EP3738694B1 - Hydraulic device for a pressure die casting machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device for supplying and/or controlling hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine.

Die casting machines are well known (cf. e.g Brunhuber, Practice of Die Casting Production, Berlin, 3rd edition 1980 ). In a die-casting machine, a mold consisting of two halves is closed under high pressure, molten metal (or a metal alloy) is introduced into the closed mold and, after the casting material has cooled, the finished die-cast part can be removed by opening the mold. The mold halves are arranged on a fixed and a movable platen, and the mold is closed by corresponding movement of the movable platen on guide columns towards the fixed platen.

In order to operate the mold of a die-casting machine, it is necessary for modules to be provided on the die-casting machine in order to supply the corresponding components of the die-casting machine with hydraulic medium. Conventionally, these modules are placed in defined free areas on the fixed and/or moving platen. The areas available for the modules are small and can usually only be used for the corresponding module, but not for other energy modules. The arrangement of the areas for the power modules depends on the type of die casting machine, i.e. the spaces available on a specific die casting machine.

In 1 1 is a schematic front view of a prior art die casting machine. The die casting machine 1 comprises a platen 3 (fixed here by way of example) and openings 2 in the platen 3 for guide columns (not shown) for moving a movable platen (not shown). Modules 10 for supplying the die casting machine with electrical energy, modules 6 for operating core pulls, a module 7 for cooling and a module 8 for operating a booster are arranged on the sides of the clamping plate 2 . The various modules are distributed over the entire die casting machine. The individual hydraulic modules have to be connected to the hydraulic lines arranged in the machine frame using pipes and hoses. Depending on the module to be connected, conventional hydraulic connections or a special design can be used. The procedure used in the prior art is not very flexible and requires time-consuming assembly.

Retrofitting a conventional die-casting machine involves considerable effort, since additional energy modules required can only be arranged, if at all, in the few remaining free areas of the die-casting machine. Relocating existing energy modules is only possible with great effort, if at all, due to the space problem and the existing cabling or supply with hoses.

It is also not easy to convert to a different machine size with conventional energy modules, since every machine size has different interfaces.

In the US-2001/0035277 A1 has been proposed to operate several injection molding units via common power modules. However, this solution is obviously unsuitable for voluminous die-casting machines, since it takes up enormous space and, moreover, usually no large number of die casting machines are operated in sufficient proximity to each other.

It was the object of the present invention to provide a device for a die casting machine with which the required supply of hydraulically operated machine components can be provided with less space and with a simple, flexible and easily convertible structure.

This object is achieved by a die casting machine according to claim 1.

• einen Basisblock mit einer Haupteinlassöffnung und einer Hauptauslassöffnung für Hydraulikmedium, welche vorzugsweise an der Rückseite des Basisblocks angeordnet sind, sowie mit Verbindungsöffnungen in der Dachfläche und der Bodenfläche des Basisblocks zur Aus- und Einleitung von Hydraulikmedium, wobei die Haupteinlassöffnung und Hauptauslassöffnung durch Leitungen im Basisblock mit den Verbindungsöffnungen verbunden sind,
• mindestens zwei verschiedene Modulkomponenten die ausgewählt sind aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Kernzugmodulen, Kernzugentlastungsmodulen, Nachverdichtermodulen, Nebenbewegungsmodulen, und Vakuummodulen, und welche in der Dachfläche und der Bodenfläche Verbindungsöffnungen zur Aus- und Einleitung von Hydraulikmedium und in ihrem Inneren diese Öffnungen verbindende Leitungen aufweisen, wobei mindestens eine der Modulkomponenten derart auf der Dachfläche oder der Bodenfläche des Basisblocks angeordnet ist, dass die entsprechenden Verbindungsöffnungen der Modulkomponente mit den entsprechenden Verbindungsöffnungen des Basisblocks eine fluidische Verbindung bilden, und wobei die mindestens zwei verschiedenen Modulkomponenten Anschlüsse zur Verbindung mit einer hydraulisch betriebenen Komponente der Druckgiessmaschine aufweisen,
• Endplatten zum Verschliessen nicht verbundener Einlassöffnungen und Auslassöffnungen des Basisblocks und/oder einer Modulkomponente.

In detail, the present invention relates to a device for supplying and/or controlling hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine, comprising

• a base block with a main inlet opening and a main outlet opening for hydraulic medium, which are preferably arranged on the back of the base block, and with connection openings in the roof surface and the bottom surface of the base block for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium, the main inlet opening and main outlet opening being connected by lines in the base block are connected to the connection openings,
• at least two different module components that are selected from the group consisting of core pull modules, core pull relief modules, booster modules, auxiliary movement modules, and vacuum modules, and which have connection openings in the roof area and the bottom area for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium and in their interior these openings connecting lines, wherein at least one of the module components is arranged on the roof surface or the bottom surface of the base block such that the corresponding connection openings of the module component with the corresponding Connection openings of the base block form a fluidic connection, and wherein the at least two different module components have connections for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine,
• End plates for closing unconnected inlet openings and outlet openings of the base block and/or a module component.

The present invention is based on the concept of combining all the hydraulic modules previously distributed over the entire die casting machine into a single block, which is referred to here as a hydraulic tower. This hydraulic tower requires only one connection to supply hydraulic medium. The hydraulic medium is distributed to the individual module components within the hydraulic tower through lines running through all module components. Returned hydraulic medium is combined in the hydraulic tower and routed out of the hydraulic tower and away from the die casting machine through a single connection.

In this way, the number of tubes and hoses required to supply the die casting machine can be significantly reduced. In addition, different numbers and types of module components can be combined in the hydraulic tower according to the invention, which offers significantly increased flexibility, space savings and easy conversion. In addition, the operation of the die casting machine is easier because all module components are combined in one place. The so-called "footprint" of the die casting machine is optimized.

The hydraulic tower according to the invention can preferably be arranged in a receiving frame on the die casting machine, as in the European patent application filed by the applicant on the same day Patent application entitled "Die casting machine with energy frame" is described.

According to the invention, the die-casting machine is preferably a two-plate die-casting machine or a three-plate die-casting machine.

Components for supplying and/or controlling hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine are known per se. These are components that are supplied with hydraulic medium and forward this to the corresponding machine components in a controlled manner.

Commonly used liquids such as mineral oils, oil-in-water emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, water-glycol mixtures or water-free liquids such as phosphate esters can be used as the hydraulic medium.

As explained above, such components used in the prior art have separate connections for supplying and removing hydraulic medium, i.e. separate supply pipes or hoses must be laid for each component. In contrast to this, the module components according to the invention are designed in such a way that they can be combined to form a single block, the hydraulic tower.

The hydraulic tower according to the invention is only externally supplied with hydraulic medium via a single component. According to the invention, this component is referred to as the base block. The base block has a preferably cuboid or cube-shaped housing made of a suitable material (for example a metallic material). For reasons of weight, the base block is preferably a hollow body.

The base block according to the invention preferably has means for fastening the block directly to the die-casting machine or in a receiving frame arranged on the die-casting machine, as described in the European patent application filed by the applicant on the same day, entitled "Die-casting machine with energy frame". These means are preferably bores for receiving fastening screws. Particularly preferably, these means are arranged in the side faces of the base block.

The base block according to the invention is equipped with a main inlet opening and a main outlet opening for hydraulic medium. These main openings are preferably located at the rear of the base block, so that no large pipes or hoses that could get in the way have to be provided at the front of the hydraulic tower.

The main openings of the base block according to the invention are designed in the usual way, for example as connections which can be connected to conventional pipes or hoses in a sealed manner in a conventional manner. Sleeve connections are mentioned as examples.

Furthermore, the base block according to the invention is equipped with connection openings in the top surface and the bottom surface for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium. It is therefore possible according to the invention to arrange module components on the roof surface and/or the bottom surface of the base block, which can be supplied with hydraulic medium from the base block through the named connection openings or can return hydraulic medium to the base block.

For this purpose, the other module components, as explained below, have corresponding connection openings, which can be connected to the connection openings of the base block with a precise fit and sealing, i.e. fluidically.

According to the invention, a fluidic connection is to be understood as a connection between two lines through which a fluid, preferably a hydraulic medium, can flow unhindered and without leakage. These fluidic connections can be realized in a conventional manner, for example by means of clamp connections equipped with sealing rings.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base block and the module components arranged on its top and/or bottom surface are connected by fastening means. For this purpose, bores are preferably provided in the top and/or bottom surface of the base block for receiving fastening screws or connectors, the respective fastening screws or connectors being arranged on the corresponding top and/or bottom surface of the module components.

According to the invention, the base block and the module components arranged on its top and/or bottom surface are particularly preferably connected by one or more threaded rods. These threaded rods are passed through corresponding bores of the module components and have an end which can be fixedly arranged (e.g. screwed) in a corresponding end bore of the base block and/or a module component. The other end of the thread stand is either fixed inside a module component or outside on the roof surface of a module component, where it can be screwed on in a known manner (e.g. with a nut via a threaded connection). can be attached. The variant with threaded rods results in a particularly stable hydraulic tower.

The main inlet port and main outlet port of the base block are connected to the connection ports by ducts in the base block. These ducts are formed in a conventional manner, for example in the form of tubes or in the form of bores in a base block in the form of a solid body such as a casting.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the base block can have additional connections for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine. In this case, the base block not only serves to distribute hydraulic medium to other module components, but also serves to control a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine.

According to a preferred embodiment, the base block is used to operate an ejector cylinder, i.e. a cylinder built into the movable platen of a die casting machine, with which the cast part is ejected from the mold after the casting process has ended.

In this alternative embodiment, the lines in the base block, which lead from the main openings to the connection openings in the top and bottom surfaces of the base block, branch off by branch lines, which preferably have a unit for modifying the flow of hydraulic medium, preferably a valve, to the additional lead connections.

With the aid of the unit for modifying the flow of hydraulic medium, preferably a valve, the quantity to be delivered to the machine component such as the ejection cylinder can be controlled be adjusted to the hydraulic medium. Depending on requirements, this can be a simple black and white valve, a positioning valve or a proportional valve. Such valves are known.

The black-and-white valve can be, for example, a 4-3-way solenoid valve with which the ejection cylinder can be moved to its end position and back again.

The positioning valve can consist of a combination of three valves, by means of which a very accurate movement of the cylinder to a given position can be achieved, with an accuracy of, for example, ±1 mm. For example, it can be a combination of a 4-3-way solenoid valve (main valve) with two 2-2-way solenoid valves (auxiliary valves), which are arranged in such a way that when the main valve is in the closed position, hydraulic medium can flow via the Auxiliary valves can drain and no excess pressure is created in the line.

The proportional valve can be a 4-3-way solenoid valve with integrated control, which allows very precise movement and positioning of the cylinder depending on a position determination of the cylinder.

Preferably the valve is located on that side of the base block where the main ports are located. The additional connections for connecting the base block to a machine component such as the ejection cylinder are preferably arranged on the side of the base block with rearward orientation. The additional connections can be connected to conventional pipes or hoses in a sealed manner. Sleeve connections are mentioned as examples.

At least one further module component is arranged on the roof surface of the base block, as described above. This additional module component can be selected from the group consisting of core pull modules, core pull relief modules, booster modules, auxiliary movement modules, and vacuum modules.

According to the invention, a core pull module is preferably arranged on the top surface of the base block.

A core pull module is used to control a core pull cylinder, which moves a movable core or generally a movable mold element) in the mold. With the help of these moving cores, the shape of the casting to be cast can be modified. With core pull modules, cores (or mold elements in general) are moved out of the mold hydraulically, which are not mechanically removed through the opening of the mold.

Movable cores and core pulling cylinders are well known. As a rule, a plurality of, for example 1 to 10 and preferably 1 to 5, core pull cylinders and movable cores are provided in a mold of a die casting machine. An associated core pull module must be provided for each core pull cylinder. With the aid of the core pull module according to the invention, a core pull cylinder can be moved and, preferably, a pressure reduction can also be carried out.

A core pull module according to the invention has a preferably cuboid or cube-shaped housing made of a suitable material (for example a metallic material). For reasons of weight, the core pull module is preferably a hollow body. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention are preferably in the bottom surface of the core puller module Mounting screws or connectors arranged to connect the core pull module to the base block. In the roof surface of the core pull module, bores are preferably provided for receiving corresponding fastening means of a core pull module arranged above. According to the invention, however, continuous bores are particularly preferably provided in the core pull module, through which threaded rods can be guided as described above. In addition, in the side surfaces of a core puller module, means for fastening the core puller module directly to the die-casting machine or in a mounting frame arranged on the die-casting machine can be provided, as described in the European patent application filed by the applicant on the same day entitled "Die-casting machine with energy frame". , be provided. These means are preferably bores for receiving fastening screws.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a means for lifting the core puller module is provided in the top surface of the core puller module. This is preferably a hole for the fixed arrangement of an eye bolt or a hook in order to be able to lift the core pull module with a cable attached to it using a crane.

A core pull module according to the invention has connection openings for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium in the roof area and the bottom area. In the case of a core pull module arranged on the roof surface of the base block, these connection openings are fluidly connected to the corresponding connection openings of the base block, as described above. The connection openings of the core pull module are configured analogously to the connection openings of the base block described above.

A core pull module according to the invention has lines in its interior which connect the connection openings in the roof surface and the base surface to one another. If several core puller modules are arranged one above the other, all core puller modules are connected to one another via their inner lines and can be supplied with hydraulic medium from the base block or return hydraulic medium to the base block.

A core pull cylinder is operated with the help of a core pull module. For this purpose, the lines in the core puller module, which lead from the connection openings in the bottom surface of the core puller module to the connection openings in the top surface of the core puller module, lead to secondary lines, which preferably have a unit for modifying the flow of hydraulic medium, preferably a valve, to the connections for the core pull cylinder.

The valve is preferably arranged on the back of the core pull module. The connections for connecting the core puller module to a core puller cylinder are preferably arranged on the front of the core puller module and are therefore easily accessible for the operating personnel. The additional connections can be connected to conventional pipes or hoses in a sealed manner. Sleeve connections are mentioned as examples.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, additional connections can be provided, preferably in a side surface of the core pull module, which can also be supplied with or return hydraulic medium via a unit for modifying the flow of hydraulic medium, preferably a valve.

The valve can be a 4-3-way solenoid valve, for example, with which the core pulling cylinder can be moved to its end position and back again.

A distribution element can preferably be provided on at least one connection in order to additionally increase the available number of connections. This distribution element has, for example, an inlet that is fluidically connected to a connection of the core pull module, and at least two outlets for connection to machine components.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the core pull module according to the invention has the function of pressure reduction. In this case, the core pulling module further comprises a pressure reducing valve which is arranged between the line of pressurized hydraulic medium coming from the base block and the valve described above. Pressure reducing valves are well known. The pressure reducing valve can preferably be controlled with the aid of an operating element, for example a rotary control. The control element is preferably located on the front of the core pull module, next to the connections for the core pull cylinder.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the core pull module can include a connection for pressure measurement. A standard pressure measuring device such as a manometer can be connected to this connection in order to determine the pressure present in the core pull module and, if necessary, to modify it with the help of the pressure reducing valve. The connection for pressure measurement is preferably located on the front of the core pull module, next to the connections for the core pull cylinder.

According to this embodiment, it is possible to determine and change the pressure in each core puller module separately if a plurality of core puller modules are provided in the hydraulic tower.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a safety module can be provided on the core puller module, which is arranged in the hydraulic circuit between the valve described above and the core puller cylinder and prevents unwanted movement of the core puller cylinder due to its own weight.

In the hydraulic tower according to the invention, all the core pull modules provided are preferably arranged one above the other and on the roof surface of the base block. A continuous hydraulic flow is possible through the lines in the base block and in all core pull modules.

According to a preferred embodiment, a core-tension relief module is arranged above the core-tension module or the core-tension modules, ie on the roof surface of the uppermost core-tension module. With the help of the core strain relief module, the pressure in the lines from the hydraulic tower to the tank can be diverted so that, for example, connections to machine components can be easily released. For this purpose, the core pull relief module has lines which can be fluidically connected to the connection openings in the roof surface of the uppermost core pull module and lead to a relief valve. When the relief valve is actuated, the lines are connected to the tank. A core strain relief module according to the invention has a preferably cuboid or cube-shaped housing made of a suitable material (for example a metallic material). For reasons of weight, the core strain relief module is preferably a hollow body. The relief valve is preferably arranged at the rear, ie in the hydraulic tower on the side facing away from the connections and controls.

According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, instead of a core pull relief module, it can also have an end plate for closing the connection openings in the roof surface of the uppermost core pull module. This is a plate made of a suitable material (for example a metallic material) with the required dimensions for closing the connection openings, which can be fastened to the roof surface of the uppermost core pull module, for example by means of helical connections.

The hydraulic tower according to the invention can also include at least one booster module, for example 1 to 10 and preferably 1 to 5 booster modules. The booster modules are used to actuate booster cylinders in order to additionally apply pressure to the casting material in the mold before it solidifies and thus to compress it.

The design of the post-compression module according to the invention preferably essentially corresponds to the above-described core pull module with pressure reduction valve, so that the above statements on the core pull module apply analogously. In addition, however, the booster module preferably has a throttle valve. From the lines leading through the booster module from the connection openings in the floor area to the connection openings in the roof area, two lines branch off, one of which lines via a unit, preferably a valve, particularly preferably a 4-3-way solenoid valve, for modifying the Flow of hydraulic medium leads to one of the connections. The other outgoing line is after exiting the valve first passed through a pressure reducing valve and then through a throttle valve known per se before it is passed to the other connection. In this way, the piston chamber side of the booster cylinder can be specifically influenced with the help of the additional valves.

A control element, for example a rotary control, is preferably also provided for controlling the additional throttle valve. The control element is preferably located on the front of the booster module, next to the connections for the booster cylinder. The structure of the vacuum module according to the invention preferably essentially corresponds to the above-described core pull module with pressure reduction valve, so that the above statements on the core pull module apply analogously.

The booster module or modules are preferably arranged above the core puller module or modules. In this case, the end plate described above is arranged on the roof surface of the uppermost secondary compressor module (and not on the roof surface of the uppermost core puller module).

The hydraulic tower according to the invention can also include at least one vacuum module, with the aid of which a cylinder can be actuated to influence a vacuum in the casting mold.

The hydraulic tower according to the invention can also include at least one auxiliary movement module. Ancillary movements are understood to mean hydraulically operated movements of machine components that do not affect the main hydraulic machine movements (such as closing the mold). Examples of secondary movements in a die casting machine are the movements of the clamping mechanism in the fixed platen for the guide columns, the movement of the clamping cylinders, the movement of the cylinders to move the mold carrier horizontally, or the movement of the cylinders to eject the mold.

The auxiliary movement module or modules are preferably arranged below the base block, with an auxiliary movement module being fluidically connected to the bottom surface of the base block, analogously to the fluidic connection of a core pull module to the top surface of the base block.

If there are several auxiliary movement modules in the hydraulic tower, these are preferably combined as a unit and arranged on the bottom surface of the base block. Analogously to the core pull modules and compressor modules described above, the secondary movement modules are also firmly connected to one another and to the base block, for example by helical connections or preferably with one or more threaded rods that are guided through bores in the secondary movement modules.

According to the present invention, an end plate is provided for closing the connection openings in the bottom surface of the base block (if there are no auxiliary movement modules) or the bottom surface of the lowermost auxiliary movement module. This is a plate made of a suitable material (e.g. a metallic material) with the necessary dimensions to close the connection openings, which can be attached to the bottom surface of the base block (if there are no auxiliary movement modules) or to the bottom surface of the lowest auxiliary movement module, for example by helical connections. In addition, means for fastening the auxiliary movement module directly to the die-casting machine or in a mounting frame arranged on the die-casting machine can be provided in the side surfaces of an auxiliary movement module be provided, as described in the applicant's European patent application filed on the same day, entitled "Die-casting machine with energy frame". These means are preferably bores for receiving fastening screws.

A secondary movement module according to the invention has a preferably cuboid or cube-shaped housing made of a suitable material (for example a metallic material). For reasons of weight, the auxiliary movement module is preferably a hollow body.

A secondary movement module according to the invention has connection openings in the roof area and the floor area for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium. In the case of an auxiliary movement module arranged on the bottom surface of the base block, these connection ports are fluidly connected to the corresponding connection ports of the base block as described above. The connection openings of the auxiliary movement module are configured analogously to the connection openings of the base block described above.

A secondary movement module according to the invention has lines in its interior which connect the connection openings in the roof surface and the floor surface to one another. If several secondary movement modules are arranged one above the other, all the secondary movement modules are connected to one another via their inner lines and can be supplied with hydraulic medium from the base block or return hydraulic medium to the base block.

A cylinder is operated with the help of a secondary movement module, which triggers secondary movements. For this purpose go from the lines in the auxiliary movement module, which of the Connection openings in the bottom surface of the secondary movement module to the connection openings in the roof surface of the secondary movement module lead off secondary lines, which preferably lead via a unit for modifying the flow of hydraulic medium, preferably a valve, to the connections for the cylinder.

The various secondary movement modules differ in the type and number of valves that have to be provided on the secondary movement module to carry out the respective secondary movement. The valve arrangement required for a specific secondary movement is known to those skilled in the art.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the hydraulic tower described above, all connections provided on module components (i.e. the main connections with the exception of any secondary connections arranged on a side surface) for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine and all operating elements are arranged on one side, preferably on the side facing away from the main inlet opening and main outlet opening. An operator standing in front of the hydraulic tower can thus easily operate and use the hydraulic tower.

As already explained above, the hydraulic tower according to the invention is provided for the supply and/or control of hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine. The present invention thus also relates to a die-casting machine, comprising at least one device (hydraulic tower) described above, which is arranged on the die-casting machine by means of fastening means.

• Befestigungsmittel zur Befestigung des Aufnahmerahmens an der Druckgiessmaschine,
• mindestens ein, vorzugsweise 1 bis 3, Reihen zur Aufnahme von Energiemodulen, wobei jede Reihe zwei Profilstücke umfasst, die, vorzugsweise an ihren Enden, durch jeweils ein Verbindungsstück oder ein Energiemodul unter Ausbildung eines viereckigen, vorzugsweise rechteckigen Innenraums miteinander verbunden sind, wobei die Reihen Mittel zur Anordnung von Energiemodulen in ihrem Innenraum aufweisen und, sofern mehrere Reihen vorhanden sind, miteinander verbunden sind,

und wobei die Befestigungsmittel zur Befestigung des Aufnahmerahmens an der Druckgiessmaschine an einer eine Aussenfläche des Aufnahmerahmens bildenden Reihe angeordnet sind und der Aufnahmerahmen über die Befestigungsmittel an der Druckgiessmaschine befestigt ist, vorzugsweise unter Ausbildung eines Zwischenraums zwischen der Druckgiessmaschine und der der Druckgiessmaschine benachbarten Reihe, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass in der der Druckgiessmaschine benachbarten Reihe des Aufnahmerahmens die vorstehend beschriebene Vorrichtung (Hydraulikturm) angeordnet ist.According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the die casting machine further comprises at least one mounting frame for energy modules, wherein the mounting frame has:

• fasteners for attaching the mounting frame to the die casting machine,
• at least one, preferably 1 to 3, rows for accommodating energy modules, each row comprising two profile pieces which, preferably at their ends, are connected to one another by a connecting piece or an energy module to form a square, preferably rectangular interior space, the rows have means for arranging energy modules in their interior and, if there are several rows, are connected to one another,

and wherein the fastening means for fastening the receiving frame to the die-casting machine are arranged on a row forming an outer surface of the receiving frame and the receiving frame is fastened to the die-casting machine via the fastening means, preferably with the formation of a gap between the die-casting machine and the row adjacent to the die-casting machine, characterized in that that the device (hydraulic tower) described above is arranged in the row of the receiving frame adjacent to the die-casting machine.

Energy modules within the meaning of the present invention are devices with which components of the die casting machine can be supplied with energy, for example in the form of electrical energy or in the form of a pressurized hydraulic medium. Such energy modules are conventionally known and available. They are basically box-shaped and have connections for supplying and discharging electrical current or hydraulic medium and, if necessary, control elements such as switches, rotary knobs, etc.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the above-described device (hydraulic tower) is arranged in the row of the receiving frame adjacent to the die-casting machine in such a way that the base block of the device connects the profile pieces of the row below.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, above the base block 1 to 5 core pull modules and above the core pull modules 1 to 5 booster modules and below the base block 1 to 5 auxiliary movement modules are arranged.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the die-casting machine has a movable platen which has the mounting frame on both sides with a device (hydraulic tower) arranged in the row of the mounting frame adjacent to the die-casting machine. The device particularly preferably comprises a base block on one side of the movable platen, which has connections for the connection of ejection cylinders.

Such a die-casting machine with a receiving frame is described in detail in the applicant's European patent application filed on the same day, entitled "Die-casting machine with energy frame".

• Bereitstellung einer vorstehend beschriebenen Vorrichtung (Hydraulikturm) an der Druckgiessmaschine,
• Einleiten von Hydraulikmedium in den Basisblock der Vorrichtung,
• Weiterleiten des Hydraulikmediums durch mindestens einen mit einer hydraulisch betriebenen Komponente der Druckgiessmaschine verbundenen Anschluss in mindestens einer Modulkomponente und/oder dem Basisblock.

The present invention further relates to a method for supplying and/or controlling hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine, comprising the steps

• Provision of a device described above (hydraulic tower) on the die casting machine,
• Introduction of hydraulic medium into the base block of the device,
• Passing on the hydraulic medium through at least one connection connected to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine in at least one module component and/or the base block.

According to the invention, the forwarding of the hydraulic medium is modified by at least one unit, preferably a valve.

Fig. 1

eine Frontansicht einer Druckgiessmaschine aus dem Stand der Technik

Fig. 2

eine schematische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

Fig. 3

Eine schematische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms mit Gewindestangen zur Befestigung der einzelnen Modulkomponenten

Fig. 4A

Eine schematische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Basisblocks des erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

Fig. 4B

Eine schematische Ansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform eines Basisblocks des erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

Fig. 5A

Eine schematische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Kernzugmoduls des erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

Fig. 5B

Eine schematische Ansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform eines Kernzugmoduls des erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

Fig. 6

Eine schematische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Nachverdichtermoduls des erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

Fig. 7

Eine schematische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform eines Nebenbewegungsmoduls des erfindungsgemässen Hydraulikturms

The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to non-limiting drawings. Show it:

1

a front view of a die casting machine from the prior art

2

a schematic view of a hydraulic tower according to the invention

3

A schematic view of an embodiment of a hydraulic tower according to the invention with threaded rods for fastening the individual module components

Figure 4A

A schematic view of an embodiment of a base block of the hydraulic tower according to the invention

Figure 4B

A schematic view of another embodiment of a base block of the hydraulic tower according to the invention

Figure 5A

A schematic view of an embodiment of a core pull module of the hydraulic tower according to the invention

Figure 5B

A schematic view of another embodiment of a core pull module of the hydraulic tower according to the invention

6

A schematic view of an embodiment of a booster module of the hydraulic tower according to the invention

7

A schematic view of an embodiment of an auxiliary movement module of the hydraulic tower according to the invention

In the drawings, the same reference numbers designate the same components.

In 1 1 is a schematic front view of a prior art die casting machine. The die casting machine 1 comprises a (fixed here by way of example) platen 3 and openings 2 in the platen 3 for guide columns (not shown) for moving a movable platen (not shown). Modules 10 for supplying the die casting machine with electrical energy, modules 6 for operating core pulls, a module 7 for cooling and a module 8 for operating a booster are arranged on the sides of the clamping plate 2 . The various modules are distributed over the entire die casting machine. The individual hydraulic modules have to be connected to the hydraulic lines arranged in the machine frame using pipes and hoses.

In 2 a schematic view of a hydraulic tower 4 according to the invention is shown. This hydraulic tower 4 comprises a base block 5 having a main inlet port 5a (not shown) and a main outlet port 5b. According to the 2 In the embodiment shown, the base block 5 has a valve 5g, with the aid of which hydraulic medium can be released in a controlled manner to additional connections 5h (not shown), for example for controlling an ejection cylinder.

A block of (in this embodiment) 5 core pull modules 6 is arranged on the top surface of the base block 5 . The core pull modules 6 each have connections 6d, 6e on their front side for connection to a core pull cylinder and on their rear side a valve 6i, with the aid of which hydraulic medium can be released in a controlled manner to the connections 6d, 6e. The valves 6i can be regulated via pressure regulators 6h.

The core pull modules 6 are over (in 2 not shown) connection openings with the base block 5 and fluidically connected to each other, so that hydraulic medium can circulate from the base block 5 through all core puller modules 6 and can be discharged via the connections 6d, 6e.

A core relief module 13 is arranged on the top core puller module 6 . As described above, the core relief module 13 serves to relieve the pressure in the hydraulic lines in the hydraulic tower 4 with the aid of a (in 2 not shown) relief valve.

On the top surface of core relief module 13 is a block of (in 2 ) 4 booster modules 8 arranged. The booster modules 8 each have connections 8d, 8e on their front side for connection to a booster cylinder and on their rear side at least one valve 8i, with the aid of which hydraulic medium can be released in a controlled manner to the connections 8d, 8e. The valves 8i can be regulated via pressure regulators 8h. Each booster module can also have a (in 2 not shown) have pressure reducing valve and throttle valve with associated controllers.

The booster modules 8 are over (in 2 not shown) connection openings with the base block 5, the core puller modules 6, the core relief module 13 and fluidically connected to one another, so that hydraulic medium can circulate from the base block 5 through all booster modules 8 and can be discharged via the connections 8d, 8e.

An end plate 12 for closing the lines running through the hydraulic tower 4 is fastened to the roof surface of the uppermost booster module 8 .

On the bottom surface of the base block 5 is a block of (in 2 ) 3 auxiliary movement modules 9 arranged. The booster modules 9 each have connections 9c, 9d on their front side for connection to a secondary movement cylinder and on their rear side at least one valve block 9e, with the aid of which hydraulic medium can be released in a controlled manner to the connections 9c, 9d.

An end plate 12 for closing off the lines running through the hydraulic tower 4 is fastened to the bottom surface of the lowest secondary movement module 9 .

In 3 a schematic view of an embodiment of a hydraulic tower according to the invention with threaded rods for fastening the individual module components is shown. Threaded rods 11a, 11b of different lengths are passed through bores in the module components 5, 6, 8, 9, 13. One end 11d of the threaded rods 11a, 11b is fixed, for example screwed, in an end bore of a module component. The other end 11c of the threaded rods 11a, 11b is fixed by means of a groove. In the manner shown in this embodiment, a firm connection of the module components is ensured. The hydraulic tower 4 is very stable and withstands the forces occurring during the operation of a die casting machine.

In Figure 4A a schematic view of an embodiment of a base block 5 of the hydraulic tower 4 according to the invention is shown.

The base block has a main inlet opening 5a which is fluidically connected via lines 5a1, 5a2 (e.g. pipes in a hollow body or bores in a solid body) to a connection opening 5c in the roof surface of the base block 5 and a connection opening 5e in the bottom surface of the base block 5 . Hydraulic medium introduced into the base block 5 through the main inlet opening 5a can be distributed through the connection openings 5c, 5e to module components (not shown here), which are arranged on the roof surface or bottom surface of the base block 5.

The base block 5 further has a main outlet port 5ba which is fluidically connected to a connection port 5d in the roof surface of the base block 5 and a connection port 5f in the bottom surface of the base block 5 via lines 5b1, 5b2. Hydraulic medium can be conducted from the base block 5 into a tank (not shown) through the main outlet opening 5b. The hydraulic medium to be discharged can be introduced into the base block 5 through the connection openings 5d, 5f of module components (not shown here), which are arranged on the roof surface or bottom surface of the base block 5.

In Figure 4B a schematic view of another embodiment of a base block 5 of the hydraulic tower 4 according to the invention is shown. This basic block 5 differs from that in Figure 4A shown embodiment characterized in that the base block 5 connections 5h for connecting the base block 5 with a machine component, preferably an ejection cylinder, and a Valve 5g are arranged to regulate the hydraulic flow to the ports 5h. From the (in Figure 4B (not shown) lines 5a2, 5b2 shunt into valve 5g and from there to ports 5h as described in detail above.

In Figure 5A a schematic view of an embodiment of a core pull module 6 of the hydraulic tower 5 according to the invention is shown.

The interior of the core pull module 6 has lines (not shown) which are fluidically connected to connection openings 6a, 6b in the top surface of the core pull module 6 and (not shown) connection openings in the bottom surface of the core pull module 6 . Secondary lines go from the lines (not shown) into the valve 6i or via the pressure-reducing valve 6g into the valve 6g and from there to the connections 6d, 6e, as described in detail above. The connections 6d, 6e can be connected to a core pull cylinder.

The pressure reducing valve 6g can be regulated using a pressure regulator 6h. In addition, a connection 6f for pressure measurement is provided on the front side of the core pull module 6, to which a conventional pressure measuring device such as a manometer can be connected.

In the embodiment according to Figure 5a a hole 6c for receiving an eyebolt (not shown) is provided in the top surface of the core pull module 6 . With the help of such an eyebolt, the core pull module 6 can be raised and installed or removed in a simple manner.

In the embodiment according to Figure 5a additional auxiliary terminals 6j, 6k are provided on a side surface. These extensions are hydraulically connected in the same way as connections 6d, 6e and are used for connection to an optional hydraulic distributor (not shown).

In Figure 5B a schematic view of another embodiment of a core pull module 6 of the hydraulic tower 5 according to the invention is shown. This core pull module 6 differs from that in Figure 4A shown embodiment in that a distribution element 6l, 6l' is arranged on the connections 6d and 6e in order to increase (double here) the number of available connections.

In 6 a schematic view of an embodiment of a booster module 8 of the hydraulic tower 5 according to the invention is shown.

In its interior, the booster module 8 has lines (not shown) which are fluidically connected to connection openings 8a, 8b in the roof surface of the booster module 8 and (not shown) connection openings in the bottom surface of the booster module 8 . Secondary lines go from the lines (not shown) into the valve 8i or via the pressure reducing valve 8g and the throttle valve 8l into the valve 8g and from there to the connections 8d, 8e, as described in detail above. The connections 8d, 8e can be connected to a booster cylinder.

The pressure reducing valve 8g can be controlled using a pressure regulator 8h. The throttle valve 8l can be controlled using a controller 8m. In addition, a connection 8f for pressure measurement is provided on the front side of the booster module 8, to which a conventional pressure measuring device such as a manometer can be connected.

In the embodiment according to 6 a hole 8c is provided in the roof surface of the booster module 8 for receiving an eyebolt (not shown). With the help of such an eye bolt, the booster module 8 can be lifted and installed or removed in a simple manner.

In the embodiment according to 6 additional auxiliary terminals 8j, 8k are provided on a side surface. These auxiliary connections are hydraulically connected analogous to the connections 8d, 8e and are used for connection to an optional hydraulic distributor (not shown).

In 7 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of an auxiliary movement module 9 of the hydraulic tower according to the invention.

The sub-movement module 9 has lines (not shown) in its interior which are fluidically connected to connection openings 9a, 9b in the top surface of the sub-movement module 9 and (not shown) connection openings in the bottom surface of the sub-movement module 9 . From the lines (not shown), secondary lines go into the valve block 9e and from there to the connections 9c, 9d, as described in detail above. The connections 9c, 9d can be connected to an auxiliary movement cylinder.

Claims (15)

1. Device (4) for supplying and/or controlling hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine (1), comprising

   - a base block (5) with

   a main inlet port (5a) and a main outlet port (5b) for hydraulic medium, which are preferably arranged at the rear of the base block (5),

   as well as with connection openings (5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) in the roof surface and the bottom surface of the base block (5) for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium, wherein the main inlet opening (5a) and main outlet opening (5b) are connected to the connection openings (5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) by lines (5a1, 5a2, 5b1, 5b2) in the base block (5),

   - at least two different module components selected from the group consisting of core pull modules (6), core pull relief modules (13), post-compression modules (8), auxiliary motion modules (9), and vacuum modules, and

   which have connecting openings (6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b) in the roof surface and the bottom surface for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium and, in their interior, lines connecting these openings,

   wherein at least one of the module components (6, 8, 9, 13) is arranged on the roof surface or the bottom surface of the base block (5) such that the corresponding connection openings (6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b) of the module component (6, 8, 9, 13) form a fluidic connection with the corresponding connection openings (5c, 5d, 5e, 5f) of the base block (5), and

   wherein the at least two different module components (6, 8, 9, 13) have connections (6d, 6e, 8d, 8e, 9c, 9d) for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine (1),

   - End plates (12) for closing unconnected inlet openings and outlet openings (5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b) of the base block (5) and/or a module component (6, 8, 9, 13).
2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that on a free roof surface or bottom surface of a module component (6, 8, 9, 13) at least one further module component (6, 8, 9, 13) is arranged, which is selected from the group consisting of core pull modules (6), core pull relief modules (13), post-compression modules (8), auxiliary movement modules (9), and vacuum modules, and which has, in the roof surface and the bottom surface, connecting openings (6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b) for the discharge and introduction of hydraulic medium and, in its interior, lines connecting these openings,

   wherein the further module component (6, 8, 9, 13) is arranged on the roof surface or the bottom surface of the adjacent module component (6, 8, 9, 13) in such a way that the corresponding connection openings (6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b)of the further module component (6, 8, 9, 13) form a fluidic connection with the corresponding connection openings (6a, 6b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b) of the adjacent module component (6, 8, 9, 13), and

   wherein the further module component (6, 8, 9, 13) has connections (6d, 6e, 8d, 8e, 9c, 9d) for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine (1) .
3. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the base block (5) and the two different and possibly further module components (6, 8, 9, 13) are connected by fastening means, preferably one or more threaded rods (11a, 11b).
4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a distributor unit (61, 61') having at least one additional connection is arranged at at least one connection (6d, 6e, 8d, 8e, 9c, 9d) for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine (1).
5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the base block (5) has connections (5h) for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine (1).
6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the base block (5) and/or at least one module component (6, 8, 9, 13) comprises at least one unit, preferably a valve (5g, 6g, 6i, 8g, 8h, 8i, 81, 9e), for modifying the flow of hydraulic medium to the connections (5h, 6d, 6e, 8d, 8e, 9c, 9d).
7. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the base block (5) and/or at least one module component (6, 8, 9, 13) has at least one operating element (6h, 8h, 8m), and in that all connections (6d, 6e, 8d, 8e, 9c, 9d) for connection to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine (1) and all operating elements (6h, 8h, 8m) are arranged on one side, preferably on the side facing away from the main inlet opening (5a) and main outlet opening (5b) .
8. Die casting machine (1) comprising at least one device (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which is arranged on the die casting machine (1) by means of fastening means.
9. Die casting machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the die casting machine (1) further comprises at least one receiving frame for energy modules, the receiving frame comprising:

   - Fastening means for fastening the receiving frame to the die casting machine,

   - at least one, preferably 1 to 3, rows for receiving energy modules (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10), each row comprising two profile pieces which, preferably at their ends, are connected to one another by a connecting piece or energy module (5) in each case, forming a quadrangular, preferably rectangular, inner space,

   wherein the rows comprise means for arranging energy modules (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) in their inner space and, if there are several rows, are connected to each other, and, wherein the fastening means for fastening the receiving frame to the die casting machine (1) are arranged on a row forming an outer surface of the receiving frame, and the receiving frame is fastened to the die casting machine (1) via the fastening means, preferably under formation of an intermediate space between the die casting machine (1) and the row adjacent to the die casting machine (1), characterized in that a device (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is arranged in the row of the receiving frame adjacent to the die casting machine (1).
10. Die casting machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the device (4) is arranged in the row of the receiving frame adjacent to the die casting machine in such a way that the base block (5) of the device (4) connects the profile pieces of the row below.
11. Die casting machine according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that 1 to 5 core pull modules (6) are arranged above the base block (5) and 1 to 5 post-compression modules (8) are arranged above the core pull modules (6) and 1 to 5 secondary movement modules (9) are arranged below the base block (5).
12. Die casting machine according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the die casting machine has a movable die plate (3) which has on both sides the receiving frame with a device (4) arranged in the row of the receiving frame adjacent to the die casting machine (1).
13. Die casting machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the device (4) comprises, on one side of the movable die plate (3), a base block (5) having connections (5h) for the connection of ejection cylinders.
14. Method for supplying and/or controlling hydraulically operated components of a die casting machine (1), preferably a die casting machine, comprising the steps of

    - Providing a device (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 at die casting machine (1),

    - Introducing hydraulic medium into the base block (5) of the device (4),

    - transferring the hydraulic medium through at least one connection (5h, 6d, 6e, 8d, 8e, 9c, 9d) connected to a hydraulically operated component of the die casting machine (1) in at least one module component (6, 8, 9, 13) and/or the base block (5).
15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that the transfer of the hydraulic medium is modified by at least one unit, preferably a valve (5g, 6g, 6i, 8g, 8h, 8i, 81, 9e) .

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