Sheet-metal shaped product inspection apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a sheet-metal shaped product inspection apparatus that can inspect, in a non-contact manner, whether a bent region of a shaped product formed by a sheet-metal shaping process has been accurately bent into a set shape and dimensions. The sheet-metal shaped product inspection apparatus may comprise: a supply unit for supplying a sheet-metal shaped product having a bent region; an inspection unit for scanning the sheet-metal shaped product supplied from the supply unit; a discharge unit for discharging the sheet-metal shaped product inspected by the inspection unit; and a control unit that controls the supply unit, the inspection unit, and the discharge unit, and inspects the bent region of the sheet-metal shaped product by using the scan results from the inspection unit.

Description

Sheet metal forming product inspection device

[0001] The present invention relates to a quality inspection device. More specifically, it relates to a sheet metal forming product inspection device capable of inspecting, through a non-contact method, whether a bending area of ​​a formed product formed through a sheet metal forming process has been accurately bent to a set shape and dimensions.

[0002] Sheet metal formed products are used as structural or exterior parts in various industrial fields, such as automobiles, electronic devices, and industrial machinery. These products are bent into specific shapes using forming equipment such as presses or bending machines, and the precision of the bending angle and position directly affects the assembly quality and durability of the product.

[0003] However, during the sheet metal forming process, problems may occur such as the bending angle becoming excessive or insufficient compared to the standard value, or the bending position becoming misaligned, due to causes such as changes in process conditions, die wear, and material deviations. These defects not only cause interference or gap issues during the assembly process but can also lead to a deterioration in the appearance quality and functional failure of the final product.

[0004] Conventionally, workers inspected the bending state manually using dimensional measuring tools or through some automated sensor or camera systems, but there were limitations in inspection efficiency and accuracy for molded products with complex shapes or multiple bends.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a precise and efficient inspection device capable of automatically checking whether the bending area of ​​a sheet metal formed product meets design standards and quickly determining whether there are defects.

[0006] (Patent Document 1) Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 10-1975905, 'Inspection device for press-formed products', (Registered on April 30, 2019)

[0007] One objective of the present invention is to provide a sheet metal forming product inspection device capable of inspecting, through a non-contact method, whether the bending area of ​​a formed product formed through a sheet metal forming process has been accurately bent to a set shape and dimensions.

[0008] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0009] In order to achieve the technical objectives described above, the present invention proposes a sheet metal forming product inspection device capable of inspecting, through a non-contact method, whether a bending area of ​​a formed product formed through a sheet metal forming process has been accurately bent to a set shape and dimensions. The sheet metal forming product inspection device may include a supply unit that supplies a sheet metal forming product having a bending area, an inspection unit that scans the sheet metal forming product supplied from the supply unit, an discharge unit that discharges the sheet metal forming product after inspection is completed from the inspection unit, and a control unit that controls the supply unit, the inspection unit, and the discharge unit, and inspects the bending area of ​​the sheet metal forming product through the scan results of the inspection unit.

[0010] Specifically, the supply unit is characterized by comprising a supply guide module that guides the sheet metal formed product to move to a preset position of the inspection unit, at least one supply mounting module that moves along the supply guide module and on which the sheet metal formed product is mounted, and at least one supply compression module that is respectively provided on the upper part of the at least one supply mounting module and compresses and fixes the sheet metal formed product mounted on the at least one supply mounting module.

[0011] The inspection unit is characterized by comprising: an inspection guide module that guides movement in a direction horizontal to the movement direction of the sheet metal formed product; an inspection support module that moves along the inspection guide module and has an installation surface formed perpendicular to the movement direction but facing the movement direction; a first inspection module installed on the installation surface of the inspection support module and positioned above the movement path of the sheet metal formed product to scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product; and a second inspection module installed on the installation surface of the inspection support module and positioned on the side of the movement path to scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product.

[0012] The first inspection module is characterized by comprising: a first linear guide unit that guides linear movement left and right based on the direction of movement; a first operating unit that moves along the first linear guide unit; a first passive unit that moves by the first automatic unit and is rotatably coupled to the first operating unit; a first curve guide unit that guides the curved movement of the first passive unit; and a first scan unit installed on the first passive unit, which moves along the first curve guide unit together with the first passive unit and scans the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product from above.

[0013] The second inspection module is characterized by comprising: a second linear guide unit that guides linear movement up and down based on the movement direction; a second operating unit that moves along the second linear guide unit; a second passive unit that moves by the second automatic unit and is rotatably coupled to the second operating unit; a second curve guide unit that guides the curved movement of the second passive unit; and a second scan unit installed on the second passive unit, which moves along the second curve guide unit together with the second passive unit and scans the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product from above.

[0014] The first scan unit and the second scan unit are characterized by including at least one of a camera and a lidar.

[0015] The inspection unit is installed on the installation surface of the inspection support module and is characterized by further including a lighting module installed on the movement path that irradiates light onto the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product when the sheet metal formed product is positioned at a preset location.

[0016] The control unit is characterized by irradiating light onto the sheet metal formed product through the lighting module when the sheet metal formed product is positioned at a preset location, and operating at least one of the first scan unit and the second scan unit to acquire an image of the sheet metal formed product in which reflected light is generated.

[0017] The control unit is characterized by converting an image obtained from at least one of the first scan unit and the second scan unit into grayscale and identifying a bending line based on the difference in pixel brightness values ​​between a plurality of folded planes of the sheet metal formed product.

[0018] The discharge unit is characterized by comprising: a discharge guide module that guides a sheet metal formed product, inspected by the inspection unit, to move to a preset position; at least one discharge mounting module that moves along the discharge guide module and on which the sheet metal formed product is mounted; and at least one discharge compression module that is respectively provided on the upper part of the at least one discharge mounting module and compresses and fixes the sheet metal formed product mounted on the at least one discharge mounting module.

[0019] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0020] According to the present invention, by inspecting in a non-contact manner whether the bending area of ​​a sheet metal formed product has been accurately processed according to a set shape and dimensions, it is possible to contribute to improving the quality of the sheet metal formed product, automating inspection, and increasing productivity.

[0021] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description in the claims.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an inspection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a front view of an inspection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a front view of a supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an inspection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a front view of an inspection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a discharge section according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a front view of a discharge section according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram of a control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 10 is an illustrative diagram for explaining a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032]

[0033] It should be noted that technical terms used in this specification are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, unless specifically defined otherwise in this specification, technical terms used in this specification should be interpreted in the sense generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains, and should not be interpreted in an overly broad or overly narrow sense. Additionally, if a technical term used in this specification is an incorrect technical term that fails to accurately express the spirit of the invention, it should be understood as being replaced by a technical term that can be correctly understood by those skilled in the art. Moreover, general terms used in this invention should be interpreted according to their prior definitions or the context, and should not be interpreted in an overly narrow sense.

[0034] Additionally, singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "composed of" or "have" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as potentially including some of the components or steps, or including additional components or steps.

[0035] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., used herein may be used to describe various components, but said components shall not be limited by said terms. Such terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component.

[0036] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, or there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0037] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components regardless of drawing symbols are given the same reference number, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known technology may obscure the essence of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted. Additionally, it should be noted that the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate an easy understanding of the concept of the present invention and should not be interpreted as limiting the concept of the present invention. The concept of the present invention should be interpreted as extending to all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions other than those shown in the attached drawings.

[0038]

[0039] Meanwhile, in the past, workers manually inspected the bending state using dimensional measuring tools or through some automated sensor or camera systems, but there were limitations in inspection efficiency and accuracy for molded products with complex shapes or multiple bends.

[0040]

[0041] To overcome these limitations, the present invention proposes various means to inspect, through a non-contact method, whether the bending area of ​​a molded product formed through a sheet metal forming process has been accurately bent to a set shape and dimensions.

[0042]

[0043] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an inspection device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a front view of an inspection device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an inspection device according to one embodiment of the present invention can inspect whether a bending area of ​​a sheet metal formed through a sheet metal forming process has been accurately bent to a set shape and dimensions through a non-contact method.

[0045] Here, the sheet metal formed product may be a formed product in which at least one 'C'-shaped bending region is formed through a sheet metal forming process. For example, the sheet metal formed product can be applied to various formed products, such as exterior frames for refrigerator plungers, washing machines, microwave ovens, and air conditioners, automotive parts like car door frames, automotive reinforcing beams, and car trunk guides, and construction materials such as C-shaped steel truss structural members.

[0046] The inspection device according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a base plate (10), a supply unit (100), an inspection unit (200), a discharge unit (300), and a control unit (400).

[0047] To describe each configuration, the base plate (10) can be installed on the ground to form a space for the supply unit (110), inspection unit (200), and discharge unit (300) to be installed. For example, the base plate (10) can be formed in the shape of a rectangular plate with a length based on the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product. That is, the supply unit (100), inspection unit (200), and discharge unit (300) can be sequentially arranged along the length direction of the base plate (10).

[0048] The supply unit (100) can transfer a sheet metal formed product having a bending area to the inspection unit (200). Specifically, the supply unit (100) can receive the sheet metal formed product from a supply device such as a conveyor, a robot arm, or a supply tray, and can move the supplied sheet metal formed product to the inspection unit (200) while securely fixed.

[0049] Additionally, the supply unit (100) can move the sheet metal formed product to a preset position where the inspection unit (200) can scan, and then fix the sheet metal formed product in a fixed position until the inspection unit (200) completes the scanning.

[0050] Meanwhile, the specific configuration of the supply unit (100) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 4.

[0051] In the following configuration, the inspection unit (200) can scan the sheet metal formed product supplied from the supply unit (100). Specifically, the inspection unit (200) can scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product transferred from the supply unit (100). Here, the scanned result can be used as data to determine the presence or absence of defects such as bending angle, bending position, bending length, cracks, and wrinkles. For example, the inspection unit (200) may be configured to include a vision sensor, lidar, radar, etc.

[0052] Meanwhile, the specific configuration of the inspection unit (200) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0053] In the following configuration, the discharge unit (300) can move the sheet metal formed product, which has been inspected by the inspection unit (200), to the next process after inspection. Here, the discharge unit (300) may be configured to classify good products and defective products according to the inspection results and discharge them through different paths. For example, the discharge unit (300) may move good products to the next process and move defective products to a reject area.

[0054] Meanwhile, the specific configuration of the discharge section (300) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 8.

[0055] With the following configuration, the control unit (400) can integrally control the overall operation of the supply unit (100), the inspection unit (200), and the discharge unit (300). Specifically, when a sheet metal formed product is supplied to the supply unit (100), the control unit (400) can control the supply unit (100) to move the sheet metal formed product to a preset position that can be scanned by the supplied inspection unit (200). Additionally, when the sheet metal formed product is positioned at a preset position by the supply unit (100), the control unit (400) can control the inspection unit (200) to scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product. Furthermore, the control unit (400) can analyze the scan results obtained by the inspection unit (200) to determine whether the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product meets a preset standard. And, the control unit (400) can control the discharge unit (300) according to the inspection result of the inspection unit (200) to discharge the inspected sheet metal molded product to a preset location.

[0056] Meanwhile, a detailed description of the control unit (400) will be provided below with reference to the drawings.

[0057]

[0058] Hereinafter, a supply unit (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a front view of a supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the supply unit (100) may be configured to include a supply guide module (110), a supply mounting module (120), and a supply clamping module (130).

[0061] To explain each configuration, the supply guide module (110) can guide the sheet metal formed product to move to a preset position in the inspection unit (200).

[0062] The supply guide module (110) may be configured to include at least one first support (111) positioned vertically to the ground, a first placement plate (112) positioned horizontally above the at least one first support (111), and at least one first guide bar (113) positioned on the first placement plate (112) and having a length in a direction horizontal to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product.

[0063] The first support member (111) is arranged at regular intervals on the base plate (10) and can perform the function of supporting the supply mounting module (120) and the supply compression module (130). For example, the first support member (111) can be formed of a high-strength material such as metal or synthetic resin.

[0064] The first placement plate (112) is a plate-shaped member that can be fixed to the upper portion of at least one first support (111) in a direction perpendicular to the support. This first placement plate (112) can provide a reference surface on which the supply mounting module (120) and the supply compression module (130) can move smoothly.

[0065] The first guide bar (113) may be positioned on the upper surface of the first placement plate (112) in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product. For example, the first guide bar (113) may be positioned side by side at both ends of the first placement plate (112). Such first guide bar (113) can guide the linear movement of the supply mounting module (120) and the supply pressing module (130).

[0066] Next, the supply mounting module (120) can move along the supply guide module (110) and support the lower part of the sheet metal formed product. A plurality of such supply mounting modules (120) are provided on the supply guide module (110) and can slide along the first guide bar (113).

[0067] Such a supply mounting module (120) may be configured to include a first base frame (121) that moves along a first guide bar (113), and a first mounting bracket (122) positioned on the front of the first base frame (121) on which a sheet metal molded product is mounted.

[0068] The first base frame (121) may be a structure capable of moving in a straight direction along the first guide bar (113) of the supply guide module (110). The first base frame (121) may be configured to move smoothly along the first guide bar (113) while combined with the first guide bar (113) described above, such that a slider, roller, linear bearing, etc., is provided at the bottom. For example, the first base frame (121) may be formed of a high-strength material such as metal or synthetic resin, and may include reinforcing ribs to stably support the weight of the molded product. The first base frame (121) may be connected to an actuator such as a linear motor and may move to and stop at a predetermined position according to the control of the control unit (400).

[0069] The first mounting bracket (122) can be fixed to the front of the first base frame (121) and can directly support the sheet metal molded product. The first mounting bracket (122) is formed in an L-shape so that one side can be fixedly installed on the first base frame (121), and the other side, positioned horizontally to the ground, can support the sheet metal molded product. For example, the first mounting bracket (122) can be configured to be installed in a structure that is detachably and replaceably attached to the first base frame (121) to accommodate sheet metal molded products of various shapes. Additionally, the first mounting bracket (122) may be configured to further include an elastic pad made of a flexible material positioned in contact with the sheet metal molded product to prevent surface damage to the sheet metal molded product.

[0070] In the following configuration, the supply compression module (130) is provided on the upper portion of at least one supply mounting module (120) to compress and fix a sheet metal molded product mounted on at least one supply mounting module (120).

[0071] The supply compression module (130) may be configured to include a first extension plate (131) that is fixedly installed on the upper part of the first base frame (121) and extends forward from the first base frame (121), and a first compression unit (132) that is installed at the end of the first extension plate (131) and is positioned on the upper part of the first mounting bracket (122) to compress a sheet metal molded product mounted on the first mounting bracket (122).

[0072] The first extension plate (131) is coupled to the upper part of the first base frame (121) and can be formed to extend horizontally in the forward direction where the first mounting bracket (122) is located. This first extension plate (131) can stably support the first compression unit (132) and can perform the role of effectively distributing the load generated during compression to the first base frame (121). For example, the first extension plate (131) may be made of metal or synthetic resin material, and reinforcing ribs may be applied to ensure durability against repeated compression operations over a long period of time. Additionally, the first extension plate (131) may be provided with a sliding groove or a fixed slot in the longitudinal direction to allow for position adjustment of the first compression unit (132) as needed.

[0073] The first compression unit (132) is mounted on the end of the first extension plate (131) and can compress the upper surface of a sheet metal molded product placed on the first mounting bracket (122) using hydraulic or pneumatic operating force. For example, the first compression unit (132) can be implemented as a pneumatic cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, an electric actuator, etc., and can be operated in the up and down direction according to a control signal from the control unit (400). That is, when the first compression unit (132) is lowered, a compression pad made of a flexible material mounted on the end can press and fix the upper surface of the sheet metal molded product, and after the inspection is completed, it can be raised to allow the transfer of the sheet metal molded product. An elastic pad to protect the surface of the sheet metal molded product may be attached to the bottom of the first compression unit (132).

[0074]

[0075] Hereinafter, the configuration of the inspection unit (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0076] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an inspection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a front view of an inspection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077]

[0078] *Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, an inspection unit (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include an inspection guide module (210), an inspection support module (220), a first inspection module (230), and a second inspection module (240).

[0079] To explain each configuration, the inspection guide module (210) can guide movement in a direction horizontal to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product. That is, the inspection guide module (210) can be positioned on the upper surface of the base plate (10) in a direction horizontal to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product. For example, the inspection guide module (210) can be composed of a pair of guide bars positioned side by side at both ends of the base plate (10). Such an inspection guide module (210) can guide the linear movement of the inspection support module (220).

[0080] In the following configuration, the inspection support module (220) can slide along the inspection guide module (210), and an installation surface (221) can be formed that is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product and faces the direction of movement. For example, the inspection support module (220) can be formed as a wall-shaped frame and may include a damping structure to minimize mechanical vibration of the first inspection module (230) and the second inspection module (240).

[0081] In the following configuration, the first inspection module (230) is installed on the installation surface (221) of the inspection support module (220) and is positioned above the movement path of the sheet metal formed product to scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product.

[0082] The first inspection module (230) may be configured to include a first linear guide unit (231), a first operating unit (232), a first passive unit (233), a first curved guide unit (234), and a first scan unit (235).

[0083] The first linear guide unit (231) can guide linear movement to the left and right based on the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product. For example, if the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product is defined as the x-axis, the direction perpendicular to the x-axis on the same horizontal plane as the x-axis is defined as the y-axis, and the height relative to the ground is defined as the z-axis, the first linear guide unit (231) can guide movement in the y-axis direction. Such a first linear guide unit (231) can be configured as a guide bar.

[0084] The first operating unit (232) can move along the first linear guide unit (231) and can drive the movement of the first passive unit (233) and the first scan unit (235). Additionally, the first operating unit (232) may have an operating projection (232a) formed therein that is inserted into the guide groove (233a) of the first passive unit (233). The first operating unit (232) can be driven by a driving device such as a linear actuator, a motor, or a timing belt to move along the first linear guide unit (231).

[0085] The first passive unit (233) is rotatably coupled to the first operating unit (232) so that it can move together with the movement of the first operating unit (232) and move in a curved motion on its own. That is, the first passive unit (233) may have a guide groove (233a) formed on one side and may be coupled so that the other side can move along the first curved guide unit (231). In other words, when the first operating unit (232) moves, the first passive unit (233) can move along the first curved guide unit (231) while rotating around the operating projection (232a) inserted into the guide groove (233a).

[0086] The first curve guide unit (234) can guide the curved movement of the first passive unit (233). That is, the first curve guide unit (234) can be composed of an arc-shaped slide rail corresponding to the shape of the first straight guide unit (231), and can guide the first passive unit (233) to move stably along a curved path.

[0087] The first scan unit (235) is installed on the first passive unit (233) and moves along the first curve guide unit (234) together with the first passive unit (233), and can scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product from above. The first scan unit (235) can continuously scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product at various points along the curved trajectory of the first curve guide unit (234). For example, the first scan unit (235) can be an RGB (Red, Green, Blue) camera. However, it is not limited thereto, and the first scan unit (235) may be composed of a lidar, radar, etc.

[0088] In the following configuration, the second inspection module (240) is installed on the installation surface (221) of the inspection support module (220) and is positioned on the side of the movement path of the sheet metal formed product to scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product.

[0089] The second inspection module (240) may be configured to include a second linear guide unit (241), a second operating unit (242), a second passive unit (243), a second curved guide unit (244), and a second scan unit (245).

[0090] The second linear guide unit (241) can guide linear movement up and down based on the movement direction of the sheet metal formed product. For example, if the movement direction of the sheet metal formed product is defined as the x-axis, the direction perpendicular to the x-axis on the same horizontal plane as the x-axis is defined as the y-axis, and the height relative to the ground is defined as the z-axis, the second linear guide unit (241) can guide movement in the z-axis direction. Such a second linear guide unit (241) can be configured as a guide bar.

[0091] The second operating unit (242) can move along the second linear guide unit (241) and can drive the movement of the second passive unit (243) and the second scan unit (245). Additionally, the second operating unit (242) may have an operating projection (242a) formed therein that is inserted into the guide groove (243a) of the second passive unit (243). The second operating unit (242) can be driven by a driving device such as a linear actuator, a motor, or a timing belt to move along the second linear guide unit (241).

[0092] The second passive unit (243) is rotatably coupled to the second operating unit (242) so that it can move along with the movement of the second operating unit (242) and move in a curved motion on its own. That is, the second passive unit (243) may have a guide groove (243a) formed on one side and may be coupled so that the other side can move along the second curved guide unit (241). Through this, when the second operating unit (242) moves, the second passive unit (243) can move along the second curved guide unit (241) while rotating around the operating projection (242a) inserted into the guide groove (243a).

[0093] The second curve guide unit (244) can guide the curved movement of the second passive unit (243). That is, the second curve guide unit (244) can be composed of an arc-shaped slide rail corresponding to the shape of the second straight guide unit (241), and can guide the second passive unit (243) to move stably along a curved path.

[0094] The second scan unit (245) is installed on the second passive unit (243) and moves along the second curve guide unit (244) together with the second passive unit (243), and can scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product from the side. The second scan unit (245) can continuously scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product at various points along the curve trajectory of the second curve guide unit (244). For example, the second scan unit (245) can be an RGB (Red, Green, Blue) camera. However, it is not limited to this, and the first scan unit (235) may be composed of a lidar, radar, etc.

[0095] Although not shown, the inspection unit (200) is installed on the installation surface (221) of the inspection support module (220) and may further include a lighting module that illuminates the bending area of ​​the sheet metal product when the sheet metal product is installed on the movement path of the sheet metal product and the sheet metal product is positioned at a preset location. For example, the lighting module may be provided together with the first scan unit (235) or the second scan unit (245) to illuminate the area scanned by the first scan unit (235) or the second scan unit (245).

[0096]

[0097] Hereinafter, a discharge unit (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0098] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a discharge unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a front view of a discharge unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the discharge unit (300) may be configured to include a discharge guide module (310), a discharge mounting module (320), and a discharge compression module (330).

[0100] To explain each configuration, the discharge guide module (310) can guide the inspected sheet metal formed product to move to a preset position.

[0101] The discharge guide module (310) may be configured to include at least one second support (311) positioned vertically to the ground, a second placement plate (312) positioned horizontally on the upper part of the at least one second support (311), and at least one second guide bar (313) positioned on the second placement plate (312) and extending in a direction horizontal to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product.

[0102] The second support (311) is arranged at regular intervals on the base plate (10) and can serve to firmly support the discharge mounting module (320) and the discharge compression module (330). For example, the second support (311) may be made of a high-strength material such as metal or synthetic resin.

[0103] The second placement plate (312) is a plate-shaped member that can be fixed to the upper portion of at least one second support (311) in a direction perpendicular to the second support (311). Such second placement plate (312) can provide a reference surface on which the discharge mounting module (320) and the discharge compression module (330) can move smoothly.

[0104] The second guide bar (313) may be positioned on the upper surface of the second placement plate (312) in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the sheet metal formed product. For example, the second guide bar (313) may be positioned side by side at both ends of the second placement plate (312). Such second guide bar (313) can guide the linear movement of the discharge mounting module (320) and the discharge compression module (330).

[0105] Next, the discharge mounting module (320) can move along the discharge guide module (310) and support the lower part of the sheet metal formed product. Such discharge mounting modules (320) may be provided in multiple numbers on the discharge guide module (310).

[0106] Such a discharge mounting module (320) may be configured to include a second base frame (321) that moves along a second guide bar (313), and a second mounting bracket (322) positioned on the front of the second base frame (321) on which a sheet metal molded product is mounted.

[0107] The second base frame (321) may be a structure capable of moving in a straight direction along the second guide bar (313) of the discharge guide module (310). The second base frame (321) may be configured to move smoothly along the second guide bar (313) while combined with the second guide bar (313) described above, by having a slider, roller, linear bearing, etc., at its lower end. For example, the second base frame (321) may be formed of a high-strength material such as metal or engineering plastic, and may include reinforcing ribs or a housing structure to stably support the weight of the molded product. The second base frame (321) may be connected to an actuator such as a linear motor and move to and stop at a predetermined position according to the control of the control unit (400).

[0108] The second mounting bracket (322) can be fixed to the front of the second base frame (321) and can directly support the sheet metal molded product. The second mounting bracket (322) is formed in an L-shape so that one side can be fixedly installed on the second base frame (321), and the other side, positioned horizontally to the ground, can support the sheet metal molded product. For example, the second mounting bracket (322) may be installed in a structure that is detachably and replaceably attached to the second base frame (321) to accommodate sheet metal molded products of various shapes. Additionally, the second mounting bracket (322) may be configured to further include an elastic pad made of a flexible material positioned in contact with the sheet metal molded product to prevent surface damage to the sheet metal molded product.

[0109] In the following configuration, the discharge compression module (330) is provided on the upper part of at least one discharge mounting module (320) to compress and fix a sheet metal molded product mounted on at least one discharge mounting module (320).

[0110] The discharge compression module (330) may be configured to include a second extension plate (331) that is fixedly installed on the upper part of the second base frame (321) and extends forward from the second base frame (321), and a second compression unit (332) that is installed at the end of the second extension plate (331) and is positioned on the upper part of the second mounting bracket (322) and compresses a sheet metal formed product mounted on the second mounting bracket (322) through hydraulic or pneumatic pressure.

[0111] The second extension plate (331) is coupled to the upper part of the second base frame (321) and can be formed to extend horizontally in the forward direction where the second mounting bracket (322) is located. This second extension plate (331) can stably support the second compression unit (332) and can perform the role of effectively distributing the load generated during compression to the second base frame (321). For example, the second extension plate (331) may be made of metal or synthetic resin material, and reinforcing ribs or curved reinforcing structures may be applied to ensure durability against repeated compression operations over a long period of time. Additionally, the second extension plate (331) may be provided with a sliding groove or a fixed slot in the longitudinal direction to allow for position adjustment of the second compression unit (332) as needed.

[0112] The second compression unit (332) is mounted on the end of the second extension plate (331) and can compress the upper surface of the sheet metal formed product seated on the second stand (322) through hydraulic or pneumatic operating force. For example, the second compression unit (332) can be implemented as a pneumatic cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, an electric actuator, etc., and can be operated in the up and down direction according to a control signal from the control unit (400). That is, when the second compression unit (332) is lowered, a compression pad made of a flexible material mounted on the end can press and fix the upper surface of the sheet metal formed product, and after the inspection is completed, it can be raised to allow the transfer of the sheet metal formed product. An elastic pad to protect the surface of the sheet metal formed product may be attached to the bottom of the second compression unit (332).

[0113]

[0114] Hereinafter, a control unit (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0115] FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is an illustrative diagram for explaining a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10, a control unit (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a communication unit (405), an input / output unit (410), an operation control unit (415), and a determination unit (420).

[0117] Since the components of the control unit (400) are merely functionally distinct elements, two or more components may be implemented as a single integrated unit in an actual physical environment, or a single component may be implemented as a separate unit in an actual physical environment.

[0118] Specifically, the communication unit (405) can transmit control signals to drive the supply unit (100), the inspection unit (200), and the discharge unit (300). Additionally, the communication unit (405) can receive information regarding the status from the supply unit (100), the inspection unit (200), and the discharge unit (300). Furthermore, the communication unit (405) can receive image or point cloud data of a scanned sheet metal formed product from the inspection unit (200).

[0119] With the following configuration, the input / output unit (410) can receive a signal from a user through a user interface (UI) or output a calculation result to the outside.

[0120] Specifically, the input / output unit (410) can output scanned images or point cloud data from the inspection unit (200). Additionally, the input / output unit (410) can output results analyzed by the judgment unit (420). That is, the input / output unit (410) can display whether there are any abnormalities in the object to be inspected included in the sheet metal mold.

[0121] For example, the input / output unit (410) can output an image or point cloud data for a sheet metal formed product and output an inspection result as "OK" or "NG" at a corresponding location on the output image or point cloud data, thereby enabling an administrator to check the inspection result in real time.

[0122] With the following configuration, the operation control unit (415) can control the overall operation of the supply unit (100), inspection unit (200), and discharge unit (300).

[0123] Specifically, when a sheet metal molded product is mounted on the supply mounting module (120) of the supply unit (100), the operation control unit (415) can press and grip the sheet metal molded product mounted on the supply mounting module (120) through the supply pressing module (130).

[0124] Next, the operation control unit (415) can move the sheet metal formed product, which is gripped through the supply guide module (110), toward the inspection unit (200) and position the sheet metal formed product at a preset position that can be inspected by the inspection unit (200).

[0125] Next, the operation control unit (415) can scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product from the top and side through the first inspection module (230) and the second inspection module (230). At this time, the operation control unit (415) can move the first inspection module (230) and the second inspection module (230) in the x-axis direction through the inspection guide module (210), or move the first inspection module (230) and the second inspection module (230) individually through the first straight guide unit (231), the first curved guide unit (234), the second straight guide unit (241), and the first curved guide unit (244) to obtain images of the bending area taken from multiple angles.

[0126] When the scanning of the inspection unit (200) is completed, the operation control unit (415) can move the discharge unit (300) in close contact with the inspection unit (200) through the discharge guide module (310) of the discharge unit (300) to mount the inspected sheet metal molded product on the discharge mounting module (320). Subsequently, the operation control unit (415) can press and grip the sheet metal molded product through the discharge compression module (330) and simultaneously release the compression of the supply compression module (130) of the supply unit (100).

[0127] And, the operation control unit (415) can move the sheet metal formed product held through the discharge guide module (310) to a preset position.

[0128] In the following configuration, the judgment unit (420) can determine whether the bending area of ​​the sheet metal target is accurately bent into a set shape and dimensions, such as the right angle, height, and upper width, based on an image captured from the inspection unit (200) or acquired point cloud data.

[0129] In one embodiment, the judgment unit (420) can obtain depth information of the object to be judged through the visual disparity between images captured from a plurality of cameras. That is, the judgment unit (420) obtains depth information of the object to be judged through a stereo method and can inspect the right angle, height, top width, etc. using the obtained depth information.

[0130] At this time, when the sheet metal molded product is positioned at a preset location, the judgment unit (420) can irradiate light onto the sheet metal molded product through the lighting module (250) and operate at least one of the first scan unit (235) and the second scan unit (245) to obtain an image of the sheet metal molded product in which reflected light is generated.

[0131] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the judgment unit (420) is provided at the top of the first scan unit (235) and can irradiate light onto the area that the first scan unit (235) is photographing.

[0132] At this time, since the sheet metal formed part is formed from a metal material, reflected light may be generated. Accordingly, the judgment unit (420) can accurately identify the bending line through the difference in brightness between the plane where reflected light is generated and the plane where radiant light is not generated among the plurality of folded planes of the sheet metal formed part.

[0133] To this end, the judgment unit (420) can convert an image obtained from at least one of the first scan unit (235) and the second scan unit (245) into grayscale and identify a bending line based on the difference in pixel brightness values ​​between a plurality of folded planes of the sheet metal formed product.

[0134] Through this, the judgment unit (420) can accurately measure the right angle, height, upper width, etc. based on the identified bending line.

[0135] In another embodiment, the judgment unit (420) can inspect the perpendicularity, height, upper width, etc. based on point cloud data obtained from the inspection unit (200).

[0136]

[0137] As described above, preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed in this specification and drawings; however, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that other variations based on the technical spirit of the present invention are possible in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. Furthermore, although specific terms have been used in this specification and drawings, they are used merely in a general sense to facilitate the explanation of the technical content of the present invention and to aid in understanding the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the detailed description above should not be interpreted restrictively in any respect and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included within the scope of the present invention.

[0138] (Explanation of symbols)

[0139] 100: Supply unit 110: Supply guide module

[0140] 120: Supply mounting module 130: Supply crimping module

[0141] 200: Inspection Unit 210: Inspection Guide Module

[0142] 220: Inspection support module 230: First inspection module

[0143] 240: Second inspection module 300: Discharge section

[0144] 310: Discharge guide module 320: Discharge mounting module

[0145] 330: Discharge compression module 400: Control unit

Claims

1. A supply unit for supplying a sheet metal formed product having a bending area; An inspection unit that scans a sheet metal formed product supplied from the above supply unit; A discharge unit for discharging a sheet metal formed product that has been inspected from the above inspection unit; and An inspection device for a sheet metal formed product, characterized by including: a control unit that controls the supply unit, the inspection unit, and the discharge unit, and inspects the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product through the scan result of the inspection unit.

2. In claim 1, the supply portion A supply guide module that guides the above sheet metal formed product to move to a preset position of the inspection unit; At least one supply mounting module that moves along the supply guide module and on which the sheet metal formed product is mounted; and An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by including: at least one supply compression module, each provided on the upper part of the at least one supply mounting module, for compressing and fixing the sheet metal product mounted on the at least one supply mounting module.

3. In claim 1, the inspection unit An inspection guide module that guides movement in a direction horizontal to the movement direction of the above sheet metal formed product; An inspection support module that moves along the inspection guide module and has an installation surface formed perpendicular to the direction of movement but facing the direction of movement; A first inspection module installed on the installation surface of the above inspection support module, positioned above the movement path of the sheet metal formed product to scan the bending area of ​​the sheet metal formed product; and An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by including: a second inspection module installed on the installation surface of the inspection support module, positioned on the side of the movement path, and scanning the bending area of ​​the sheet metal product.

4. In claim 3, the first inspection module A first linear guide unit that guides linear movement to the left and right based on the above movement direction; A first operating unit that moves along the first linear guide unit; A first passive unit that moves by the first automatic unit and is rotatably coupled to the first operating unit; and A first curve guide unit that guides the curved movement of the first passive unit; An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by including: a first scan unit installed in the first passive unit, which moves along the first curve guide unit together with the first passive unit, and scans the bending area of ​​the sheet metal product from above.

5. In claim 4, the second inspection module is A second linear guide unit that guides vertical linear movement based on the above movement direction; A second operating unit that moves along the second linear guide unit; A second passive unit that moves by the second automatic unit and is rotatably coupled to the second operating unit; and A second curve guide unit that guides the curved movement of the second passive unit; An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by including: a second scan unit installed in the second passive unit, which moves along the second curve guide unit together with the second passive unit, and scans the bending area of ​​the sheet metal product from above.

6. In claim 5, the first scan unit and the second scan unit are An inspection device for sheet metal formed products characterized by including at least one of a camera and a lidar.

7. In claim 6, the above inspection unit An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by further including a lighting module installed on the installation surface of the inspection support module and installed on the movement path, which irradiates light onto the bending area of ​​the sheet metal product when the sheet metal product is positioned at a preset location.

8. In claim 7, the control unit An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by, when the sheet metal product is positioned at a preset location, illuminating the sheet metal product with light through the lighting module, and operating at least one of the first scan unit and the second scan unit to acquire an image of the sheet metal product in which reflected light is generated.

9. In claim 8, the control unit An inspection device for a sheet metal product, characterized by converting an image obtained from at least one of the first scan unit and the second scan unit into grayscale and identifying a bending line based on the difference in pixel brightness values ​​between a plurality of folded planes of the sheet metal product.

10. In claim 1, the discharge portion An ejection guide module that guides a sheet metal formed product, inspected by the inspection unit above, to move to a preset position; At least one discharge mounting module that moves along the discharge guide module and on which the sheet metal formed product is mounted; and An inspection device for a sheet metal molded product, characterized by including: at least one discharge compression module, each provided on the upper part of the at least one discharge mounting module, for compressing and fixing the sheet metal molded product mounted on the at least one discharge mounting module.

Images