arranged at each processing station 72. Each processing station 72 or the respective molded part 30, 32, 33 can be adapted to the desired joining connection 18, 24, 21. Thus, different joining seams 18, 24, 21 can be produced at each processing station 72.

[0136] The four processing stations 72 are arranged on a rotary table 74 (or round table). Thus, the respective processing station 72 can be selected by rotating the rotary table 74. The movement radius of the handling devices 70 and the joining device 68 can be kept to a minimum.

[0137] The joining arrangement 66 can include an optical sensor 34 for detecting the position of the components 10, 14 and / or the positioning surfaces 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 25 (see Figure 10). The optical sensor 34 can be handled, for example, by one of the handling devices 70 or by the joining device 68.

[0138] The joining arrangement 66 comprises a magazine 76 for storing the segments 36, 38, 29, 31 of the molded parts 30, 32, 33. This allows for automated setup of the molded parts 30, 32, 33, for example, using one of the handling devices 70. It is also conceivable that a separate setup robot may be present in the joining arrangement 66 for setting up the molded parts 30, 32, 33.

[0139] The joining assembly 66 is arranged within a protective enclosure 41. The protective enclosure 41 can be a component of the joining assembly 66. The protective enclosure 41 serves to protect persons from mechanical influences and / or radiation.

[0140] The joining arrangement 66 can be configured to carry out the method according to the above explanations. The joining arrangement 66 can be configured, in particular, to carry out the method shown in Figures 1 to 3.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Method for joining, in particular welding, at least two components (10, 14) comprising the steps: Positioning and fixing a first component (10) on a first positioning surface (12); Positioning and fixing a second component (14) on a second positioning surface (16); Joining the first component (10) to the second component (14) at a first joining connection (18); Repositioning and fixing the first component (10) on a third positioning surface (20); Repositioning and fixing the second component (14) on a fourth positioning surface (22); Joining the first component (10) to the second component (14) at a second joining connection (24).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the fixing of the first component (10) and / or the fixing of the second component (14) is carried out by means of a handling device (70) and / or by means of at least one magnet (28).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first positioning surface (12) and the second positioning surface (16) are provided on a first mold part (30) and / or the third positioning surface (20) and the fourth positioning surface (22) are provided on a second mold part (32).

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a position and / or an orientation of the first component (10), the second component (14), the first position surface (12), the second position surface (16), the third position surface (20) and / or the fourth position surface (22), in particular by means of an optical sensor (34), is detected and corrected if necessary.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first position surface (12), the second position surface (16), the third position surface (20) and / or the fourth position surface (22) are cooled actively and / or passively.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that before, during and / or after joining at the first and / or the second joining connection (18, 24, 21) a gas is supplied to the first and / or the second joining connection (18, 24, 21).

7. Moulded part (30, 32, 33) for joining, in particular welding, at least two components (10, 14) comprising: at least one first segment (36), at least one second segment (38), wherein the first segment (36) and the second segment (38) are designed to be connectable to one another, in particular in a form-fitting manner, wherein the first segment (36) and the second segment (38) in an assembled state have a first positioning surface (12) for positioning a first Component (10) and a second positioning surface (16) for positioning a second component (14), wherein the first positioning surface (12) and the second positioning surface (16) are set up such that the first component (10) can be joined to the second component (14) at a joining connection (18, 24, 21) and that the joining connection (18, 24, 21) is arranged in particular at a distance from the molded part (30, 32, 33).

8. Molded part (30, 32, 33) according to claim 7, characterized in that at least one magnet (28) is arranged on the first positioning surface (12) and / or on the second positioning surface (16).

9. Molded part (30, 32, 33) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that at least one fitting screw (40) with a screw head (42) is arranged on the first segment (36), wherein at least one fitting opening (44) is arranged on the second segment (38), wherein the fitting opening (44) is keyhole-shaped and has an undercut (46), wherein the fitting screw (40) and the fitting opening (44) are arranged such that the fitting screw (40) with the screw head (42) can be hooked through the fitting opening (44) into the undercut (46).

10. Moulded part (30, 32, 33) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterised in that at least one anti-lift cylinder (48) is arranged on the first segment (36), wherein at least one anti-lift opening (50) is arranged on the second segment (38), wherein the anti-lift cylinder (48) and the anti-lift opening (50) are arranged in such a way that, when the first and the second segment (36, 38) are arranged in the assembled state, the anti-lift cylinder (48) engages in the dispensing protection opening (50) and thus prevents the second segment (38) from being lifted out.

11. Molded part (30, 32, 33) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the first segment (36) has a movable section (52), wherein the fitting screw (40) is arranged within the movable section (52), wherein the second segment (38) has a movable section (52), wherein the fitting opening (44) is arranged within the movable section (52), wherein the molded part (30, 32, 33) has a clamping element (56) for displacing the movable sections (52) in the assembled state of the segments (36, 38), wherein the clamping element (56) is designed to be movable between a release position (58) and a clamping position (60), wherein in the release position (58) the segments (36, 38) can be separated from one another, wherein in the clamping position (60) the segments (36, 38) cannot be separated from one another.

12. Molded part (30, 32, 33) according to one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the molded part (30, 32, 33) has at least one gas channel (62) for supplying a gas to the joint (18, 24, 21), in particular wherein the gas channel (62) extends within the segments (36, 38).

13. Moulded part (30, 32, 33) according to one of claims 7 to 12, characterized in that the moulded part (30, 32, 33) has at least one cooling device for cooling the first Position surface (12) and / or the second Position surface (16).

14. Molded part (30, 32, 33) according to one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that the molded part (30, 32, 33) is used in carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 6.

15. Joining arrangement (66) for joining, in particular welding, at least two components (10, 14) comprising: at least one molded part (30, 32, 33) according to one of the preceding claims, a joining device (68) for joining the components (10, 14), at least one handling device (70), in particular two handling devices (70), for handling the first component (10) and / or the second component (14).

16. Joining arrangement (66) according to claim 15, characterized in that the joining arrangement (66) comprises at least two processing stations (72), wherein each processing station (72) comprises at least one molded part (30, 32, 33), in particular wherein the molded parts (30, 32, 33) are designed differently at different processing stations (72).

17. Joining arrangement (66) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the processing stations (72) are arranged on a turntable (74).

18. Joining arrangement (66) according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the joining arrangement (66) has an optical sensor (34) for detecting the position of the Components (10, 14) and / or the positioning surfaces (12, 16, 20, 22).

19. Joining arrangement (66) according to one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that the joining arrangement (66) comprises a magazine (76) for storing the segments (36, 38) of the molded part (30, 32, 33).

20. Joining arrangement (66) according to one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that the joining arrangement (66) is designed to carry out the method according to one of claims 1 to 6.

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