EP3558619A1

EP3558619A1 - Method for producing an elongate component using a centering element

Info

Publication number: EP3558619A1
Application number: EP17825790.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Joerg Wenzel; Sebastian GOSS
Original assignee: Leoni Kabel GmbH
Current assignee: Leoni Kabel GmbH
Priority date: 2016-12-20
Filing date: 2017-12-14
Publication date: 2019-10-30
Also published as: US20200016804A1; WO2018114563A8; CN110267789A; WO2018114563A1

Abstract

The invention aims to increase concentricity compared to conventional centering methods in a 3D extrusion cycle, using a pressure-controlled or floating centering lance. The invention proposes a device (10) for moulding an elongate component (44), comprising: a moulding arrangement (12) with at least one gate point; and a mould insert (22) that can be received in said moulding arrangement (12) and displaced along a displacement axis (V) relative to the gate point (18), said mould insert (22) at least partly delimiting a cavity (28) in which a solidifying moulding compound (21) added via the gate point (18) can be received, and said device (10) additionally comprising a centering element (34) which is configured to receive an elongate component (44) and guide it along a centering axis (Z) into said cavity (28). The device (10) is also accompanied by a method for moulding an elongate component (44).

Description

Method for producing an elongated component by means of a centering element

description

The invention which was filed in the original application deals with the centering by means of centering lance. However, this centering lance is statically positioned to the sliding carriage (apart from the fixed pneumatic or electrical adjustment options in the longitudinal direction of the cavity). Depending on the position in the cavity, in this SdT the lance is partly in front of / in / behind the melt front during a cycle - several times alternating and undefined! This behavior thus creates areas in which the line is to be centered by the lance, but the melt front and the lance tip have a distance from each other and thus can sag the line or can be pushed by the unilaterally acting injection pressure in the cavity.

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for molding an elongate member. The molding can be an encapsulation or encasing. The elongated member may comprise, for example, a cable, a core, a stranded composite, at least one conductor and / or at least one core and generally form an elongated insert.

Such objects have hitherto been produced mainly in the context of extrusion processes in which the elongated component is guided directly through an extrusion die and a coating material is deposited thereon.

However, it has been shown that these solutions can be less flexible with regard to the process sequence and the producible product variants. This can affect the cost and reliability of the manufacturing process. An object of the present disclosure is therefore to avoid such disadvantages and to improve the encasing of elongated components.

According to the present disclosure, an apparatus for molding an elongate member is provided. The device may be part of a conventional injection molding machine or connectable to such. The device comprises a mold assembly comprising at least one gate mark. The mold assembly may be coupled to the platens of a conventional injection molding machine. In the manner explained below, the mold arrangement for this purpose can comprise two mold halves, which can be coupled to a respective clamping plate. The mold halves can be movable towards one another and can be lifted apart in a known manner in order to be able to produce objects and remove them from the device.

The sprue point can be a fluid-conducting connection region, in particular in the form of a channel, a bore, an opening and / or a cavity. The sprue point can be connectable to the exit region of molding compound from an ordinary injection unit of an injection molding machine and guide the molding compound into a cavity explained below. The gate may also extend through the mold assembly and, in particular, through at least one of the mold halves thereof.

The molding compound may be a plastic material or a plastic material mixture. The molding compound can be supplied in a substantially liquid form and then solidified to form an object or a component coating.

The apparatus may generally be based on an injection molding principle or may be configured to perform an injection molding process or an at least injection molding-like process. In particular, the device can for this purpose known

Be injection units or screw assemblies of an injection molding machine connected. As explained below, the manufactured objects can in particular be covered by sheathed cables, the supplied molding material solidifying to form a corresponding sheath.

The apparatus further includes a mold insert receivable in the mold assembly and displaceable relative to the gate along a displacement axis. The mold insert can this effect with any shape halves of the mold assembly change and be used for example slidably in this. For this purpose, the mold insert with guide assemblies, guide rails, sliding surfaces, carriage assemblies, rails or rollers interact, which may be provided for example directly in the mold assembly. The displacement of the mold insert can be controlled or regulated by means of an actuator unit. This may include, for example, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, the mold insert in can shift predetermined way. The displacement of the mold insert may also be at least partially parallel to a supply of molding material via the gate.

The displacement axis may be substantially rectilinear or linear. In the case of a mold arrangement with mold halves which are movable toward one another and can be lifted apart, the displacement axis can run at an angle to the corresponding closing / opening axis of the mold halves, for example at an angle between approximately 44 ° and approximately 91 ° or substantially orthogonal thereto.

The mold insert can generally be formed in one piece. Furthermore, it can be designed, for example, open at least in sections in an area facing the gate, in order to be able to receive molding compound supplied via the gate parts. Likewise, however, the mold insert can be designed in several parts and, for example, comprise two mold halves, which can receive a supplied molding compound in an assembled form and can be separated from each other again for the removal of a finished shaped object.

The mold insert further limits, at least to some extent, a cavity in which a solidifying molding compound fed in via the sprue point can be accommodated. The cavity may generally define a cavity for receiving molding compound to form a desired object therefrom. Concretely, the cavity may comprise wall areas which define the shape of the solidifying molding compound and thus at least partially define the shape of the object produced therefrom. In particular, the cavity can define an outer circumferential region of the molding compound or of the object produced therefrom. In general, the cavity may be substantially elongated and formed with a constant or varying and in particular with an at least partially rotationally symmetrical cross section. For example, the cavity may comprise an elongated and in particular tubular cavity. Correspondingly, the cavity can have a longitudinal axis which can run parallel to the displacement axis and / or the centering axis explained below or can coincide therewith.

The mold insert may surround the cavity at least in sections of at least one, at least two, at least three, or even up to four sides. In other words, the mold insert may limit a cross-section of the cavity at least in sections to at least about 25%, at least about 50%, at least about 75% or about 100%, wherein the optionally remaining fraction by corresponding wall portions of the mold assembly can be limited. It can also be provided that the mold insert forms an outer peripheral region of the object to be produced (or an inner circumferential region of the cavity) along its entire length, at least partially.

Finally, the mold insert may be displaceable relative to the gate in such a way that at least over a predetermined proportion of the relative movement a supply of molding compound into the cavity can take place via the gate. This may include a predetermined travel distance or travel distance, but also a predetermined period of time of, for example, more than about 1 second, more than about 2 seconds, or more than about 3 seconds. The molding material supply can be carried out substantially continuously and / or parallel to the displacement.

The device further comprises at least one centering element, which is adapted to receive an elongate component and to guide along a centering axis in the cavity. As mentioned, the elongate member may generally be an insert, and more particularly a cable. This may have a longitudinal axis, which may be aligned parallel to the Zentriersachse due to the centering or coincides with this. The centering axis can also run parallel to the displacement axis and / or longitudinal axis of the cavity or coincide therewith. In other words, the centering element can be designed to align the elongate component such that it extends substantially concentrically through the cavity and / or along the displacement axis of the mold insert.

The centering element may comprise an externally accessible area for introducing the elongate member, and a first end portion facing the cavity or opening directly therefrom. Thus, the component can be guided from the outside through the centering element with a desired orientation in the cavity.

The centering element and the sprue point may further be formed substantially separately from each other and be aligned in a desired manner relative to each other. This can represent an additional degree of freedom compared with the previously known extrusion processes in order to design the production process in the desired manner. The centering element can support the component or contact directly. For this purpose, the centering element may at least partially surround the component or, in other words, receive and guide it in a hollow-shaped section. Furthermore, the centering element may extend at least in sections along the component in order to interact therewith, for example along a length of at least about 5 cm, at least about 10 cm, at least about 20 cm, at least about 30 cm or at least about 50 cm. The section of the component which interacts with the centering element and may be accommodated therein may be a section which is not to be formed in the further process and which is removed, for example, after completion of the molding process.

In general, it can be provided that the component is essentially immovable relative to the centering element during the molding process. As explained below, the elongate member may further extend substantially throughout the cavity, particularly along the entire length thereof, wherein the centering member may form a first point of origin of the extension. Furthermore, the mold insert may be displaceable in such a way that a size of the cavity changes and thereby also absorbs an increasing length of the component. For this purpose, the mold insert can move along the component, so that it is received and surrounded along an increasing length of the cavity.

A further embodiment provides that the mold insert is displaceable along the displacement axis in such a way that the cavity is enlarged. The displacement may in particular be associated with an extension of the cavity along the displacement axis or the longitudinal axis of the cavity. For example, as viewed in a direction of displacement, the mold insert may define a forward end of the cavity and be displaceable such that this forward end progressively clears the gate so that the cavity lengthens.

Of course, after the production and any removal of the object and a displacement of the mold insert in an opposite direction along the displacement axis take place, so that it again assumes its original starting position. In this case, the cavity can be reduced back to its original size.

During the object fabrication and displacement to increase the cavity, such a coordination of mold insert displacement and molding material feed can take place such that the supplied molding compound substantially continuously penetrates into the cavity. flows. In general, the mold insert can be movable in such a way that an increase in volume of the cavity takes place, at least temporarily, substantially in proportion to the supply of a molding material volume. It is understood that this can not apply to a final phase of the object manufacturing, in which additional molding mass volume can be supplied once again for producing a so-called reprinting without the mold insert being displaced further. Likewise, in an initial phase of the object production, it is first necessary to wait for a minimum volume of molding compound to be introduced before the displacement of the mold insert commences.

The mold insert can be displaceable along the displacement axis in such a way that molding compound received in the cavity flows predominantly from the casting point in a first direction. This direction can essentially run along the displacement axis and / or correspond to a displacement direction of the mold insert during the molding material feed. In other words, the supplied molding compound may substantially follow the movement of the mold insert so that it flows substantially steadily away from the gate in the first direction or is transported away from the junction.

References hereinafter to positioning upstream or downstream from, for example, the gate mark may therefore refer to the corresponding flow direction of the molding compound (and / or the displacement direction of the molding insert). In other words, a positioning

upstream of the gate point concern an arrangement outside the flow path of the molding compound in the first direction, ie in particular an upstream of the gate position seen in the displacement direction positioning. On the other hand, a positioning downstream of the gate can concern an arrangement within the flow path of the molding compound in the first direction, ie in particular a positioning positioned downstream of the gate in the direction of displacement. From an upstream positioning can also be included such areas through which in normal operation no molding mass flow takes place, but which are respectively arranged relative to and in particular upstream of the gate and the molding mass flow therefrom.

On the other hand, the supplied molding compound can flow at least over a limited length also counter to the first direction, but the volume flowing in the first direction can clearly outweigh this component. For example, after completion of the production, the volume of molding material that has flowed in the first direction More than about 80%, more than about 90% or more than about 95% of the total volume of the supplied molding composition. The flow of a small proportion of the supplied molding compound against the first (main flow) direction can be due to the injection pressure so to speak systemically adjusted.

According to a further development, the centering element projects into the cavity and / or is connected to it in a fluid-conducting manner. In particular, the centering element can be directly connected to the cavity and lead the elongate member directly into it and center in the desired manner. Proximity to or close proximity to the cavity can improve the reliability of centering, which is particularly beneficial with increased injection pressures. For example, during an injection of the molding compound, the possibly limited dimensionally stable component can be flowed around at elevated pressure and in several directions, as a result of which it is forced out of the actually provided centered position. This can be avoided by positioning the centering element as close as possible to the gate.

The centering element can also be elongated and / or tubular, or at least comprise a section formed in this way. The longitudinal axis of the centering element may extend along or coincide with at least one of centering axis, longitudinal axis of the cavity, component longitudinal axis and mold insert displacement axis. In the case of a tubular design, the component can be inserted or pushed into the centering element in order to be guided into the cavity. Furthermore, the centering element can in this case have a substantially circular and in particular closed cross-section.

Finally, the centering element can generally be arranged in a recess section of the cavity or a recess connected to the cavity. The recording can with a predetermined Spie! respectively. For example, an outer diameter of the centering element may be substantially equal to or less than the inner diameter of a receiving recess. The recess may be provided in the mold assembly and in particular in any mold half thereof. To facilitate insertion into the recess, the centering element may comprise at least one sliding section. This can be arranged as a separate sleeve, sleeve or sleeve on an outer surface of the centering. Likewise, the sliding portion may comprise a sliding layer and / or sheathing on an outer surface of the centering element. Generally, the Sliding portion extending over the entire length of the outer surface of the centering.

Furthermore, the device may comprise an outlet region from which the elongated component can emerge from the device, in particular wherein the outlet region is substantially opposite the centering element. The exit region can be formed at least partially in the mold insert. The component can thus be guided by the centering element to the exit regions and thereby extend predominantly or completely through the cavity. For this purpose, the centering element and the outlet region may be substantially opposite one another along the cavity longitudinal axis, the mold insert displacement axis and / or the centering axis or may be connected by the corresponding axes.

The exit region may comprise an opening, bore, recess or the like, so that the component can escape into the environment. Subsequently, the component can be guided to a clamping, clamping, or holding device. This may allow the component to be prestressed, for example, by introducing a tensile force within the devices, and particularly the cavity, to maintain its centering. For example, the component can thus be guided substantially concentrically and / or along a longitudinal axis through the cavity.

During the displacement of the mold insert, the mold insert can move relative to the component due to the exit region, since this slips through the exit region, so to speak. As explained above, consequently, an increasing length of the component in the cavity can be accommodated and molded in by means of the molding compound.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the centering element is positioned upstream of the gate, in particular at a distance of up to about 1 cm, up to about 2 cm, up to about 5 cm or up to about 10 cm. The corresponding upstream positioning can be the positioning explained above, which is located upstream of the gate in the mold insert displacement direction or with respect to the molding compound flow path. The distance indications can relate to a distance along the centering axis, the component longitudinal axis, the displacement axis and / or the longitudinal axis of the cavity. In other words, the sprue point can thus be arranged essentially between the centering element and a front end region of the cavity (and / or of the mold insert) viewed in the displacement direction. However, as explained below, the gate may also overlap at least slightly with the centering element. In addition, the mold insert displacement can also take place in such a way that a main flow direction of the molding compound (see first direction explained above) is directed away from the centering element.

The apparatus may further include a control unit configured to control the molding compound feed via the gate so that a melt front extending upstream of the gate does not contact the centering element or only in a range of less than about 10 cm, less than about 10 cm 5 cm, less than about 2 cm or less than about 1 cm in length flows around. The melt front which propagates upstream may be a proportion of the supplied molding compound which, contrary to the first one explained above

(Main flow) direction flows. This essentially does not follow a displacement movement of the mold insert, but can even be opposed to it. The present variant therefore provides that this proportion of the supplied molding compound does not contact the centering element or flows around only to a limited extent. The protruding length dimensions may relate in particular to a length along the centering axis, a longitudinal axis of the centering element or the component.

A further development provides that the centering element extends from a position upstream of the gate point at least up to the gate point, or by up to about 1 cm, up to about 2 cm or up to about 5 cm beyond. In other words, the centering element can generally at least partially oppose or overlap with the gate. It may extend from outside the cavity and / or mold assembly to the gate. According to this variant, the molding compound to be supplied can thus be injected deliberately onto the centering element. In this case, the centering element act as a kind of ring distributor in order to distribute the supplied molding compound uniformly around the component at first, whereupon it can flow further downstream into the cavity.

The centering member may further include a first end portion disposed near the gate, and wherein the first end portion comprises a flexibly deformable material. On top of this, the centering element can be designed to be dimensionally stable and / or rigid or comprise and generally comprise such a material Metal, plastic or mixtures thereof. Likewise, the centering element can be designed in several parts and, for example, comprise a first dimensionally stable portion and a deformable end portion. The provision of a deformable end portion may generally be advantageous for variants in which the centering element overlaps with the gate, so that the molding compound is injected onto the deformable end portion. The first end region can also be that end region of the centering element which faces the cavity and / or opens into it.

Alternatively or additionally, the first end region can be made of a material which avoids material adhesions during the injection process, for example PTFE. This can also be provided independently of any deformability. Another way to avoid buildup is to pre-heat the centering element, especially if it is made of a metallic material.

Regardless of or in addition to any deformability, the first end region may further include a replaceable wear insert, such as a wear insert (e.g., by being pushed in or pushed in) with a major portion of the centering element. Likewise, the first end region can generally be formed by covering a bending-resistant end section of the centering element with a hose section and in particular a heat-shrinkable tube.

A development provides that the gate mark defines a Formmassenzuführrichtung extending in an angle different from 0 ° to the centering axis, and in particular wherein the Formmassenzuführrichtung at an angle between about 44 ° and about 91 ° or substantially orthogonal to the Zentriersachse runs. In other words, a channel or a bore of the gate, over which the molding compound is injected, not parallel but in particular transverse to the centering axis. Furthermore, the gate and centering may be spaced apart along the centering axis. Overall, the molding material supply and the centering of the component can be substantially decoupled from each other, which is not possible in the previous extruder solutions for cable sheathing.

Finally, it can be provided that the mold arrangement comprises at least two mold halves, one of which is fixed, and wherein the centering element is coupled to the fixed mold half. With the mold halves it may be the previously described relative to each other liftable and lowerable mold halves, as known from conventional injection molding machines.

The disclosure further relates to a method that can be carried out in particular by means of a device according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising the steps of: a) guiding the component into the cavity by means of the centering element;

b) supplying a solidifying molding compound via the gate; and c) moving mold insert along the displacement axis; wherein the steps b) and c) are carried out at least partially in parallel.

It is understood that the method may comprise further steps to realize any of the above-mentioned effects, operations and / or operating states of the device. The same applies to the following explained aspects of the embodiments.

For example, the method may include a further step of directing the component from the centering member to an exit region to exit the device, wherein the exit region may be provided in the mold insert. Before carrying out steps b) and c), the component can also be prestressed, for example by applying a tensile force.

The present disclosure will be further explained with reference to figures. These figures show schematically:

Figure 1 is a view of a device according to a first embodiment at the beginning of a molding process;

FIG. 2 shows the device of FIG. 1 in an advanced state of the art

Einformprozesses;

Figure 3 is a detail view of the centering of the device of Figure 1;

FIGS. 4-9 show alternative embodiments of the centering element; Figure 10 is a view of another embodiment, comprising two centering elements;

Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment for floating mounting of the centering lance (also referred to as Figure 1);

Fig. 12 views for explaining a dependence of the flow behavior of

Melt of the cavity mold (also referred to as Figure 2);

Fig. 13a, b representations analogous to Figure 10 for explaining the forces acting

(also referred to as Figure 3);

Fig. 14 shows an arrangement for floating mounting of the centering lance

according to one embodiment (also referred to as Figure 4);

FIG. 15 is a perspective view (also referred to as FIG. 4B) of FIG

Arrangement of Figure 15; and

Fig. 16 shows an arrangement for floating mounting of the centering lance

according to a further embodiment (also referred to as Figure 5).

In the following, specific details are set forth without limitation to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be used in other embodiments that may differ from the details set forth below. For example, in the following, specific

Configurations and embodiments of an apparatus and method are described which are not to be considered as limiting. Furthermore, various fields of application of the device are conceivable. By way of example, at this point, the sheathing of cables or other elongated elements may be mentioned.

FIG. 1 shows a device 10 according to a first exemplary embodiment. The device 10 comprises a mold assembly 12. This consists in a known manner of two conventional mold halves 14,16, which are arranged on clamping plates, not shown, an injection molding machine. The upper mold half 14 in FIG. 1 forms a so-called fixed mold half 14, while the lower mold half 14 re mold half 16 is relatively movable to achieve a closing and opening movement of the mold assembly 12.

The mold assembly 12 includes a gate portion 18 disposed in the upper mold half 14. The sprue point 18 comprises a channel through which a solidifying molding compound (in the present case a plastic melt) can be injected into the mold assembly 12. For this purpose, the gate 18 is connected to a schematically illustrated injection unit 20 of a conventional injection molding machine.

In the mold assembly 12, a mold insert 22 is further included. This is shown in Figures 1 and 2 in partial sectional view, so that one can recognize a limited Kavitätsanteil. The mold insert 22 is slidably mounted on guide rails 24 of the lower mold half 16. More specifically, the mold insert 22 along a displacement axis V is displaced, wherein for the production of a desired object, a displacement along the arrow P takes place. In contrast to the arrow P, the mold insert 22 is again moved to a starting position in preparation for a new object creation.

The mold insert 22 comprises a recess 26, which is formed substantially elongated. This limits together with the upper mold half 16, a cavity 28 of the device 10, in the over the gate 18 supplied molding material 21 can be accommodated. In known manner, the cavity 28 is shaped such that the molding compound 21 solidifies to an object having desired dimensions and a desired shape. Overall, the cavity 28 is elongated and extends along a longitudinal axis K which is parallel to the displacement axis V of the mold insert 22. In the illustrated case, the cavity 28 also includes two end portions 30 which are substantially transverse to the Kavitätslängsachse K duri ^¬ fen, but occupy only a small proportion of the total volume of the cavity 28th Furthermore, by way of example only, two screw elements 32 are shown, which are arranged as inserts in the mold insert 22 and in the object to be manufactured are additionally formable.

The device 10 further comprises a centering element 34. This is arranged on a holding arm 34 on the upper mold half 14. The centering element 34 is formed as a thin elongated metal tube or a hollow lance. As can be seen from FIG. 1, it therefore has a longitudinal axis R which is parallel to the mold insert displacement axis V and the longitudinal axis of the cavity K extends and even coincides with the latter. At its right in Figure 1 end 38, which faces away from the mold assembly 12 and in particular the gate 18, the centering element 34 is attached to the support arm 36. At its left end 40 in FIG. 1, which faces the sprue point 18 and the cavity 28 (in the following: first end region 40), the centering element 34 is accommodated in a channel-shaped recess 42 in the upper mold half 14.

In the centering element 34, an elongate member 44 is inserted. The component 44 is to be encased by the supplied molding compound 21 and can therefore also be referred to as an elongated insert. It extends through the centering element 34 from the first to the second end region 38, 40. In this case, the component 44 is guided by the centering element into the cavity 28 in such a way that it extends along a centering axis Z. As a result, a longitudinal axis E of the component 44 thus coincides with the centering axis Z, wherein the latter in turn coincides with the longitudinal axis of the cavity K and the centering element longitudinal axis R and runs parallel to the displacement axis V of the mold insert 22.

From FIG. 1, it is further apparent that the component 44, starting from the first end region 40, enters the centering element 34, extends through the cavity 28 along its longitudinal axis K and out of the device via an exit region 46 without a significant change in its extent 10 leaves. The outlet region 46 is formed as a bore in the mold insert 22 and is the centering element 34 along the Zentriersachse Z viewed substantially opposite. In general, it can be provided that the exit region 46 likewise exerts a centering effect on the component 44, for example because it receives and surrounds it. Likewise, however, the exit region 46 can provide only one passage for the component 44 without centering effect.

In a higher order, the component 44 can also be guided, with its left end in FIG. 1, to a clamping, holding or pretensioning device which can exert a pretensioning force for maintaining the centering on the component 44. By contrast, with its end that is right in FIG. 1, the component 44 can be connected to a material coil, from which successively predetermined material or component lengths can be unwound. As a result, new material sections can be pulled into the device 10 and, in particular, the cavity 28, which subsequently form the component 44 to be covered, within the framework of a cyclical production before each process passage. The retraction can be carried out through the centering element 34, without the re-insertion is required herein. In the case of FIG. 1, the molding compound 21 supplied is a plastic melt and the component 44 is a metallic conductor arrangement which is intended to be encased by means of the plastic melt. As a result, a jacketed cable is thus produced as a finished object.

In the following, a sequence of the production process will be explained by way of example with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. In a starting position, the component 44 is guided through the centering element 34 and exits via the exit region 46 again from the device 10. The mold insert 22 is in an initial position, which is displaced further to the right in relation to the position of FIG. 1, so that the left-hand end region 30 is substantially opposite the sprue point 18. The cavity 28 has its lowest volume in this state. In this position, molding compound 21 is injected via the gate 18 in the cavity 28 under pressure until the end portion 30 is completely filled. Subsequently, a movement of the mold insert 22 in the direction P, wherein the molding material supply is maintained. In this case, the mold insert 22 first reaches the position shown in FIG. 1, in order subsequently to be continuously moved further to the left into the position shown in FIG. 2 and also beyond. The movement is terminated when the right end portion 30 of the gate 18 is substantially opposite.

The mold insert 22 is thus displaced so that a length of the cavity 28 increases. In particular, in FIG. 1, the recess areas 26 of the mold insert 22 arranged to the right of the sprue point 18 or upstream thereof can not initially be filled with molding compound 21, since these are not fluidically connected to the sprue point 18 or excessive injection pressures would be required for this purpose. As part of the displacement of the mold insert 22, however, these recessed areas 26 can be moved in the direction of the gate 18 and fluid-connected, so that they form actual components of the cavity 28 and the cavity volume or its length correspondingly increased (see. Filling bares cavity volume in Figures 1 and 2).

As part of the displacement of the mold insert 22 moves over the exit region 46 also relative to the fixed component 44. This slips so to speak through the displaced exit region 46 therethrough. As can be seen from a comparison of FIGS. 1 and 2, this in particular leads to an increased mende length of the component 44 is received in the extending cavity 28.

The supply of molding compound 21 further takes place in such a way that a molding material flow in the cavity 28 essentially follows a displacement of the mold insert 22 and the enlarging cavity 28 is filled continuously with molding compound 21. The molding compound 21 is thereby transported along a first (main flow) direction S generally away from the gate 18 (see FIG. 2). Due to the relative mobility of the mold insert 22 to the component 44, this means that an increasing length of the component 44 is formed and encased with the molding compound 21. With respect to the (main flow) direction S, the centering element 34 and in particular its first end region 40 can further be described as positioned upstream of the gate 18 or upstream as the gate 18 in the direction of displacement P. On the other hand, the first end region 30 of the mold insert 22 in FIG. 1 is arranged downstream of the sprue point 18, or downstream of the sprue point 18 in the direction of displacement P.

FIG. 2 also shows that the gate 18 is arranged in such a way that the molding compound is supplied or injected along a molding material feed direction F, which is substantially transverse to all of the abovementioned displacement and longitudinal axes V, K, R, Z, E runs. The molding compound 21 thus strikes the component 44 from a substantially orthogonal direction and flows around it along the first (main flow) direction S. Because of the injection pressure, a small proportion of the molding compound 21 also flows counter to the first direction S and in the direction of the centering element 34 (see outlined portion 48 in Figure 2). In FIG. 2, however, the molding material supply is controlled such that this molding composition 48 does not reach the centering element 34 and does not flow around it.

As explained below, however, such contacting and flow around the centering element 34 may also be deliberately intended. For this purpose, the centering element 34 can be arranged below or overlapping with the sprue point 18, so that the molding compound 21 is, as it were, injected onto the centering element 34.

When the right end region 30 in FIG. 1 has reached the sprue point 18 and has been filled with molding compound 21, the molding process is completed. Then, the molding material supply can be interrupted and the mold halves 14,16 can be lifted from each other. The object produced from solidified molding material 21 and sheathed component 44 can then be removed from the mold insert 22. Additional lengths of the component 44, which have not been formed, can then be removed and / or used to retighten a further longitudinal portion of the component 44 and, starting from the first end region 40, to guide the centering element 34 through the cavity 28 to the outlet region 46. Subsequently, the manufacturing process may be performed again from a home position of the mold insert 22 to make another covered cable.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic detail view of the first end region 40 of the centering element 34. The visual axis corresponds to the arrow B from FIG. 2, wherein the upper mold half 14 is shown as a hatched area. It can be seen again that the centering element 34 is formed as a thin-walled tube having an inner diameter di and an outer diameter d _a . Furthermore, one recognizes the recess 42, in which the centering element 34 is received. This has an inner diameter d _m , which exceeds the outer diameter d _{a of} the centering element 34, so that the latter is received in the recess 42 with a certain play. Furthermore, one recognizes the component 44, which comprises a winding conductor arrangement. This has an outer diameter di_, which essentially corresponds to the inner diameter d, the centering element 34.

From FIG. 3 it becomes clear that the centering element 34 extends up to the cavity 28 and thus the component 44 leads directly into the cavity 28 under a desired centering. In the case shown, the cavity 28 comprises a conical sleeve section 50 and an elongated cylindrical section 52.

FIG. 4 shows a further variant of the centering element 34. This comprises in the region of the first end portion 40 a replaceable wear insert 54. This is made of a plastic material and inserted into a main portion of the centering element 34, which is formed by a metallic tube 56. The wear insert 54 may thus be replaced after a predetermined number of manufacturing operations and / or onset of wear, whereas the metallic pipe 56 may be used over a greater number of manufacturing operations.

FIG. 5 shows a further variant of the centering element 34. In the region of the first end region 40, this comprises a flexibly deformable material, for example PTFE. Otherwise, the centering element 34 is again in the form of a metallic Tube 56 is formed. To provide the flexible deformability, a sock hose 59 made of the appropriate material is pushed onto the metallic tube 56 and fixed in a known manner by heating it. A projecting end 57 (hereinafter: deformable end portion 57) of the deformable material undergoes substantially no structural support by the metallic tube 56 because it does not overlap with it.

FIG. 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the variant of FIG. 5, in which the metallic tube 56 is formed in a lower region with an extended circumferential section 58. In the illustrated longitudinal section, the metallic tube 56 is thus substantially spoon-shaped. The extended one

Circumferential section 58 thus supports the deformable end region 57 of the flexibly deformable material in a selected region G.

The variants of FIGS. 5 and 6 are of particular interest when molding compound 21 is to be sprayed directly onto the centering element 34 via the sprue point 18, the latter serving as a type of annular distributor. A position of

Gating point 18 is indicated by way of example in FIGS. 5 and 6. In particular, it can be seen in FIG. 6 that the extended peripheral section 58 is arranged essentially in a region of the metallic tube 56 facing away from the sprue point 18 and locally supports the deformable end region 57.

FIG. 7 shows a further variant of the centering element 34. In this case, the first end portion 40 is formed with a tapered end, wherein the bevels is selected such that an opening 60 of the centering element 34 of the gate 18 is substantially facing. A further variant not shown separately provides that spoon-shaped metallic tube 56 from FIG. 6 can be used as centering element 34 without an additional deformable material coating.

Finally, in FIGS. 8 and 9, solutions for improving the slidability of the centering element 34 are shown. This is relevant in particular for the insertion of the centering element 34 into the recess 42 of the mold assembly 12. In the case of FIG. 8, the tubular centering element 34 comprises a plurality of sliding sleeves 70 which define an outer circumferential area or largest outer diameter d _{a of} the centering element 34. In the case of FIG. 9, the tubular centering element 34 comprises a sliding layer 72 extending over its entire length, which also determines the largest outer diameter d _a . Otherwise, this corresponds the representation of those of Figure 3. The outer diameter d _{a of} the centering element 34 are each selected in Figures 8 and 9 such that they substantially correspond to the inner diameter d _{m of} the recess 42 of Figure 9 or only slightly below.

FIG. 10 shows a further exemplary embodiment comprising two tubular centering elements 34. The mold insert 22 is indicated by dashed lines in FIG. It comprises two insert mold halves, not separately shown, which together define a line-shaped illustrated cavity 28. The cavity 28 comprises a first rectilinear portion 100. This extends directly in a dividing plane between the insert mold halves of the mold insert 34. In addition, the dividing plane extends parallel to the X-Y plane according to the coordinate system of Figure 10.

The cavity 28 further comprises two parallel sections 102. More specifically, the section 100 of the cavity 28 divides into a pair of parallel strands 102 at a branching point 104. If the insert mold halves are lifted apart, a three-stranded or Y-branched conductor arrangement can be inserted into the cavity 28. It is understood that, however, other form divisions are conceivable and in particular a plurality of moldings can be provided instead of only two mold halves.

In FIG. 10, a gate mark 18, which is formed in a slide-like basic body 105, can be seen. This is generally stationary and slides along a guide not shown separately on a surface of the mold insert 22. Analogous to the embodiment of Figure 1, the base body 105 is formed on an upper fixed mold half (not shown). The base body 105 is also opposite a lower mold half, also not shown, wherein the mold insert 22 is disposed between the two mold halves.

The mold insert 22 is displaced along the arrow P relative to the gate 18. The cavity 28 is connected via a plurality of distribution channels 106 with the guide recess of the mold insert 22, which slides along the gate 18. For purposes of illustration, not all distribution channels 106 are provided with a corresponding reference numeral in FIG. In this displacement of the mold insert 22, the distribution channels 106 are successively arranged opposite to the gate 18 or aligned with this temporarily. Thus, one is continuous fluid-conducting connection between the gate 18 and the cavity 28 is provided so that the cavity 28 during the displacement of the mold insert 22 can be supplied substantially continuously with molding compound (sa corresponding arrow-shaped indicated molding material flows in the cavity 28).

FIG. 10 shows a state in which the mold insert 22 has already been displaced over a comparatively large distance relative to the gate 18. In an initial state of the mold insert is arranged such that in a displacement along the arrow P first in Figure 10 rightmost, two-strand distribution channel 106 is aligned with the gate 18. Subsequently, a shift according to the arrow P, wherein successively the other successive distribution channels 106 are arranged opposite to the gate 18.

In order to center a conductor arrangement inserted in the cavity 28, the already mentioned centering elements 34 are arranged on the right-hand end in FIG. These in turn are formed as thin, elongated tubes which receive a free end of the conductor strands, which are guided in through the parallel portions 102 of the cavity 28. The centering elements 34 each define a centering axis Z, which coincides with a cavity longitudinal axis K respectively defined by the parallel sections 102.

The free conductor strands, which are guided through the parallel sections 102 of the cavity 28 and protrude from the mold insert 22, can thus be centered by receiving within the centering elements 34. In this case, the mold insert 22 generally moves toward the centering elements 34.

In principle, however, it is also conceivable that the centering elements 34 at least temporarily protrude into the mold insert 22 or are enclosed by it in such a way that they extend at least in sections within the cavity 28. It is also conceivable to provide a corresponding centering element 34 at the left end of the cavity 28 in FIG.

Finally, the provision of a plurality of centering elements 34 is not limited to the particular variant of the mold insert 22 of Figure 10, which is displaced along a carriage-like base body 105. For example, it is also conceivable in the embodiment according to FIG. 1 to arrange a further cavity section and a further centering element 34 parallel to the centering element 34 shown (for example, offset into the image plane). The entries made via the gate 18 In this case, molded molding compound can be diverted via connection channels into a corresponding parallel cavity section (see also double-stranded distribution channels 106 in the right half of the mold insert 22 from FIG. 10). Likewise, however, a separate sprue point 18 may be provided for the parallel cavity section.

By providing a plurality of centering elements 34 also branched and complex conductor arrangements can be centered and reliably molded or sheathed.

Solution of the invention according to further aspects, which is the

refer to floating bearings of the centering

In the following, aspects are described that are based on the preceding aspects and additionally relate to a floating bearing of the centering element. The description is initially general. Subsequently, concrete examples will be explained with reference to FIGS. 11-16.

The core of these further aspects of the invention is to store the centering lance "floating" on the melt front, whereby the centering lance or centering element can not be fixed in a fixed position inside the device, at least according to certain embodiments, but for example according to a contact with the melt front This approach has not yet been considered in the original idea according to the previous examples of Figures 1 to 10. According to preliminary investigations, however, this extension of the known lance centering represents a promising path which has heretofore produced spray patterns which have a markedly increased concentricity in comparison to the conventional method.

Concretely, the centering element can be adapted to come into contact with the molding compound, in particular with a melt front formed by the molding compound. For this purpose, the centering element can be suitably positioned and / or dimensioned. For example, the centering element can extend into the cavity to a predetermined extent and / or be positioned at a suitable distance from the gate, so that it can come into contact with the molding compound. The contacting can take place within a normal molding process and under usual injection pressures. The device may generally be operable such that the molding compound exerts a force on the centering element, in particular in the form of a pressure. The force may be a predetermined force which can be adjusted, for example, based on the selected injection pressure. The force or pressure exerted by the molding compound may act in a direction that urges the centering element away from the gate and / or urges it out of the cavity. In general, it can thus be provided that the molding compound is largely or substantially permanently in contact with the centering element during the molding process and thereby exerts a predetermined force thereon.

In a further variant it can be provided that a position of the centering element within the device is dynamically variable, in particular in accordance with a variation of the flow rate of the molding compound. The position may be a position of the centering element along a longitudinal axis of the cavity, a component longitudinal axis and / or the centering axis. In other words, the centering element can be moved dynamically during the feeding of molding compound, in particular within the cavity and / or along the longitudinal axes mentioned above.

The flow rate of the molding compound may vary in particular according to the cross-sectional dimensions of the cavity (or any changes thereof). For example, the flow rate of the molding compound may slow as the cross-section of the cavity expands, or increase as the cavity narrows. A change in the flow rate may have a corresponding effect on a force exerted on the centering element and / or a pressure applied thereto, whereby a slowdown with a lower force / pressure and an acceleration may be accompanied by a correspondingly increased force / pressure. Parent may change according to a change in the flow rate

(and / or the cross-sectional dimensions of the cavity), the centering element can be moved dynamically within the cavity. This allows the center element to be kept constantly in contact with the molding compound.

According to a further development, the centering element is mounted in the device such that the force exerted thereon by the molding compound is at least partially compensatable and / or that the centering element is continuously guided against the melt front formed by the molding compound. For example, the centering element can be articulated and / or flexibly coupled to the device, wherein the force exerted on the centering element can be applied via the joint and / or the flexible coupling. least partially compensated or, in other words, is at least partially receivable. The flexible coupling can be done by means of a biasing device explained below. Such a flexible or hinged mounting of the centering element can cause it to change its position and / or orientation under the action of the molding compound, but without losing contact with it and in particular with its melt front.

According to a further development, the device is set up to measure a force exerted on the centering element and, optionally, to change and in particular to regulate a counterforce applied to the centering element. The measured force may be a force exerted by the molding compound and / or a pressure applied thereto, which force and / or pressure may urge the centering element in a direction away from the gate. The measuring of the force can be done via a suitable measuring or sensor device. The counterforce can be changed according to the measured force. The control can be carried out in accordance with the measured force, in particular such that the counterforce is changed in the same way as the force applied (in particular, increased or decreased in the same way). To apply a corresponding counterforce, the device may comprise a suitable actuator (for example an electromotive drive), a driven axle or one of the variants explained below.

In principle, the counterforce generated can be changed in accordance with a degree of conformance of the component or degree of filling of the cavity and / or a time or intermediate stage of the molding process. For example, the drag at the beginning and at the end of the injection cycle may be varied and generally increased at the end to produce a certain amount of compressive force. Additionally or alternatively, an at least temporary increase in the counterforce at any time may be provided to temporarily increase the pressure acting in the cavity, for example when a cavity section of comparatively large cross-sectional dimensions is passed through and / or to generally provide increased hold pressure.

The device may comprise a load cell for measuring the force exerted on the centering element. The load cell may be coupled to the centering element, for example in such a way that an input or measuring element is displaced in accordance with a displacement of the centering element. This shift can be as Result of acting on the centering force can be detected and evaluated.

The device may comprise a linear drive and / or a spindle drive for applying the counterforce to the centering element. Such actuators can generally be set up to urge the centering element against the molding compound and / or in the direction of the casting gate and / or against a flow direction of the casting compound from the casting point to the centering element. The control of the attrition can be regulated and in particular in accordance with a previously described force measurement. The counterforce can generally be generated such that a predetermined counterforce value is reached or not undershot and / or not exceeded. Alternatively or additionally, the counterforce can be generated such that the centering element occupies or maintains a predetermined position and / or remains in a predetermined position range.

In particular, the device can be configured to hold the centering element at least temporarily in a substantially constant position, for example, in order to generate a defined holding pressure, when the molding material is supplied continuously. This can be done despite a floating and / or non-fixed position storage of the centering within the device, for example, via a regulation of the above-described counterforce.

According to one embodiment, the device comprises a counter-pressure arrangement, which is adapted to exert a counter to the molding compound acting compressive force on the centering element and / or to keep the centering element in contact with the molding compound. The counter-pressure arrangement may comprise any of the above-described actuators for generating a counter force or a counter-pressure. Alternatively or additionally, the counter-pressure arrangement may comprise a pretensioning device, for example in the form of an elastically deformable spring. In particular, the counter-pressure arrangement can be set up to generate a regulated pressure force or opposing force, for example in accordance with a force exerted by the molding compound and / or a possible change in position of the center element.

The centering element can be positioned in such a way and / or the molding compound can be supplied via the gate parts in such a way that the molding compound is supported on the centering element with a predetermined force. For example, the centering element can extend into the cavity in a predetermined extent and / or be positioned relative to the gate, analogously to the above explanations. to achieve a corresponding support. Additionally or alternatively, the injection pressure of the molding compound may be suitably selected to produce the predetermined supporting force.

In one development, the position and / or orientation of the centering element can be changed under the action of a force of the molding compound. In particular, the centering element can be displaceable under the action of a force of the molding compound, for example along one of the longitudinal axes explained above.

In general, the device may comprise a biasing device which biases the centering element against the molding compound and / or in the direction of the gate. If the centering element is displaced under the action of a force applied by the molding compound, a corresponding opposing force or a back pressure can be generated by means of the pretensioning device, in particular such that the centering element is held in preferably permanent contact with the molding compound. In one variant, the pretensioning device comprises at least one elastically deformable element, for example a spring. The elastically deformable element can be deformed in accordance with a displacement of the centering element and provide corresponding opposing forces, which are preferably proportional to the displacement changing opposing forces.

As a further aspect, a method for molding an elongated component can be provided which is based on the method principle explained above. In addition, in the context of this method, the molding compound can be supplied in such a way that it comes into contact with the centering element and in particular exerts a predetermined force thereon.

The method may also include any further step or feature to provide all of the foregoing or following interactions, operating conditions or effects. In particular, the method may comprise a step of measuring a force exerted by the molding compound on the centering element and / or a control of a counterforce applied to the centering element. Likewise, the method may include a step of temporarily holding the centering member in a predetermined position to create a reprint.

Floating storage using the example of FIGS. 11 to 16 In the following, embodiments according to the further aspects will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 11-16. In their nature or function to the embodiments of Figures 1-10 matching features may be provided with the same reference numerals.

FIG. 11 shows a detailed view of a device 10, which is basically analogous to the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 and 2 and is operated analogously to this, with the exception of the bearing of the centering element 34 explained below in the form of a corresponding (centering) lance. All of the following figures 11, 13a, 14, 15 and 16 show variants in which the device 10 is oriented in principle vertically and the above-explained axes K, R, Z, E also extend vertically. However, it is also intended to choose other axis alignments, in particular a horizontal course as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

Specifically, FIG. 11 shows a state in which a molding compound 21 has already been fed in via a sprue point 18 and already partially surrounds an elongated component 44 in sections. A flow direction of the molding compound 21 from the gate 18 in the direction of the centering element (or the lance) 34 is indicated by an arrow 104. It can be seen that the molding compound 21 bears against an end face of the centering element 34 facing the sprue point 18 and is in contact therewith. Accordingly, a force also acting in the direction of the arrow 104 is exerted on the centering element 34 so that it is forced away from the gate 18 and in the direction of the arrow 106. The lance 34 is not fixedly mounted within the device 10, but recorded floating in the cavity 28, so to speak. Consequently, it can change its position (for example along one of the axes K, R, Z, E) in accordance with the force exerted on it by the molding compound 21.

In other words, and as explained in more detail below, the lance 34 can be pushed back and forth within the cavity 28 in accordance with an interaction with the molding compound 21 and thus kept constantly in contact with the melt front 100. This also means that the elongated component 44 is always surrounded by molding compound 21 when it exits from the centering element 34 into the cavity 28. Figuratively speaking, this prevents that the elongated component 44 is exposed in sections or sagging, so to speak. Instead, it is always supported directly by the molding compound 21. Overall, therefore, a higher centering quality is achieved because the elongate member 44 always centered within the Formmasse 21 can be received and / or extends substantially concentrically along the axes K, R, Z, E.

As can be seen in FIG. 1 (or FIG. 11), the lance 34 can thus be positioned floating on the melt front 100 in the cavity 28, the term "floating" in particular the possibility described above of changing the position of the lance 34 in accordance with FIG the force applied to the molding compound.

A further advantage of this variant becomes clear from the following consideration: Since the velocity of the melt front 100 in the cavity 28 directly depends on which volume flow [cm ³ / s] hits the volume [cm ³ ] which is free in the region of the melt front, it quickly lights up that extreme jumps in the speed of the melt front 100 can occur here. Especially at the transition from large contours (spouts or similar) to small contours (round contours of the line) (ie, in cross-sectional reductions of the cavity 28), the melt front 100 is extremely accelerated. The melt front 100 thus flows at an increased speed and / or force in the direction of the lance 34 and forces it out of the cavity 28. Due to the inertia of the sliding carriage (about 950kg) this can not be accelerated fast enough to a defined distance between Melt front 100 and lance tip upright. Conversely, in the transition from small contours to large contours (ie with cross-sectional enlargements of the cavity 28) an extreme slowdown of the melt front takes place, which likewise can not be compensated with the dynamic possibilities of the sliding carriage or the injection pressure regulator of the injection unit. (Figure 2 and Figure 12).

This can also be seen from FIG. 12, in which an example of a cavity 28 with variable cross-sectional dimensions is shown. Furthermore, FIG. 12 contains a velocity-displacement diagram (vs), which shows the flow velocity of the molding compound 21 present in the corresponding regions of the cavity 28. Viewed from left to right, the molding compound 21 initially passes over a comparatively narrow cross-sectional area of the cavity 28 into a clearly widened region 108, which can also be referred to as a nozzle. There, the flow rate slows down proportionally to the cross-sectional widening. Due to a conical narrowing of the area 108, the flow rate subsequently increases again accordingly. Then it flows at a constant speed in the direction of a further expanded region 110, which in turn takes place a drop in the flow rate.

With the changing flow rate, the force decreases or decreases, with the molding compound 21 presses against the lance 34. However, since the lance 34 is floatingly mounted, it can accordingly advance or retract within the cavity 28 without losing contact with the molding compound 21. The elongated member 44 is thus always surrounded by the molding compound 21 at an exit from the lance 34, whereby the above-described improvements in terms of centering can be achieved.

In the floating storage of the centering lance 34, the lance 34 can be pressed out of the cavity 28 due to the specific in-mold pressure / injection pressure. Since the lance without a guide at the end (ie without storage or guidance at its end facing away from the melt front end 100) would be fired from the cavity 28 - similar to a projectile - this must be performed defined. At a specific injection pressure of 250-350 bar and a lance face 112 of 11.33 mm ² (excluding strand 44, see Figure 13b), a force of 283.3 N (250 bar) or 396.7 N (350 bar) acts on the lance 34 (Figure 3 or Fig. 13a, b). These values can be calculated in advance analogously to the shape buoyancy force, since the calculation path is identical.

Is the lance 34 thus floating and storage by means of a biasing device 114 comprising springs 116 o.Ä. compensate for the force acting by the injection pressure, this (i.e., the lance 34) can be continuously guided at the melt front 100. This applies regardless of whether the melt front 100 is fast or slow due to volume jumps in the contour. The lance 34 is thus no longer fixed to the displacement slide, as described in the original aspects, but dynamically adapts to and is "pushed" onto the melt front 100. An example of a suitable device 10 is shown in Figure 4 (or Figure 14). shown schematically.

More precisely, FIG. 14 again shows in its lower area a view analogous to FIG. 11, in which an elongated component 44 is accommodated in a cavity 28 and is formed in a molding compound 21 fed in via a sprue point 18. The molding compound 21 rests in the manner explained above with its melt front 100 against the lance-shaped centering element 34. The latter is then pushed away from the gate 18 according to the arrow 106. At its end facing away from the sprue parts 18, the centering element 18 is coupled to a pretensioning device 114. This acts as a counter-pressure device, which applies a directed against the arrow 106 force on the lance 34. This force may be 283.3 N, for example. More specifically, the biasing means 114 comprises an elastically deformable element in the form of a spring 116. This is supported on an arcuate element 118 and is compressed or expanded according to its displacement. A displacement of the bow element 118 with an increasing force applied by the molding compound 21 is indicated by dashed lines in FIG. A corresponding displacement path of the centering lance 34 is marked by a double arrow 120.

When the lance 34 is displaced upwardly in the manner shown in Figure 14, the spring 116 is compressed and the force directed against the molding compound 21 (i.e., the counterforce or back pressure) increases in proportion to the displacement path. The lance 34 can thus yield to an increasing injection pressure, but without losing contact with the melt front 100. The component 44 is thus centered particularly precisely within the molding compound 21.

On the other hand, if the injection pressure or the force applied by the molding compound 21 decreases, the errors 116 are released and the centering lance 34 in FIG. 14 is forced downward. In this way, for example, the lance 34 may be held in contact with the melt front 100 even at a decreasing flow rate to ensure precise centering of the component 44. In order to improve the guidance accuracy, the device 10 in the variant of FIG. 14 further comprises a guide arrangement 122, comprising a rod-shaped lance holder 124 guided in the device 10. This is coupled to a guide plate 126, which has a bore 128 which abuts an outer circumference of the lance 34 is applied and this leads.

FIG. 15 shows an additional perspective detailed view of selected components of the device 10 of FIG. 14. It can be seen that the arcuate element 118 comprises two individual arcuate sections 130, 132, which receive the lance 34 between them and are coupled to the latter via projections 134. Furthermore, the arcuate element for coupling to the spring 116 comprises a cross member 136 connecting the sections 130, 132. Furthermore, the guide plate 126 and its bore 128 can be seen again. The above variant according to FIGS. 14 and 15 may be referred to as an elastic, mechanical and / or passive bearing and holding the lance 34 with the melt front 100 in contact. Contrary to the following embodiment according to FIG. 16, no driven actuator is provided, but only a passively deformable spring 116 (ie a spring 116 which is deformable under the action of external forces and without its own drive).

Dynamic pressure-controlled storage according to FIG. 16

Another embodiment is, for example, equip the centering lance 34 with a load cell 138 at its end (away from the gate 18) and thus measure the force acting on the lance 34 and thus determine the in-mold pressure at the lance tip. This value can be sent via an evaluation logic to a small motor controller (not shown in each case), which can dynamically adjust the lance 34 by an actuator in the form of a linear drive 140. In the variant from FIG. 16, the linear drive 140 comprises an electric motor 142, which rotates a spindle 144. The latter is received in a threaded bore 146 of a coupled to the lance 34 guide disc 126, the displacement is again guided by linear guides 148. In accordance with a rotation of the spindle 144, the guide disk 126 and the lance 34 (indirectly via the load cell 138) coupled thereto are moved up and down in accordance with the arrows in FIG.

Advantage of this solution compared to the elastically mounted "floating lance" of Figure 14/15 is a freely adjustable back pressure of the lance 34 against the melt front 100 over the entire length of the cavity 28. Thus, for example, at the beginning of the injection cycle, a back pressure of 250Bar ( Melt front 100 -> lance tip) and at neuralgic points a higher back pressure of eg

350Bar in order to achieve a longer holding time or better undercuts. For this purpose, the lance 34 can stay at a predetermined location and be held there, although further molding compound 21 is supplied. A schematic sketch of the construction is shown in FIG. 5 (or FIG. 16).

Fundamentally, the core of the above-described further aspects of the invention is not the schematic configuration of the lance adjustment, but the idea of keeping the latter in direct contact with the melt by means of regulation by pressure and / or spring tension and thus the line (or component 44). better to center. A positive side effect is that you can generate by lingering the lance 34 at one point a short-term emphasis for preceding components in the cavity. Advantages of the invention, in particular with regard to the other aspects described above:

Better centering of the line (or the component 44) in the injection molding by direct contact of the centering lance 34 with the melt front 100th

Claims

claims

A device (10) for molding an elongate member (44), comprising:

a mold assembly (12) comprising at least one gate mark; and

a mold insert (22) which can be accommodated in the mold arrangement (12) and is displaceable relative to the gate (18) along a displacement axis (V), the mold insert (22) at least partially defining a cavity (28) via the gate (18) supplied solidifying molding compound (21) is receivable,

the device (10) further comprising a centering element (34) adapted to receive an elongated member (44) and to guide it along a centering axis (Z) into the cavity (28).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1,

wherein the centering element (34) is adapted to come into contact with the molding compound (21), in particular with a melt front formed by the molding compound (21).

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2,

wherein the device (10) is operable such that the molding compound (21) exerts a force on the centering element (34), in particular in the form of a pressure.

4. Device (10) according to claim 3,

wherein a position of the centering element (34) within the device (10) is dynamically variable, in particular in accordance with a variation of the flow rate of the molding compound (21).

5. Device (10) according to claim 3 or 4,

wherein the centering element (34) is mounted in the device (10) such that the force exerted thereon by the molding compound (21) is at least partially compensable and / or in that the centering element (34) forms continuously against the surface of the molding compound (21) Melt front is guided.

6. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the device (10) is adapted to apply one to the centering element (34). to measure applied force and, optionally, to change an on the centering element (34) applied counterforce and in particular to regulate.

7. Device (10) according to claim 6,

wherein the device (10) for measuring the force exerted on the centering element (34) comprises a load cell.

8. Device (10) according to claim 6 or 7,

wherein the device (10) for applying the counterforce to the centering element (34) comprises a linear drive and / or a spindle drive.

9. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the device (10) is adapted to at least temporarily hold the centering element (34) in a substantially constant position during continuous supply of molding compound.

10. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the device (10) comprises a counter-pressure arrangement which is adapted to exert a pressing force acting against the molding compound on the centering element (34) and / or to keep the centering element (34) in contact with the molding compound.

11. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the centering element (34) is positioned in such a way and / or wherein the molding compound can be supplied via the lead point (18) such that the molding compound is supported on the centering element (34) with a predetermined force.

12. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein a position and / or orientation of the Zentrierlements (34) under the action of a force of the molding material is variable.

13. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the centering element (34) is floatingly mounted in the device, in particular such that the centering element (34) is displaceable under the action of a force of the molding compound.

14. Method for molding an elongated component, the method being executable in particular by means of a device (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

comprising the steps:

a) guiding the component (44) into the cavity (28) by means of the centering element (34); b) supplying a solidifying molding compound (21) via a gate (18); and c) moving a mold insert (22) along a displacement axis (V); wherein the steps b) and c) are carried out at least partially in parallel.

15. Method for molding an elongated component (44),

wherein the molding compound (21) is supplied so as to come into contact with the centering member (34) and in particular to exert a predetermined force thereon.