WO2013074741A1

WO2013074741A1 - Mold-tool system including stem-compliance assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2013074741A1
Application number: PCT/US2012/065205
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sarah Kathleen Overfield; Patrice Fabien Dezon-Gaillard
Original assignee: Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd.
Priority date: 2011-11-18
Filing date: 2012-11-15
Publication date: 2013-05-23

Abstract

A mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition. A mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-open condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition.

Description

MOLD-TOOL SYSTEM INCLUDING STEM-COMPLIANCE ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects generally relate to (and not limited to) mold-tool systems including (and not limited to) molding systems.

BACKGROUND

United States Patent Number 3849048 (BIELFELDT) discloses a distributor and nozzle assembly for injection-molding machines in which the distributor or manifold has a central inlet passage communicating with the injector apparatus and a plurality of angularly spaced arms along which extend passages running to respective nozzle assemblies at the ends of these arms. The nozzle assemblies are each formed with a nozzle needle displaceable under hydraulic pressure and are themselves displaceable under hydraulic pressure or at least are pressurized via respective cylinder arrangements or by the pressure of the resin to maintain a seal at the injector-nozzle outlets between surface perpendicular to the nozzle/mold displacement direction.

United States Patent Number 3934626 (HALL) discloses an axially compliant injection nozzle for plastic molding machines incorporating a valve actuated by differential motion between the mold and the conditioning chamber comprises a tappet engaged on the stem of that valve and entrapping a valve spring between the valve seat and the tappet. The nozzle has a sliding fit with a bore in the tappet head and is biased away from the latter by a secondary spring. The action of the secondary spring aids in maintaining good sealing contact between the nozzle and the sprue bushing and during the injection period despite variations in the lock-up force between the nozzle and the sprue, and retains such contact subsequent to injection so as to prevent plastic drip due to backflow.

United States Patent Number 5840231 (TENG) discloses a valve gate assembly including a movable valve stem for guiding molten resin to a molding area, a nozzle body portion enclosing the valve stem and a mold cavity for receiving molten plastic to form a molded part formed between cooperating first and second mold halves. An injection orifice is provided downstream of the valve stem communicating with the mold cavity for transfer of the molten plastic to the mold cavity, and a movable core pin is provided contacting the valve stem and movable between a forward position opening the injection orifice and a rearward position closing the injection orifice. United States Patent Number 7168440 (BLUME) discloses a valve body and seal assembly comprising a top-stem-guided valve body having at least one cast-in-place elastomeric seal insert in a peripheral seal retention groove and a cast-in-place top guide stem sleeve is made by pouring and curing liquid elastomer in at least one mold comprising the peripheral seal retention groove and the top guide stem. Mold surfaces contacting the poured elastomer are adhesion-inhibiting surfaces which reduce or eliminate background elastomer stress due to shrinkage during curing of the elastomer, and which allow limited relative movement of cast- in-place elastomer with respect to the valve body. Serrations on each of the opposing walls of the seal retention groove are offset to moderate differing stress concentrations in the groove walls.

United States Patent Number 7931455 (TABASSI) discloses an actuated part, such as a valve pin plate or actuator piston, is movable in forward and rearward directions. A coupling part is located rearward of the actuated part and held in position by magnetic attraction between the coupling part and the actuated part. A valve pin is coupled to the coupling part. The valve pin extends in the forward direction for opening and closing a mold gate. When a stopping force applied to the valve pin is greater than a force of the magnetic attraction between the coupling part and the actuated part, the actuated part moves away from the coupling part in the forward direction, thereby reducing the stopping force on the valve pin.

United States Patent Publication Number 2003/0143298 (BLAIS) discloses an injection molding nozzle having a first sealing member to substantially eliminate the leakage of molten material from around the injection nozzle. A second sealing member is configured to substantially reduce the leakage of a pressurized fluid, such as air, which may be used to open and close a valve stem associated with the injection nozzle.

United States Patent Publication Number 2003/0170340 (Sicilia) discloses a valve pin guide for guiding a valve pin from a nozzle into a gate of a mold cavity in an injection molding apparatus. The valve pin guide defines a guide aperture therethrough. The guide aperture is adapted to receive and guide the valve pin into alignment with the gate. The valve pin guide is positioned downstream from said nozzle and upstream from said gate.

US 2011/0086121 (BOUTI) discloses a safety connector for a hot runner having a valve stem and an actuation plate, the safety connector including: (i) a latch releasably interlocking the valve stem with the actuation plate so that in response to movement of the actuation plate, the valve stem becomes movable; and (ii) a latch mover being cooperative with the latch, and the latch mover being configured to move the latch responsive to a predetermined force acting on the valve stem so that so that the valve stem is released from the actuation plate.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect, there is provided a mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem- compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition.

According to another aspect, there is provided a mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem- compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-open condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition.

According to yet another aspect, there is provided a mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to any one of: (i) a gate-closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition; and (ii) a gate-open condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition.

Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments will now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The non-limiting embodiments will be more fully appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic representations of an example of a molding system (900) having a mold-tool system (100); FIG. 2 depicts a cross sectional view of a schematic representation of an example of a runner system (916) having the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D all depict schematic representations of examples of the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 1 ; and

FIGS. 11 A, 11 B depict schematic representations of examples of a valve-stem assembly (104) that may be used with the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 1.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details not necessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S)

FIG. 1 depicts the example of the molding system (900). FIG. 2 depicts the example of the runner system (916) having the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 1 . FIGS. 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D depict the examples of the mold-tool system (100). It will be appreciated that the examples, and the features of the examples, that are depicted in the drawings may be combined in any suitable permutation and combination. The molding system (900) and the runner system (916) may include components that are known to persons skilled in the art, and these known components will not be described here; these known components are described, at least in part, in the following reference books (for example): (i) "Injection Molding Handbook' authored by OSSWALD/TURNG/G RAMAN N (ISBN: 3-446-21669-2), (ii) "Injection Molding Handbook' authored by ROSATO AND ROSATO (ISBN: 0-412- 99381 -3), (iii) "Injection Molding Systems" 3^rd Edition authored by JOHANNABER (ISBN 3- 446-17733-7) and/or (iv) "Runner and Gating Design Handbook' authored by BEAUMONT (ISBN 1 -446-22672-9). It will be appreciated that for the purposes of this document, the phrase "includes (but is not limited to)" is equivalent to the word "comprising." The word "comprising" is a transitional phrase or word that links the preamble of a patent claim to the specific elements set forth in the claim that define what the invention itself actually is. The transitional phrase acts as a limitation on the claim, indicating whether a similar device, method, or composition infringes the patent if the accused device (etc) contains more or fewer elements than the claim in the patent. The word "comprising" is to be treated as an open transition, which is the broadest form of transition, as it does not limit the preamble to whatever elements are identified in the claim.

FIG. 1 depicts the schematic representation of the example of the molding system (900) having the mold-tool system (100). The molding system (900) may also be called an injection-molding system for example. According to the example depicted in FIG. 1 , the molding system (900) includes (and is not limited to): (i) an extruder assembly (902), (ii) a clamp assembly (904), (iii) a runner system (916), and/or (iv) a mold assembly (918). It will be appreciated that mold-tool system (100) may include (and is not limited to): the runner system (916) configured to support the mold-tool system (100). In addition, the mold-tool system (100) may also include a molding system (900) configured to support the mold-tool system (100). By way of example, the extruder assembly (902) is configured, to prepare, in use, a heated, flowable resin, and is also configured to inject or to move the resin from the extruder assembly (902) toward the runner system (916). Other names for the extruder assembly (902) may include injection unit, melt-preparation assembly, etc. By way of example, the clamp assembly (904) includes (and is not limited to): (i) a stationary platen (906), (ii) a movable platen (908), (iii) a rod assembly (910), (iv) a clamping assembly (912), and/or (v) a lock assembly (914). The stationary platen (906) does not move; that is, the stationary platen (906) may be fixedly positioned relative to the ground or floor. The movable platen (908) is configured to be movable relative to the stationary platen (906). A platen-moving mechanism (not depicted but known) is connected to the movable platen (908), and the platen-moving mechanism is configured to move, in use, the movable platen (908). The rod assembly (910) extends between the movable platen (908) and the stationary platen (906). The rod assembly (910) may have, by way of example, four rod structures positioned at the corners of the respective stationary platen (906) and the movable platen (908). The rod assembly (910) is configured to guide movement of the movable platen (908) relative to the stationary platen (906). A clamping assembly (912) is connected to the rod assembly (910). The stationary platen (906) supports the position of the clamping assembly (912). The lock assembly (914) is connected to the rod assembly (910), or may alternatively be connected to the movable platen (908). The lock assembly (914) is configured to selectively lock and unlock the rod assembly (910) relative to the movable platen (908). By way of example, the runner system (916) is attached to, or is supported by, the stationary platen (906). The runner system (916) includes (and is not limited to) a mold-tool system (100). The definition of the mold-tool system (100) is as follows: a system that may be positioned and/or may be used in a platen envelope (901 ) defined by, in part, an outer perimeter of the stationary platen (906) and the movable platen (908) of the molding system (900) (as depicted in FIG. 1 ). The molding system (900) may include (and is not limited to) the mold-tool system (100). The runner system (916) is configured to receive the resin from the extruder assembly (902). By way of example, the mold assembly (918) includes (and is not limited to): (i) a mold-cavity assembly (920), and (ii) a mold-core assembly (922) that is movable relative to the mold-cavity assembly (920). The mold-core assembly (922) is attached to or supported by the movable platen (908). The mold-cavity assembly (920) is attached to or supported by the runner system (916), so that the mold-core assembly (922) faces the mold-cavity assembly (920). The runner system (916) is configured to distribute the resin from the extruder assembly (902) to the mold assembly (918).

In operation, the movable platen (908) is moved toward the stationary platen (906) so that the mold-cavity assembly (920) is closed against the mold-core assembly (922), so that the mold assembly (918) may define a mold cavity configured to receive the resin from the runner system (916). The lock assembly (914) is engaged so as to lock the position of the movable platen (908) so that the movable platen (908) no longer moves relative to the stationary platen (906). The clamping assembly (912) is then engaged to apply a camping pressure, in use, to the rod assembly (910), so that the clamping pressure then may be transferred to the mold assembly (918). The extruder assembly (902) pushes or injects, in use, the resin to the runner system (916), which then the runner system (916) distributes the resin to the mold cavity structure defined by the mold assembly (918). Once the resin in the mold assembly (918) is solidified, the clamping assembly (912) is deactivated so as to remove the clamping force from the mold assembly (918), and then the lock assembly (914) is deactivated to permit movement of the movable platen (908) away from the stationary platen (906), and then a molded article may be removed from the mold assembly (918).

The definition of the mold-tool system (100) is as follows: a system that may be positioned and/or may be used in an envelope defined by a platen system of the molding system (900). The platen system may include a stationary platen (906) and a movable platen (908) that is moveable relative to the stationary platen (906). Examples of the mold-tool system (100) may include (and are not limited to): a runner system (916), such as a hot runner system or a cold runner system, a runner nozzle, a manifold system, and/or any sub- assembly or part thereof. FIG. 2 depicts the cross sectional view of the schematic representation of the example of the runner system (916) of FIG. 1 , in which the runner system (916) has or includes the mold-tool system (100).

Known runner systems (not depicted) employ coupled-stem movement. That is, a plurality of valve-stem assemblies are coupled to an actuation plate, and the actuation plate moves the plurality of valve-stem assemblies in unison (or at least attempts to do so). The couple- stem movement is an alternative to independent actuation of individual valve-stem assemblies, or independent driving mechanisms for each valve-stem assembly. Several advantages of coupled stem movement are synchronous stem movement and certainty of synchronous movement. Known coupled-stem movement designs are limited to the type of valve-stem assembly that may be used for shutting off (closing) and/or opening a gate. There are many types of valves-stem assemblies; for example, two styles of valve-stem assemblies for shutting off the gate are: (i) cylindrical type and (ii) taper type; it will be appreciated that there are other types of valve-stem assemblies as well. For cylindrical shut-off type valve-stem assemblies, a cylindrical feature on the distal end of the valve-stem inserts into a receiving cylindrical orifice (or the gate) to stop the flow of the resin or the molding material, and to separate the flow of the resin from the molded part as the molded part cools and solidifies in the mold assembly (918). The forward position of the valve-stem assembly in the no-flow position (gate-closed condition) may be controlled by the position of the component that retains the valve-stem assembly. In the case of multiple-coupled valve- stem assemblies, the retaining component contains all of the valve-stem assemblies in the system. The positions of the valve-stem assemblies are controlled as a group. Since the sealing function of the cylindrical style of valve-stem assembly is primarily dependent on the cylindrical fit between the valve-stem assembly and the gate, the use of coupled-stem actuation is possible. However, for know runner systems (not depicted) that may use valve- stem assemblies of the type that are of the tapered style of gate shut-off, a coupled stem actuation may not be appropriate approach for group actuation of the plurality of valve-stem assemblies. The sealing function of a taper style shut-off valve-stem assembly is performed by mating a conical taper on the distal end of the vale-stem assembly to a receiving conical feature in the gate. Face-to-face contact between the tapers is required to seal resin. Slight variations in position of the gate or stem tapers may be problematic for a coupled stem- actuation system. For known runner systems (not depicted), some pairs of valve-stem assemblies and gates may not make contact, and therefore may leak some resin; since some of the pairs are not making contact, the remaining stem-gate pairs may make contact with excess force (which is an undesirable condition). For known runner systems, this excess force could damage or destroy portions of the gates, the valve-stem assemblies, and/or the valve-stem actuation system. By way of example, the mold-tool system (100) may allow actuation of tapered valve-stem assemblies to be used with multiple-stem actuation by providing for individual stem compliance for the case where an actuation plate is used as the valve-stem actuation system. This compliance may allow further improvements or variations on the stem-to-gate shut-off approach by allowing synchronous valve-stem movement with independent stem-to-gate contact control.

According to the example depicted in FIG. 2, the mold-tool system (100) includes (and is not limited to): a stem-compliance assembly (102). According to other examples, the mold- tool system (100) further includes (and is not limited to): a valve-stem assembly (104), and/or an actuation-plate assembly (106). It will be appreciated that the stem-compliance assembly (102), the valve-stem assembly (104), and the actuation-plate assembly (106) may all be provided or supplied, in combination, together or in a sub combination.

According to a first option, the stem-compliance assembly (102) is configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate- closed condition.

According to a second option, the stem-compliance assembly (102) is configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-open condition for a case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition. It will be appreciated that the first option and the second option may be mutually exclusive of each other (if so desired).

According to a second option, the stem-compliance assembly (102) is configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to any one of: (i) the gate-closed condition for a case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition; and (ii) the gate-open condition for a case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition. The actuation-plate assembly (106) is configured to be movable. The valve-stem assembly (104) is configured to couple to the actuation-plate assembly (106). The valve-stem assembly (104) is configured to move responsive to movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106). More specifically, the stem-compliance assembly (102) is configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition while the actuation-plate moves other stem assemblies to the gate-closed condition.

FIG. 2 illustrates the mold-tool system (100) used or incorporated in a nozzle stack of the runner system (916) with the cavity plate (936) and gate inserts (not depicted but known) included. The gate inserts are components that define the gates (937). The tips of the valve- stem assemblies (104) are movable so as to perform any one of: (i) close their respective gates (937), and (ii) open their respective gates (937). Each gate (937) is configured to fluidly communicate flowable resin from the runner system (916) to the mold assembly (918). The mold-tool system (100) provides compliance during closing of the valve-stem assembly (104) so that the gate (937) will not be overloaded (that is, overloaded with excess closing force for example). For example, this arrangement may allow the valve-stem assembly (104) of the tapered shut-off type to be used, and thus permit each pair of valve-stem assembly (104) and gate (937) to make contact with each other, so as to close off flow of the flowbale resin into the mold cavity of the mold assembly (918). It will be appreciated that the mold-tool system (100) is not limited to valve-stem assemblies (104) of the tapered shut-off type. The mold-tool system (100) may be used on other types of valve-stem assemblies (104) as well. While there may be less benefit for valve-stem assemblies (104) of the non-tapered type, it will be appreciated that, on the other hand, the valve-stem assembly (104) of another style or type where the stem axial position is governed by the detail geometry of the gate (937) may benefit from the mold-tool system (100).

According to the example depicted in FIG. 2, the mold-tool system (100) includes (and is not limited to): a stem-head assembly (108), and a stem-retention mechanism (110). The actuation-plate assembly (106) defines a stem-receiving channel (107) that is configured to receive, at least in part, the valve-stem assembly (104). The stem-head assembly (108) is connected to a portion of the valve-stem assembly (104) that is set apart from an end of the valve-stem assembly (104). Once (i) the valve-stem assembly (104) is received in the stem- receiving channel (107), and (ii) the stem-head assembly (108) is also received in the stem- receiving channel (107), then the mold-tool system (100) is inserted and received (at least in part) in the stem-receiving channel (107), so that the mold-tool system (100) abuts the stem- head assembly (108). Then, the stem-retention mechanism (110) is connected to the actuation-plate assembly (106), so that the stem-retention mechanism (110) contacts the mold-tool system (100). The stem-retention mechanism (110) may be threadably connected to the actuation-plate assembly (106). In this manner, the mold-tool system (100) is positioned so as to abut the stem-retention mechanism (110) and the stem-head assembly (108). A direction (111 ) indicates the direction of movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106). By way of example, the runner system (916) includes (and is not limited to): a backing plate (930), a center plate (932), a manifold plate (933), a manifold assembly (934), a cavity plate (936), and a nozzle assembly (938). The actuation-plate assembly (106) is housed or contained in a pocket defined by the backing plate (930) and the center plate (932). The manifold plate (933) is configured to house or contain the manifold assembly (934). FIG. 3A depicts a close-up view of the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 2. FIG. 3B depicts a further close-up view of the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 3A. According to the example depicted in FIG. 3B, the stem-compliance assembly (102) further includes (and is not limited to): a holder assembly (112), and a biasing assembly (114), which may be a spring assembly for example. The biasing assembly (114) contacts the stem-retention mechanism (110) and contacts the holder assembly (112). The holder assembly (112) contacts the stem-head assembly (108). The biasing assembly (114) is contained, at least in part, within the holder assembly (112) for convenience and ease of assembly.

According to the example depicted in FIG. 3A, the biasing assembly (114) and the holder assembly (112) cooperate to provide compliance of the valve-stem assembly (104) at the end of the closing stroke of the valve-stem assembly (104). The force applied to the valve- stem assembly (104) is limited by the holder shoulder so that each valve-stem assembly (104) cannot steal more load (force) from the actuation-plate assembly (106) than it is allowed. As an option, a shear pin (109) may be used to protect the valve-stem assembly (104) from an overload condition; that is, for the case where too much force acts on the valve-stem assembly (104) and the valve-stem assembly (104) cannot move in response to the received load or force, the shear pin (109) may break and thus disconnect the valve-stem assembly (104) from receiving further load that may damage the valve-stem assembly (104). The mold-tool system (100) allows an amount of stem clearance during thermal expansion. Generally speaking, the mold-tool system (100) depicted in FIG. 3A, 3B provides compliance for the case where the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-closed condition.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, there is depicted another example of the mold-tool system (100), in which the stem-compliance assembly (102) further includes (and is not limited to): a holder assembly (112), a biasing assembly (114), and a washer device (116). The biasing assembly (114) contacts the stem-head assembly (108) and contacts the holder assembly (112). The washer device (116) abuts the opposite side of the stem-head assembly (108) relative to the position of the biasing assembly (114). The mold-tool system (100), as depicted in FIG. 4B, provides compliance in the other direction (that is, in which the valve-stem assembly (104) is in gate-open condition) in order to add an individual sealing feature (such as a reverse taper) to each valve-stem assembly (104). The mold-tool system (100) improves contact at each location of the valve-stem assembly (104) at the gate (937) and as well provides improved load sharing amongst a plurality of valve-stem assemblies. Generally speaking, the mold-tool system (100) as depicted in FIGS. 4A, 4B provides compliance for the case where the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward gate-open condition.

It will be appreciated that the example depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B and the example depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B may be combined to have compliance in both the open and close stem-stroke directions of the valve-stem assembly (104), if so desired as an option. That is, the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where: (i) the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward gate-open condition, and (ii) the

valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-closed condition.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, there is depicted the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 3A. Between the holder assembly (112) and the stem-retention mechanism (110) there is defined a gap (120). A deflection (122) is depicted, which is an amount of deflection provided by the biasing assembly (114). The deflection (122), for example, may be the displacement provided by a spring assembly. The deflection (122) generates a load. The gap (120) represents available additional deflection.

Generally speaking, FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D illustrate an example of a sequence of operation of the mold-tool system (100) of FIG. 3A. FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D depict an example of a sequence of events during a cycle. FIG. 6A depicts a first actuation-plate position, in which the valve-stem assembly (104A) and the valve-stem assembly (104B) are positioned in an open position. Gate-open condition of the valve-stem assembly (104) is a condition in which the molding material may flow from the runner system (916) to the mold assembly (918).

FIG. 6B depicts a second actuation-plate position, in which the valve-stem assembly (104B) is engaged with the gate (937B), which is the gate-closed condition (this is depicted in FIG. 8B and FIG 8D). The gate-closed condition of the valve-stem assembly (104) is such that the molding material or the resin cannot flow from the runner system (916) to the mold assembly (918). The valve-stem assembly (104A) remains positioned in gate-open condition; that is, the valve-stem assembly (104A) has almost reached the gate-closed condition but not quite yet.

FIG. 6C depicts a third actuation-plate position, in which the valve-stem assembly (104A) is engaged with the gate (937A), and the valve-stem assembly (104B) is engaged with the gate (937B); that is, both the valve-stem assembly (104A) and the valve-stem assembly (104B) are in the gate-closed condition. However, the position of the actuation-plate assembly (106) has not yet reached its final position.

FIG. 6D depicts a fourth actuation-plate position, in which the valve-stem assembly (104A) is engaged with the gate (937 A), and the valve-stem assembly (104B) is engaged with the gate (937B), which is the gate-closed condition. However, the actuation-plate assembly (106) has reached its final position.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D depict the mold-tool system (100B) for the first actuation plate position. FIGS. 7A and 7B depict the mold-tool system (100A) and its corresponding tip of the valve- stem assembly (104A) positioned relative to the gate (937 A) for the first actuation plate position. FIGS. 7C and 7D depict the mold-tool system (100B) and its corresponding tip of the valve-stem assembly (104B) positioned relative to the gate (937B) for the first actuation plate position. The gap (130) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is approximately equal to the gap (140) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The deflection (132) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is approximately equal to the deflection (142) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The valve-stem assembly (104A) and the valve-stem assembly (104B) are positioned in the gate-open condition. The deflection (132) and the deflection (142) generate a load (force) that is applied to their respective mold-tool system (100A) and mold-tool system (100B). FIG. 7B depicts the valve-stem assembly (104A) is positioned in the gate-open condition. FIG. 7D depicts the valve-stem assembly (104B) is positioned in the gate-open condition.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D depict the mold-tool system (100B) for the second actuation plate position. The gap (130) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is approximately equal to the gap (140) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The deflection (132) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is approximately equal to the deflection (142) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The valve-stem assembly (104B) reaches and contacts (engages and seals) the gate (937B) before the valve-stem assembly (104A) reaches and contacts (and seals) the gate (937A). There is a gap between the valve-stem assembly (104A) and the gate (937 A). That is, the valve-stem assembly (104A) is in the process of closing, but it is not yet seated in the gate (937A).

FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D depict the mold-tool system (100B) for the third actuation plate position. The gap (130) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is greater than the gap (140) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The deflection (132) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is less than the deflection (142) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The valve-stem assembly (104B) remains engaged (seals) with the gate (937B). The valve-stem assembly (104A) has now reached (and engages and seals) the gate (937 A) so as to close off the gate (937 A). The gap (140) has decreased by the amount of position difference between the stem contact (seal) points. The deflection (142) has increased correspondingly and increased the load. This load is now applied to the stem retainer, holder and stem head, stem, and gate (937) of the valve-stem assembly (104B).

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D depict the mold-tool system (100B) for the third actuation plate position. The gap (130) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is greater than the gap (140) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The deflection (132) associated with the mold-tool system (100A) is less than the deflection (142) associated with the mold-tool system (100B). The actuation-plate assembly (106) comes to its final forward position. The gap (140) has decreased by the amount of position difference. The deflection (142) has increased correspondingly and increased the load. The gap (130) has decreased by the amount of position difference. The deflection (132) has increased correspondingly and increased the load. The valve-stem assembly (104A) engages the gate (937 A), and the valve-stem assembly (104B) engages the gate (937B)

FIGS. 11 A, 11 B depicts several types of the valve-stem assembly (104). It will be

appreciated that the mold-tool system (100) may be used with valve-stem assembly (104) of the tapered type, so that tapered types of valve-stem assemblies (104) may be coupled to the actuation-plate assembly (106). FIG. 11 A depicts a plunger-type valve-stem assembly (98) that may be used with the mold-tool system (100). The cylindrical fit is used to shut off resin flow. The actuation-plate closing force acts along the axis of the valve-stem assembly (104) toward the gate (937). FIG. 11 B depicts a tapered-type valve-stem assembly (99) which may be used with the mold-tool system (100). The tapered face seal is used to shut off resin flow. Without the mold-tool system (100), the height and taper variation may overload some locations and not contact at other locations. This is an advantage of the mold-tool system (100), amongst others.

ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTION

The following clauses are offered as further description of the examples of the mold-tool system (100): Clause (1 ): a mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate- closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition. Clause (2): the mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-open condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition. Clause (3): the mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve-stem assembly (104) to any one of: (i) a gate- closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition; and (ii) a gate-open condition for a case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition. Clause (4): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the actuation-plate assembly (106) being configured to be movable, and the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to coupled to the actuation- plate assembly (106), the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to move responsive to movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106). Clause (5): the mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102); and a valve-stem assembly (104); the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to coupled to an actuation-plate assembly (106), the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to move responsive to movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106), the actuation-plate assembly (106) being configured to be movable; and the stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation- plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition. Clause (6): the mold-tool system (100), comprising: a stem-compliance assembly (102); a valve-stem assembly (104); and an actuation-plate assembly (106); the actuation- plate assembly (106) being configured to be movable; the valve-stem assembly (104) being (104) configured to coupled to the actuation-plate assembly (106), the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to move responsive to movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106); and the stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation- plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition. Clause (7): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the stem-compliance assembly (102) is configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation- plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition while the actuation-plate moves other stem assemblies to the gate-closed condition. Clause (8): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward the closed position. Clause (9): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: a stem-compliance assembly (102) includes: a holder assembly (112), and a biasing assembly (114), the biasing assembly (114) contacts the stem-retention mechanism (110) and the holder assembly (112), the holder assembly (112) contacts the stem-head assembly (108), and the biasing assembly (114) and the holder assembly (112) cooperate to provide compliance of the valve-stem assembly (104) at the end of the closing stroke of the valve-stem assembly (104). Clause (10): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-open condition. Clause (11 ): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: a stem- compliance assembly (102) includes: a holder assembly (112), a biasing assembly (114), and a washer device (116), the biasing assembly (114) contacts the stem-head assembly (108) and contacts the holder assembly (112), the washer device (116) abuts the opposite side of the stem-head assembly (108) relative to the position of the biasing assembly (114), the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance in which the valve-stem assembly (104) is in the gate-open condition. Clause (12): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the valve-stem assembly (104) includes: a plunger- type valve-stem assembly (98). Clause (13): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the valve-stem assembly (104) includes: a tapered- type valve-stem assembly (99). Clause (14): a runner system (916) having the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph. Clause (15): a molding system (900) having the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph. Clause (14): the mold-tool system (100) of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein: the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-open condition, and the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve-stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate- closed condition.

It will be appreciated that the assemblies and modules described above may be connected with each other as may be required to perform desired functions and tasks that are within the scope of persons of skill in the art to make such combinations and permutations without having to describe each and every one of them in explicit terms. There is no particular assembly, components, or software code that is superior to any of the equivalents available to the art. There is no particular mode of practicing the inventions and/or examples of the invention that is superior to others, so long as the functions may be performed. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the invention have been provided in this document. It is understood that the scope of the present invention is limited to the scope provided by the independent claim(s), and it is also understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to: (i) the dependent claims, (ii) the detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments, (iii) the summary, (iv) the abstract, and/or (v) description provided outside of this document (that is, outside of the instant application as filed, as prosecuted, and/or as granted). It is understood, for the purposes of this document, the phrase "includes (and is not limited to)" is equivalent to the word "comprising." It is noted that the foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A mold-tool system (100), comprising:

a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve- stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition.

2. A mold-tool system (100), comprising:

a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve- stem assembly (104) to a gate-open condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition.

3. A mold-tool system (100), comprising:

a stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move a valve- stem assembly (104) to any one of:

(i) a gate-closed condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition; and

(ii) a gate-open condition for a case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition.

4. A mold-tool system (100), comprising:

a stem-compliance assembly (102); and

a valve-stem assembly (104);

the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to coupled to an actuation- plate assembly (106), the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to move responsive to movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106), the actuation-plate assembly (106) being configured to be movable; and

the stem-compliance assembly (102) being configured to forcibly move the valve-stem assembly (104) to a gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition.

5. A mold-tool system (100), comprising:

a stem-compliance assembly (102);

a valve-stem assembly (104); and

an actuation-plate assembly (106);

the actuation-plate assembly (106) being configured to be movable; the valve-stem assembly (104) being (104) configured to coupled to the actuation-plate assembly (106), the valve-stem assembly (104) being configured to move responsive to movement of the actuation-plate assembly (106); and

(ii) a gate-open condition for a case where an actuation-plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-open condition.

6. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

the stem-compliance assembly (102) is configured to forcibly move the valve- stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition for the case where the actuation- plate assembly (106) fails to move the valve-stem assembly (104) to the gate-closed condition while the actuation-plate moves other stem assemblies to the gate-closed condition.

7. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve- stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-closed condition.

8. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

a stem-compliance assembly (102) includes:

a holder assembly (112), and

a biasing assembly (114),

the biasing assembly (114) contacts the stem-retention mechanism (110) and the holder assembly (112), the holder assembly (112) contacts the stem-head assembly (108), and the biasing assembly (114) and the holder assembly (112) cooperate to provide compliance of the valve-stem assembly (104) at the end of the closing stroke of the valve-stem assembly (104).

9. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve- stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-open condition.

10. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein: the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance for the case where the valve- stem assembly (104) is moved toward the gate-open condition; and

11. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

a stem-compliance assembly (102) includes:

a holder assembly (112),

a biasing assembly (114), and

a washer device (116),

the biasing assembly (114) contacts the stem-head assembly (108) and contacts the holder assembly (112),

the washer device (116) abuts the opposite side of the stem-head assembly (108) relative to the position of the biasing assembly (114),

the mold-tool system (100) provides compliance in which the valve-stem assembly (104) is in the gate-open condition.

12. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

the valve-stem assembly (104) includes:

a plunger-type valve-stem assembly (98).

13. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein:

the valve-stem assembly (104) includes:

a tapered-type valve-stem assembly (99).

14. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, further comprising:

a runner system (916) being configured to support the mold-tool system (100).

15. The mold-tool system (100) of any preceding claim, further comprising:

a molding system (900) being configured to support the mold-tool system (100).