DE19906369C1 - Fully automatic pressure injection molding of plastic parts, adds one of many possible types of ultimately functionless fastenings solely assisting assembly for packing and transport - Google Patents

Abstract

The pressure injection molded parts (12) do not stack (readily or securely). During injection, additional, otherwise non-functional fastenings (80, 84) are added, with the aid of which, the parts are joined together, forming transport- or packing units (70, 72). An Independent claim is included for equipment making the parts, based on fully automated pressure injection molding. Preferred features: Parts are stacked into blocks. They are edge-joined, forming areas or strips of parts. They are joined by the handling tools. Detachment requires sufficient force. They are directly fastened together, or by a common means of connection. Separation causes no damage. It may require e.g. cutting, tearing or breaking. The connection itself may be detachable. Fastenings comprise molded-on edge clips. Fastenings can be a press fit together. Further variations and developments based on the foregoing principles are elaborated. Features noted include after-formation of fastenings by stamping, and inclusion of spacers.

Description

The present invention relates to a method for producing plastic parts, comprising the steps:

• - Forming the plastic parts in a mold cavity Molding tool,
• - De-molding the plastic parts from the mold cavity with Using a gripping tool and
• - Put the plastic parts together by themselves easy-to-handle and manageable transport and packaging units.

The invention further relates to a device for the manufacture making plastic parts, using a mold with at at least one mold cavity for molding plastic parts, with a gripping tool for demolding the plastic parts from the Mold cavity and with means for assembling art fabric parts for transport or packaging units.

Finally, the invention also relates to injection molding manufactured, not stackable plastic part.

A method and a device of this type and accordingly Chend manufactured plastic parts are from DE 34 39 660 C2 known.

In this document, a removal device for warmge shaped, hollow and edged, d. H. from home described stackable objects made of plastic. Descriptive spoken these are mainly plastic cups or others too at least cup-shaped plastic parts. These are due to ih Form can be stacked directly one inside the other. The production of such Cup or more generally such hollow molded plastic parts usually done by deep drawing. Here is a flat sheet fed film with the help of two against each other working tool halves, one of which has a mold cavity and the other has a complementary stamp, drawn into the desired shape.

With the removal device according to DE 34 39 660 C2 can the plastic parts produced then from the mold cavity taken, d. H. be demolded. Then the ent taken parts with the help of a gripping tool between Füh  The guide rails or bars are stacked together. The hereby assembled transport or packaging unit are comparable when it comes to further processing or packaging wise easy and uncomplicated to use.

However, the known method has the disadvantage that it not for the production of any shaped plastic parts is reversible. For example, plastic parts that have a com have a more complex shape, not manufactured by deep drawing the. On the other hand, many non-cup-shaped plastics are missing share the property of being stuck together in stable stacks to be able to.

An example of this is the manufacture of disposable cutlery, d. H. Knives, fork and spoons made of plastic. Another Examples are cable ties or closure elements for with Ge soak filled cardboard packaging, generally speaking Tei le, which are processed in an automated system that can. Such parts are usually injection molded process and they are functional due to their contingent form not in stable, self-holding sta stick together.

The manufacture of such plastic parts happens today usually so that the parts after the injection molding process ejected from the mold cavity of the mold and then fall as loose parts into a container. Last In the simplest case, teres is a simple transport container or transport bag. This is the usual procedure for producing such plastic parts, however, has the Disadvantage that the Trans  port or packaging units relatively bulky and unwieldy are. There is also an elongated shape Parts such as the one-way cutlery set risk that disordered parts during further processing or break during transport or otherwise damaged. The further treatment as loose bulk material is one way are not particularly hygienic.

Another disadvantage in the production of plastic parts such as disposable cutlery or cable ties is that such parts usually in packaging units of 50, 100 or even 1,000 pieces are offered. The manufactured plastic parts must accordingly to transport or packaging units with these "round" numbers. Injection molding machines for the production of such quantities of Plastic parts usually do not have only one shape cavity, but several arranged side by side Mold cavities in a common injection molding process be filled at the same time. For constructional reasons, especially al lem to achieve an even distribution of art Melting materials have multiples of four, in particular Numbers of 12, 16, 24 or 48 mold cavities per tool naturalized. How easy it is to understand is evident this leads to difficulties when using such a spray casting machine then manufactured in plastic parts Transport or packaging units of 50, 100 or 1,000 Pieces should be put together because these numbers not divisible by the number of mold cavities are. The assembly of the plastic parts for the transport or packaging units is always with an additional Chen effort connected.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method to specify the type mentioned with the plastic parts any shape regardless of its shape for transport or Packaging units can be put together, the other hand is easy and uncomplicated. It is beyond that Object of the present invention, a corresponding ago to indicate direction.

This task is carried out with regard to the procedure mentioned at the beginning rens solved by

• - That the plastic parts preferably do not stack themselves are cash;
• - That the plastic parts ge by an injection molding process be shaped
• - That when injection molding additional for the plastic parts lanyards not required as intended to the Plastic parts are provided, and
• - That the plastic parts with the help of the additional connection means of transport or packaging units be put together.

The task is with respect to the Vorrich mentioned tion solved in that the mold is an injection molding machine The test for non-stackable parts is that the mold hollow space elements for the formation of additional, for art connecting parts not required as intended has on the plastic parts and that means are provided  are to the plastic parts with the help of the additional connector means to the transport or packaging units together add.

A plastic part produced accordingly is thereby characterized that there is additional, for the plastic part has connecting means that are not required as intended, the additional connecting means being designed in this way are that the plastic parts by means of the connecting means too self-holding and manageable transport or Packaging units can be joined together.

The term "additional connection means" are in the In the present case, any connection means such as clips, catches or snap connections, the accepted or also actual absence in the event that after the Injection molding are separated from the plastic part that intended function of the plastic parts produced impaired. It follows that the verb additional and independent of the intended Main function of the plastic parts to be cast on them. Nevertheless, it is possible to use such an additional connection in the shape of the plastic parts integrate like this in an outlined below example is shown.

With the help of the additional connecting means it is possible the plastic parts produced regardless of their shape put together in stable stacks. Such stacks, in which the plastic parts then inevitably in a defined position and position are arranged to each other,  are comparatively simple and easy to use complicated because they are stable and do not come apart on their own can fall. Furthermore, due to the defined Po sition and position of the plastic parts a subsequent automat further processing simplified. Beyond that it is due to the fact that the plastic parts by a Injection molding can be molded, possible, most diverse and to produce complex shaped plastic parts. So that is task completely solved.

The inventive method and the corresponding Vor direction also have the advantage that the so manufactured plastic parts when they are to the invention according to transport or packaging units are much better protected against damage than in the event that the plastic parts are disorganized and loose be melted. Another advantage is that the plastic parts in the transport or ver Packing units are packaged very simply and automatically that can, for example, be sealed in a film can. This is particularly in the production of Disposable cutlery improves hygiene. It is also very much so simple way possible, with disposable cutlery related Assemble sets of knife, fork and spoon.

In a development of the method according to the invention the plastic parts are stacked into blocks.

This measure has the advantage that for subsequent transport or packaging purposes particularly compact groups of art fabric parts are created.  

In an alternative development, the plastic parts put together in such a way that they form surfaces or strips of art form fabric parts.

This measure has the advantage that the plastic parts despite their mutual connection in the following processing levels can be reached individually.

It is also preferred if the plastic parts by means of Gripping tool can be assembled.

This measure has the advantage that the assembly in one Take place with the removal from the mold can, so that both structural devices and time ge be saved.

It is particularly preferred if the plastic parts together be added that after assembly they can only be opened bring a predetermined separation force are detachable from each other.

This measure has the advantage that the transport or packaging units a subsequent, also automated Processing or processing can be subjected NEN, in each of the following processes agreed separation force must be applied to the merged added parts again.

In one embodiment of the method according to the invention the plastic parts fastened together.  

This has the advantage that additional support elements and the like can be dispensed with, whereby the material effort is reduced.

In an alternative embodiment, the plastic parts attached to a common connecting means.

This measure has the advantage that transport or Ver pack units in one of the form of the individual art Substance parts largely independent, standardized type and Ways can be put together. So it is special ders simple way possible, plastic parts of various shapes in one and the same transport or packaging unit add.

In a further embodiment, the plastic parts are broken up detachably assembled, but is also an alternative possible, the plastic parts by material destruction, esp especially by cutting, tearing or breaking, releasably to each other to fix.

These are measures on the basis of which the optimal connection possibility can be realized in each case.

Regardless of how the parts are attached to each other can the plastic parts by means of so-called lost Ver binders, which in turn are linked by the plastic parts are detachable.

This measure has the advantage that the plastic part circuit finally available again without any lanyard  stands in the course of processing the plastic part completely detached and disposed of separately or reused becomes. The measure is particularly advantageous, but not al limited to when the plastic parts become surfaces or strips are put together, for example with the help of carrier strips.

According to a further embodiment of the Ver are additional clips on one Molded outer contour of the plastic parts, and the plastic parts are put together by joining the clips.

Accordingly, a plastic part according to the invention is there characterized in that the additional connecting means Include clips that are on at least one side over an outside protrude the contour of the plastic part.

The term "clip" includes all types below of connecting means, the mutual assembly of which one allows firm connection between the plastic parts. The Clips can include snaps that snap together when you join them snapping. Alternatively, the clips can be two to one another, for example include complementary mold sections when assembling be positively interlocked. Due to the fact, that the clips on an outer contour of the plastic parts angegos sen, it is possible to go through the individual plastic parts easy to separate the clips. Hereby is a particularly simple, automated assembly and Possible to detach the plastic parts. Furthermore, the Measure due to the outside attached clips the advantage that at any time even with complex shaped plastic parts  it is easy to see whether it is adjacent to them plastic parts are joined together or not.

In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention rens are the plastic parts together with a press fit the attached.

With a corresponding plastic part, they include additional connecting means at least two complete mental form sections that are on opposite sides th of the plastic part are formed.

This measure has the advantage that the individual art This makes it very easy to fix fabric parts with a certain pressure are stackable on top of each other and at the same time simple Pull apart are also detachable from each other. About that In addition, the measure has the advantage that an interference fit very good in the shape of the plastic parts to be manufactured is integrable, which makes the appearance and the actual Function of the plastic parts only slightly or not at all compared to similar parts without additional connecting means is changed.

In a further embodiment of the measure mentioned above are the complementary shape sections in the shape of the Integrated plastic part.

This measure has the advantage indicated above, that the additional connecting means in the invention Plastic part not in disadvantageous or cumbersome white appear. For example, with a disposable  This puts the risk of injury to additional ones protruding edges avoided.

In a further embodiment of the art according to the invention part of the fabric, the additional connecting means contain one Spacers.

This measure has the advantage that the individual art fabric parts when assembling according to the invention in a ent speaking distance from each other. This works is particularly advantageous when the plastic part le in itself have a shape that does not stack up allowed, as is the case, for example, with strongly protruding edges or Corners is the case. The measure thus has the advantage that also such unfavorably shaped plastic parts according to the Invention according to the corresponding method to form stable stacks can be added.

In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention rens are one for each selected plastic part Series of plastic parts the additional lanyard at least one side made inoperative, so that the selected te plastic part when assembled with a previous one or subsequent plastic part of the series remains unconnected.

A corresponding embodiment of the invention direction is that it continues to have means to the additional connecting means of selected plastic parts to make it inoperable.  

The measure mentioned has the advantage that this Assemble the plastic parts in any number is much easier. In addition, it does this also possible on a plastic part recognized as defective easy way to sort out. Background of the measure mentioned Assumption is that it is comparatively easy to do that additional connecting means of a selected plastic part targeted and individual deactivation. With a press fit this can happen, for example, by one of the two being together other complementary shape sections of the selected art is expanded with a stamp. This will then the press fit with the complementary one Prevented molding section of another plastic part. It ver stands here that the additional connecting means of selected plastic part only in one direction, d. H. a be made inoperative if the reason for this The procedure is to start a new stack of plastic parts nen. In contrast, to sort out a faulty Plastic part, the lanyard works in every direction made onslos so that this selected plastic part then cannot be joined together with any other plastic part.

In one embodiment of the measure mentioned above, the additional connecting means in the Ver drive after the injection molding of the selected plastic partly separated.

This measure is particularly advantageous if as an additional Lanyard used the clips explained above become. For this reason, they are preferably with a Target breaking point on the manufactured plastic parts angegos  sen. This makes it particularly easy to do that additional connecting means on the selected plastic part to make it inoperable.

In an alternative embodiment of the measure mentioned above me are the additional lanyards after the spray pour the selected plastic part with a stamp forms.

This measure is particularly advantageous if the additional Lanyards include an interference fit. In this case it is particularly easy to do this by deforming to make it inoperable with a stamp.

It is particularly preferred in the context of the present invention dung, the additional connecting means for guiding art to use fabric parts. This can be done either that the plastic parts ge individually on the connecting means leads, but is particularly preferred if the additional union means for guiding the plastic part len combined transport and packaging units be applied.

In this way, another essential advantage of the Er finding reached. The invention relates to how has already been mentioned, on parts that do not stack naturally are bar, especially those parts that have an outer che irregular surface. Such parts are however difficult to handle from home, since they are not defi own guide surfaces or guide edges. One does therefore in the above-mentioned embodiments  the invention takes advantage of the fact that the plastic anyway part must be provided with a connecting element that for the normal determination of the plastic part per se is not necessary is agile. This connection means or connection element can therefore be designed so that it is not just the function of connection, but also performs the function of leadership, if the lanyard with appropriate surfaces or Kan ten is provided. This is especially true if lost Lanyards are used, which ultimately on ver used plastic part are no longer available.

If the plastic part z. B. a closure element for with Ge soak filled carton packaging, so can a stack this closure elements on the connecting means between these closure elements in an automated filling system are used, the closure elements as a package in common sam transported and then separated. A handling device can then the individual closure element on the connector Detect means in a defined orientation and position and inside the bottling plant to seal the drink Use filled cardboard packaging. The lanyard can then remain on or off the closure element also be separated.

It is further preferred if the plastic parts by means of a holder that enables package formation the.

This measure has the advantage that, in particular, in turn very irregularly shaped plastic parts by the holder a defined stacking of the plastic parts, d. H. a defi  niert packet-wise alignment to each other in the least possible Distance is reached.

For this purpose, the plastic parts such. B. by means of spacers spaced apart.

The method according to the invention can be used for a large number of different plastic parts are used. Generally ge spoken it is preferably those parts that in egg an automated system can be further processed, for example the closure elements explained above for with Ge soak filled cardboard packaging.

Further preferred application examples of the invention Process consist in the production of disposable cutlery or of cable ties.

In further embodiments of the method according to the invention the assembled transport or packaging unit packaged after assembly. It is particularly advantageous if the plastic parts are packed sterile, which z. B. is particularly advantageous in the case of disposable cutlery. At be special applications, especially for components for the Semiconductor industry, it can be advantageously provided who for plastic parts under clean room conditions or for Pack clean room conditions, d. H. with extreme demands cleanliness or absence of dirt particles.

It is understood that the above and the following standing features to be explained not only in each specified combination, but also in other combinations  or can be used alone, without the scope of to leave the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention are in the drawing are shown and are described in more detail in the following description explained. Show it:

Fig. 1 a stack of disposable spoon according to the invention,

Fig. 2 shows a stack cable tie according to the invention,

Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of a erfindungsge MAESSEN device,

Fig. 4 shows a detail from the stack of disposable spoon of FIG. 1 taken along section line IV-IV,

Fig. 5a-c process steps with which the additional connecting means in a disposable spoon of FIG. 4 are made inoperative,

Fig. 6 a stack of disposable spoon similar to that in Fig. 4 in an alternative embodiment,

Fig. 7a-c of method steps for Funktionslosmachen to sätzlichen connecting means at a Einweglöf fel shown in FIG. 6,

Figure is a schematic representation of the inventive SEN process step, are joined with the plastic parts with the aid of clips. 8,

Fig. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the method step according to Fig. 8 and

Fig. 10 shows another embodiment of a put together transport or packaging unit.

In Fig. 1, a stack of disposable spoons is designated in its entirety with the reference number 10 . In the disposable spoons 10 it is - like the other plastic parts mentioned below - within the scope of the present application for parts that are not inherently stackable in such a way that they can form cohesive, manageable blocks. To this extent, spoons are parts that can be stacked in the sense that they can be packed tightly together; However, manageable stacks do not arise because standard spoons are only loosely packed together in a tight package. Otherwise, within the scope of the present invention, these are preferably parts which can be further processed in automated systems.

The stack 10 consists of a total of 50 disposable spoons 12 which have been produced in an injection molding process by the method according to the invention and have then been joined together with the aid of the additional connecting means which are described in more detail below. Under "stack" is, as already indicated, an overall manageable unit, in which the elements (spoons) are assembled in such a way that they do not fall apart, but rather can only be detached from one another again by applying a predetermined separating force.

A stack of cable ties known per se is designated in its entirety in FIG. 2 by the reference number 14 . The stack 14 in this case comprises five cable ties 16th However, it is understood that the stack 14 may include any larger number of cable ties 16 .

With the reference numeral 18 additional connecting means be characterized, which in the present case consist of a pin 20 and egg ner recess 22 . In the context of the present invention, “connecting means” are to be understood as elements that are not necessary for the part in question (spoon) after its determination. So these parts differ with their connecting means z. B. from cups, which are stackable from the bar, ie, are bindable with each other by their intended shape. The pin 20 and the recess 22 are arranged on another opposite side of each cable tie 16 . As can easily be seen from the illustration, the individual cable ties 16 are joined together to form the stack 14 by placing them on top of one another with a certain pressure in such a way that the pin 20 of the respective lower cable tie 16 is placed in the recess 22 in the recess on it Cable binders 24 engages. The pin 20 and the recess 22 bil the press fit, through which the cable ties 16 , 24 on the one hand and on the other hand still releasably attached to each other.

The connecting means can be - as exemplified above wrote - make a non-destructive detachable connection  len. The connection can also be caused by material destruction be solvable, in particular by cutting, tearing or breaking.

In both cases you can use "lost" lanyards zen, d. H. Lanyards with the parts in turn are also releasably connected, so that in the end they are completely can be removed, i.e. on the parts detached from each other no longer exist.

The connecting means can also have another function exercise a leadership role. This is especially true in such plastic parts, the geometrically largely unde are finished, e.g. B. spoon, and therefore difficult to handle in itself are cash. The connecting means can therefore in the individual Part or, in particular, also in the case of the stacked package improve availability or make it possible in the first place. Below is picking up, moving in rails, feeding, that Packaging, general further operations, printing, the Painting, labeling, metallizing, all in all understand an automatic processing.

In Fig. 3, a device according to the invention is designated in its entirety with the reference numeral 30 . The device 30 has a mold cavity 32 which is formed by the mold halves 34 , 36 of an injection molding machine which is only schematically indicated here. The tool half 36 can be moved under the control of a control unit 38 in the direction of the arrow 40 , where the mold cavity 32 opens and closes. In the operating state produced in FIG. 3, the mold cavity 32 is open.

The reference numeral 44 denotes a gripping tool, which can also be moved under the control of the control unit 38 in the direction of arrow 46 between the tool halves 34 , 36, who can remove a plastic part 48 produced from the mold cavity 32 .

According to the mold cavity 32 has elements 52 , 54 which are arranged in the present case on the two tool halves 34 , 36 and which are suitable for training additional connecting means 56 on the plastic parts 48 to be produced.

The reference numeral 60 designates a stamp which, if under the control of the control unit 38, can be moved in the direction of the arrow 62 . With the help of the stamp 60 , it is possible to make the additional connecting means 56 of selected plastic parts 48 functionally deliberately in order to prevent their joining together with a preceding and / or a subsequent plastic part.

In operation of the device 30 , the removed plastic parts 48 are assembled according to the inventive method by the gripping tool 44 with the help of additional Verbindungsmit tel 56 to the stack 10 . The stack 10 thus forms a transport or packaging unit consisting of the plastic parts produced, in this case, the spoon away. The gripping tool 44 can alternatively only remove the plastic parts 48 and then transfer them to a separate stacking station, where they are joined together.

It goes without saying that the gripping tool 44 can deviate from the schematic illustration shown here also consist of several individual components and that the plastic part 48 can be passed from one component to another when removed from the mold cavity 32 and placed on the stack 10 . This can include that the plastic part 48 after its removal from the mold cavity 32 is held in different positions and transferred before it is placed on the stack 10 . For the implementation of the method according to the invention, it is only important that the plastic part 48 is always held in a position defined in such a way that it is reliably joined to the plastic parts already in the stack 10 with the aid of the additional connecting means 56 . It is also not absolutely necessary that the plastic part 48 is always held by a gripper of the gripping tool 44 . Rather, it is also possible that the plastic part 48 is transported on its way from the mold cavity 32 to the stack 10 by a conveyor belt not shown here. A corresponding exemplary embodiment is explained below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

As already mentioned, the method according to the invention can preferably used to manufacture parts that are used in an automated system can be further processed. In the context of the present description, disposable loops are used fel and cable ties mentioned as examples, the invention is however, in no way limited to these examples. So can e.g. B. also closure elements within the scope of the present invention be treated, especially such closure elements, used for cardboard packaging filled with drinks  become. These parts are inherently very irregular forms and therefore difficult to handle, so that the already be written management function of the lanyards here Role play.

It is still within the scope of the present invention pulls when the plastic parts are packed after assembling are, as is not shown in the drawing. The Packaging can be done under sterile conditions, what e.g. B. is useful with disposable cutlery. For even higher sow Requirements can also be met under clean room conditions be packed.

In the illustration in FIG. 4, the stack 10 of disposable spoons 12 is divided into an upper stack 70 and a lower stack 72 on the basis of the measures explained below. The two stacks 70 , 72 lie on top of one another, but they are not firmly connected to one another. The reason for this is that the additional connecting means of the bottom spoon 74 of the top stack 70 on the underside have been made inoperative, so that the bottom spoon 74 is not firmly connected to the top spoon 76 of the bottom stack 72 . For reasons of clarity, only the two mentioned spoons 74 , 76 with the hatching customary for a cross-sectional view are shown in the present illustration.

Each of the spoons 12 and 74 , 76 has a recess 80 on its upper side 78 . In contrast, a pin 84 is arranged on the underside 82 of each spoon 12 or 74 , 76 .

The pin 86 of the spoon 74 is, as shown by the method steps in FIGS. 5a to 5c, expanded with a stem 60 such that it no longer fits into the recess 88 from the spoon 76 . This prevents the spoons 74 , 76 from being firmly joined together. Rather, the spoon 74 comes to lie loosely on the spoon 76 at a distance D.

As can be seen from Fig. 5a and 5b, the punch 60 a is widened at its end 86 on pointed tapered shape, with which the Zap fen. Preferably, the stamp 60 is heated during the shaping of the pin 86 , which is indicated by the arrows 90 .

As can be seen from the illustration in FIGS . 4 and 5, the additional connecting means of the rock 74 are here made on one side only, ie in one direction without function. The consequence of this is that the stack 10 is divided into the separable stacks 70 , 72 . The spoon 74 is part of the upper stack 70 . In the event that the spoon 74 is to be completely sorted out, for example due to a detected damage, its recess 80 can also be widened with a second stamp, not shown here. This then has the consequence that the spoon 74 remains unconnected even with the spoons 12 of the upper stack 70 . In this case, the spoon 74 can then be sorted out from the series of spoons produced.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show an alternative embodiment in which a stack of spoons is designated 12 in its entirety by the reference numeral 100. The stack 100 is in turn easily divisible into an upper stack 102 and a lower stack 104 , since the bottom spoon 106 of the top stack 102 is in turn unconnected to the top spoon of the bottom stack 104 . The reason for this is that ends 108 of the bottom spoon 106 have been deformed as shown in FIG. 7 with the aid of a stamp 60 .

The ends 108 of the spoon 106 , like the ends of the other spoons 12 in this exemplary embodiment, have a first shaped section 112 on the inner sides 110 of the spoons and a second shaped section 116 on the outer sides 114 of the spoons. The shaped sections 112 and 116 are complementary to one another and integrated into the overall shape of the spoons 12 and 106, respectively. As long as the ends 108 of the spoons 12 are not formed in accordance with the method steps in FIGS . 7a to 7c, the shaped sections 112 , 116 of two spoons 12 placed one on top of the other form an interference fit by which the spoons are held together. Such an assembly is prevented by bending the ends 108 .

It is understood that the shape of the individual Formab sections 112 , 116 or the recesses 80 and the pin 84 in Fig. 4 may differ from the illustrated embodiments. The combination of the recess 80 with the pin 84 can be designed both in the form of a push button and in an elongated form. As an alternative to the illustration in FIG. 6, it is also possible to bend the ends 108 of the spoon 106 outwards, which would likewise prevent the stacks 102 , 104 from being joined together.

In Fig. 8, a number of plastic parts to be joined are designated in their entirety by reference numeral 128 . The individual plastic parts 130 are only shown schematically and are joined together in the direction of flow of the arrow 132 .

Each of the plastic parts 130 has a clip 134 , which is molded onto the plastic part 130 during injection molding. The clip 134 is connected to the plastic part 130 via a film hinge 136 , which simultaneously forms a predetermined breaking point. The end 138 of each clip 134 has an opening that is complementary to the front 139 of each clip 134 . In one embodiment, the end 138 and front 139 of each clip 134 are in the form of a dovetail fit. On the bottom 140 of each clip 134 , a spacer 142 is formed .

The plastic parts 130 of the series 128 are fastened to one another in this exemplary embodiment in accordance with the following scheme:

The plastic parts 130 are placed abge on a conveyor belt 144 which moves in the direction of arrow 132 . With the reference numeral 146 is a stop. The moment a plastic part 130 reaches the position of the stop 146 , its clip 134 is bent against the direction of the arrow 132 . The dimensions of the clips 134 , the stop 146 and the plastic parts 130 are chosen such that the clips 134 of the successive plastic parts 130 are automatically put together at the stop 146 . In the case of the dovetail fit, this means that the dovetail of each clip is inserted into the corresponding housing of the previous or subsequent clips 134,134. The spacers 142 on each clip 134 , in addition to the clips 134 , cause the plastic parts 130 to be held at the intended distance D when they are joined together. This ensures that even parts with undefined surfaces that can be put together can be stacked, as indicated in FIG. 8 by 131.

Spacers do not necessarily have to be inserted be put that has a finite distance between the parts cause. Generally speaking, elements can be used those that allow a defined stacking, the Ab between the parts can also be zero.

When the intended number of plastic parts 130 in the row 128 is reached, the clip 148 of the next plastic part 150 is separated from it. This has the consequence that the plastic part 150 can not be assembled with the previous plastic part 130 of the series 128 . The effect is the same as described with reference to FIGS . 4 and 6 for the example of the disposable spoon.

Alternatively to the embodiment shown here, several clips 134 may be molded onto each plastic part 130, making it possible to assemble the plastic part 130 at a plurality of pages with other plastic parts 130th By removing the corresponding clips 148 , it is then possible to specifically prevent the plastic parts 130 from being joined together in selected directions.

FIG. 9 shows, in a schematic illustration similar to FIG. 8, an exemplary embodiment in which plastic parts 160 are joined together in the direction of arrow 162 with the aid of clips 164 . The clips 164 are in turn connected to the plastic parts 160 via film hinges 166 . The film hinges 166 form a predetermined breaking point for separating the clips 164 .

As in the previous embodiment, the plastic parts 160 are brought together on a conveyor belt 167 in the direction of arrow 162 . The clips 164 of the plastic parts 160 are flipped at a stop 168 against the direction of arrow 162 . The end 170 of each clip 164 is U-shaped in the embodiment shown here. The dimensions of the clips 164 and the plastic members 160 are sized such that the U-shaped end 170 of each clip 164 snaps into the subsequent clip 164 during assembly in grooves 172nd As in the previous exemplary embodiment, the row of plastic parts 160 is closed in that the plastic part 174 separates the clip 176 abge. This in turn has the consequence that the plastic part 174 remains unconnected with the row of plastic parts 160 .

In contrast to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 8, the clips 164 in the case shown here are not folded over during but rather before the actual assembly at the stop 168 .

In the further exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 10, a transport or packaging unit 180 consists of plastic parts 182 , which are fastened with the aid of clips 184 to a carrier strip 186 running alongside the plastic parts 182 . The plastic parts 182 are therefore not directly attached to each other, but indirectly joined together with the support strip 186 . It is easily possible to join the plastic parts to form surfaces or strips. The transport or packaging unit 180 lies on a conveyor belt 188 which moves in the direction of the arrow 190 . Reference number 192 schematically indicates a guide which engages the carrier strip 186 and with which the transport or packaging unit 180 is aligned on the conveyor belt 188 . Likewise, the transport or packaging unit 180 can be accommodated, held or otherwise handled on this carrier strip 186 .

It is understood that such guidance of the plastic part le or the transport or packaging formed from them units also in the execution examples shown above len is possible. In particular, the leadership can also the additional connecting means of each plastic attack parts.

Claims (41)

1. A method for producing plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) with the steps:

• 1.Molding the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) in a mold cavity ( 32 ) of a molding tool ( 34 , 36 ),
• 2. Demould the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) from the mold cavity ( 32 ) with the help of a gripping tool ( 44 ) and
• 3. Assemble the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) into self-holding and manageable transport or packaging units ( 10 ; 14 ; 10 , 70 , 72 ; 100 , 102 , 104 ; 128 ; 180 ),

characterized by

• 1. that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) are preferably not per se stackable;
• 2. that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) are molded by an injection molding process,
• 3. that during injection molding on the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) additional ones for the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) not required as intended , and
• 4. that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) with the help of the additional connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) to form the transport or packaging units ( 10 ; 14 ; 10 , 70 , 72 ; 100 , 102 , 104 ; 128 ; 180 ).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ) are stacked into blocks. 3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 182 ) are laterally joined together in such a way that they form surfaces or strips of plastic parts ( 182 ). 4. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 48 ) with means of the gripping tool ( 44 ) are joined together. 5. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) of the art are put together so that they can only be detached from one another after the application of a predetermined separating force. 6. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ) directly attached to each other bar become. 7. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 182 ) on a common connecting means ( 186 ) attached to who. 8. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) zer undisturbed be releasably joined together. 9. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the plastic parts by Ma destruction of materials, especially by cutting, tearing or breaking, can be detachably joined together. 10. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the plastic parts by means of lost lanyards are connected to each other, which in turn are detachable from the plastic parts. 11. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that as an additional connecting means ( 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ) clips are cast on an outer contour of the plastic parts ( 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ) and that Plastic parts ( 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ) are joined together using the clips. 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ) with a press fit together BEFE Stigt. 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that in each case a selected plastic part ( 74 ; 106 ; 150 ; 174 ) of a series of plastic share the additional connecting means ( 86 ; 108 ; 148 ; 176 ) at least on one side be made inoperative so that the selected plastic part ( 74 ; 106 ; 150 ; 174 ) remains unconnected when assembled with a previous or subsequent plastic part of the series. 14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 148 ; 176 ) are separated from the selected plastic part ( 150 ; 174 ) after injection molding. 15. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 86 ; 108 ) after the injection molding of the selected plastic part ( 74 ; 106 ) are deformed with a stamp ( 60 ). 16. The method, in particular according to one or more of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the additional union means ( 184 , 186 ) for guiding the plastic parts ( 182 ) are used. 17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 184 , 186 ) for guiding the assembled from the plastic parts ( 182 ) Trans port and packaging units are used. 18. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ) are joined together by means of a package-forming Hal. 19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that the plastic parts ( 130 , 150 ) are spaced apart by means of spacers ( 142 ). 20. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that it is used to manufacture parts is used that knows in an automated system can be processed. 21. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that it is used to produce disposable cutlery ( 12 ). 22. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that it is used for producing cable binders ( 16 ). 23. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that it is used to manufacture Ver closing elements, in particular of closure elements for cardboard packaging filled with drinks is used. 24. The method according to one or more of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the plastic parts according to the Be packed together. 25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the plastic parts are packaged sterile. 26. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the plastic parts are packed in a clean room. 27. Device for producing plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ), with a mold ( 34 , 36 ) with at least one mold cavity ( 32 ) for molding plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ), with a gripping tool ( 44 ) for demolding the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) from the mold cavity ( 32 ) and with means for putting together the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) to transport or packaging units ( 10 ; 14 ; 10 , 70 , 72 ; 100 , 102 , 104 ; 128 ; 180 ), characterized that the molding tool ( 34 , 36 ) is an injection molding tool for parts that cannot be stacked per se, that the molding cavity ( 32 ) has elements ( 52 , 54 ) for forming additional, for the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) on the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) and that means are provided around the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) with the help of additional connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) to the transport or packaging units ( 10 ; 14 ; 10 , 70 , 72 ; 100 , 102 , 104 ; 128 ; 180 ). 28. The apparatus according to claim 27, characterized in that it further comprises means ( 60 ) for the additional connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ) of selected plastic parts ( 74 ; 106 ; 150 ; 174 ) to make them inoperative, in particular to deform or separate them. 29. Injection molded, not per se stackable plastic part ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ), characterized in that there are additional, for the plastic part ( 12 ; 16 , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ), the additional connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) being designed such that the plastic parts ( 12 ; 16th , 24 ; 48 ; 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ; 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) by means of the connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) to self-holding and manageable transport or packaging units ( 10 ; 14 ; 10 , 70 , 72 ; 100 , 102 , 104 ; 128 ; 180 ) can be joined together. 30. Plastic part according to claim 29, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 18 ; 56 ; 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ; 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) are detachable. 31. Plastic part according to claim 30, characterized in that the additional connecting means are non-destructive are designed to be detachable. 32. Plastic part according to one of claims 29 to 31, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 134 , 148 ; 164 , 176 ; 184 ) contain clips which on at least one side have an outer contour of the plastic part ( 130 , 150 ; 160 , 174 ; 182 ) protrude. 33. Plastic part according to one of claims 29 to 32, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 80 , 84 ; 112 , 116 ) contain at least two mutually complementary shaped sections, the opposite sides (78, 82; 110, 114) of the Plastic part ( 12 , 74 , 76 ; 12 , 106 ) are formed. 34. Plastic part according to claim 33, characterized in that the complementary shaped sections ( 112 , 116 ) are integrated into the shape of the plastic part ( 12 , 106 ). 35. Plastic part according to one of claims 29 to 33, characterized characterized in that the additional connecting means  by material destruction, especially by cutting, Tear or break, releasably attached to each other. 36. Plastic part according to one or more of claims 29 to 35, characterized in that the plastic parts connected to one another by means of lost connecting means are, which in turn are detachable from the plastic parts. 37. Plastic part according to one of claims 29 to 36, characterized in that the additional connecting means ( 134 , 148 ) include a stackable element, in particular a spacer ( 142 ). 38. Plastic part according to one or more of claims 29 to 37, characterized in that it is in an automati system can be further processed. 39. Plastic part according to claim 38, characterized in that it is a disposable cutlery ( 12 ). 40. Plastic part according to claim 38, characterized in that it is a cable tie ( 16 ). 41. Plastic part according to claim 38, characterized in that there is a closure element for filled with drinks Cardboard packaging is.