JP7470224B1 - Molding machine - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a molding machine that can reduce environmental impact. [Solution] The molding machine of the embodiment includes a base, a fixed die plate, a link housing that moves on the base, a movable die plate that moves on the base between the link housing and the fixed die plate, a toggle mechanism that performs mold clamping, a first actuator that drives the toggle mechanism, a second actuator that drives the link housing, tie bars, split nuts that fix the tie bars to the link housing, an injection device, and a control device that controls the following when manufacturing a product: with the split nuts closed, the first actuator drives the toggle mechanism, the movable die plate moves in the mold closing direction, the fixed die and the movable die are clamped, molten metal is filled in by the injection device, with the split nuts closed, the first actuator drives the toggle mechanism, the movable die plate moves in the mold opening direction, and with the split nuts closed, the product is removed. [Selected Figure] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a molding machine.

In a die-casting machine, which is an example of a molding machine, for example, a product is manufactured by filling a cavity in a mold that is clamped using a clamping device with molten metal using an injection device.

Toward the realization of a carbon-free society, die casting machines are expected to reduce the environmental impact. For example, to reduce the environmental impact, it is desirable to shorten product manufacturing cycle times, shorten mold replacement times, or extend the lifespan of parts.

The injection molding machine described in Patent Document 1 includes a fixed platen with a fixed mold attached, a movable platen with a movable mold attached, and an end platen with a mini toggle mechanism for mold clamping and pressure increase between the movable platen and the fixed platen. One end of a tie rod is connected to the fixed platen with a nut, and the other end is engaged with the end platen with a locking split nut. The fixed platen and end platen are connected with a plurality of mold opening and closing ball screws. Furthermore, the end platen and the movable platen are slidably mounted on a slide. In the mold closing and mold opening process, with the locking split nut open, the mold opening and closing ball screws are driven to move the end platen and the movable platen forward and backward together. In the mold clamping and pressure increase process, with the locking split nut closed, the mini toggle mechanism is driven to generate a predetermined mold clamping force.

In the injection molding machine described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to open and close the locking split nut and move the end platen and the movable platen together by driving the mold opening and closing ball screw for each product manufacturing cycle. Therefore, it is difficult to shorten the product manufacturing cycle time.

JP 2001-300998 A

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a molding machine that reduces the environmental impact.

A molding machine according to one aspect of the present invention includes a base, a fixed die plate fixed on the base and capable of holding a first fixed die, a link housing provided on the base so as to be movable in a die opening/closing direction, a movable die plate provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate and provided on the base so as to be movable in the die opening/closing direction and capable of holding a first movable die facing the first fixed die, a toggle mechanism provided between the link housing and the movable die plate and connected to the link housing and the movable die plate, for clamping the first fixed die and the first movable die, a first actuator for driving the toggle mechanism, a second actuator for driving the link housing, and an actuator extending in the die opening/closing direction and capable of being fixed to the fixed die plate. a tie bar extending from the link housing, a split nut fixing the tie bar at a desired position relative to the link housing, an injection device filling a cavity formed between the first fixed die and the first movable die with molten metal, and a control device which, when manufacturing a product, controls the toggle mechanism using the first actuator to move the movable die plate in a die closing direction with the split nut closed, drives the toggle mechanism using the first actuator to clamp the first fixed die and the first movable die, fills the cavity with molten metal using the injection device, drives the toggle mechanism using the first actuator to move the movable die plate in a die opening direction with the split nut closed, and removes the product with the split nut closed.
Equipped with.

The present invention provides a molding machine that reduces the environmental impact.

1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a molding machine according to an embodiment; FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

In this specification, hydraulic pressure is used as an example of hydraulic pressure. For example, a hydraulic circuit is used as an example of a hydraulic circuit. It is also possible to use water pressure instead of hydraulic pressure. In addition, in this specification, hydraulic oil is used as an example of a hydraulic fluid.

The molding machine of the embodiment is a die-casting machine. The die-casting machine 100 of the embodiment is a cold chamber type die-casting machine.

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a molding machine according to an embodiment. Figure 1 is a side view including a cross-sectional view in part. Figure 1 shows the initial state before the start of operation of the die casting machine 100. In this case, the initial state is a state in which the die is fully open, that is, the so-called die open limit state.

The die-casting machine 100 is a machine that manufactures die-cast products by injecting liquid metal (molten metal) into the interior of a die (cavity Ca in FIG. 1) and solidifying the liquid metal inside the die. The metal is, for example, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, a zinc alloy, or a magnesium alloy.

The die casting machine 100 includes a base 10, guide rails 11, a fixed die plate 12, a link housing 14, a movable die plate 16, a tie bar 18, a tie bar fixing nut 20, a split nut mechanism 22, a fixed die 24x (first fixed die), a movable die 26x (first movable die), a clamping device 28, an extrusion device 30, an injection device 32, a link housing moving device 34, a die thickness fine adjustment device 36 (fine adjustment mechanism), and a control device 38.

The split nut mechanism 22 includes a split nut 22a and a split nut moving cylinder 22b.

The fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x make up the mold.

The mold clamping device 28 includes a first electric cylinder 28a (first actuator), a first ball screw 28b, and a toggle mechanism 28c.

The injection device 32 includes a sleeve 32a, a plunger tip 32b, and an injection cylinder 32c.

The control device 38 includes an input/output display device 38a.

The link housing movement device 34 includes a second electric cylinder 34a (second actuator) and a second ball screw 34b.

The fixed die plate 12 is fixed on the base 10. The fixed die plate 12 can be fitted with a fixed die 24x. The fixed die plate 12 can hold the fixed die 24x.

The link housing 14 is provided on the base 10. The link housing 14 is provided on the base 10 so as to be movable in the mold opening and closing direction. The link housing 14 moves in the mold opening and closing direction on a guide rail 11 provided on the base 10. The mold opening and closing direction refers to both the mold opening direction and the mold closing direction shown in FIG. 1, etc. Some of the multiple links included in the toggle mechanism 28c are fixed to the link housing 14.

The movable die plate 16 is provided between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The movable die plate 16 is provided on the base 10 so as to be movable in the mold opening and closing direction. The movable die plate 16 moves in the mold opening and closing direction on a guide rail 11 provided on the base 10.

Some of the links included in the toggle mechanism 28c are fixed to the movable die plate 16. The movable die plate 16 is connected to the link housing 14 by the toggle mechanism 28c.

A movable die 26x can be attached to the movable die plate 16. The movable die plate 16 can hold the movable die 26x facing the fixed die 24x.

The tie bars 18 extend in the mold opening and closing direction. Multiple tie bars 18 are provided. For example, four tie bars 18 are provided.

The tie bars 18 can be fixed to the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The tie bars 18 extend in the mold opening and closing direction.

One end of the tie bar 18 is fixed to the fixed die plate 12 by, for example, a tie bar fixing nut 20. The other end of the tie bar 18 can be fixed to the link housing 14 by, for example, a split nut mechanism 22. The other end of the tie bar 18 can be unfixed to the link housing 14 by, for example, a split nut mechanism 22.

The tie bar 18 passes through the fixed die plate 12, the link housing 14 and the movable die plate 16.

The tie bars 18 support the clamping force while it is being applied to the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x.

The split nut mechanism 22 includes a split nut 22a and a split nut moving cylinder 22b. The split nut 22a is, for example, a half nut in which the nut is split into two. One split nut mechanism 22 is provided for each tie bar 18.

The split nut mechanism 22 fixes the tie bar 18 in a desired position relative to the link housing 14. The split nut 22a fixes the tie bar 18 in a desired position relative to the link housing 14.

For example, a saw-like groove is provided on the tip of the tie bar 18 on the side of the link housing 14. The split nut mechanism 22 controls the opening and closing of the split nut 22a, for example, by the split nut moving cylinder 22b. The split nut moving cylinder 22b has the function of moving the split nut 22a in a direction perpendicular to the mold opening and closing direction.

For example, by closing the split nut 22a, the split nut 22a fits into the groove at the tip of the tie bar 18, and the tie bar 18 is fixed to the link housing 14. Also, by opening the split nut 22a, the tie bar 18 can be made unfixed to the link housing 14.

The split nut moving cylinder 22b is, for example, an air cylinder, an electric cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder.

The fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x constitute a mold. The fixed mold 24x is held by the fixed mold plate 12. The movable mold 26x is held by the movable mold plate 16. When the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x are closed, a cavity Ca is formed between the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x.

The clamping device 28 has the function of clamping the mold. The clamping device 28 clamps the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x. The clamping device 28 also moves the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening and closing direction.

The mold clamping device 28 includes a first electric cylinder 28a (first actuator), a first ball screw 28b, and a toggle mechanism 28c. The toggle mechanism 28c includes a crosshead and multiple links.

The first electric cylinder 28a drives the toggle mechanism 28c. The first electric cylinder 28a is an electric actuator. The first electric cylinder 28a rotates the first ball screw 28b to move the toggle head of the toggle mechanism 28c and drive the toggle mechanism 28c.

As the actuator that drives the toggle mechanism 28c, for example, a hydraulic actuator can be used instead of an electric actuator. As the actuator that drives the toggle mechanism 28c, a hydraulic actuator can be used.

The toggle mechanism 28c is provided between the link housing 14 and the movable die plate 16. One end of the toggle mechanism 28c is connected to the link housing 14, and the other end of the toggle mechanism 28c is connected to the movable die plate 16. One end of the toggle mechanism 28c is fixed to the link housing 14, and the other end of the toggle mechanism 28c is fixed to the movable die plate 16.

The toggle mechanism 28c moves the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening and closing direction. The toggle mechanism 28c clamps the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x.

The extrusion device 30 is provided between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The extrusion device 30 is fixed to, for example, the movable die plate 16. The extrusion device 30 has the function of extruding the product produced by solidifying the molten metal from the movable die 26x.

The injection device 32 has the function of injecting liquid metal (molten metal) into the cavity Ca inside the mold. The injection device 32 includes a sleeve 32a, a plunger tip 32b, and an injection cylinder 32c.

The sleeve 32a leads into the fixed mold 24x. The sleeve 32a is, for example, a tubular member connected to the fixed mold 24x. The sleeve 32a is, for example, cylindrical.

The plunger tip 32b slides inside the sleeve 32a. The plunger tip 32b slides in the forward and backward directions inside the sleeve 32a. As the plunger tip 32b slides forward inside the sleeve 32a, the molten metal in the sleeve 32a is filled into the cavity Ca formed by the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x.

The injection cylinder 32c has the function of driving the plunger tip 32b in the forward and backward directions. The injection cylinder 32c is, for example, a hydraulic cylinder.

The link housing moving device 34 has the function of moving the link housing 14 in the mold opening/closing direction. The movable die plate connected to the link housing 14 is also moved in the mold opening/closing direction by the link housing moving device 34. The link housing moving device 34 includes a second electric cylinder 34a (second actuator) and a second ball screw 34b.

The second electric cylinder 34a is an electric actuator. The second electric cylinder 34a drives the link housing 14 by rotating the second ball screw 34b.

The link housing moving device 34 operates when the split nut 22a is open.

The die thickness fine adjustment device 36 has the function of finely adjusting the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The die thickness fine adjustment device 36 operates when the split nut 22a is closed.

The die thickness fine adjustment device 36 is provided, for example, for each tie bar 18. The die thickness fine adjustment device 36 can, for example, finely adjust the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 for each tie bar 18. The die thickness fine adjustment device 36 can, for example, finely adjust the distance between the movable die plate 16 and the fixed die plate 12 for each tie bar 18.

The die thickness fine-adjustment device 36 is provided, for example, between the link housing 14 and the split nut 22a. The die thickness fine-adjustment device 36 fine-adjusts the distance between the link housing 14 and the split nut 22a, for example, by sliding two wedge-shaped members including two overlapping wedge-shaped members against each other. For example, by fine-adjusting the distance between the link housing 14 and the split nut 22a, the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 can be fine-adjusted.

The die thickness fine-adjustment device 36 may be provided, for example, on the surface of the fixed die plate 12 opposite to the movable die plate 16. The die thickness fine-adjustment device 36 includes, for example, a nut side gear provided on each tie bar fixing nut 20, a ring gear meshed with each nut side gear, and a drive motor that rotates the ring gear. By rotating the ring gear, each nut side gear rotates, and the tie bar 18 moves relatively in the front-rear direction with respect to the tie bar fixing nut 20. By moving the tie bar 18 relatively in the front-rear direction with respect to the tie bar fixing nut 20, the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 can be finely adjusted. The die thickness fine-adjustment device 36 can also finely adjust the distance between the movable die plate 16 and the fixed die plate 12.

The adjustment range of the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 by the die thickness fine adjustment device 36 is, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

The control device 38 has a function of performing various calculations and outputting control commands to each part of the die casting machine 100. The control device 38 has a function of storing, for example, molding conditions, etc. The control device 38 has a function of inputting and outputting, for example, molding conditions, etc.

The control device 38 controls, for example, the operation of the split nut mechanism 22. The control device 38 controls, for example, the operation of the mold clamping device 28. The control device 38 controls, for example, the operation of the extrusion device 30. The control device 38 controls, for example, the operation of the injection device 32. The control device 38 controls, for example, the operation of the link housing moving device 34. The control device 38 controls, for example, the operation of the die thickness fine-tuning device 36.

The control device 38 is configured, for example, by a combination of hardware and software. The control device 38 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a semiconductor memory, and a control program stored in the semiconductor memory.

The control device 38 includes, for example, an input/output display device 38a. The input/output display device 38a accepts, for example, input operations from an operator. The operator can use the input/output display device 38a to set molding conditions, etc., for the die-casting machine 100. The input/output display device 38a also displays, for example, the molding conditions, operating status, etc., of the die-casting machine 100 on a screen. The input/output display device 38a is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

When manufacturing a product, the control device 38 controls the die casting machine 100 as follows. That is, with the split nut 22a closed, the toggle mechanism 28c is driven using the first electric cylinder 28a to move the movable die plate 16 in the die closing direction. Then, the toggle mechanism 28c is driven using the first electric cylinder 28a to clamp the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x. Then, the injection device 32 is used to fill the cavity Ca formed by the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x with molten metal. Then, with the split nut 22a closed, the toggle mechanism 28c is driven using the first electric cylinder 28a to move the movable die plate 16 in the die opening direction. Then, with the split nut 22a closed, the product is removed. Then, for example, after removing the product, the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 is finely adjusted using the die thickness fine adjustment device 36 before manufacturing the next product.

The control device 38 also controls the die casting machine 100 as follows when replacing the fixed mold 24x (first fixed mold) and the movable mold 26x (first movable mold) with the fixed mold 24y (second fixed mold) and the movable mold 26y (second movable mold). That is, after removing the fixed mold 24x (first fixed mold) and the movable mold 26x (first movable mold) from the fixed die plate 12 or the movable die plate 16, the link housing 14 is moved using the second electric cylinder 34a with the split nut 22a open. Then, the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bar 18 is adjusted so as to match the mold thickness of the fixed mold 24y (second fixed mold) and the mold thickness of the movable mold 26y (second movable mold). Then, after closing the split nut 22a, the fixed mold 24y (second fixed mold) and the movable mold 26y (second movable mold) are attached to the fixed die plate 12 or the movable die plate 16. Also, for example, after adjusting the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bar 18, the die thickness fine adjustment device 36 is used to fine-tune the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12.

When performing maintenance on the fixed die 24x (first fixed die) and the movable die 26x (first movable die), the control device 38 controls the die casting machine 100 as follows: That is, the split nut 22a is opened, and while the split nut 22a is open, the link housing 14 is moved in the die opening direction using the second electric cylinder 34a.

Next, an example of the molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 8. Fig. 2 is a flow diagram of an example of the molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. Figs. 1, 3 to 8 are explanatory diagrams of an example of the molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2, the molding operation of the die casting machine 100 of the embodiment includes an initial state step (S01), a movable die plate advance step (S02), a mold clamping start step (S03), an injection operation step (S04), a mold clamping end step (S05), a movable die plate retreat step (S06), a product removal step (S07), and a distance fine adjustment step (S08).

In the initial state step (S01), the die casting machine 100 is in the initial state (Figure 1). The initial state is the so-called die open limit state. In the initial state, the movable die plate 16 is in the position closest to the link housing 14. In the initial state, the split nut 22a is in the closed state.

Next, in the movable die plate advancement step (S02), the movable die plate 16 is advanced in the mold closing direction (Figure 3). The movable die plate 16 advances using the toggle mechanism 28c. By advancing the movable die plate 16 in the mold closing direction, for example, the fixed die 24x (first fixed die) and the movable die 26x (first movable die) are brought into a state immediately before contact.

The movable die plate 16 is moved using the mold clamping device 28. The movable die plate 16 is moved using the toggle mechanism 28c. The first electric cylinder 28a rotates the first ball screw 28b to move the toggle head of the toggle mechanism 28c in the mold closing direction, thereby driving the toggle mechanism 28c.

During the movable die plate advancement step (S02), the split nut 22a is in a closed state.

Next, in the mold clamping start step (S03), the mold is clamped using the mold clamping device 28 (FIG. 4). The fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x are clamped using the toggle mechanism 28c. A mold clamping force is applied between the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x.

The movable die plate 16 moves in the mold closing direction using the toggle mechanism 28c, clamping the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x. As the crosshead of the toggle mechanism 28c moves in the mold closing direction, the toggle mechanism 28c extends in the mold closing direction, clamping the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x.

Next, in the injection operation step (S04), the injection operation is performed using the injection device 32 (Figure 5). Specifically, for example, using a ladle (not shown), the molten metal is supplied into the sleeve 32a from an opening provided in the sleeve 32a. Then, the plunger tip 32b is advanced within the sleeve 32a to fill the molten metal into the cavity Ca in the die. The molten metal filled into the cavity Ca in the die solidifies to produce the die-cast product 40.

Next, in the mold clamping completion step (S05), mold clamping is completed using the toggle mechanism 28c (FIG. 6). A state is created in which no mold clamping force is applied between the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x. For example, the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x are separated from each other. The movable die plate 16 moves in the mold opening direction using the toggle mechanism 28c, completing mold clamping between the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x.

When the crosshead of the toggle mechanism 28c moves in the mold opening direction, the toggle mechanism 28c contracts in the mold opening direction, completing the clamping of the fixed mold 24x and the movable mold 26x.

Next, in the movable die plate retraction step (S06), the movable die plate 16 is retracted in the mold opening direction (Figure 7). By retracting the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening direction, the distance between the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x, which were in contact with each other, increases.

The movable die plate 16 is moved using the clamping device 28. The movable die plate 16 is moved using a toggle mechanism 28c. The toggle mechanism 28c is driven by moving the crosshead in the mold opening direction using the first electric cylinder 28a.

During the movable die plate retraction step (S06), the split nut 22a is in a closed state. After the movable die plate retraction step (S06) is completed, the die is in the fully open state, which is the same as the initial state.

Next, in the product removal step (S07), the die-cast product 40 is pushed out using the extrusion device 30. The extruded die-cast product 40 is then removed from the movable mold 26x using, for example, a robot arm (not shown) (FIG. 8). The robot arm is controlled, for example, by the control device 38.

The above molding operation produces the die-cast product 40. To produce the next die-cast product 40, the above molding operation can be repeated.

After the product removal step (S07), before the next die-cast product 40 is manufactured, for example, in a distance fine-adjustment step (S08), the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 is fine-adjusted. The fine adjustment of the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 is performed using a die thickness fine-adjustment device 36. By performing the distance fine-adjustment step (S08), the clamping force applied between the fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x can be optimized.

The movable die plate retraction step (S06) and the product removal step (S07) may be performed in parallel to shorten the cycle time of the molding operation.

Next, an example of the mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 17. Fig. 9 is a flow diagram of an example of the mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. Figs. 10 to 17 are explanatory diagrams of an example of the mold changing operation of the molding machine of the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 9, the die replacement operation of the die casting machine 100 of the embodiment includes an initial state step (S11), a die removal step (S12), a split nut opening step (S13), a die thickness adjustment step (S14), a split nut closing step (S15), a die thickness fine adjustment step (S16), a die installation step (S17), and a die thickness re-adjustment step (S18).

In the initial state step (S11), the die casting machine 100 is in the initial state (Figure 10). The initial state is the so-called maximum die open state. In the initial state, the movable die plate 16 is in the position closest to the link housing 14. In the initial state, the split nut 22a is in the closed state.

Next, in the die removal step (S12), the die is removed from the die casting machine 100 (FIG. 11). In the die removal step (S12), the fixed die 24x (first fixed die) and the movable die 26x (first movable die) are removed from the fixed die plate 12 or the movable die plate 16. The fixed die 24x and the movable die 26x are removed, for example, by hanging them with a wire from a crane (not shown). In the die removal step (S12), the split nut 22a is in a closed state.

Next, in the split nut opening step (S13), the split nut 22a of the split nut mechanism 22 is opened (FIG. 12). The split nut 22a is opened by driving the split nut moving cylinder 22b.

Next, in the mold thickness adjustment step (S14), the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is adjusted to match the mold thickness of the new mold (Figure 13). Specifically, for example, if the mold thickness of the new mold is thicker than that of the mold before replacement, the link housing 14 is moved in the mold opening direction using the second electric cylinder 34a. By moving the link housing 14 in the mold opening direction, the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 increases. Also, the distance between the movable die plate 16 and the fixed die plate 12 increases.

For example, if the thickness of the new mold is thinner than that of the mold before replacement, the link housing 14 is moved in the mold closing direction using the second electric cylinder 34a. By moving the link housing 14 in the mold closing direction, the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 is narrowed. Also, the distance between the movable die plate 16 and the fixed die plate 12 is narrowed.

In the mold thickness adjustment step (S14), the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bar 18 is adjusted, for example, with the repeat period of the groove at the tip of the tie bar 18 as the minimum unit.

Next, the split nut 22a of the split nut mechanism 22 is closed in the split nut closing step type (S15) (Figure 14). The split nut 22a is closed by driving the split nut moving cylinder 22b. Closing the split nut 22a fixes the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bar 18.

Next, in the die thickness fine adjustment step (S16), the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is finely adjusted to match the thickness of the new die (FIG. 15). The fine adjustment of the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is performed using a die thickness fine adjustment device 36. The adjustment range of the fine adjustment by the die thickness fine adjustment device 36 is, for example, less than the repeat period of the grooves at the tips of the tie bars 18.

Next, in the die mounting step (S17), a new die is mounted to the die casting machine 100 (FIG. 16). In the die mounting step (S17), the fixed die 24y (second fixed die) and the movable die 26y (second movable die) are mounted to the fixed die plate 12 or the movable die plate 16.

The fixed die 24y and the movable die 26y are attached, for example, by hanging them with a wire from a crane (not shown). In the die attachment step (S17), the split nut 22a is in a closed state.

Next, in the die thickness readjustment step (S18), the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is readjusted to match the thickness of the new die (FIG. 17). The position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is readjusted using the die thickness fine adjustment device 36. In the die thickness readjustment step (S18), the split nut 22a is in a closed state.

For example, after a new mold is attached, the mold is clamped using the mold clamping device 28 and the elongation of the tie bar 18 is measured. For example, based on the measured elongation of the tie bar 18, the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bar 18 is fine-tuned again to optimize the mold clamping force applied to the mold. Note that the mold thickness fine-tuning step (S18) can also be omitted.

Next, an example of the mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 18 to 25. Fig. 18 is a flow diagram of an example of the mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. Figs. 19 to 25 are explanatory diagrams of an example of the mold maintenance operation of the molding machine of the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 18, the die maintenance operation of the die casting machine 100 of the embodiment includes an initial state step (S21), a split nut opening step (S22), a link housing retraction step (S23), a die maintenance step (S24), a die thickness adjustment step (S25), a split nut closing step (S26), and a die thickness fine adjustment step (S27).

In the initial state step (S21), the die casting machine 100 is in the initial state (Figure 19). The initial state is the so-called die open limit state. In the initial state, the movable die plate 16 is in the position closest to the link housing 14. In the initial state, the split nut 22a is in the closed state.

Next, in the split nut opening step (S22), the split nut 22a of the split nut mechanism 22 is opened (Figure 20). The split nut 22a is opened by driving the split nut moving cylinder 22b.

Next, in the link housing retraction step (S23), the link housing 14 is moved in the mold opening direction (Figure 21). The link housing 14 is moved in the mold opening direction using the second electric cylinder 34a.

By moving the link housing 14 in the mold opening direction, the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 increases. Also, the distance between the movable die plate 16 and the fixed die plate 12 increases. By increasing the distance between the movable die plate 16 and the fixed die plate 12, the distance between the fixed die 24x (first fixed die) and the movable die 26x (first movable die) increases. The link housing retraction step (S23) is performed with the split nut 22a in an open state.

Next, mold maintenance is performed in the mold maintenance step type (S24) (Figure 22). Because the distance between the fixed mold 24x (first fixed mold) and the movable mold 26x (first movable mold) is increased, the work efficiency of mold maintenance is improved. The mold maintenance step type (S24) is performed with the split nut 22a in the open state.

Next, in the mold thickness adjustment step (S25), the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is adjusted to match the mold thickness of the mold (Figure 23). Specifically, the link housing 14 is moved in the mold closing direction using the second electric cylinder 34a. The link housing 14 is moved in the mold closing direction to return to the position of the initial state step (S21).

Next, the split nut 22a of the split nut mechanism 22 is closed in the split nut closing step type (S26) (Figure 24). The split nut 22a is closed by driving the split nut moving cylinder 22b. Closing the split nut 22a fixes the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bar 18.

Next, in the die thickness fine adjustment step (S27), the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is finely adjusted to match the die thickness of the die (Figure 25). The fine adjustment of the position of the link housing 14 relative to the tie bars 18 is performed using the die thickness fine adjustment device 36. In the die thickness fine adjustment step (S27), the split nut 22a is in a closed state.

The die thickness fine-tuning step (S27) can also be omitted.

Next, the operation and effects of the molding machine of the embodiment will be explained.

Toward the realization of a carbon-free society, die casting machines are expected to reduce the environmental impact. For example, to reduce the environmental impact, it is desirable to shorten product manufacturing cycle times, shorten mold replacement times, or extend the lifespan of parts.

The die casting machine 100 of the embodiment includes a split nut mechanism 22 that fixes the tie bar 18 at a desired position relative to the link housing 14. It also includes a link housing movement device 34 that moves the link housing 14 in the mold opening/closing direction. The die casting machine 100 adjusts the mold thickness by using the split nut mechanism 22 and the link housing movement device 34.

During the molding operation to manufacture the die-cast product 40, the die-casting machine 100 uses only the toggle mechanism 28c of the mold clamping device 28 to move the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening/closing direction. In other words, during the molding operation to manufacture the die-cast product 40, the die-casting machine 100 does not use the split nut mechanism 22 and the link housing moving device 34. During the molding operation to manufacture the die-cast product 40, the die-casting machine 100 does not open or close the split nuts 22a of the split nut mechanism 22.

Therefore, for example, when performing molding operations to manufacture die-cast products, it is possible to shorten the product manufacturing cycle time compared to a die-casting machine that uses the opening and closing operations of a split nut and a link housing moving device.

In addition, because the split nut 22a does not need to be opened or closed during the molding operation, wear and damage to the split nut 22a is reduced. This allows for a longer life for the split nut 22a.

The die casting machine 100 also uses a split nut mechanism 22 and a link housing moving device 34 when replacing the die. The die casting machine 100 can adjust the distance between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 in a short time when replacing the die. In other words, the die casting machine 100 can adjust the die thickness in a short time when replacing the die. Therefore, the die replacement time can be shortened.

For example, compared to a die casting machine in which the adjustment of the mold thickness when replacing the mold is performed by rotating a nut engaged with a tie bar, the die casting machine 100 can adjust the mold thickness when replacing the mold in a short time.

The die casting machine 100 also uses the split nut mechanism 22 and the link housing moving device 34 when performing mold maintenance. This allows for a wider distance between the fixed mold 24x (first fixed mold) and the movable mold 26x (first movable mold). This improves the work efficiency of mold maintenance, and can, for example, shorten the time required for mold maintenance.

As described above, the molding machine of the embodiment can shorten the product manufacturing cycle time, shorten the mold replacement time, extend the life of parts, and improve the work efficiency of mold maintenance. The molding machine of the embodiment can reduce the environmental load.

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. In the embodiments, the description of the molding machine and other parts that are not directly necessary for the explanation of the present invention has been omitted, but the necessary elements related to the molding machine and other parts can be selected and used as appropriate.

In the embodiment, a die-casting machine has been described as an example of a molding machine, but the present invention can also be applied to injection molding machines, etc.

All other molding machines that incorporate the elements of the present invention and that can be modified by a person skilled in the art are included within the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

10 Base 11 Guide rail 12 Fixed die plate 14 Link housing 16 Movable die plate 18 Tie bar 20 Tie bar fixing nut 22 Split nut mechanism 22a Split nut 22b Split nut moving cylinder 24x Fixed die (first fixed die)
24y fixed type (second fixed type)
26x Movable type (first movable type)
26y Movable type (second movable type)
28 Mold clamping device 28a First electric cylinder (first actuator)
28b: First ball screw 28c: Toggle mechanism 30: Extrusion device 32: Injection device 32a: Sleeve 32b: Plunger tip 32c: Injection cylinder 34: Link housing moving device 34a: Second electric cylinder (second actuator)
34b Second ball screw 36 Die thickness fine adjustment device 38 Control device 38a Input/output display device 40 Die-casting product (product)
100 Die casting machine (molding machine)
Ca cavity

Claims (9)

With the base,
a fixed die plate fixed on the base and capable of holding a first fixed die;
a link housing provided on the base so as to be movable in a mold opening/closing direction;
a movable die plate provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate, movable on the base in the die opening/closing direction, and capable of holding a first movable die opposite to the first fixed die;
a toggle mechanism provided between the link housing and the movable die plate, connected to the link housing and the movable die plate, and clamping the first fixed die and the first movable die;
a first actuator that drives the toggle mechanism;
a second actuator that drives the link housing;
A tie bar that can be fixed to the fixed die plate and extends in the mold opening and closing direction;
a split nut for fixing the tie bar in a desired position relative to the link housing;
an injection device that fills a molten metal into a cavity formed between the first fixed mold and the first movable mold;
When manufacturing products,
With the split nut closed, the toggle mechanism is driven using the first actuator to move the movable die plate in a die closing direction;
The toggle mechanism is driven by the first actuator to clamp the first fixed mold and the first movable mold;
Using the injection device, fill the cavity with molten metal;
With the split nut closed, the toggle mechanism is driven using the first actuator to move the movable die plate in a die opening direction;
A control device that controls the split nut to be closed and remove the product;
A molding machine comprising: When replacing the first fixed die and the first movable die with the second fixed die and the second movable die, the control device
After removing the first fixed mold and the first movable mold from the fixed die plate or the movable die plate, the link housing is moved using the second actuator while the split nut is in an open state, and the position of the link housing relative to the tie bar is adjusted so as to fit the mold thickness of the second fixed mold and the mold thickness of the second movable mold;
2. The molding machine according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that controls the second fixed die and the second movable die to be attached to the fixed die plate or the movable die plate after the split nut is closed. A fine adjustment mechanism for finely adjusting the distance between the link housing and the fixed die plate is further provided,
3. The molding machine according to claim 2, wherein the control device controls the fine adjustment mechanism to finely adjust the distance between the link housing and the fixed die plate after adjusting the position of the link housing relative to the tie bars. A fine adjustment mechanism for finely adjusting the distance between the link housing and the fixed die plate is further provided,
2. The molding machine according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the fine adjustment mechanism to finely adjust the distance between the link housing and the fixed die plate after the product is removed and before the next product is manufactured. The molding machine according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the fine adjustment mechanism is provided between the split nut and the link housing. The molding machine according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the distance can be adjusted within a range of 0.1 mm to 30 mm by the fine adjustment mechanism. When performing maintenance on the first fixed type or the first movable type, the control device
Open the split nut;
2. The molding machine according to claim 1, wherein the second actuator is used to control the link housing to move in the mold opening direction while the split nut is in an open state. The molding machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the second actuator is an electric actuator. The molding machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the second actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

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