DE102009054385B4 - Coupling device and stretch blower equipped therewith - Google Patents

Abstract

Coupling device for the detachable coupling of a lower mold part (3) of a blow mold (4) of a stretch blow molding device (1) used for the production of plastic containers with a drive unit (7) that causes the blow mold (4) to open and close during operation (5), with an upper coupling element (15) arranged or attachable to the lower mold part (3) and a lower coupling element (16) arranged or attachable to the drive unit (5) underneath the upper coupling element (15), the two coupling elements (15, 16) by axial relative movement occurring in the axial direction of a main axis (8) coinciding with the direction of the lifting movement (7) being attachable to one another and separable from one another, the upper coupling element (15) having an upper base body (22) and the lower coupling element ( 16) has a lower base body (23) and these two base bodies (22, 23) in the coupled state of the two coupling elements (15, 16) are axially supported and braced together, with a first locking body (26), which is axially stationary in this regard, being arranged on the upper base body (22) and a second locking body that is movable in this regard on the lower base body (23) (27) is arranged, and wherein the lower coupling element (16) has an actuating device (18) which contains an actuating means (42) which cooperates in a driving manner with the second locking body (27) and which axially relative to the lower base body (23) between a Release position and a clamping position can be moved, wherein in the release position the second locking body (27) is out of locking engagement with the first locking body (26) to enable the two coupling elements (15, 16) to be attached and separated from one another, and the second locking body is in the clamping position (27) regarding the operation s means (42) is supported and is in locking engagement with the first locking body (26), whereby it exerts a tensile force (37) causing the axial bracing of the two base bodies (22, 23) on the first locking body (26), characterized in that the second locking body (27) experiences a two-stage actuation when the actuating means (42) is shifted from the release position to the clamping position, whereby it takes place in a first actuation stage in the context of a relative to the lower base body (23) and also relative to the actuating means (42) Pivoting or tilting movement from an unlocked not in locking engagement with the first locking body (26) ...

Description

The invention relates to a coupling device for releasably coupling a lower mold part of a blow mold used for the production of plastic containers Streckblasvorrichtung with an operating in the stretch blow a opening and closing the blow mold causing lifting movement exporting drive unit, arranged with an attached to the lower mold or attachable upper coupling element and an the drive unit arranged or attachable, arranged below the upper coupling element lower coupling element, wherein the two coupling elements by taking place in the axial direction coinciding with the direction of the lifting movement major axis axial movement relative to each other attachable and separable, wherein the upper coupling element has an upper body and the lower coupling element has a lower base body and wherein these two main body in the coupled state of the two coupling elements axially aneina are supported and braced with each other, wherein on the upper base body axially relative thereto a first locking body is arranged and on the lower base body a movable second locking body is arranged, and wherein the lower coupling element comprises an actuating device which cooperatively with the second locking body cooperating Actuating means which is axially movable relative to the lower body between a release position and a clamping position, wherein in the release position of the second locking body to allow the juxtaposition and separation of the two coupling elements out of locking engagement with the first locking body and in the clamping position of the second Locking body is supported relative to the actuating means and is in locking engagement with the first locking body, whereby he a xiale distortion of the two basic body causing traction on the first locking body exerts.

The invention further relates to a stretch blow molding apparatus equipped with at least one such coupling device for producing plastic containers, which comprises at least one blow mold having a mold bottom and which is equipped with at least one drive unit which can perform a lifting movement causing the blow mold to open and close.

From the DE 10 2008 015 776 B3 a stretch blow molding apparatus is known whose blow mold delimits a cavity which is used for shaping hollow bodies consisting of plastic material, in particular for producing so-called PET bottles. For this purpose, an existing from a deformable plastic material preform is introduced into the cavity and then inflated with compressed air and pressed against the wall of the blow mold. The shaping operation is mechanically assisted by a stretching rod immersed in the preform.

As far as the applicant is known in printed form undetectable manner, the blow molds for easy removal of the hollow body produced are constructed in several parts, among other things, they have a shaping of the bottom of the hollow body serving mold base, which executes a stroke during a working cycle, the one of the Mold base bearing drive unit is caused, which runs along guide means. Since the lower mold part has to be replaced regularly depending on the type of each hollow body to be produced, it is releasably fixed to the drive unit via a coupling device. The coupling device includes an upper coupling element carrying the lower mold part and a lower coupling element arranged on the drive unit, wherein these coupling elements are releasably fixed to one another, which could be realized for example by means of an externally screwed union nut, which must be manually operated by means of a screwing tool or lever. However, such coupling measures prevent a rapid change of the mold part and are also contrary to a targeted to rationalize work processes automated, machine handling.

The EP 2 108 499 A1 discloses a coupling device and a stretch blower of the type mentioned, wherein two coupling elements are axially clamped together by radially movable, spherical locking body of a coupling element. In the uncoupled state, the locking bodies are held by a slider in a standby position. When attaching the coupling elements together, the slider is pushed back so that the locking bodies are released and braced radially by a conical actuating ring with the other coupling element.

It is the object of the present invention to provide a coupling device and a stretch blow molding device equipped therewith, which enables a rapid change of mold bottom parts in the case of a compact construction which is also suitable for automated use.

This object is achieved in a coupling device having the features mentioned above in that the second Locking body when moving the actuating means from the release position into the clamping position undergoes a two-stage operation, wherein he is in a first operating stage in a relative to the lower body and also relative to the actuating means taking place pivoting or tilting movement of a not with the first locking body in locking engagement unlocked position is displaced in a locking position with the first locking body in a locked position and is displaced in an adjoining second operating stage while maintaining the locked position and taking along the first locking body axially in the direction away from the upper body direction, wherein it in the clamping position is axially supported with respect to the actuating means.

In this way, the coupling and releasing of the two coupling elements can be done very easily by appropriate axial positioning of the arranged on the lower coupling element actuating means. In the release position, the actuating means causes a positioning of the second locking body in a position unlocked with respect to the first locking body, so that the first coupling part can be axially attached or removed to replace an associated lower mold part as required. To carry out a coupling operation, after the axial attachment of the upper coupling element to the lower coupling element, only the actuating means in the axial direction, that is to say in the axial direction of the above-defined main axis, is to be moved into the clamping position. In this operation, the actuating means is operatively associated with the second locking body such that it is moved into a locked position with the first locking body in locked position in which it simultaneously axially supported on the actuating means, so that by the actuating means via the second locking body an axial tensile force is introduced into the first locking body, which ultimately has the consequence that the main body of the two coupling elements are firmly clamped together. To uncouple can be caused by axial displacement of the actuating means in the release position of the reverse movement. The measures required for the realization of the coupling device allow overall compact dimensions and, if necessary, make it possible to provide a mechanical activation of the actuating means, for example by means of compressed air, in order to be able to carry out an automated coupling and uncoupling operation. Overall, the structure of the coupling device allows a very fast change of the upper coupling element and thus an optionally fixed thereto lower mold part.

A particular advantage results from the fact that when moving the actuating means from the release position into the clamping position, a two-stage actuation of the second locking body is caused. In the first operating stage of the positive locking engagement with the first locking body, while in the adjoining, but possibly also a piecewise overlapping with the first operating stage second actuating stage, the axial displacement of the already in locking engagement with the first locking body second locking body is effected , In this case, the second locking body is designed and arranged such that its movement taking place in the first actuating stage relative to the lower base body is a pivoting movement or tilting movement. The imaginary pivot axis of this movement extends in particular in a direction perpendicular to the above-mentioned main axis transverse plane.

Advantageous developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

The locking engagement between the two locking bodies can in particular be realized in that on the first locking body outside a toothing is arranged with a plurality of successive locking teeth in the axial direction, wherein the second locking body can engage with this toothing in positive engagement. By the plurality of successive locking teeth, an axial tolerance range can be defined, which ensures a locking engagement with certainty, even if, after an exchange of the upper coupling element at initiation of the locking operation, a deviating axial relative position between the two locking bodies should be present.

The second locking body is expediently arranged directly on the actuating means. An additional storage of the second locking means on the lower body is therefore unnecessary. The second locking body may in particular be received in a receiving chamber bounded by the actuating means.

Preferably, the locking body is formed in the manner of a bolt axially downwardly projecting from the upper body, so that it dips into each other when fitting the two coupling elements in the lower body. This bolt-like locking body may be provided on the outer circumference with a toothing corresponding to the toothing of a toothed rack.

The locking body is expediently ring-shaped and is penetrated by the suitably bolt-like first locking body when the two coupling elements are attached to each other. Conveniently, the second locking body is disc-shaped flat, you could call him especially as an annular disc.

The actuating means expediently has a drive plate which is axially movable relative to the lower base body and into which the driving force required to move the actuating means can be introduced. It is designed, in particular, as a displaceable piston and, if required, can be moved in at least one direction by applying fluid, in particular by means of compressed air. However, the displacement in at least one direction is expediently carried out by spring means which are formed between the actuating means and the main body and preferably designed as compression spring means, these spring means expediently acting on the actuating means in the direction of the clamping position.

The second locking body is expediently pivotable or tiltable arranged on the actuating means, wherein the actuating means comprises a groundbreaking of the first coupling element support surface on which the second locking body can be supported when taking a locking device with the first locking body in a locked position to the axial To be able to exert tension required axial traction. On the actuating means is conveniently a second locking body constantly acting in the direction of the locked position spring means, the second locking body is thus constantly pressed to the support surface. In addition, at least one release member is present, which is either permanently or only temporarily, depending on the position of the actuating means, supported on the lower base body. This at least one, but preferably multiple existing release member is arranged so that it acts on the second locking body and blocks it when the actuating means is moved into the release position. Due to the blockage, we apply to the second locking body a torque which is able to overcome the force of the spring means, so that the second locking body is pivoted or at least partially lifted from the support surface in a position unlocked by the first locking body or tilted.

The at least one release member could for example be arranged firmly on the lower base body and protrude from there downwards in the direction of the actuating means. Preferably, however, a design in which the at least one release member is axially displaceably mounted on the actuating means and only then comes into contact with an axially opposite support surface of the lower body, when the actuating means is moved in the direction of the release position. Preferably, in the clamping position of the actuating means, an axial gap between the release member and the support surface in order to avoid unwanted over-determination.

The at least one release member may be formed, for example, pin-shaped. In particular, when the first locking body is formed in the manner of a bolt, a plurality of release members may be distributed along the outer periphery of the first locking body.

In the second locking body associated with respect to the actuating means stationary support surface is preferably an inclined with respect to the main axis inclined surface. In this way it can be achieved that the second locking body in the locked position has an inclination relative to the main axis alignment.

The preferably ring-shaped locking body is suitably received in a receiving chamber of the actuating means and movable therein for switching between the locked and unlocked position. On the side facing the first coupling element is expediently a coaxial to the ring opening of the locking body insertion opening of the actuating means, through which the preferably bolt-like first locking body in the actuating means and the second locking body can dip.

For some applications, it is advantageous if a cooling possibility for the blow mold of the stretch blower exists. For this purpose, a cooling circuit is expediently installed, in which a coolant circulates. The coupling device is expediently designed so that it can act as an interface for a cooling circuit, in that pairs of opposite fluid channel openings of the cooling circuit forming fluid channels are present at the mutually axially facing interface surfaces of the two base body. With base bodies attached to one another, axially opposed fluid channel openings are in fluid communication with one another in order to allow fluid circulation. When removing the upper coupling part opposite fluid channel orifices are separated from each other under separation of the cooling circuit. In this case, however, no coolant to the environment outlet, the opposing fluid channel openings expediently each assigned its own check valve, which is open in the coupled state of the coupling parts to release a flow cross-section and closes automatically when uncoupling the coupling parts. The opening is expediently carried out by mechanical interaction with an activation component, which is arranged on the respectively opposite basic body.

Suitably, each check valve includes an axially movable valve member which is biased by spring means into a closed position, wherein the opening member acting on a valve member activation component is formed by the valve member of the respective opposing check valve. Thus, it can be achieved that the check valves can open and close each other.

Preferably, the opposing fluid channel orifices are associated with one another cooperating sealing means. When these sealing means are in sealing contact with each other, the fluid communication between the communicating fluid channel openings is sealed to the outside. Suitably, an arrangement is such that the sealing contact is made in the coupling process, before opening the check valves takes place. In this way, leakage is effectively prevented.

Instead of a cooling circuit, fluid channel openings corresponding to each other may also include fluid channels serving other purposes, for example to fluid channels, by means of which a fluid serving for activating certain measures, for example also compressed air, is transferred between the two coupling parts.

If required, detachable electrical interface means can also be present in the area of the interfaces of the two basic bodies, which are automatically connected to one another during coupling and uncoupling and are separated from one another.

The object mentioned at the outset is also achieved by a stretch blow molding device which serves to produce plastic containers and which contains at least one coupling device of the structure described above in order to detachably couple a lower mold part of a blow mold with at least one drive unit for opening and closing the blow mold.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this show:

1 a section of a stretched device equipped with at least one coupling device according to the invention preferred construction, one according to section line II 2 extending longitudinal section of the coupling device is shown in the coupled state of its two coupling elements,

2 a plan view of the coupling device 1 looking in the direction of arrow II,

3 an oblique cross-section through the lower coupling part of the coupling device according to section line III-III 1 .

4 an off-center longitudinal section through the coupling device according to section line IV-IV in the region of two in a fluid channel system switched, each having an open position engaging check valves,

5 in turn, a longitudinal section of the coupling device according to section line II 2 , but in the decoupled and a piece axially spaced apart state of the two coupling elements,

6 a cross section through the lower coupling element according to section line VI-VI 5 , and

7 the coupling device in the 5 apparent uncoupled state in an off-center longitudinal section according to section line IV-IV 2 , wherein the check valves assume their closed position.

The 1 and 5 show a section of a suitable for the production of plastic containers stretch blower 1 , wherein this pictured cut-out in solid lines, a coupling device 2 illustrated, for releasably coupling a dashed lower mold part 3 a blow mold 4 with a likewise dashed line drive unit 5 serves.

Inside the blow mold 4 a not further apparent from the drawing cavity is formed, which has a the outer shape of a manufactured plastic hollow body and in particular plastic container predetermining outer contour. In the cavity opens at a suitable location a the wall of the blow mold 4 penetrating Einblaskanal, through which a standing under a high working pressure working fluid, usually compressed air, in the blow mold 4 can be blown to inflate a previously placed in the cavity, consisting of a deformable plastic material preform and to the cavity bounding wall of the blow mold 4 to press. This forming operation may be mechanically assisted by a stretch rod dipping into the preform which causes stretching of the preform.

The blow mold 4 is designed in several parts, so that it can be opened after the molding process to remove the hollow body produced can. In particular, the blow mold contains 4 Here is a mold base 3 that is used to open and close the blow mold 4 an indicated by a double arrow cyclic linear opening and closing movement 6 performs. The opening and closing movement 6 is powered by a drive unit 5 produced, with the mold base 3 is motion coupled and the corresponding, indicated by a double arrow linear, reciprocating stroke movement 7 performs. Both the opening and closing movement 6 as well as the lifting movement 7 run in the axial direction of a dash-dotted line, during operation of the stretch blower 1 usually vertically oriented main axis 8th ,

The lifting movement 7 is for example by a dash-dotted lines indicated guide surface 12 predetermined at which the drive unit 5 by means of, for example, a roller element designed as a follower 13 expires when the blow mold 4 , the coupling device 2 and the drive unit 5 containing blowing unit within the stretch blower 1 an indicated by an arrow feed movement 14 performs. The guide surface 12 is contoured longitudinally so that the lifting movement 7 the drive unit running along it 5 is caused.

The coupling device 2 allows an easily detachable fixed connection between the lower mold part 3 and the drive unit 5 , In this way, the lower mold part 3 in connection with a conversion of the stretch blower 1 replaced very quickly and by a different shape exhibiting mold base 3 be replaced. This is necessary, for example, when on one and the same stretch blower 1 Hollow body to be produced with different shapes.

The coupling device 2 contains two releasably coupling coupling elements, hereinafter referred to as the upper coupling element 15 and lower coupling element 16 be designated. The 1 shows the coupled state, the 5 the uncoupled state of the two coupling elements 15 . 16 , The upper coupling element 15 carries on its top the lower mold part 3 in the manner not shown in detail, but preferably releasably attached to the upper coupling element 15 is fixed, if necessary with the interposition of a dashed line indicated spacer 17 , The lower coupling element 16 is, preferably in a detachable manner, on the drive unit 5 attached. A separation of the two coupling elements 15 . 16 thus automatically causes a separation of the lower mold part 3 from the drive unit 5 ,

In the context of an axis direction of the main axis, indicated by a double arrow and with the axial direction, also referred to below as "axial direction" 8th coinciding relative movement 17 are the two coupling elements 15 . 16 attachable to each other and separable from each other. However, these operations previously require the specification of a certain operating condition of a to the lower coupling element 16 belonging actuator 18 ,

The upper coupling element 15 has an example plate-shaped or disc-shaped upper body 22 , in which in the already described way the lower mold part 3 is fixed. The lower coupling element 16 contains a lower body 23 in which, in the manner described above, the drive unit 5 is fixed.

In the coupled state of the two coupling elements 15 . 16 lie the two main body 22 . 23 facing each other, in the axial direction 8th oriented first and second interface surfaces 24a . 24b to each other. When uncoupling, the upper body 22 under execution of the relative movement 17 linear from the lower main body 23 lifted so that the opposing first and second interface surfaces 24a . 24b remove each other. The 5 shows a decoupled state in which the upper body 22 a piece from the lower body 23 is lifted off, so that the two interface surfaces 24a . 24b under load of a particular gap-shaped gap 25 spaced apart.

In the coupled state of the two coupling elements 15 . 16 lies the upper body 22 with its exemplary down-facing first interface surface 24a at the opposite, upwardly facing second interface surface 24b of the underlying lower body 23 on, so that the two main body 22 . 23 in the axial direction 8th abut each other, wherein they are still to be explained participation of the actuator 18 axially braced together.

The upper coupling element 15 has a first locking body 26 on. This is with respect to the upper body 22 in at least the axial direction 8th fixed in place. Exemplary is the first locking body 26 a respect of the upper body 22 separate component, by means of an upper body 22 from above passing through fastening screw 28 at the bottom of the body 23 facing bottom of the upper body 22 is fixed. The first locking body 26 could also be one with the upper body 22 be a one-piece component.

Conveniently, the first locking body protrudes 26 downwards from the upper body 22 away and thereby stands in the axial direction 8th over the first interface area 24a in front. Preferably, the first locking body 26 formed like a bolt and aligned so that its longitudinal axis parallel to the main axis 8th runs or coincides with this. In principle, this first locking body could 26 be cylindrical. Particularly useful, however, is a shape in the manner of a square bar with the same side lengths, so that according to 3 and 6 gives an at least substantially square cross-section. The first locking body 26 thus has four longitudinally extending side surfaces 32 of which in particular two mutually oppositely oriented and thus diametrically opposite side surfaces 32 a first and second locking surface 33a . 33b with function to be explained later.

Every locking surface 33a . 33b is characterized by a in the axial direction 8th extending toothing 34 out. The gearing 34 is formed according to the type of toothing of a rack and includes a plurality of axially consecutive locking teeth 35 , their respective tooth apex in one to the main axis 8th perpendicular plane. Preferably, the locking teeth 35 designed sawtooth-like and each have a the upper body 22 facing rear tooth flank and one from the upper body 22 groundbreaking front tooth flank, with the rear tooth flank running steeper than the front tooth flank.

In the embodiment, the locking surface extends 33a . 33b in each case only over a partial length of the first locking body 26 , Starting from which the upper body 22 facing away from the front face 36 , In principle, however, would also be up to the upper body 22 sufficient length conceivable.

At the lower body 23 is a second locking body 27 arranged with the first locking body 26 can go into releasable locking engagement to a mediated by the actuator 18 generated axial tensile force 37 on the first locking body 26 exercise, by the on the first locking body 26 attached upper body 22 with the lower body 23 is braced in the manner already mentioned.

The actuator 18 is expediently at least for the most part in the interior of the lower body 23 added. The lower body 23 limits an internal actuation chamber 38 in which a one- or multi-part actuator 42 the actuator 18 is received, in such a way that it in the axial direction 8th relative to the lower body 23 between one out 5 and 6 apparent release order and one off 1 and 3 apparent clamping position is movable. The tensioning movement that takes place to maintain the tensioning position, indicated by an arrow 43 of the actuating means 42 is axially from the upper body 22 directed away. The release movement, also indicated by an arrow, takes place in order to obtain the release position 44 points towards the upper body 22 , The inside of the actuation chamber 38 located components of the actuating means 42 are thus exemplary in the clamping position in the direction of the drive unit 5 further from the second interface surface 24b removed than in the release position.

Conveniently, the actuating means 42 by spring means 45 constantly acted upon in the direction of the clamping position and can be displaced by the spring force counteracting controlled fluid loading, overcoming the spring force in the release position. This results in a safety function to the effect that the clamping position remains without external power supply. The controlled fluid admission occurs from the outside via a into the actuation chamber 38 opening control channel 46 , the outside of the lower body 23 a connection means 47 is assigned, which allows the connection of a fluid line, which is connected with the interposition of a not further illustrated control valve device with a pressure source.

That over the control channel 46 Depending on the need feedable and dischargeable actuating fluid is in particular compressed air. However, other pressurized fluids can also be used.

The concrete realization of the embodiment provides that the actuating means 42 one in the actuation chamber 38 axially movable drive plate 48 comprising the actuating chamber 38 in one of the upper body 22 facing spring receiving chamber 52 and one of the drive unit 5 facing control chamber 53 divided fluid-tight. The drive plate 48 could be designed in the manner of a membrane, which is statically sealing on the outer circumference with the wall of the lower body 23 connected is. Preferably, the drive plate 48 However, as shown formed in the manner of a piston of a working cylinder by means of a arranged on its outer circumference circumferential seal 54 with the peripheral wall of the actuating chamber 38 is in sliding sliding sealing contact. The in the spring receiving chamber 52 arranged spring means 45 , For example, a helical compression spring or a disc spring assembly, based axially on the one hand on the drive plate 48 and on the other hand, at which the actuating chamber 38 at the side of the second interface surface 24b final upper front wall section 55 of the lower body 23 from. The control channel 46 expediently opens at the drive unit 5 facing lower frontal wall section 56 in the control chamber 53 one. For easy installation of the actuator 18 is the lower end wall section 56 suitably formed in the form of a removable cover element.

From the drive plate 48 protrudes, in particular in the central area, for example, a pipe socket similar shaped guide extension 57 upwards away. The guiding process 57 passes through the spring receiving chamber 52 and the adjoining upper end wall section 55 , This is the leadership extension 57 from the peripheral surface of the penetrated by him opening 62 of the upper end wall section 55 supported in the transverse direction and guided axially displaceable. The opening 62 may be defined by an annular insert of the upper end wall portion 55 , which consists of a material with particularly good sliding properties.

The spring means 45 enclose the guidance process 57 expediently coaxial.

The guiding process 57 is hollow and has a central, axial recess 63 attached to the drive plate 48 opposite end face of the guide extension 57 opens. With axial distance to the upper body 22 facing front end face 64 has the central recess 63 within the actuator 42 an annular radial extension which forms a receiving chamber 65 forms. This recording room 65 is of two axially spaced, facing first and second annular surfaces 66a . 66b limited, those of the upper body 22 turned away and consequently in the direction of the axial traction 37 oriented second ring surface 66b a respect to the actuating means 42 stationary support surface 67 forms.

The central recess 63 Has in between itself the front face 64 and the receiving chamber 65 extending front length section 63a expediently one to the first locking body 26 complementary cross-sectional shape - for example, thus substantially square - so that the first locking body 26 axially slidable and expediently at the same time with radial support in the guide extension 57 can dive. Following the receiving chamber 65 sits down the central recess 63 with a rear length section 63b in which the first locking body 26 can dip when passing through the receiving chamber 65 round picks.

The second locking body 27 is advantageously on the actuating means 42 arranged on the actuating means 42 is movably mounted in this regard. In the embodiment, the second locking body 27 in the receiving chamber 65 taken, wherein it is annular and has a central, axially continuous ring opening 68 having. The latter is how particular out 3 and 6 shows, at least substantially complementary to the outer contour of the first locking body 26 contoured so that the first locking body 26 is push-through.

By appropriate mutual coordination of the outer diameter of the annular second locking body 27 and the inner diameter of the receiving chamber 65 can be achieved that the ring opening 68 the preferred loose in the receiving chamber 65 arranged annular second locking body 27 one to the central recess 63 coaxial position can take.

Preferably, the second locking body 27 Disc-shaped flat, so that you could also call it an annular disk.

The support surface 67 is relative to the main axis 8th arranged at right angles inclined plane. It is in particular an inclined surface. The angle of inclination 72 is in 5 indicated. By way of example, this leads to the fact that the receiving chamber 65 has an axial height varying along its circumference, with a minimum height region and a diametrically opposed region of maximum height.

The loose in the receiving chamber 65 arranged second locking body 27 is due to the aforementioned dimensions of the receiving chamber 65 around an imaginary, transverse and in particular perpendicular to the main axis 8th extending axis pivotable or tiltable. In this way he can between one on the support surface 67 adjacent inclination - hereinafter also referred to as "locked position" - and one in this regard, less inclined and especially in one to the main axis 8th arranged at right-angled plane - hereinafter also referred to as "unlocked position" - pivoted or tilted. In the unlocked position, the second locking body 27 at least partially and at least in the area of maximum height of the receiving chamber 65 from the sloping support surface 67 lifted ( 5 ).

To the second locking body 27 easy in the receiving chamber 65 to be able to use, is the leadership extension 57 formed in the embodiment of a plurality of parts and includes one on the drive plate 48 arranged inner longitudinal section 73 and one the front end face 64 having outer length portion 74 , These two lengths are in the embodiment by means of a threaded connection 75 coaxial screwed into each other.

At least one on the one hand on the actuating means 42 supporting spring device 76 on the other hand acts on the second locking body 27 a, so that it is constantly acted upon in the direction of the locked position, which is an example of an inclination. The spring device 76 could be directly on the second locking body 27 Attack, based in the embodiment, however, on a separate, in particular pin-shaped pressing element 77 in turn, in the area of maximum height of the receiving chamber 65 on the from the support surface 67 remote end face of the second locking body 27 acts.

If no other support means are effective, the second locking body 27 thus by the spring device 76 constantly to the support surface 67 pressed.

However, the actuator contains 18 also at least one release link 78 that is capable of the second locking body 27 overcoming the spring force of the spring device 76 to pivot from the locked position to the unlocked position when the actuating means 42 according to arrow 44 in the out 5 and 6 apparent release order is postponed.

The aforementioned release member 78 in particular present in a plurality and distributed around the central recess 63 around at the actuator 42 is arranged - exemplified are three such release members 78 present, each one of the four side surfaces 32 opposite - is capable of acting in the opposite direction as the spring device 76 on the second locking body 27 act. For this purpose, this is at least one release member 78 on the spring device 76 and the pressing element 77 axially opposite top of the second locking body 27 on the actuating means 42 in the axial direction 8th slidably mounted. For example, the actuating means 42 in the area of the guide extension 57 one of the number of release links 78 corresponding number of guide holes 82 have, by the interface surfaces 24a . 24b facing upper side forth in the receiving chamber 65 and in each of which one of the release links 78 is guided axially displaceable.

The release links 78 protrude within the actuation chamber 38 up from the actuator 42 out and towards the upper front wall section 55 , The length of each release link 78 is suitably chosen so that between it and the upper end wall portion 55 a free space 83 remains when the actuating means 42 the clamping position occupies and the release member 78 at the same time at the top of the second locking body 27 is applied.

For attaching or removing the upper coupling element 15 becomes the actuating means 42 by fluid admission of the control chamber 53 according to arrow 44 moved to the release position. At the same time they first encounter the movement of the actuating means 42 participating release members 78 after having the gap 83 have overcome, to a top of the front wall section 55 associated stop surface 84 of the lower body 23 and are thereby prevented from moving on. However, since the actuating means 42 the release movement 44 continues to act, the release links 78 as stop elements for the pivotable second locking body 27 , which causes this second locking body 27 under compression of the spring device 76 in the out 5 apparent unlocked position is pivoted.

In this unlocked position of the second locking body 27 is the ring opening 68 such coaxial with the central recess 63 aligned that now the first locking body 26 unhindered pulled out or can be inserted, depending on whether an upper coupling element 15 should be removed or scheduled.

For coupling an upper coupling element 15 becomes selbiges with its first locking body 26 when positioned in the release position actuator 42 in the central recess 63 of the guiding process 57 inserted, wherein the first locking body 26 Finally, the unlocked position engaging second locking body 27 interspersed. In this way, the two locking surfaces come 33a . 33b each with a longitudinal section within the ring opening 68 to lie.

Subsequently, the actuating means 42 according to arrow 43 shifted into the clamping position, resulting in a pressure relief of the control chamber 53 can be effected. The for the tensioning movement 43 required force is then from the spring means 45 delivered. During the displacement of the actuating means in the clamping position, the second locking body undergoes 27 expediently a two-stage operation.

In the first operating stage, the second locking body 27 by the action of the spring device 76 to the extent of an imaginary, to the main axis 8th right angle pivoted or tilted, as the actuating means 42 from the upper end wall portion 55 away. The reason is that the release links 78 initially continue to the stop surface 84 remain pressed and that of the actuating means 42 traveled axial distance through the relaxing spring device 76 is compensated. At the same time but that portion of the annular second locking body 27 which is in the area of minimum height of the receiving chamber 65 lies, through the opposite section of the support surface 67 acted upon and axially in the clamping direction 43 relocated. This causes a pivoting or tilting of the second locking body 27 in an inclination. During this pivoting process, the second locking body is tilted 27 so to speak with respect to the first locking body 26 He is using his the ring opening 68 delimiting and locking surfaces 33a . 33b opposite edges 85 into the gears 34 the two locking surfaces 33a . 33b intervenes.

In this context, it should be mentioned that the locking surfaces 33a . 33b are arranged so that the one locking surface 33a the area of minimum height of the receiving chamber 65 and the other locking surface 33b the area of maximum height of the receiving chamber 65 assigned.

The edge 85 , which at that peripheral portion of the second locking body 27 is arranged, which by applying by the support surface 67 is pivoted, thus engages in the momentarily adjacent gap between two locking teeth 35 and presses against the steep flank of the drive unit 5 towards upstream locking tooth 35 ,

Upon receipt of the locked position closes as another stage of the tensioning movement 43 a purely linear movement of the second locking body 27 in the clamping direction 43 at. This linear movement results from the fact that the now inclined second locking body 27 completely on the support surface 67 abuts and from this support surface 67 without further pivoting in the clamping direction 43 is pushed axially in front of him.

Due to the simultaneous existing locking engagement with the second locking body 27 , thus experiences the first locking body 26 the already mentioned axial tensile force 37 , which causes the first locking body 26 in the lower coupling element 16 pulled in and thereby the upper body 22 for abutment with the lower body 23 is used. Now the upper body is supported 22 with its first interface 24a under bias on the opposite second interface surface 24b of the lower body 23 from.

To remove the unlocked upper body 22 To facilitate, is the leadership process 57 in the embodiment expediently designed so that its front end face 64 a pushing surface 86 forms during the release movement 44 at the bottom of the upper body 22 comes to the plant before the actuator 42 has reached the release position. Thus, the actuating means pushes 42 with the pushing surface 86 on the upper body 22 and pushes it upwards, taking it to form the gap 25 from the lower main body 23 is lifted.

In the clamping position is the pushing surface 86 with axial distance to the opposite bottom of the upper body 22 arranged. This distance is chosen so large that it from the thrust surface 86 only then is bridged after the second locking body 27 already out of locking engagement with the first locking body 26 stands.

At the first interface 24a are expediently two first fluid channel mouths 87a . 88a arranged, which in the assembled state of the two coupling elements 15 . 16 each one of two second fluid channel mouths 87b . 88b opposite. Each fluid channel mouth 87a . 87b . 88a . 88b communicates with its own, in the assigned basic body 22 . 23 extending fluid channel 89 where these fluid channels 89 define a cooling circuit in the embodiment, through which a fluid coolant can circulate, the cooling of the blow mold 4 is being used. The coolant is at the lower body 23 fed and discharged at the appropriate for this purpose fluid connections 90 are formed, of which in 1 only one is pictured.

Apart from the two pairs of opposing fluid channel mouths 87a . 87b ; 88a . 88b There may also be other comparable pairs of opposing fluid channel openings at the two interface surfaces 24a . 24b to be available.

Every first fluid channel mouth 87a . 88a is a first check valve 91a assigned, every second fluid channel mouth 87b . 88b contains a second check valve 91b , In the out 7 apparent uncoupled state of the coupling elements 15 . 16 are all check valves 91a . 91b closed, so that the subsequent fluid channel 89 contained fluid is included and in the area of the interface surfaces 24a . 24b can not escape.

In the coupled state according to 4 are all check valves 91a . 91b open, so that between the respectively opposite first and second fluid channel mouths 87a . 87b ; 88a . 88b an open fluid connection is present and a fluid transfer is possible. It is particularly advantageous that the opening and closing of the check valves 91a . 91b when in the axial direction 8th Successive mutual removal and attaching the two main body 22 . 23 automatically takes place. Every first check valve 21a acts as an opening actuator for the respective opposite second check valve 91b , and vice versa.

The specific embodiment provides in particular that the first fluid channel mouths 87a . 88a each of a first socket 92a are defined and the second fluid channel mouths 87b . 88b each of a second socket 92b , The first jacks 92a are at the upper body 22 attached and have an outer diameter, the inner diameter of the opposite to the lower body 23 attached second sockets 92b equivalent. The first and second sockets 92a . 92b can thus dive into each other sliding. The arrangement of the sockets 92a . 92b at the two basic bodies 22 . 23 could also be reversed. On the outer circumference of the first socket 92a - Or alternatively on the inner circumference of the second socket 92b - There is a circumferential seal, which is inserted in one another sockets 92a . 92b on the radially adjacent surface of the other socket sealingly comes to rest.

Each check valve 91a . 91b contains one in the assigned socket 92a . 92b arranged valve member 93 that by spring means 94 axially outward into one 7 apparent closed position is biased, in which it is sealed to one of the associated socket 92a . 92b defined valve seat 95 is applied.

Each valve member 93 is axially movable. It can thus by applying a corresponding opening force in a 4 apparent, from the associated valve seat 95 lifted open position.

The opening force is applied to the valve member arranged on the respective one main body 93 by an activating member arranged on the respective other main body 96 exercised. Preferred is each activator 96 directly from one of the valve members 93 formed, and exemplarily from one towards the other check valve 91a . 91b protruding axial projection.

When mating the two coupling elements 15 . 16 meets one activator each 96 a first check valve 91a frontally on an activator 96 the opposite second check valve 91b , so that by this mutual admission, the valve members 93 both check valves 91a . 91b be moved from the previously occupied closed position in the open position.

A special feature is that the sealants 97 arranged so that, with the cooperation of the sealant 97 a sealing contact between the two sockets 92a . 92b at a relative position of the upper and lower body 22 . 23 is possible at the two check valves 91a . 91b take their closed position. This means that when coupling before the mutual opening of the check valves 91a . 91b the sealing contact is made and that when decoupling after closing the two check valves 91a . 91b the sealing contact is canceled. This is achieved in the embodiment by mutual coordination of the length of the activating members 96 and the axial length of the bushings 92a . 92b and the axial position of the sealant 97 ,

The two interface surfaces 24a . 24b can also each have at least one further fluid channel mouth 98a . 98b have, which coupled with coupling elements 15 . 16 communicate with each other and have no check valves. Such fluid channel mouths 98a . 98b may for example belong to compressed air channels of a compressed air system, which is used to produce a manufactured hollow body after opening the blow mold 4 blow.

The 1 further illustrates that at the two interface surfaces 24a . 24b also readily at least one pair of opposing electrical interface means 99a . 99b may be present, which get in and out of engagement with the coupling and decoupling. The electrical interface means 99a . 99b serve for example for producing at least one electrical line connection, in particular for the temperature detection of the blow mold 4 is being used.

It is advantageous that when attaching to each other and separating the two coupling elements 15 . 16 automatically connect or disconnect all fluidic and electrical interfaces.

A particular advantage of the actuator 18 lies in the fact that the entire coupling process, so both the mutual locking of the two locking body 26 . 27 as well as generating the axial tensile force 37 , by only the axial displacement of the actuating means 42 can be caused. This allows very compact dimensions and facilitates the desired automated activation.

Claims (14)

Coupling device for detachably coupling a mold bottom part ( 3 ) a blow mold ( 4 ) of a stretch blow molding apparatus used for the production of plastic containers ( 1 ) with one in operation of the stretch blower ( 1 ) one opening and closing of the blow mold ( 4 ) causing lifting movement ( 7 ) exporting drive unit ( 5 ), with one on the lower mold part ( 3 ) arranged or attachable upper coupling element ( 15 ) and one on the drive unit ( 5 ) arranged or attachable, below the upper coupling element ( 15 ) arranged lower coupling element ( 16 ), wherein the two coupling elements ( 15 . 16 ) in the axial direction one with the direction of the lifting movement ( 7 ) coinciding major axis ( 8th ) axial relative movement can be attached to each other and separated from each other, wherein the upper coupling element ( 15 ) an upper body ( 22 ) and the lower coupling element ( 16 ) a lower body ( 23 ) and wherein these two basic bodies ( 22 . 23 ) in the coupled state of the two coupling elements ( 15 . 16 ) are axially supported against each other and braced with each other, wherein on the upper body ( 22 ) in this respect an axially stationary first locking body ( 26 ) is arranged and on the lower body ( 23 ) a movable in this regard second locking body ( 27 ), and wherein the lower coupling element ( 16 ) an actuating device ( 18 ), one with the second locking body ( 27 ) drivingly cooperating actuating means ( 42 ) axially relative to the lower body ( 23 ) between a release position and a clamping position is movable, wherein in the release position of the second locking body ( 27 ) to enable the attachment and separation of the two coupling elements ( 15 . 16 ) except locking engagement with the first locking body ( 26 ) and in the clamping position of the second locking body ( 27 ) with respect to the actuating means ( 42 ) is supported and in locking engagement with the first locking body ( 26 ), whereby he an axial bracing of the two basic body ( 22 . 23 ) causing tensile force ( 37 ) on the first locking body ( 26 ), characterized in that the second locking body ( 27 ) when moving the actuating means ( 42 ) experiences a two-stage actuation from the release position into the tensioning position, wherein in a first actuation stage it is in the context of a relative to the lower base body ( 23 ) and also relative to the actuating means ( 42 ) occurring pivoting or tilting movement of a not with the first locking body ( 26 ) in lockingly engaged unlocked position in one with the first locking body ( 26 ) is displaced into locking engaged locked position and in a subsequent second operating stage while maintaining the locked position and taking along the first locking body ( 26 ) axially in from the upper body ( 22 ) Wegweisende direction, wherein it is in the clamping position with respect to the actuating means ( 42 ) is axially supported. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that on the outside of the first locking body ( 26 ) at least one plurality of axially consecutive locking teeth ( 35 ) having teeth ( 34 ) is arranged, in which the second locking body ( 27 ) positively engages in the present locking engagement. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second locking body ( 27 ) on the actuating means ( 42 ) is arranged. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first locking body ( 26 ) in the manner of a bolt axially downwards from the upper base body ( 22 ) protrudes and for coupling the two coupling elements ( 15 . 16 ) in the lower body ( 23 immersed). Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the actuating means ( 42 ) an especially designed as a piston, axially movable drive plate ( 48 ), which expediently by spring means ( 45 ) is biased in the clamping position and the one in the lower body ( 23 ) formed control chamber ( 53 ), by the fluid loading he overcoming the spring force of the spring means ( 45 ) is movable in the release position. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the second locking body ( 27 ) is annular and in particular annular disk-shaped and when attaching the two coupling elements ( 15 . 16 ) of the first locking body ( 26 ). Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the second locking body ( 27 ) in a direction transverse to the main axis ( 8th ) extending axis pivotable or tiltable manner on the actuating means ( 42 ), wherein the actuating means ( 42 ) one of the first coupling element ( 15 ) pioneering support surface ( 67 ), on which the second locking body ( 27 ) when taking a with the first locking body ( 26 ) can be supported in locking engaged locked position, wherein on the actuating means ( 42 ) a the second locking body ( 27 ) spring device constantly acting in the direction of the locked position ( 76 ) is arranged, and that at least one of the lower base body ( 23 ) supported or supportable release member ( 78 ), which is present when displacing the actuating means ( 42 ) in the release position locally on the second locking body ( 27 ) and this by overcoming the spring force of the spring device and at least partially lifting off the support surface ( 67 ) in one of the first locking body ( 26 ) unlocked position pivoted or tilted. Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the at least one release member ( 78 ) axially displaceable on the actuating means ( 42 ) and in contact with an axially opposite, fixed with respect to the lower body ( 22 ) arranged stop surface ( 84 ), when the actuating means ( 42 ) is moved to the release position. Apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the support surface ( 67 ) one with respect to the main axis ( 8th ) inclined plane perpendicular surface, such that the second locking body ( 27 ) in the locked position with respect to the main axis ( 8th ) has an oblique orientation. Device according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the second locking body ( 27 ) annular and in particular annular disk-shaped and in a inside of the actuating means ( 42 ) trained receiving chamber ( 65 ) is movably caught, wherein the receiving chamber ( 65 ) Part of an axially extending, to the upper body ( 22 ) open recess ( 63 ) is through which the preferably bolt-like first locking body ( 26 ) in the second locking body ( 27 ) can dive. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at the mutually axially facing interface surfaces ( 24a . 24b ) of the two basic bodies ( 22 . 23 ) at least one pair of opposing fluid channel mouths ( 87a . 87b ; 88a . 88b ) arranged in the basic bodies ( 22 . 23 ) extending fluid channels ( 89 ), wherein the two fluid channel mouths ( 87a . 87b ; 88a . 88b ) at least one pair of fluid channel openings each have a check valve ( 91a . 91b ) associated with uncoupled coupling parts ( 15 . 16 ) is closed and when coupling the coupling parts ( 15 . 16 ) by mechanical interaction with a respective other basic body ( 22 . 23 ) associated activation member ( 96 ) is opened. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that each check valve ( 91a . 91b ) an axially movable valve member ( 93 ) provided by spring means ( 94 ) is biased in a closed position, wherein the activation member ( 96 ) from the valve member ( 93 ) of the respective opposite non-return valve ( 91a . 91b ) is formed, such that the check valves ( 91a . 91b ) can open each other. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that at least one respectively opposite fluid channel mouths ( 87a . 87b ; 88a . 88b ) Sealant ( 97 ) arranged to provide an outwardly sealed fluid connection between the opposing fluid channel ports (US Pat. 87a . 87b ; 88a . 88b ), when the two basic bodies ( 22 . 23 ) occupy a relative position in which all non-return valves ( 91a . 91b ) are closed. Stretch blow molding apparatus for producing plastic containers, having at least one blow mold ( 4 ), which is a mold base ( 3 ), and at least one for opening and closing the blow mold ( 4 ) a lifting movement exporting drive unit ( 5 ), characterized by an equipment with at least one coupling device according to one of claims 1 to 13.

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