DE102018007301A1 - Tool for processing plastic particle material for producing a particle foam component - Google Patents

Abstract

Tool (1) for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component comprising a tool body (2) having a tool cavity (3) defined by a plurality of tool body wall sections (2a-2d) and at least one tool body wall section (2a). 2d) extending in the tool cavity (3) arranged extending or trained energy guide element (5), which is adapted, in operation of the tool (1) energy in a means of the tool (1) processable or processed, in particular in the Werkzeugkavität (3) to introduce existing plastic particulate material and / or dissipate energy from a by means of the tool (1) processable or processed, in particular in the mold cavity (3) located, plastic particulate material.

Description

The invention relates to a tool for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled or large-volume, particle foam component, comprising a tool body having a tool cavity defined by a plurality of tool body wall sections.

Corresponding tools for processing plastic particle material are basically known from the technical field of processing or production of particle foam components in a large number of different designs.

Corresponding tools typically include a tool body having a tool cavity defined by a plurality of tool body wall sections. As part of the intended operation of the tool, the tool cavity is filled with particulate plastic particulate material and at least one measure for connecting the particulate plastic particulate material - typically the measure involves the introduction of thermal energy into the mold cavity - performed. The thermal energy can be purely conductive or convective, d. H. in particular steam-free or steam-free, are introduced so that a steam-free or vaporless foaming is possible.

In particular, the steam-free or vaporless production of large volume or thick-walled particle foam components regularly presents a challenge, as it is difficult to ensure that in the plastic particulate material a sufficient amount of energy, d. H. typically thermal energy is introduced. The problem with the steam-free or vaporless production of large-volume or thick-walled particle foam components with conventional tools is in particular to introduce in relation to the component volume inner regions of the produced particle foam component a sufficient amount of energy, so that (also) take place here, a desired compound of the plastic particle material can.

The invention has for its object to provide a contrast improved tool for processing of particulate plastic particulate material for producing a, in particular large-volume, particle foam component.

The object is achieved by the subject matters of the independent claims, i. H. in particular a tool according to the independent claim 1, solved. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the subject-matter of the independent claims.

The tool described herein serves to process particulate plastic particulate material to produce a particulate foam component, particularly a thick-walled or voluminous one. The tool is correspondingly adapted for the processing of particulate plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled or large-volume, particle foam component.

The plastic particulate material processable by the tool has a particulate structure prior to its processing by means of the tool described herein or as part of the process described herein; the plastic particulate material prior to its processing with the tool described herein, or as part of the process described herein, is therefore typically a plurality of individual, e.g. B. spherical, elongated, in particular rod-shaped, or grist-like Kunststoffpartikelmaterialpartikeln before.

The plastic particle material or corresponding particles can be a not yet expanded plastic particle material or not yet expanded particles, a pre-expanded plastic particle material or pre-expanded particles or a completely expanded plastic particle material or completely expanded particles. For a not yet expanded plastic particle material or corresponding particles as well as for a pre-expanded plastic particle material or corresponding particles, these are typically expandable, ie. H. can be expanded (expanded) in an expansion process. For a completely expanded plastic particle material or corresponding particles, these typically can no longer be (further) expanded. The tool described here is in particular designed for purely conductive or convective, preferably steam-free or vaporless, processing of a completely expanded plastic particle material or corresponding particles.

In particular in connection with a completely expanded plastic material or corresponding particles, an application of pressure or a compression may be necessary or expedient for the compression or connection. A corresponding pressure or compression application can, for. B. tool technology, d. H. z. B. by a movement of a Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts a relative to a second Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts, realized. In particular, the use of a dipping edge tool comes into consideration.

A particle foam component which can be produced by means of the tool can be a partially finished or completely finished product, ie a semi-finished or full-finished product. A partially completed product is typically fed to at least one further processing step. A completely finished product is typically not added to any further processing or processing step.

The tool includes a tool body. The tool body comprises a plurality of tool body wall sections, each of which may form its own tool wall or a section thereof. The tool body wall sections bound or define a tool cavity. The mold cavity can be filled with a plastic particle material which can be processed or processed by means of the tool for producing a particle foam component. The mold cavity can in principle be filled with all plastic particle materials, so that only expanded polystyrene is referred to by way of example.

Individual, several or all tool body wall sections are formed from a thermally conductive material, in particular a thermally conductive metal, so that they can basically serve as energy transmission elements. In particular, the surfaces of respective tool wall sections facing the tool cavity can serve as energy transmission surfaces, via which thermal energy can be introduced into plastic particle material located in the tool cavity.

Individual, several or all of the tool body wall sections can be provided with a plurality of, typically bore-like, openings, via which a negative pressure is generated or a medium resulting from the processing of the plastic particle material, i. H. z. As a gas and / or a liquid can escape. Corresponding openings can also serve to introduce steam, in particular superheated steam, into the tool cavity.

In connection with a resulting in the processing of the plastic particulate material medium, d. H. z. As a gas and / or a liquid, it is generally to be mentioned that such a resulting in the processing of the plastic particulate material medium may also condition or promote an expansion or foaming process. This applies in particular to an expandable plastic particle material or corresponding particles.

As will be seen below, the tool is used for processing plastic particle material, in particular for the production of thick-walled or large-volume particle foam components. In the case of thick-walled or large-volume particle foam components, these are in particular such particle foam components, with a spatial extent in at least one spatial direction of several centimeters or several decimeters, ie. H. in particular a wall thickness of several centimeters or several decimeters. A producible by means of the tool particle foam component can sonach z. B. have a height and / or width and / or depth of several centimeters or several decimeters. In general, the tool is used in particular for, preferably steam-free or vaporless, production of particle foam components in which with common tools the initially mentioned problem is, in relation to the component volume inner regions of the produced particle foam component to introduce a sufficient amount of energy, so (Also) here a desired connection, d. H. in particular a desired sintering or fusion of the plastic particle material can take place.

The tool described herein addresses this problem by means of one or more energy-conducting elements which are set up during operation of the tool. In this case, as will be seen below, in particular thermal energy and / or vibration energy, which can be processed by means of the tool or to be processed, in particular in the mold cavity located to introduce plastic particulate material and / or dissipate energy from a processable by means of the tool or to process, in particular in the mold cavity, plastic particulate material. The energy-carrying properties of the energy-conducting element allow, in particular, a targeted local transfer of energy between the energy-conducting element and a plastic particle material located in the mold cavity. Due to its energy-carrying properties, a corresponding energy-conducting element can therefore generally be referred to or considered as an energy-conducting element.

A corresponding energy-conducting element is arranged or formed projecting from at least one Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt projecting into the Werkzeugkavität. A corresponding energy guide element is thus spatially arranged and aligned to energy, for example in the context of a joining process of the plastic particle material in the tool cavity inducing measure, in relation to the volume of the Werkzeugkavität inner Regions of the mold cavity or based on a component volume of a produced by means of the tool particle foam component to introduce or introduce inner regions of the particle foam component. Similarly, a corresponding energy-conducting element is spatially arranged and designed to apply energy, for example in the context of a cooling process following an appropriate measure, relative to the volume of the mold cavity inner regions of the mold cavity or relative to the component volume of a particle foam component to be produced by means of the tool inner regions of the particle foam component or dissipate. The spatial arrangement and orientation of the energy-conducting element thus enables a targeted local and thus improved energy transfer between the energy-conducting element and a particle foam component to be produced by means of the tool; This applies in particular to the energy transfer between the energy-conducting element and, based on the component volume, inner regions of a plastic particle material to be processed by means of the tool or of a particle foam component to be produced by means of the tool. The term energy transfer includes, as is clear from the above, in particular the targeted local introduction of energy into the mold cavity respectively located in the Werkzeugkavität plastic particulate material and the targeted local removal of energy from the mold cavity respectively located in the Werkzeugkavität plastic particulate material.

A corresponding power-conducting element may be integrally formed (integrally) with a Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt. However, it is also conceivable for a corresponding energy-conducting element to be stably connected as a separate component to a corresponding tool body wall section. In principle, all form-fitting and / or non-positive and / or cohesive connection types come into consideration, so that reference is made, by way of example only, to clamping, clamping, screwing, riveting, welding or adhesive connections.

In order, as described, to be arranged or projecting from a tool body wall section projecting into the tool cavity, a corresponding energy guide element is typically elongated. A corresponding energy-conducting element thus typically has an elongated energy-conducting element body defining a longitudinal axis of the energy-conducting element. The energy guide element body can, for. B. have a length of several centimeters or several decimeters.

The energy guide element body can be used as, for. B. finger-like or -förmiger or pin-like or -förmiger, be formed by a Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt in the Werkzeugkavität extending extension. The concrete shape or, in particular, cross-sectional geometry of the energy-conducting element body is basically freely selectable. The energy guide element body can, for. B. have a rectilinear cylindrical or -shaped shape; However, there are z. B. also at least partially curved or curved shapes and as free forms conceivable.

The dimensions or length dimensions of a corresponding power conducting element, d. H. In particular, the dimensions or length dimensions of a corresponding energy-carrying element body are typically with the proviso of the largest possible energy transfer surface in the means of the tool to be processed located in the mold cavity plastic particulate material, d. H. in particular in the interior of the means of the tool to be processed located in the mold cavity plastic particulate material selected. The dimensions of a corresponding power conducting element, d. H. in particular the length dimensions of the energy-conducting element which define the extension into the tool cavity are therefore selected typically on the basis of the specific dimensions of the tool cavity.

A corresponding energy-conducting element can be designed for a length, width, or depth dimension, in particular defined by the distance between two tool body wall sections arranged opposite one another. H. depending on the arrangement or orientation of the energy guide element a certain length, width or depth, the tool cavity in particular by at least 20%, in particular 20-50%, preferably more than 50%, of the length, width, or depth of the Werkzeugkavität in the Werkzeugkavität be arranged extending or formed. For an exemplary consideration of the cross section of a tool cavity, a corresponding energy guide element for specific dimensions of a tool cavity can extend over the cross section of the tool cavity into the tool cavity by at least 20%, in particular 20-50%, preferably more than 50%. The same applies to an exemplary consideration of the longitudinal section of a tool cavity. Of course, deviations of the stated values upwards or downwards are conceivable, if necessary even significant.

With regard to the spatial arrangement and orientation of a corresponding energy-carrying element fundamentally diverse possibilities are given; the spatial arrangement and orientation a corresponding energy-conducting element is typically to be selected with regard to specific functional and constructive conditions of the tool.

A corresponding energy guide element z. B. from a first Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt projecting in the direction of the first Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt oppositely arranged or formed second Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts extending or formed. second tool body wall portion, d. H. z. B. a second side wall of the tool, arranged to be extending or formed. In particular, a corresponding energy guide element z. B. from a first tool body wall portion abragend up to a first tool body wall portion opposite arranged or formed second Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts be arranged extending or formed. A power-conducting element can therefore be considered or designated as extending at least in sections, possibly completely, between two opposing tool-wall sections through the tool cavity.

Accordingly, a power supply element z. B. from a tool cavity laterally bounding the first tool body wall portion, d. H. z. B. a first side wall of the tool, projecting in the direction of or up to a this opposite arranged or formed the Werkzeugkavität laterally bounding second Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts, d. H. z. B. a second side wall of the tool, arranged to be extending or formed. In an analogous manner, a power conducting element z. B. of a tool cavity bottom-limiting first Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt, d. H. z. B. a bottom wall of the tool, projecting in the direction of or to a this opposite arranged or formed the mold cavity on the ceiling bounding second Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts, d. H. z. B. a top wall of the tool, arranged extending or formed.

In general, a corresponding energy-conducting element can extend into or through the tool cavity parallel to at least one tool body wall section. However, it is also conceivable that a corresponding energy guiding element is not parallel to at least one, d. H. in particular not parallel to a single tool body wall portion into and extends through the Werkzeugkavität; a power supply element can therefore z. B. extend obliquely with respect to at least one Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt into or through the Werkzeugkavität.

A corresponding energy-conducting element can be arranged or formed on or in a tool body wall section which is not movably mounted or on or in a tool body wall section movably mounted relative to at least one further tool body wall section. A movement resulting from the movable mounting of the tool body wall section typically represents a translational movement, in particular a linear movement, along a translation axis. A tool body wall section movably mounted relative to at least one further tool body wall section may, for example, B. between an open position of the tool, in which an accessibility is created in the Werkzeugkavität defining first operating position and a closed position of the tool, in which no accessibility is created in the Werkzeugkavität defining second operating position, be movable.

A movably mounted tool body wall section can be provided with a force-transmitting drive element that can be coupled or coupled with it directly or indirectly (that is to say with the interposition of at least one component), for example by means of a force-transmitting drive element. B. hydraulic, pneumatic, or motor, drive means are assigned, which is set up for generating a tool body wall section in a movement offset movement force.

Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding energy-conducting element can also be movably mounted independently of a corresponding tool body wall section. It is therefore conceivable for a corresponding energy-conducting element to be mounted movably relative to a corresponding tool body wall section on which it is arranged or formed. A movement resulting from the movable mounting of the energy-conducting element typically represents a translational movement, in particular a linear movement, along a translation axis. B. between a first position in which the energy-guiding element extends projecting by a first measure of the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt in the Werkzeugkavität, and at least a second position in which the energy-guiding element by a different from the first measure second measure of the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt projecting in the Werkzeugkavität extends, be movably mounted. The first or second position the energy guiding element may represent a fully retracted into the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt position of the power guiding element, in which the free end of the power guiding element does not protrude or extend into the Werkzeugkavität, so that the mold cavity facing surface of the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts (essentially) is flat; Correspondingly, the respective second or first position of the energy-conducting element can represent an extended position, in which at least the free end of the energy-conducting element protrudes or extends into the tool cavity, so that the surface of the tool body wall section facing the tool cavity opens on account of the tool cavity protruding Energy guide element is not flat.
A corresponding movement of a correspondingly movably mounted energy-conducting element can therefore serve, in particular, to drive the energy-conducting element as far as possible into the interior of the tool cavity, or in the reverse manner, for B. to removal or Entformungszwecken a particle foam component from the Werkzeugkavität, if possible, move out of the interior of the Werkzeugkavität.

For receiving a corresponding movably mounted energy-conducting element, the tool body wall section is typically provided with at least one, e.g. B. hole-like or -shaped, storage section - this may be specifically z. B. act to a tool body wall portion at least partially passing through bearing bore, in which a corresponding energy guide element (typically accurately) is used - equipped, in which the energy-carrying element is movably storable or stored.

A movably mounted energy-conducting element may comprise a force-transmitting drive element which can be coupled or coupled to it directly or indirectly (that is to say with the interposition of at least one component), for example by means of a force-transmitting drive element. B. hydraulic, pneumatic, or motor, drive means are assigned, which is set up for generating a movement of the energy guiding element in a movement movement force.

A corresponding energy-conducting element is typically made of a thermally conductive material, i. H. in particular a thermally conductive metal, or a thermally conductive material structure formed. In particular, thermally conductive materials or material structures are particularly suitable. In this context, it is also conceivable to add thermally conductive particles to the material forming the energy-conducting element in order to set the thermal conductivity or the energy transfer properties to a certain extent.

A corresponding energy-conducting element can have at least one interior which can be filled with at least one energy, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, and can be filled and / or flowed through by at least one energy medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid. By forming a corresponding energy-conducting element with a corresponding interior, the energy-transfer properties of the energy-carrying element - this is, as mentioned, typically already inherently made of a material allowing a certain energy transfer, d. H. z. As a metal, formed - extended or improved, as the energy-conducting element with a leading energy, d. H. z. B. heated to a certain temperature, medium filled or can be flowed through by a medium.

A corresponding interior can, for. B. be designed as a fillable with a corresponding medium reservoir. A corresponding reservoir can, for. B. be formed by a, optionally bore-like or-shaped, recess in the power supply element.

A corresponding interior can, for. B. may also be formed as a flow channel structure comprising at least one flow channel. A corresponding flow channel can, at least in sections, extend along the surface of the energy-conducting element that protrudes into the tool cavity, at least in sections, below a state of the tool that is not filled with a plastic particle material. A corresponding flow channel can thus enable a targeted energy transfer via a surface of the energy-conducting element projecting into the tool cavity. The longitudinal extent of a corresponding flow channel may be rectilinear or nonlinear, d. H. z. B. meandering or -shaped, be. A corresponding flow channel can be permeated with, optionally preheated, gaseous and / or liquid tempering. Of course, corresponding flow channels can also be present in other tool wall sections of the tool.

With the same objective as a corresponding energy-guiding element-side interior, a corresponding energy-conducting element can also be one or more controllable tempering devices, for. B. in the form of controllable electrical heaters or heating elements include, via which (s) depending on the arrangement and orientation thermal energy in the mold cavity insertable or can be discharged from this. A corresponding tempering can be provided in a designated z. B. hole-like or-shaped, receiving space of the power conducting element can be arranged or formed. A corresponding receiving space can be arranged or formed below the surface protruding in the tool cavity, in particular at least in sections, below a state of the tool which is not filled with a plastic particle material. Consequently, a corresponding tempering device can be arranged or formed at least in sections, at least in sections, beneath a surface of the tool not exposed to a plastic particle material and exposed in the tool cavity. Of course, corresponding tempering can also be present in other tool wall sections of the tool.

With the same objective as a corresponding energy-guiding element-side interior, a corresponding energy-conducting element can alternatively or additionally also comprise one or more heat-transfer elements, a heat-pipe, via which thermal energy can be introduced into or removed from the tool cavity, depending on the arrangement and alignment , A corresponding heat transfer element can be provided in a designated z. B. hole-like or-shaped, receiving space of the power conducting element can be arranged or formed. A corresponding receiving space can be arranged or formed below the surface protruding in the tool cavity, in particular at least in sections, below a state of the tool which is not filled with a plastic particle material. Consequently, a corresponding heat transfer element, in particular underneath a surface that is not exposed to a plastic particle material and is exposed in the tool cavity, can be arranged or formed at least in sections along its surface. Of course, corresponding heat transfer elements may also be present in other tool wall sections of the tool.

A corresponding energy conducting element may alternatively or additionally also at least one vibration energy, d. H. in particular, vibration energy, generating vibration generating means, e.g. B. in the form of a sound transducer means, or with at least one vibration or vibration energy generating vibration generating device, for. B. in the form of a sound transducer device, be coupled, in particular such that via the energy guide element vibration or vibration energy in the mold cavity or a plastic cavity located in the mold cavity material material can be introduced. The generation and introduction of corresponding vibration or vibration energy into the tool cavity or a plastic particle material located in the tool cavity can lead to a compaction or pre-compression of the plastic particle material located in the tool cavity. A corresponding compression or precompression of the plastic particle material located in the mold cavity can have a positive effect on the expansion process and the particle foam components that can be produced with the tool. Of course, corresponding vibration generating means may also be present in other tool wall sections of the tool.

The tool can be assigned to a hardware and / or software implemented control device, which is set up to control the amount of energy that can be introduced or discharged into the tool cavity via a corresponding medium or a corresponding temperature control device or a corresponding vibration generating device. A corresponding control device can concretely z. For control, d. H. in particular, modification and / or adaptation of a parameter that is relevant or removable via the respective medium, or for controlling the power consumption of the tempering device or for controlling the power consumption of the vibration generating device. With a corresponding parameter, it may, for. B. to the temperature, pressure and / or the flow characteristics of the medium influencing flow parameters of the medium, such. As the flow rate of the medium act. A corresponding control device can optionally be a component of a device comprising a corresponding tool for processing plastic particle materials for producing particle foam components.

It has been mentioned that the tool body wall sections may be provided with a plurality of, typically bore-shaped, openings. A corresponding energy-conducting element can also have at least one, typically bore-like, orifice, via which a negative pressure is generated or a medium resulting from the processing of the plastic particle material, ie, for example, a gas and / or a liquid, can escape or via which optionally an energy-conducting medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, in particular also steam or superheated steam, can be introduced into the tool cavity via the energy-conducting element or can be removed from the tool cavity via the energy-conducting element. about The energy-conducting element may accordingly be introduced, if appropriate, steam or superheated steam into the interior of the plastic particle material to be processed by means of the tool, located in the mold cavity. If present, a corresponding opening of the energy-conducting element can communicate with a corresponding interior of the energy-conducting element, so that a medium can be introduced from or introduced from the interior via the opening into the tool cavity or a medium from or from the tool cavity via the opening in FIG the interior is removable or insertable.

A corresponding energy-conducting element may be an at least partially additive component, in particular produced by a selective laser melting process. A corresponding energy-conducting element can therefore be produced at least in sections, if appropriate completely, in addition, in particular by a selective laser melting process. The additive production of the energy-conducting element allows a maximum of constructive degrees of freedom with regard to the functional as well as structural design and design of the energy-conducting element. In particular, the additive production of the energy-conducting element allows the greatest possible degree of freedom of design with regard to the design and design of corresponding inner-side or receiving spaces corresponding to the energy-conducting element.

Although the above-mentioned of a power supply element is mentioned, the tool can of course include several corresponding energy guide elements, so apply the above statements in connection with a corresponding energy guide element analogous to several energy guide elements. If the tool comprises a plurality of energy-conducting elements, these may vary in shape, arrangement, orientation and functional features, eg. B. with regard to the provision of at least one corresponding interior, same, similar or different. For example, at least one tool body wall section can be equipped with a plurality of energy guide elements of the same or similar shape, arrangement, orientation and functional equipment or with a plurality of energy guide elements of unequal shape, arrangement, orientation and functional equipment.

The invention relates not only to the tool but also to an apparatus for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component. The device comprises at least one tool as described herein. All versions in connection with the tool are therefore analogous to the device. The device may, in addition to a corresponding tool optionally also include a tool at least partially, in particular completely, surrounding tempering or steam chamber, in which z. B. hot air or steam or hot steam can be generated.

All designs in connection with the tool apply analogously to the device. Conversely, all embodiments in connection with the device apply analogously to the tool.

• - Einbringen wenigstens eines Kunststoffpartikelmaterials bzw. entsprechender Partikel in die Werkzeugkavität des Werkzeugs,
• - Durchführen wenigstens einer einen Verbindungsvorgang des Kunststoffpartikelmaterials in der Werkzeugkavität herbeiführenden Maßnahme, insbesondere durch, bevorzugt dampffreies bzw. dampfloses, Einbringen von thermischer Energie in das Kunststoffpartikelmaterial bzw. in die Werkzeugkavität, unter Ausbildung eines Partikelschaumbauteils,
• - Entnehmen des Partikelschaumbauteils aus der Werkzeugkavität.

In addition to the tool and the device, the invention also relates to a method for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component, using at least one tool as described herein or a device as described herein. All designs in connection with the tool are therefore analogous to the procedure. The method comprises the steps:

• Introducing at least one plastic particle material or corresponding particles into the tool cavity of the tool,
• Carrying out at least one measure which brings about a joining process of the plastic particle material in the tool cavity, in particular by, preferably steam-free or vaporless, introduction of thermal energy into the plastic particle material or into the mold cavity, with the formation of a particle foam component,
• - Remove the particle foam component from the mold cavity.

Under a steam-free or vaporless introduction of thermal energy is alternatively or additionally also an influx of a tempered gas, d. H. z. B. hot air, or a flow through the particulate plastic particulate material to be joined with a tempered gas, d. H. z. As hot air to understand.

All designs in connection with the tool and the device apply analogously to the method. Conversely, all embodiments in connection with the method apply analogously to the tool and the device.

• 1 - 4 jeweils eine Prinzipdarstellung eines Werkzeugs gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel.

The invention is explained in more detail with reference to embodiments in the drawings. Showing:

• 1 - 4 in each case a schematic representation of a tool according to an embodiment.

1 shows a schematic diagram of a tool 1 according to an embodiment in a sectional view. The tool 1 serves for the processing of plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled or large-volume, particle foam component. The tool 1 is arranged according to the processing of plastic particulate material for producing a, in particular thick-walled or large-volume, particle foam component.

The tool 1 includes a tool body 2 , The tool body 2 includes a plurality of tool body wall sections 2a - 2d , which each form a separate tool wall or a section of such. The tool body wall sections 2a - 2d limit or define a tool cavity 3 , Specifically, it is the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitten 2a . 2 B one around the tool cavity 3 laterally delimiting side wall, in the tool body wall portion 2c around the tool cavity 3 bottom side limiting bottom wall and the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2d around the tool cavity 3 ceiling side ceiling wall. The tool cavity 3 can basically with all by means of the tool 1 for the production of a particle foam component processable or to be processed plastic particulate materials are filled, so that reference is made only by way of example to expanded polystyrene. Corresponding plastic particulate materials are typically already expanded plastic particulate materials.

Single, multiple or all tool body wall sections 2a - 2d are optional with a variety of, typically bore-like, -, openings 4 provided, via which generates a negative pressure or a resulting in the processing of the plastic particulate material medium, ie, for example, a gas and / or a liquid can escape.

The tool 1 includes one or more power-conducting elements 5 which are set up, during operation of the tool 1 Energy, this is in particular thermal energy and / or vibration energy, in a means of the tool 1 processable or to be processed in the mold cavity 3 to introduce located plastic particulate material and / or energy from a means of the tool 1 processable or processed in the Werkzeugkavität 3 dissipate located plastic particulate material. The energy-leading properties of the energy-conducting elements 5 in particular allow a targeted local transfer of energy between the power supply element 5 and one in the tool cavity 3 located plastic particulate material, which conditions or supports a connection of the plastic particle material.

A respective energy guide element is apparent 5 from at least one tool body wall section 2a - 2d in the direction of another tool body wall section 2a - 2d ie in the in 1 shown embodiment of the tool body wall portion 2d in the direction of the tool body wall section 2c , protruding into the mold cavity 3 arranged arranged or formed.

It can also be seen a respective energy-conducting element 5 elongated. A respective energy-conducting element 5 thus has a longitudinal axis of the power conducting element 5 defining elongated energy guide element body 6 on. The energy guide element body 6 can z. B. have a length of several centimeters or several decimeters.

Furthermore, a respective energy-conducting element body can be seen 6 as a finger-like or pin-like or -förmiger of a Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2a - 2d into the tool cavity 3 extending extension formed. A respective energy guide element body 6 can z. B. have a rectilinear cylindrical or -shaped shape; however, although not shown, e.g. B. also at least partially curved or arched running forms and as free forms conceivable.

The dimensions or length dimensions of respective energy-conducting elements 5 , ie in particular the dimensions or length dimensions of respective energy guide element body 6 , are typically with the proviso of the largest possible energy transfer surface in the means of the tool 1 to be processed in the mold cavity 3 located plastic particulate material, ie in particular into the interior of the means of the tool 1 to be processed in the mold cavity 3 located plastic particulate material selected. The dimensions of the power supply elements 5 , ie in particular the extension into the tool cavity 3 defining length dimensions of the energy-conducting elements 5 , are therefore typically based on the concrete dimensions of the Werkzeugkavität 3 selected. A respective energy-conducting element 5 can for a, in particular by the distance between two oppositely arranged Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitten 2a - 2d defined, length, width, or depth, ie depending on the arrangement or orientation of the power-conducting element 5 a certain length, width or depth, the tool cavity 3 in particular by at least 20%, in particular 20-50%, preferably more than 50%, of the length, Width or depth of the tool cavity 3 into the tool cavity 3 be arranged extending or formed. For an exemplary view of the cross section of the tool cavity 3 is true that a respective energy guide element 5 , as in 1 shown, preferably by more than 50% over the cross section of the mold cavity 3 into the tool cavity 3 can extend. The same applies to an exemplary consideration of the longitudinal section of the tool cavity 3 ,

A respective energy-conducting element 5 is thus spatially arranged and aligned to energy, such as in a connection process of the plastic particle material in the mold cavity 3 inducing measure, in relation to the volume of the Werkzeugkavität 3 inner areas of the tool cavity 3 or relative to a component volume of a means of the tool 1 Particle foam component produced to introduce or introduce inner regions of the particle foam component. Equally, there is a respective energy guide element 5 spatially arranged and trained to energy, for example in the context of a corresponding measure following cooling process, based on the volume of the Werkzeugkavität 3 inner areas of the tool cavity 3 or relative to the component volume of a means of the tool 1 Particle foam component to be produced or removed from inner regions of the particle foam component. The spatial arrangement and orientation of a respective power-conducting elements 5 thus enables a targeted local and thus improved energy transfer between the respective energy-carrying element 5 and by means of the tool 1 to be processed plastic particle material or a means of the tool 1 particle foam component to be produced; This applies in particular to the energy transfer between the respective energy-carrying element 5 and based on the component volume inner areas of a means of the tool 1 to be processed plastic particle material or a means of the tool 1 Particle foam component to be produced.

In the in 1 The embodiment shown, the energy guide elements 5 at one, as indicated by the double arrow, along a translation axis movably mounted Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2d arranged or formed. The tool body wall section 2d is between an open position of the tool 1 , in which an accessibility in the Werkzeugkavität 3 is created, defining first operating position (upper position, not in 1 shown) and a closed position of the tool 1 , in which no access to the tool cavity 3 is created, defining second operating position (lower position, in 1 shown), movable. The movably mounted tool body wall section 2d is an at least one with this directly or indirectly coupled or coupled force-transmitting drive element 7 comprehensive, z. B. hydraulic, pneumatic, or motor, drive means (not shown) associated, which for generating a Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2d is set up in a movement imparting motive power.

In the in 1 shown embodiment - the same applies to the in the 2 . 3 shown embodiments - extends a respective energy-conducting element 5 parallel to at least one tool body wall section 2a - 2d into or through the tool cavity 3 , It is conceivable, however, as in the in 2 shown embodiment shown by dashed lines, for example, that a power supply element 5 not parallel to at least one, ie in particular not parallel to a single Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2a - 2d , into or through the tool cavity 3 but z. B. obliquely with respect to at least one Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2a - 2d into or through the tool cavity 3 extends.

Based on the in 1 Shown embodiment, it is also apparent that respective energy guide elements 5 a with at least one energy-carrying medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, fillable and / or by at least one energy-carrying medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, flow-through interior 8th can have. By a corresponding optional optional interior 8th can the energy transfer characteristics of the power supply elements 5 - These are typically already from the house of a certain energy transfer permitting material, ie, for example, a metal, formed - extended or improved, as the energy-conducting elements 5 can be filled with an energy-leading, ie B. tempered to a certain temperature, medium or can be flowed through by a medium.

An appropriate interior 8th can, as exemplified by the in 1 middle energy guide element 5 shown, for. B. as a fillable with a corresponding medium reservoir 8a be educated. A corresponding reservoir 8a can z. B. by a, optionally bore-like or-shaped, recess in the power supply element 5 be educated. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding interior 8th as exemplified by the in 1 left power supply element 5 shown, for. B. as at least one flow channel 8b be formed comprehensive flow channel structure. One corresponding flow channel 8b may in particular below a not filled with a plastic particle material state of the tool 1 exposed in the mold cavity 3 protruding surface of the power conducting element 5 along this. A corresponding flow channel 8b can therefore a targeted energy transfer via a in the Werkzeugkavität 3 projecting surface of the energy guide element 5 enable.

In an analogous manner, as exemplified by the in 1 right energy guide element 5 shown, instead of corresponding interiors 8th also in the energy guiding elements 5 integrated controllable tempering devices 9 , z. B. in the form of electrical heaters or heating elements, and / or heat transfer elements 10 , z. B. in the form of heat pipes. A corresponding tempering device 9 or a corresponding heat transfer element 10 can in a designated, z. B. hole-like or-shaped, receiving space (not shown in detail) of the power conducting element 5 be arranged or formed. A corresponding receiving space can in particular be below a state of the tool that is not filled with a plastic particle material 1 exposed in the mold cavity 3 projecting surface, in particular be at least partially along this erstckend, arranged or formed. Consequently, a corresponding tempering device can 9 or a corresponding heat transfer element 10 in particular below a state of the tool not filled with a plastic particle material 1 exposed in the mold cavity 3 projecting surface at least in sections along this ersteckend arranged or formed.

2 shows a schematic diagram of a tool 1 according to another embodiment in a sectional view.

This in 2 shown embodiment is used in particular to exemplify different arrangements, alignments and functional features of power management elements 5 display. With reference to FIG. It can be seen in particular that when the tool 1 several energy guide elements 5 includes, these in shape, arrangement, orientation and functional features, such. B. with regard to the provision of at least one corresponding interior, same, similar or can distinguish. Annex of 2 In particular, it can be seen that a tool body wall section 2a - 2d with several power supply elements 5 the same or similar shape, arrangement, orientation and functional equipment or with multiple power management elements 5 Unequal shape, arrangement, orientation and functional equipment can be equipped.

3 shows a schematic diagram of a tool 1 according to another embodiment in a sectional view.

This in 3 embodiment shown serves in particular to illustrate that a corresponding energy-carrying element 5 independent of a corresponding tool body wall section 2a - 2d relative to a corresponding tool body wall section 2a - 2d , on which this is arranged or formed, can be movably mounted. Based on 3 is particularly apparent that a power supply element 5 between a first position (shown in solid lines), in which the energy-conducting element 5 a first measure of a tool body wall portion 2a - 2d ie, here by way of example the tool body wall section 2c , protruding into the mold cavity 3 extends, and at least one second position (shown in phantom), in which the energy-carrying element 5 by a second measure of the tool body wall portion different from the first dimension 2c protruding into the mold cavity 3 extends, may be movably mounted. The second position of the energy-conducting element 5 may also be a completely in the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2c Retracted position of the energy guide element 5 represent, in which (itself) the free end of the power conducting element 5 not in the mold cavity 3 protrudes or extends, so that the tool cavity 3 facing surface of the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts 2c (essentially) is even; Accordingly, the first position of the power-conducting element 5 an extended position, in which (at least) the free end of the energy-conducting element 5 into the tool cavity 3 protrudes or extends, so that the tool cavity 3 facing surface of the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitts 2c due to getting into the mold cavity 3 abragend extending energy guide element 5 is not even.

The movement of a movably mounted energy-conducting element 5 can therefore serve in particular to the energy-carrying element 5 as far as possible into the interior of the tool cavity 3 to drive in or in the reverse manner, for. B. to removal or Entformungszwecken a particle foam component from the Werkzeugkavität 3 , possibly points from the inside of the tool cavity 3 out down.

For receiving a movably mounted energy-conducting element 5 is the tool body wall portion 2c with at least one, e.g. B. bore-like or -shaped, storage section 11 - This may be z. B. around a Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt 2c act at least partially passing bearing bore, in which the energy-conducting element 5 (exact fit) can be used - equipped, in which the energy-conducting element 5 is movably storable or stored. A movably mounted energy-conducting element is typically a force-transmitting drive element which can be directly or indirectly coupled or coupled to it 12 comprehensive, z. B. hydraulic, pneumatic, or motor, drive means (not shown) associated, which for generating a the energy guiding element 5 is set up in a movement imparting motive power.

4 shows a schematic diagram of a tool 1 according to another embodiment in a sectional view.

This in 4 In particular, the embodiment shown serves to illustrate that a power-conducting element 5 also at least one vibration energy, ie in particular vibration energy, generating vibration generating device 13 , z. B. in the form of a sound transducer means include or with at least one vibration or vibration energy generating vibration generating device 13 , z. B. in the form of a sound transducer device, may be coupled, in particular such that via the power supply element 5 Vibration or vibration energy into the mold cavity 3 or one in the tool cavity 3 befindliches plastic particulate material is introduced. The generation and introduction of appropriate vibration or vibration energy into the mold cavity 3 or one in the tool cavity 3 located plastic particulate material may cause a compression or pre-compression of the in the mold cavity 3 lead plastic particulate material.

As based on 4 can be seen, a corresponding vibration generating device 13 on or in a power-conducting element 5 or on or in a tool body wall section 2a - 2d be arranged or formed. In 4 is an example of an arrangement in the tool body wall portion 2a - 2d shown.

For all embodiments, that the tool 1 may be a hardware and / or software implemented control device 14 can be assigned or assigned, which for controlling the on the medium or the tempering 9 or the vibration generating device 13 into the tool cavity 3 eineinführbaren amount of energy is set up. The control device 14 can concrete z. As for controlling, ie, in particular change and / or adaptation, a relevant over the respective medium or deductible amount of energy relevant parameter or for controlling the power consumption of the temperature control 9 or for controlling the power consumption of the vibration generating device 13 be furnished. With a corresponding parameter, it may, for. B. to the temperature, pressure and / or the flow characteristics of the medium influencing flow parameters of the medium, such. As the flow rate of the medium act.

The control device 14 may optionally be a component of a tool 1 comprehensive, in 1 purely schematically illustrated device 15 for processing plastic particle materials for the production of particle foam components. The device 15 can be next to the tool 1 also a tool 1 at least in sections, in particular completely, surround surrounding tempering or steam chamber (not shown), in which hot air or steam or superheated steam can be generated.

For all exemplary embodiments, it also applies that also respective energy-conducting elements 5 at least one, typically bore-like, openings 14 - exemplary in 2 for from the tool body wall portion 2a protruding into the mold cavity 3 extending energy guide element 5 can show - over which generates a negative pressure or a resulting in the processing of the plastic particulate material, ie, for example, a gas and / or liquid, and / or via which an energy-conducting medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, in particular steam or superheated steam, via a power-conducting element 5 into the tool cavity 3 insertable or out of the mold cavity 3 is deductible. If available, appropriate openings 14 a power conducting element 5 with a corresponding interior 8th of the power conducting element 5 communicate, so that a medium from or from the interior 8th over the openings 14 into the tool cavity 3 removable or insertable or a medium from or from the Werkzeugkavität 3 over the openings 14 in the interior 8th can be imported or imported.

Furthermore, for all embodiments that a respective energy guide element 5 an at least partially additive, in particular by a selective laser melting process, manufactured component can be. A respective energy-conducting element 5 Accordingly, it can be produced at least in sections, if appropriate completely, additively, in particular by a selective laser melting process.

• - Einbringen wenigstens eines Kunststoffpartikelmaterials in die Werkzeugkavität 3 des Werkzeugs 1,
• - Durchführen wenigstens einer einen Verbindungsvorgang des Kunststoffpartikelmaterials in der Werkzeugkavität 3 herbeiführenden Maßnahme, insbesondere durch, bevorzugt dampffreies bzw. dampfloses, Einbringen von thermischer Energie in das Kunststoffpartikelmaterial bzw. in die Werkzeugkavität 3, unter Ausbildung eines Partikelschaumbauteils,
• - Entnehmen des Partikelschaumbauteils aus der Werkzeugkavität 3.

With the embodiments shown in the figures shown tools 1 For example, a method for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component can be implemented. The method comprises the steps:

• - Introducing at least one plastic particle material in the mold cavity 3 of the tool 1 .
• - Performing at least one connection operation of the plastic particle material in the mold cavity 3 inducing measure, in particular by, preferably steam-free or vaporless, introducing thermal energy into the plastic particle material or in the Werkzeugkavität 3 , forming a particle foam component,
• - Remove the particle foam component from the mold cavity 3 ,

Claims (15)

Tool (1) for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component, comprising a tool body (2) having a tool cavity (3) delimited by a plurality of tool body wall sections (2a-2d), and at least one tool body wall section (2a). 2d) extending in the tool cavity (3) arranged extending or trained energy guide element (5), which is adapted, in operation of the tool (1) energy in a means of the tool (1) processable or processed, in particular in the Werkzeugkavität (3) to introduce befindliches plastic particulate material and / or energy from a by means of the tool (1) processable or processed, in particular in the Werkzeugkavität (3) located plastic particle material dissipate, characterized in that the at least one energy guide element (5) relative to the tool body wall section (2 a - 2 d), in particular between a first position in which the energy guiding element (5) by a first measure from the Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt (2 a - 2 d) protruding into the Werkzeugkavität (3) extends, and at least one second position, in which the energy-conducting element (5) extends movably in the tool cavity (3) so as to project from the tool body wall section (2a-2d) so as to be different from the first measure. Tool after Claim 1 , characterized in that the energy-conducting element (5) is arranged extending or formed extending from a first tool body wall section (2a-2d) in the direction of a second tool body wall section (2a-2d) arranged opposite or opposite the first tool body wall section (2a-2d). Tool after Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) is arranged or formed on or in a non-movably mounted tool body wall section (2a-2d) or the at least one energy-conducting element (5) on or in one, in particular between an open position of the tool (1), in which an accessibility in the Werkzeugkavität (3) is created, defining the first operating position and a closed position of the tool (1), in which no access to the Werkzeugkavität (3) is created, defining the second operating position, movably mounted Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitt (2a - 2d) is arranged or formed. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy guiding element (5) for a, in particular by the distance between two oppositely arranged Werkzeugkörperwandungsabschnitten (2a - 2d) defined, length, width, or depth of Werkzeugkavität ( 3) in particular by at least 20%, in particular 20-50%, preferably more than 50%, of the length, width, or depth dimension of the Werkzeugkavität (3) in the Werkzeugkavität (3) arranged extending or is formed. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) at least one with at least one energy-carrying medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, fillable interior space (8) and / or at least one of at least one energy having leading medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid, permeable interior (8). Tool after Claim 5 , characterized in that the interior space (8) is designed as a reservoir (8a) which can be filled with a medium. Tool after Claim 5 or 6 , characterized in that the inner space (8) as an at least one, in particular below a not filled with a plastic particle material state of the tool (1) exposed in the Werkzeugkavität (3) surface at least partially along this ersteckenden, flow channel (8b) comprehensive flow channel structure is formed. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) comprises at least one, in particular integrable or integrated, controllable tempering device (9), in particular in the form of an electric heater. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) comprises at least one heat transfer element (10), in particular a heat pipe, via which energy can be introduced into the tool cavity (3) or can be discharged therefrom. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) comprises at least one vibration energy, in particular vibration energy, generating vibration generating device (13) or is coupled to at least one vibration generating device (13) generating vibration energy, in particular such that via the Energy guide element (5) vibration energy in a in the Werkzeugkavität (3) befindliches plastic particulate material is introduced. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy guide element (5) at least one, in particular with a corresponding interior (8) of the power-conducting element (5) communicating, opening (14), via which an energy-conducting medium, in particular a gas and / or a liquid can be introduced into the tool cavity (3) via the energy-conducting element (5) or can be removed from the tool cavity (3) via the energy-conducting element (5). Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) is formed from a thermally conductive material, in particular a thermally conductive metal, and / or a thermally conductive material structure. Tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one energy-conducting element (5) is an at least partially additive component, in particular produced by a selective laser melting process. Device (15) for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component, comprising at least one tool (1) according to one of the preceding claims. Method for processing plastic particle material for producing a, in particular thick-walled, particle foam component, using at least one tool (1) according to one of the Claims 1 to 13 or a device (15) Claim 14 characterized by the steps: - introducing at least one plastic particle material into the tool cavity (3) of the tool (1), - performing at least one joining process of the plastic particle material in the tool cavity (3) causing measure, in particular by, preferably steam-free or vaporless, introduction of thermal energy in the plastic particle material, forming a particle foam component, - removing the particle foam component from the mold cavity (3).

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