Injection molding system with conveyor for inserting or ejecting mold

Abstract

An injection molding system includes: an injection molding device that performs injection molding; a first conveyor device on one side of the injection molding device, used to eject and insert a first mold through a first opening of the injection molding device; and a second conveyor device located on a second side of the injection molding device, used to eject and insert a second mold through a second opening of the injection molding device, wherein an improvement of the injection molding device includes: a first door for covering the first opening; a second door for covering the second opening; and a controller, which prohibits injection molding with the first mold when the second door is open.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. application 62 / 812,768, filed March 1, 2019. Background Art Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to an injection molding system.

[0005] Related technical notes

[0006] The molding of a molded part by an injection molding machine includes: clamping the mold; injecting resin into the mold; pressing the resin into the mold under high pressure to compensate for the volume reduction caused by the solidification of the resin; holding the molded part in the mold until the resin solidifies; and ejecting the molded part from the mold. These stages of injection molding are repeatedly performed.

[0007] After a predetermined number of moldings have been performed with one mold, the mold is ejected from the injection molding machine. The next mold to be used is set and inserted into the injection molding machine. The mold is then used for a predetermined number of injection moldings. This process can often be time-consuming and resource-intensive, and the injection molding machine often remains idle during the process. This can affect overall productivity. In addition, operator safety needs to be considered because the mold is heavy and can heat up when it is used.

[0008] Methods for improving productivity by using two molds with one injection molding machine have been proposed. For example, it can be seen that US2018 / 0009146 / Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-001738 / VN20160002505 discusses a system in which conveyors 3A and 3B are arranged on both sides of an injection molding machine 2. In this system, molded parts are manufactured while conveyors 3A and 3B alternate multiple molds for one injection molding machine 2. FIG. 20 shows the injection molding system of US2018 / 0009146 / Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-001738 / VN20160002505. Summary of the invention

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding device, which is configured to perform injection molding; a first conveyor device on one side of the injection molding device, the first conveyor device is used to eject and insert a first mold through a first opening of the injection molding device; and a second conveyor device located on a second side of the injection molding device, the second conveyor device is used to eject and insert a second mold through a second opening of the injection molding device, wherein an improvement of the injection molding device includes: a first door for covering the first opening; a second door for covering the second opening; and a controller, the controller being configured to prohibit injection molding with the first mold when the second door is open.

[0010] Other aspects, features, and techniques of the disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments, objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1 A top view of an injection molding system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a side view of the injection molding machine.

[0014] FIG. 3 is an end view of the fixed platen 61 and is a view seen from the arrow direction of line II in FIG. 2 .

[0015] FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view showing the configuration of the periphery of the molding operation position.

[0016] Figure 5 is a side view of a conveyor device in which the molds are moved by driving the actuator.

[0017] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating the relationship between components of an injection molding system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 A diagram illustrating states defined for a component of an injection molding system according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0019] Fig. 8A A set of molding conditions according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0020] Figure 8B A list of injection molding tasks according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0021] Figure 8CA queue of 'waiting' prototyping tasks scheduled to be executed is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Fig.9A is a flow chart illustrating a process of an injection molding system performing injection molding according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 9B is a flow chart illustrating a process for updating a molding task list and a molding queue according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] Fig.10 Multiple mode options are shown including normal sequential molding according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A flow chart illustrating the process of an injection molding system in a normal sequential molding mode according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0026] Fig.12 The mold door is shown opened according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] Fig.13 A conveying unit for ejecting the mold 100 to a conveyor device according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0028] Fig.14 Closing of a mold door is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Fig.15 The mold door is shown opened according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Fig.16 An insert mold is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Fig.17 An exemplary process in a normal sequential molding mode is shown for various exemplary embodiments.

[0032] Fig.18 A timing diagram illustrating an exemplary process of components of an injection molding system in a parallel molding mode according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0033] Fig.19 A timing diagram illustrating an exemplary process of components of an injection molding system in a combined mode according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0034] FIG. 20 shows an injection molding system.

[0035] In all drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals and characters are used to represent similar features, elements, components or parts of the illustrated embodiments. Although the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be done in conjunction with the illustrative exemplary embodiments. It is intended that changes and modifications may be made to the described exemplary embodiments without departing from the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present disclosure has several embodiments and relies on patents, patent applications, and other references for details known to those skilled in the art. Therefore, when patents, patent applications, or other references are cited or repeated herein, it should be understood that they will be incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes and for the subject matter described.

[0037] With reference to the accompanying drawings, an injection molding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be explained. Arrow symbols X and Y in each figure indicate horizontal directions orthogonal to each other, and arrow symbol Z indicates a vertical (upright) direction relative to the ground.

[0038] FIG. 20 and FIGS. 2 to 4 illustrate the injection molding system disclosed in US 2018 / 0009146 / Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-001738 / VN20160002505, and these figures are provided herein for information / description purposes only.

[0039] The injection molding system 1 includes a horizontal injection molding machine 2 (IMM2), and conveyor devices 3A and 3B. The injection molding system 1 is configured to manufacture molded parts while inserting and ejecting a plurality of molds by the conveyor devices 3A and 3B. Two molds 100A and 100B are used.

[0040] The mold 100A / 100B is a pair of a fixed mold 101 and a movable mold 102, which is opened / closed relative to the fixed mold 101. The molded part is molded by injecting molten resin into a cavity formed between the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102. Clamps 101a and 102a are fixed to the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102, respectively. The clamps 101a and 102a are used to lock the mold 100A / 100B to the molding operation position 11 (mold clamping position) of the IMM2.

[0041] For the mold 100A / 100B, a self-closing unit 103 is provided to maintain a closed state between the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102. The self-closing unit 103 makes it possible to prevent the mold 100A / 100B from opening after the mold 100A / 100B is unloaded from the IMM2. The self-closing unit 103 uses a magnetic force to maintain the mold 100A / 100B in a closed state. The self-closing unit 103 is located at multiple positions along the opposite surfaces of the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102. The self-closing unit 103 is a combination of an element on one side of the fixed mold 101 and an element on one side of the movable mold 102. Regarding the self-closing unit 103, two or more pairs of self-closing units are usually installed for one of the molds 100A and 100B.

[0042] The conveyor 3A loads the mold 100A onto the molding operation position 11 of the IMM2 and unloads the mold 100A from the molding operation position. The conveyor 3B loads the mold 100B onto the molding operation position 11 and unloads the mold 100B from the molding operation position. The conveyor 3A, the IMM2 and the conveyor 3B are arranged to be arranged in a row in this order in the X-axis direction. In other words, the conveyor 3A and the conveyor 3B are arranged transversely relative to the IMM2 to clamp the IMM2 in the X-axis direction. The conveyors 3A and 3B are arranged to face each other, and the conveyor 3A is arranged on one side of the IMM2 in the transverse direction, and the conveyor 3B is arranged on the adjacent other side accordingly. The molding operation position 11 is located between the conveyor 3A and the conveyor 3B. The conveyor 3A includes a frame 30, a plurality of rollers 32 and a plurality of rollers 33. The conveyor 3B includes a frame 30, a conveying unit 31B, a plurality of rollers 32 and a plurality of rollers 33. The conveyor controller 42A controls the conveyor 3A, and the conveyor controller 42B controls the conveyor 3B.

[0043] The frame 30 is a skeleton of the conveyor 3A / 3B, and supports the conveyor unit 31B and the plurality of rollers 32 and 33. The conveyor unit 31B is a device that moves the mold 100A / 100B back and forth in the X-axis direction and removes and inserts the mold 100A / 100B relative to the molding operation position 11. The conveyor unit 31B is controlled by a conveyor controller 42B.

[0044] The plurality of rollers 32 constitute a row of rollers arranged in the X-axis direction, wherein two rows are separately arranged in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of rollers 32 rotate around the rotation axis in the Z-axis direction, and contact the side surfaces of the mold 100A / 100B (the side surfaces of the clamping plates 101a and 102a) to guide the movement of the mold 100A / 100B in the X-axis direction and support the mold 100A / 100B from the side. The plurality of rollers 33 constitute a row of rollers arranged in the X-axis direction, wherein two rows are separately arranged in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of rollers 33 rotate around the rotation axis in the Y-axis direction, and make the movement of the mold 100A / 100B in the X-axis direction smooth, thereby supporting the bottom surface of the mold 100A / 100B (the bottom surface of the clamping plates 101a and 102a) and supporting the mold 100A / 100B from below.

[0045] Controller 41 controls IMM2, controller 42A controls conveyor device 3A, and controller 42B controls conveyor device 3B. Each of controllers 41, 42A and 42B includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU, RAM, ROM, a storage device such as a hard disk, and an interface (not shown) connected to a sensor or an actuator. The processor executes a program stored in the storage device. An example of a program (control) executed by controller 41 is described below. Controller 41 is communicatively connected to controllers 42A and 42B, and provides controllers 42A and 42B with instructions related to the transfer of molds 100A / 100B. If the loading and unloading of molds 100A / 100B are completed, controllers 42A and 42B transmit a signal for completion of the operation to controller 41. In addition, controllers 42A and 42B transmit an emergency stop signal to controller 41 when an abnormal phenomenon occurs.

[0046] Fig. 2 shows a side view of the IMM 2. Fig. 3 shows an end view of the fixed platen 61, and a view seen from the arrow direction of line II in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 shows a partial perspective view for explaining the configuration of the periphery of the molding operation position 11.

[0047] 20 and 2, the IMM 2 includes an injection device 5, a clamping device 6, a take-out robot 7 for ejecting a molded part, and a controller 41. The injection device 5 and the clamping device 6 are arranged on a frame 10 in the Y-axis direction.

[0048] The injection device 5 includes an injection barrel 51 arranged to extend in the Y-axis direction. The injection barrel 51 includes a heating device (not shown) such as a belt heater, and melts the resin introduced from the hopper 53. The screw 51a is integrated into the injection barrel 51, and the rotation of the screw 51a causes the resin introduced into the injection barrel 51 to be plasticized and measures the resin. The movement of the screw 51a in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) can inject the molten resin from the injection nozzle 52.

[0049] A shutoff nozzle that opens / closes a discharge port may be used as the nozzle 52. However, any mechanism that can achieve the function of the nozzle 52 may be applied. FIG. 2 shows an example of a shutoff nozzle. A pin 56a for opening / closing the discharge port 52a is used as the opening / closing mechanism 56. The pin 56a is connected to an actuator (cylinder) 56c via a connecting rod 56b, and the discharge port 52a is opened and closed via the operation of the actuator 56c.

[0050] The drive unit 54 supports the injection barrel 51. The drive unit 54 includes a motor (not shown) for plasticizing the resin and measuring the resin by rotationally driving the screw 51a, and a motor (not shown) for driving the screw 51a to move forward / backward in the axial direction. The drive unit 54 can move forward / backward in the Y-axis direction along the track 12 on the frame 10. The drive unit 54 may also include an actuator, for example, an electric drive cylinder 55, which moves the injection device 5 forward / backward in the Y-axis direction.

[0051] The clamping device 6 performs clamping and opening and closing of the mold 100A / 100B. In the clamping device 6, the following items are arranged sequentially in the Y-axis direction: a fixed platen 61, a movable platen 62, and a movable platen 63. A plurality of tie rods 64 pass through the plates 61 to 63. Each of the tie rods 64 is a shaft extending in the Y-axis direction, one end of which is fixed to the fixed platen 61. Each of the tie rods 64 is inserted into a corresponding through hole formed in the movable platen 62. The other end of each of the tie rods 64 is fixed to the movable platen 63 by an adjustment mechanism 67. The movable platens 62 and 63 can move in the Y-axis direction along the track 13 on the frame 10, and the fixed platen 61 is fixed to the frame 10.

[0052] The toggle mechanism 65 is arranged between the movable platen 62 and the movable platen 63. The toggle mechanism 65 enables the movable platen 62 to move forward / backward relative to the movable platen 63 (i.e. relative to the fixed platen 61) in the Y-axis direction. The toggle mechanism 65 includes connecting rods 65a to 65c. The connecting rod 65a is rotatably connected to the movable platen 62. The connecting rod 65b is pivotally connected to the movable platen 63. The connecting rod 65a and the connecting rod 65b are pivotally connected to each other. The connecting rod 65c and the connecting rod 65b are pivotally connected to each other. The connecting rod 65c is pivotally connected to the arm 66c.

[0053] The arm 66c is fixed to the ball nut 66b. The ball nut 66b engages the ball screw 66a extending in the Y-axis direction, and moves forward / backward in the Y-axis direction by the rotation of the ball screw 66a. The ball screw 66a is supported by the movable platen 63 so that the ball screw can rotate freely, and the motor 66 is supported by the movable platen 63. The motor 66 rotationally drives the ball screw 66a. The rotation amount of the motor 66 is detected by a sensor (not shown) such as a rotary encoder. By driving the motor 66, when the rotation amount of the motor 66 is detected, the clamping and opening and closing of the mold 100A / 100B can be performed.

[0054] The IMM 2 includes sensors 68 for measuring the clamping force. In the exemplary embodiment, each sensor 68 is a strain gauge provided on the tie rod 64, and calculates the clamping force by detecting the deformation of the tie rod 64.

[0055] The adjustment mechanism 67 includes a nut 67b supported on the movable platen 63 so as to rotate freely, a motor 67a as a driving source, and a transmission mechanism for transmitting the driving force of the motor 67a to the nut 67b. Each of the tie rods 64 passes through a hole formed in the movable platen 63 and engages with the nut 67b. By rotating the nut 67b, the engagement position between the nut 67b and the tie rod 64 in the Y-axis direction changes. That is, the position where the movable platen 63 is fixed relative to the tie rod 64 changes. Thereby, the space between the movable platen 63 and the fixed platen 61 can be changed, and thereby the clamping force and the like can be adjusted.

[0056] The molding operation position 11 is an area between the fixed platen 61 and the movable platen 62. The mold 100A / 100B introduced into the molding operation position 11 is sandwiched between the fixed platen 61 and the movable platen 62 and thereby clamped. Opening and closing are performed by the movement of the movable platen 62 based on the movement of the movable mold 102.

[0057] FIG. 3 shows an opening portion 61a in the center portion of the fixed platen 61, through which the nozzle 52 moves forward / backward. A plurality of rollers BR are supported to a surface (referred to as an inner surface) of the fixed platen 61 on one side of the movable platen 62 so that the rollers can rotate freely. The plurality of rollers BR rotate around the axis of rotation in the Y-axis direction, and make the movement of the mold 100A / 100B in the X-axis direction smooth, thereby supporting the bottom surface of the mold 100A / 100B (the bottom surface of the clamping plate 101a) and supporting the mold 100A / 100B from below. The roller support body 620 is fixed on both sides of the fixed platen 61 in the X-axis direction, and the plurality of rollers BR are supported by the roller support body 620.

[0058] On the inner surface of the fixed platen 61, a groove 61b extending in the X-axis direction is formed. The groove 61b is formed in two rows separated in the vertical direction. On each of the grooves 61b, a roller unit 640 is arranged. For the roller unit 640, a plurality of rollers SR are supported so that they can rotate freely. The plurality of rollers SR rotate around the axis of rotation in the Z-axis direction, and the outer surface of the contact mold 100A / 100B (the outer surface of the clamping plate 101a) guides the movement of the mold 100A / 100B in the X-axis direction and supports the mold 100A / 100B from the side. As shown in the cross-sectional view of line II-II, although the roller unit 640 is positioned at a position where the roller SR protrudes from the groove 61b by the bias of the spring 641, when clamped, the roller unit retracts in the groove 61b and is positioned at a position where the roller SR does not protrude from the groove 61b. The roller unit 640 can prevent the inner surfaces of the mold 100A / 100B and the fixed platen 61 from contacting and damaging the inner surfaces when alternating the mold 100A / 100B, and the roller unit 640 does not hinder the fixed platen 61 and the inner surfaces of the mold 100A / 100B from closing when clamping.

[0059] The roller supporting bodies 630 are fixed on both sides of the fixed platen 61 in the X-axis direction, and the plurality of rollers SR are supported by the roller supporting bodies 630 .

[0060] On the fixed platen 61, a plurality of fixing mechanisms (clamps) 610 are arranged for fixing the fixed mold 101 to the fixed platen 61. Each fixing mechanism 610 includes an engaging portion 610a engaged with the clamping plate 101a, and a built-in actuator (not shown) that moves the engaging portion 610a between an engaging position and an engaging release position.

[0061] It should be noted that, with the movable platen 62 , similarly to the fixed platen 61 , a plurality of rollers BR, roller support bodies 620 and 630 , a roller unit 640 , and a fixing mechanism 610 for fixing the movable mold 102 are arranged.

[0062] As shown in Fig. 4, the periphery of the clamping device 6 is surrounded by a cover (external cover plate) 60 for safety, but an opening 60B through which the mold 100A / 100B passes is formed on the side of the molding operation position 11 for alternating the mold 100A / 100B. Each opening 60B is usually continuously open, so that the mold 100A / 100B can be freely removed from and inserted into the molding operation position 11.

[0063] Returning to FIG. 2 , the take-out robot 7 will now be described. The take-out robot 7 includes a rail 71 extending in the X-axis direction, and a movable rail 72 that can move in the X-axis direction on the rail 71. The movable rail 72 is arranged to extend in the Y-axis direction, and a slider 73 is arranged on the movable rail 72. The slider 73 is guided by the movable rail 72 to move in the Y-axis direction, and moves up and down along the rising shaft 73a in the Z-axis direction. A vacuum head 74 is arranged at the lower end of the rising shaft 73a, and a chuck plate 75 dedicated to the molding part is mounted on the vacuum head 74.

[0064] After opening, the removal robot 7 moves the vacuum head 74 between the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102 as shown by the dotted line in Figure 2 through the track 71, the movable track 7 and the slider 73, sticks the molded part and transfers the molded part to the outside of the mold 100A / 100B.

[0065] Figure 5 30 is a side view of a conveyor device 3A. The conveyor device 3A includes an actuator 3010 fixed on a workbench 305 and a connecting member 3020. The actuator 3010 includes a slide 3032 movable relative to a fixed portion of the actuator 3010. The connecting member 3020 includes: a base plate 3031 fixed to the slide 3032; a shaft 3022 having a terminal end inserted into a hole of the base plate 3031; and a bracket 3023 connected to the shaft 3022; and a fixing plate 3024 having one end connected to the bracket 3023 and the other end connected to the mold 100A. The connecting member 3020 connects the mold 100A to the actuator 3010.

[0066] Moving the slide 3032 causes the actuator 3010, the mold 100 connected to the slide 3032, the plate 3031, and the connecting member 3020 to move. Since the actuator 3010 is fixed to the table 305, the actuator 3010 and the table 305 do not move based on the movement of the mold 100A. The mold 100A can move relative to the actuator 3010 and the table 305.

[0067] The connecting member 3020 is attached to the mold 100A with a fixing plate 3024, which is also fastened to a bracket 3023, which may, for example, include four discrete rods extending horizontally. The bracket 3023 is fastened to a shaft 3022, which may include 2 discrete rods extending vertically. The shaft 3022 has a cam follower 3021 on its end at the bottom. A base plate 3031 is fastened to a slide 3032, and the cam follower 3021 is inserted into a hole in the base plate 3031, thereby connecting the mold 100A with the actuator 3010.

[0068] The width of the hole in the X-axis direction is slightly larger than the diameter of the cam follower 3021, which accommodates the cam follower 3021 but does not allow displacement in the X-axis direction to facilitate the desired precise position control of the mold 100A. The width of the hole in the Y-axis direction is large enough to allow the cam follower 3021 to be displaced in the Y-axis direction to avoid damage to the actuator 3010 due to displacement of the mold 100A in the Y-axis direction.

[0069] The following describes a case where the mold 100A moves in the X-axis direction, and a case where the center line of the actuator 3010 extending in the X-axis direction and the center line of the connecting member 3020 extending in the X-axis direction are misaligned or shifted from each other in the Y-axis direction. More specifically, the connecting member 3020 is misaligned with the actuator 3010 due to the movement of the mold 100A in the Y-axis direction.

[0070] In the case where the mold 100A is displaced relative to the actuator 3010 in the Y-axis direction, the cam follower 3021 rotates in the hole or simply slides along the hole of the substrate 3031 in the Y-axis direction when the mold 100A moves. The cam follower 3021 can absorb the load generated by the misalignment between the actuator 3010 and the mold 100A in the Y-axis direction. That is, even if the mold 100A moves in the Y-axis direction, the load on the actuator 3010 or other components can be reduced by the cam follower 3021 and the hole. The greater the misalignment between the mold 100A and the actuator 3010 in the Y-axis direction, the greater the load applied to the connecting member 3020 and the actuator 3010. Therefore, by displacing the connecting member 3020 in the Y-axis direction, the load can be reduced or eliminated.

[0071] In the absence of a shift mechanism in the connecting member 3020, and if the actuator 3010 and the mold 100A are rigidly connected, the center of the mold 100A in the Y-axis direction is misaligned with the center of the actuator 3010 in the Y-axis direction. The weight of the mold 100A and the load caused by the displacement in the Y-axis direction will be directly applied to the actuator 3010 and the connecting member 3020. The connecting member 3020 will bend in the Y-axis direction, and the load will also be applied to the actuator 3010 in the Y-axis direction. By providing the above reference Figure 5 The described connecting member 3020 and the cam follower 3021 can move against the base plate 3031 in the Y-axis direction, and can reduce or eliminate the load caused by the displacement of the mold 100A in the Y-axis direction.

[0072] Figure 5 The displacement of the center of the actuator 3010A in the Z-axis direction relative to the Z=0 line is shown as Z10, and the displacement of the center of the mold 100A in the Z-axis direction is shown as ZA. Figure 5As shown, the origin (Z=0) in the Z-axis direction is at the surface of the table 305A. Since the actuator 3010A is fixed to the table 305A, if the center of the actuator 3010A in the Z-axis direction is Z10 (reference position) and the center of the mold 100A in the Z-axis direction is ZA (reference position), the actuator 3010A and the mold 100A will not be misaligned in the Z-axis direction.

[0073] The following describes a situation where the moving direction of the mold 100A is in the X-axis direction, and if the center of the mold 100A in the Z-axis direction is misaligned with ZA in the Z-axis direction. When the mold 100A moves, and if the mold moves from the reference position in the Z-axis direction, in other words, when the center position of the mold 100A in the Z-axis direction is misaligned in the Z-axis direction, the cam follower 3021 of the shaft 3022 moves along the narrow groove in the Z-axis direction. This movement can absorb the load caused by the misalignment between the mold 100A and the actuator 3010 in the Z-axis direction. The cam follower 3021 slides along the inner wall of the narrow groove in the Z-axis direction of the narrow groove. Through this mechanism of Z displacement, which is the same as Y displacement, the load applied to the actuator 3010 and the connecting member 3020 can be reduced or eliminated.

[0074] In the absence of a displacement mechanism of the connecting member 3020, and if the mold 100A and the actuator 3010 are rigidly connected, the center of the mold 100A in the Z-axis direction will be misaligned with ZA in the Z-axis direction, and the load caused by the weight of the mold 100A and the movement in the Z-axis direction will be directly applied to the actuator 3010 and the connecting member 3020. The connecting member 3020 will bend in the Z-axis direction, and the load will also be applied to the actuator 3010A in the Z-axis direction. By providing the following reference Figure 5 The described connecting member 3010A and cam follower 3021A are movable in the Z-axis direction and will reduce or eliminate the load caused by the displacement of the mold 100A in the Y-axis direction.

[0075] As described above, the present embodiment includes a cam follower 3021A and a slot on a base plate 3031A. This makes it possible to reduce the load generated by misalignment between the mold 100A and the actuator 3010 in the Z-axis direction and / or in the Y-axis direction. The configuration described above can prevent the actuator 3010 from receiving excessive loads, and can reduce the possibility of damage to the connecting member 3010 while reducing the load on the actuator 3010A. Damage to the actuator 3010A can be reduced and / or prevented, which leads to a reduction in the cost of the injection molding system 1 because a larger actuator that can resist the load is not required for the actuator 3010. The configuration described above also eliminates the need for overly precise position adjustment of the worktable 305A or for achieving overly precise position accuracy of the side rollers 32A and the bottom rollers 33A relative to the IMM2, which makes it possible to reduce costs and / or reduce the assembly time of the injection molding system 1 by reducing the accuracy of machine parts.

[0076] The cam follower 3021A can have a shape that can slide, and the shape can be, for example, a circular shape without a rotating mechanism, or can be a square shape. As used herein, 'slip' means that it can move against the surface inside the slot with a low friction coefficient. Although four rods with a rectangular cross-section are described above for the bracket 3023, other shapes and / or different numbers of rods that can practice the exemplary embodiment can also be applied. In another exemplary embodiment, one or more shafts 3022A and one or more cam followers 3021A can be used, as long as the shafts 3022A and the cam followers 3021A have shapes and sizes that overlap between the cam followers 3021A and the narrow slots of the substrate 3031A.

[0077] Figure 1 20 shows a configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure and provides an improvement over the configuration shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the conveyor devices 3A and 3B are surrounded by a safety wall 301A and a safety wall 301B, respectively. The safety wall 301A / 301B includes two parallel walls (hereinafter referred to as "first walls") positioned along the X-axis direction and a wall (hereinafter referred to as "second wall") positioned along the Y-axis direction. One end of the first wall is fixed to the second wall, and the other end of the first wall is fixed to the outer cover plate 60 of the IMM 2 (see FIG. 4).

[0078] like Figure 1As shown, the safety walls 301A and 301B together with the outer cover plate define a rectangular shaped area (hereinafter referred to as the "conveyor area") that encloses the conveyor devices 3A and 3B accordingly. Since the conveyor devices 3A and 3B move the molds 100A and 100B, the operator needs to stay away from the conveyor devices 3A and 3B when the molds 100A and 100B move. The height of the first wall, the height of the second wall, and the size of the conveyor area depend on the situation and are designed as needed for safety and productivity purposes. In another exemplary embodiment, the conveyor area does not need to be a closed area. However, if in this configuration, there are any gaps between devices, components, etc., the size of these gaps is narrow to prevent the insertion of the operator's fingers or the like.

[0079] The alarm device 350A / 350B provides safety and productivity status / status related notifications associated with the conveyor device 3A / 3B and the IMM2. The alarm device 350A / 350B can be a buzzer, one or more LEDs, a display, any combination of these items, or any other device, component, method for implementing notifications of safety and productivity related information. The alarm device 350A is controlled by the conveyor device controller 42A, while the alarm device 350B is controlled by the conveyor device controller 42B. The alarm device 350A / 350A is usually located in a position where the operator can easily access it. In an exemplary embodiment, the alarm device 350A / 350B is located on the top surface of the safety wall 301A / 301B. In another exemplary embodiment, the injection molding system 1 includes an alarm device that provides an operator with a notification of the status / status of all conveyor devices and injection molding machines.

[0080] The safety wall 301A / 301B includes a safety door 302A / 302B with a door lock 303A / 303B. The safety wall 301A / 301B and the safety door 302A / 302B are located on the top panel of the frame 30A / 30B. The safety door 302A / 302B can be opened, for example, when an operator unloads the mold 100A / 100B from the conveyor device 3A / 3B, and can be closed and locked when the molds 100A and 100B are moved by the conveyor devices 3A and 3B. The door lock 303A / 303B can be manually unlocked from the inside or outside of the corresponding conveyor area. The combination of the safety door 302A / 302B and the mold door 390A / 390B provides additional safety for operators working at the conveyor devices 3A and 3B. The safety door 302A / 302B and / or the door lock 303A / 303B can be electronically controlled by the conveyor controller 42A / 42B. In another exemplary embodiment, when the conveyor devices 3A and 3B move the molds 100A and 100B, the conveyor controller 42A / 42B closes and / or locks the safety door 302A / 302B to keep the operator away from the conveyor area.

[0081] When the mold door 390B is opened and the opening 60B is exposed, the mold 100B can be ejected from the molding operation position 11 and inserted into the molding operation position. The mold door 390B is slidable, can be opened or closed manually, and closes the opening 60B when closed. Although in the present embodiment, the mold door 390B is slidable, this movement method should not be regarded as restrictive and any method of achieving the opening and closing of the mold door 390B is applicable. In preparation work, such as replacing the mold 100B with another mold, the opening 60B can be closed by the mold door 390B. Another opening not shown is formed on the opposite side of IMM2.

[0082] In another exemplary embodiment, the safety door 302A / 302B includes a sensor for detecting the open / closed state of the door lock 303A / 303B. In another exemplary embodiment, when the safety door 302B is open, the controller 42B prevents the transfer unit 31B from ejecting / inserting the mold 100B. This reduces the possibility of an operator contacting any moving parts, such as any part of the mold 100B or the transfer unit 31B.

[0083] In another exemplary embodiment, when inserting a mold from one side of IMM2, the mold door on that side of IMM2 is usually kept open because the transfer unit 31B there enters IMM2 to insert the mold. The safety door 302B should be kept closed to prevent the operator from touching the mold when the mold 100A is intermittently moved. When the safety door 302B is opened, the controller 42B stops the injection molding process.

[0084] In another exemplary embodiment, in response to the controller 42A / 42B detecting that both the conveyor door 302A / 302B and the mold door 390A / 390B are opened on the same side of the IMM 2 while performing injection molding with the mold 100A / 100B inserted from the same side, the controller 42A / 42B causes the alarm device 350A / 350B to issue a warning. The warning may be issued, and in addition, the insertion or injection molding process as described above is stopped.

[0085] In yet another embodiment, the mold door 390A / 390B is opened / closed manually, and the injection molding system 1 may include a sensor that detects the open / closed state of the mold door 390A / 390B. The mold door 390A / 390B on one side of the IMM 2 should remain closed while performing injection molding with the mold 100A / 100B inserted from the other side of the IMM 2.

[0086] In the case where the conveyor device 3A has ejected the mold 100A and the conveyor device 3B has inserted the mold 100B, the mold door 390B should be opened because the conveyor unit 31B is connected to the mold 100B via the connecting member 3020B. For the safety of the operator, the mold door 390A should be kept closed because the operator can unload the mold 100A and prepare another mold when the mold 100A has been ejected. If the mold door 390A is opened while the injection molding in IMM2 is performed with the mold 100B, the controller 41 detects that the mold door 390A is open, and in response to the detection, the controller 41 stops the injection molding. In this case, even if the injection molding has not yet started, the controller 41 will not enable IMM2 to start injection molding with the mold 100B. Injection molding with the mold 100B is prohibited because if the opening 60A is exposed, the operator may be hit by the moving parts in IMM2.

[0087] The controller 41, 42A / 42B can also prohibit the transfer of the mold 100A / 100B when the mold door 390A / 390B on the other side is open, because the operator may touch the mold 100A / 100B when the mold 100A / 100B is about to move or is moving. When the mold 100A / 100B has been transferred by the conveyor device 3A / 3B, if the mold door 390A / 390B is open, the transfer is stopped. When the mold 100A / 100B has not yet moved, if the mold door 390A / 390B is open, the start of transfer will be prohibited by the controller 41, 42A / 42B. In another embodiment, the injection molding system 1 can allow the mold 100A / 100B to be transferred, but an alarm can be issued as described below.

[0088] In another exemplary embodiment, the mold door 390A / 390B is opened or closed by an actuator controlled by the controller 41. In this exemplary embodiment, when injection molding is performed with the mold 100B after the mold 100A is ejected, the mold door 390A is forced to close after the mold 100A has been ejected. This improves operator safety during unloading / changing of the mold 100A.

[0089] In another exemplary embodiment of manually opening / closing the mold door 390A / 390B, the injection molding system 1 may include a sensor that detects the open / closed state of the mold door 390A / 390B. The alarm device 350A may issue an alarm or warning in the following situations: (1) the mold 100A has been ejected to the conveyor device 3A, (2) injection molding is being or is about to be performed with the mold 100B, and (3) the mold door 390A / 390B is open. The alarm makes the operator aware that the mold door 390A / 390B is open when injection molding is performed, and the alarm contributes to the safety of the operator. When the mold door 390A / 390B is closed, when the injection molding system 1 detects that the mold replacement or mold unloading process is completed, or when the injection molding system 1 determines that there is no operator in the area surrounded by the safety wall 301A / 301B and the IMM2 based on the sensor that detects the presence of the operator, the alarm may be stopped.

[0090] In the present embodiment, a temperature controller 321A / 322A / 321B / 322B for the mold 100A / 100B is provided and fixed at the frame 30A / 30B of the conveyor device 3A / 3B. The temperature controller 321A / 322A / 321B / 322B includes an interface connected to a hose 331A / 332A / 331B / 332B, which is connected to an interface on the mold 100A / 100B, which is connected to a pipe (not shown) located inside the mold 100A / 100B. The temperature controller 321A / 322A / 321B / 322B increases or decreases the temperature to set the internal temperature of the mold 100A / 110B by circulating the fluid, measuring the temperature of the fluid, and performing feedback control on the temperature of the fluid in the hose 331A / 332A / 331B / 332B and the pipe.

[0091] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the controller 41 or the conveyor controller 42A / 42B controls the opening / closing of the mold door 390A / 390B. In this exemplary embodiment, in the case where injection molding is performed with the mold 100B after the mold 100A is ejected, the mold door 390A is forced to close after the mold 100A has been ejected. This improves the safety of the operator when unloading / changing the mold 100A.

[0092] The temperature controller 321A / 322A / 321B / 322B can control the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B when injection molding is performed in the IMM2, when the mold 100A / 100B is placed on the conveyor device 3A / 3B, or even after a predetermined set of molding processes are completed. For example, when the mold 100A / 100B is loaded on the conveyor device 3A / 3B and is ready to be inserted into the IMM2, the temperature controller 321A / 322A / 321B / 322B can begin to increase the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B. This enables the mold 100A / 100B to quickly reach the appropriate temperature to receive the molten resin, which helps to reduce cycle time and improve productivity. Since the mold 100A / 100B is moved by the conveyor device 3A / 3B instead of the operator, raising the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B outside the IMM2 does not necessarily affect operator safety.

[0093] The temperature controller 321A / 321B / 322A / 322B can start to lower the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B after a predetermined set of molding processes are completed and while the mold 100A / 100B is waiting to be ejected to the conveyor device 3A / 3B. By actively lowering the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B, the operator can start to unload the mold 100A / 100B more quickly, which helps to shorten the setup time of a new mold.

[0094] The temperature controller 321A / 321B / 322A / 322B can be located outside the conveyor area. If the temperature controller is outside the conveyor area, the operator can start / stop raising / lowering the temperature of the mold without entering the conveyor area.

[0095] In an exemplary embodiment, both the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102 of the mold 100A / 100B are provided with the hose 331A / 331B / 332A / 332B. In another exemplary embodiment, one temperature controller may cover both the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102.

[0096] Figure 6 20 is a block diagram illustrating the relationship between components of an injection molding system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment and provides an improvement over the elements shown in FIG20. The same reference numerals associated with previously described components may apply to components in the following description and in some instances, these components may not be described in detail below.

[0097] IMM2 includes a mold door 390A on the left side (which is the same side as the conveyor device 3A), a mold door 390B on the right side (which is the same side as the conveyor device 3B), an injection molding part 6200 (which includes an injection device 5, a clamping device 6 and a removal robot 7), a controller 41, a display 6201, an operation interface 6202 such as a button or a touch panel module integrated into the display 6201, and a communication I / F 6203 such as a USB, Ethernet and / or other wired / wireless interface.

[0098] The controller 41 includes a memory 6204 that stores molding conditions for performing injection molding with a specific mold, the status of components in the injection molding system 1, and other applicable data items. The memory 6204 also stores a program including instructions that are executed by the controller 41 to perform the injection molding and processes described in the present disclosure. The display 6201 is controlled by the controller 41 and can display various information of the injection molding system 1, including the status of components, molding conditions stored in the system, planned molding tasks, alarm information related to the injection molding system 1, etc.

[0099] In an exemplary embodiment, the display 6201 and the controller 41 work together as an alarm device for IMM 2. In another exemplary embodiment, the display 6201 and the controller 41 work together as an alarm device for the entire injection molding system 1, which includes IMMS 2, conveyor equipment 3A, conveyor equipment 3B, etc.

[0100] The operation interface 6202 receives user input to trigger various functions, such as turning on / off the IMM2; starting, pausing, resuming, and ending the injection molding process; and displaying the status of various components of the injection molding system 1. The controller 41 starts the function associated with the specific input based on the received input. The communication interface 6203 receives and / or sends data, such as the status of the component, molding conditions, and log data of the injection molding system 1.

[0101] Although not in Figure 6 , but the temperature sensor and position detection sensor are located in IMM 2. These sensors are connected to the controller 41, and the information provided by these sensors can also be used as input to trigger various functions of the injection molding system 1.

[0102] The mold 100A / 100B includes a fixed mold 101A / 101B, a movable mold 102A / 102B, a hose connector 6101A / 6101B in the fixed mold 101, and a hose connector 6102A / 6102B in the fixed mold 102. The hose connector 6101A / 6101B is connected to the hose 331A / 331B, and the hose connector 6102A / 6102B is connected to the hose 332A / 332B.

[0103] In an exemplary embodiment, when the mold is in a Figure 5 When on conveyor 3A / 3B as shown, connectors 6101A / 6101B and 6102A / 6102B are on the side surface of mold 100A / 100B facing away from opening 60A / B of IMM2. When injection molding is performed with mold 100A / 100B in IMM2, mold door 390A / 390B remains in an open position.

[0104] The conveyor equipment 3A / 3B includes a conveyor unit 31A / 31B, an alarm device 350A / 350B, a temperature controller 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B (which includes a connector connected to a hose 331A / 331B and 332A / 332B), a conveyor door 302A / 302B including a door lock 303A / 303B, and a conveyor controller 42A / 42B. The controller 42A can control all of these components. The controller 42A / 42B is connected to the controller 41 and sends and / or receives information to synchronize the operation of the conveyor equipment 3A / 3B and the IMM2.

[0105] Figure 7 6204 and 6205. 6206 is a diagram showing various states defined for components of the injection molding system 1. These states should not be considered limiting, and any additional states that enable the practice of the exemplary embodiment are applicable. The states are monitored, state information is stored in the memory 6204 and the controller 41 controls the components based on the stored state information. As previously described, the controller 41 changes or updates the state of the components based on user input and sensor input. In another exemplary embodiment, the state information is stored in the controller 42A / 42B.

[0106] As an example, the states associated with IMM2 include 'idle', 'preparing' for the next injection molding process, 'executing the Nth molding', 'mold ejection ready (left / right)', and 'mold insertion ready (left / right)'. In the 'idle' state, IMM2 waits for the next one or more molding conditions. When IMM2 receives one or more molding conditions, IMM2 transitions to the 'ready' state, in which IMM2 is ready for injection molding. The one or more molding conditions typically include the number of times the injection molding is repeated, and after the injection molding starts, if the number is currently N, the IMM2 state changes to 'executing the Nth molding'. The state is updated each time a cycle of the injection molding process is completed. After a predetermined number of cycles are completed, and at least after the clamping device 6 releases the mold and the nozzle 52 of the injection device 5 moves away from the mold, IMM2 transitions to the 'mold ejection ready (left / right)' state.

[0107] There are many conditions that may result in a transition to the 'mold ejection ready (left / right)' state. For example, the conditions may include (i) the mold door 390A / 390B is open, (ii) the transfer unit 31A / 31B is operating properly and no errors have occurred, (iii) the conveyor door 302A / 302B is closed, and / or (iv) no mold is placed on the conveyor 3A / 3B. The injection molding system 1 determines the existence of these conditions based on the signals received from the sensors described above.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, a mechanical or electronic switch in the injection molding system 1 is connected to the controller 41, 42A / 42B. The switch is operated when it is confirmed that the injection molding system 1 is ready to eject the mold 100A / 100B. The switch can be used to force a transition to the 'mold ejection ready (left / right)' state, or the switch can be used as one of the conditions in combination with the conditions described above or other conditions.

[0109] After ejecting the mold, IMM2 prepares for the next injection molding using a different mold. When preparation is complete, IMM2 changes the state to 'Mold Insertion Ready (Left / Right)'. Preparation includes adjusting the movable platen 62.

[0110] There are many conditions that may result in a transition to the 'Ready for Mold Insertion (Left / Right)' state. For example, the conditions may include (i) the mold door 390A / 390B is open, (ii) the transfer unit 31A / 31B is operating properly and no errors have occurred, (iii) the conveyor door 302A / 302B is closed, and / or (iv) no mold is placed in IMM2.

[0111] The mold door 390A / 390B includes 'closed locked', 'closed-unlocked' and 'open' states. These states are monitored / detected by sensors (not shown) located on the mold door 390A / 390B or on one of the safety walls 301A / 301B.

[0112] The mold 100A / 100B includes 'Placed on conveyor - not ready', 'Placed on conveyor - ready', 'Inserting', 'Ejecting', 'Injection molding machine / not on conveyor' states. In one exemplary embodiment, these states are monitored / detected by sensors (not shown) located on the conveyor device 3A / 3B. In another exemplary embodiment, user input changes the state.

[0113] In one example, a sensor located on the conveyor 3A / 3B detects whether the mold 100 / 100B is on the conveyor device 3A / 3B, and the connection / disconnection status of the hoses 331A / 331B and 332A / 332B. The operator can confirm other injection molding preparation steps. When the operator confirms that the other preparation steps are completed, the user presses a button located on the conveyor device 3A / 3B. If the mold 100 / 100B is detected, the connection status is detected, and the button is pressed, the state of the mold 100A / 100B changes from 'placed on conveyor-not ready' to 'placed on conveyor-ready'.

[0114] The conveyor unit 31A / 31B includes 'starting position', 'insertion mold', 'ejection mold' and 'mold is in injection molding machine' states. These states are monitored / detected by sensors (not shown) located on the conveyor device 3A / 3B. The 'starting position' is a position where the mold 100A / 100B is outside the IMM2 with the connecting member 3020A / 3020B pulled back and attached to the far end of the connecting member 3020A / 3020B. When the state changes from the 'starting position' to 'insertion mold', the actuator 3010 pushes the connecting member 3020A / 3020B in the direction of the IMM2. When the mold 100A / 100B is fully inserted into the IMM2 and its movement stops, the state changes to 'mold is in injection molding machine'. After the injection molding process is completed, the state changes to 'Eject Mold', and the actuator 3010 pulls the connection members 3020A / 3020B and the mold 100A / 100B out of the IMM 2.

[0115] Both the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B include 'first temperature (low); ready for mold change', 'increase mold temperature', 'decrease mold temperature', and 'second temperature (high); ready for molding' states. When the hoses 331A / 331B and 332A / 332B are connected to the connectors 6101A / 6101B and 6102A / 6102B, and the operator activates the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B, the state changes to 'increase mold temperature'. In this state, the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B increase the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B to the second temperature. The second temperature is a temperature high enough to perform injection molding.

[0116] If the mold 100A / 100B reaches the second temperature, the state changes to 'Second temperature (high); ready for molding'. After injection molding is completed, the state changes to 'Lower mold temperature', where the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B begin to lower the temperature of the mold 100A / 100B to the first temperature. This is a temperature low enough for an operator to touch the mold 100A / 100B to unload the mold 100A / 100B. When the mold reaches the first temperature, the state changes to 'First temperature (low); ready for mold change'. The temperature is monitored by a temperature sensor (not shown) located in the mold 100A / 100B and / or in the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B. The temperature sensor periodically sends temperature information to the controller 41 and / or 42A / 42B.

[0117] The alarm device 350A / 350B includes the states of 'idle', 'ready for replacement (unloading notification)', 'inserting', 'ejecting', 'pre-warning (insertion)', and 'pre-warning (ejection)'. When the state is 'idle', the alarm device 350A / 350B does not issue any alarm, and may light an LED (e.g., a green LED) to indicate the state. When the state of the mold 100A / 100B is 'placed on conveyor - ready' and the state of the IMM2 is 'mold insertion ready (left / right)', the state of the alarm device 350A / 350B changes to 'pre-warning (insertion)'. In this state, the alarm device 350A / 350B issues a warning for a predetermined amount of time, and lights an LED (e.g., a red LED), and / or provides a continuous sound via a speaker as a warning. The warning notifies the operator that the conveying unit 31A / 31B is about to move the mold 100A / 100B. When the mold 100A / 100B starts to move, the state changes to 'inserting.' In this state, the alarm device 350A / 350B issues a warning by causing an LED (ie, a red LED) to flash periodically and / or by emitting an intermittent sound.

[0118] After injection molding is completed with the mold 100A / 100B, the state changes to 'Pre-warning (ejection)'. In this state, the alarm device 350A / 350B issues a warning, for example, by a red LED and / or by providing a continuous sound through a speaker for a predetermined amount of time. The warning notifies the operator that the transfer unit 31A / 31B is about to move the mold 100A / 100B into the IMM 2. When the mold 100A / 100B starts to move, the state changes to 'Ejection in Progress'. In this state, the alarm device 350A / 350B issues a warning by flashing an LED (e.g., a red LED) and / or by emitting an intermittent sound.

[0119] After the mold 100A / 100B is ejected and the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B are both in the 'first temperature (low); ready for mold change' state, the state of the alarm device 350A / 350B changes to 'ready for change (unloading notification)'. In this state, the alarm device 350A / 350B informs the operator that the mold 100A / 100B is ready for unloading by making a sound or lighting an LED.

[0120] The visual and audible warnings in the 'inserting' state may be different from the warnings in the 'pre-warning (insertion)' state, so that the operator can easily distinguish between the states. The visual and audible warnings in the 'ejecting' state may be different from the warnings in the 'pre-warning (ejecting)' state, so that the operator can easily distinguish between the states. The visual and audible warnings in the 'inserting' state may be different from the warnings in the 'ejecting' state, so that the operator can easily distinguish between the states.

[0121] The warning for conveyor device 3A may be different from the warning for conveyor device 3B, so that an operator can easily discern which conveyor device requires attention based on the different warnings for each conveyor device.

[0122] Fig. 8A is a diagram showing a set of molding conditions for single injection molding. The conditions included in the molding conditions may include one or more sub-conditions. A condition or a sub-condition has a data type such as 'integer', 'short / long / double', 'boolean', 'text', or 'variable', which is a combination of 'integer', 'boolean', and 'text'. The molding conditions include many conditions such as condition ID, mold ID, shot count, and injection molding conditions. Fig. 8A The conditions, sub-conditions, and data types provided in are not limiting, and any conditions, sub-conditions, and / or data types that enable the practice of the present disclosure are applicable.

[0123] The condition ID is an identifier of the molding condition. The mold ID is an identifier of the mold used in the injection molding. The mold ID is associated with various mold-related parameters used to adjust the movable platen 62 to accommodate the mold, including but not limited to the thickness of the mold. The number of shots defines the number of times IMM2 repeats the injection molding.

[0124] The injection molding conditions include various sub-conditions, including but not limited to: clamping conditions for the clamping device 6, injection conditions for the injection device 5, pressure holding conditions, cooling conditions, opening conditions for the clamping device 6, and molded part ejection conditions for the removal robot 7. The molding conditions may also include a cycle time which is an average or standard time for one cycle of injection molding, and a cooling time which is the shortest time the mold should be cooled.

[0125] The average preparation time is the time required for the operator to prepare the mold. The average unloading time is the time required for the operator to unload the mold. These time-related data items can be incorporated into the molding conditions and can be updated through the daily injection molding process. They can be used to plan injection molding tasks. The molding conditions can be displayed on the display 6201 by the controller 41. The molding conditions can be updated manually via the operation interface 6202, automatically updated by the controller 41, and / or updated by receiving updated conditions via the communication I / F 6203.

[0126] Figure 8B and Figure 8C 1 shows additional information that may also be included in the molding conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 8B The molding task list shown is stored in the memory 6204 of the controller 41. In another exemplary embodiment, the molding task list may be stored in an external computer connected to the controller 41 via the communication I / F 6203. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple molding task lists for multiple injection molding systems may be stored in an external computer connected to the multiple injection molding systems via a network, and the external computer performs centralized control over all the injection molding systems. One or more injection molding systems periodically send status information of molding tasks so that the operator is provided with the status of all molding tasks without checking the display 6201 at the injection molding system itself. The injection molding system 1 may send status information to the external computer via the communication I / F 6203. Figure 7 The status shown enables the operator to check the status from an external computer.

[0127] Figure 8B A list of injection molding tasks stored in the memory 6204 is shown. The data includes, but is not limited to: "Molding", "Status", "Estimated Total Time", "Estimated Completion Time".

[0128] "Forming": defined as Fig. 8A A set of molding conditions are shown. "Status" indicates the current status of injection molding, where the status includes but is not limited to 'Not yet planned' (indicating that the task is stored but not yet planned), 'Waiting' (indicating that the injection molding task has been planned and is waiting to be executed), 'Ready; ready for insertion' (indicating that the mold is ready and on the conveyor device 3A / 3B, but the molding task has not been executed), 'Executing molding' (indicating that injection molding is being executed), and 'Ended' (indicating that the molding task has been completed).

[0129] The estimated total time for the molding task is represented by 'Estimated Total Time'. This can be estimated by multiplying the cycle time and the number of shots (if both are included in the molding conditions). The 'Estimated Total Time' can also be obtained manually.

[0130] The estimated time to complete the molding task is represented by 'Estimated Completion Time'. This time can be estimated by the following equation:

[0131] T_est_time_to_complete=T_est_total_time-{T_cycle_time×(N_shots-N_current)},

[0132] Where "T_est_time_to_complete" is the 'estimated completion time', "T_est_total_time" is the 'estimated total time', "T_cycle_time" is the cycle time, and "N_shots" is the number of shots, which can be obtained from the molding conditions or from manual input. "N_current" is the current number of shots being executed, which can be obtained from IMM2, such as in the status 'Executing Nth Molding' of updating IMM2. 'Estimated completion time' can also be obtained manually via the operation interface 6202, or from the communication I / F 6203.

[0133] When a molding task is finished, the actual total time of the task, the actual average cycle time, the actual mold setup time, and / or the actual unloading time may be recorded and stored in the memory 6202 by the controller 41, and may be sent to an external memory via the communication I / F 6203 by the controller 41. The controller 41 may use these items of actual time information to update items of time information in the molding conditions.

[0134] Based on one or more component states (in Figure 7 shown in ) and repeatedly updated Figure 8BFor example, when the status of the temperature controllers 321A / 321B and 322A / 322B is 'increasing mold temperature' or 'second temperature (high); ready for molding', the status can be changed from 'waiting' to 'ready; ready for insertion'. When the status of IMM2 is 'executing Nth molding', the status can be changed from 'ready; ready for insertion' to 'executing molding'.

[0135] Figure 8C A queue of molding tasks scheduled to be executed is shown in a "waiting" state. Although the molding tasks included in the molding task list include completed tasks and unplanned tasks, the queue includes tasks scheduled to be executed. In an exemplary embodiment, a molding task can be added to the queue when a molding task or a molding condition is received. Since the order in which the molding tasks are performed is critical to productivity, the order of the molding tasks in the queue can be manually updated via the operation interface 6202. Molding tasks in the queue can be added or deleted manually, or automatically added or deleted via updates received from the communication I / F 6203.

[0136] In another exemplary embodiment, the controller 41 or an external computer communicating with the controller 41 via the communication I / F 6202 may determine the order of the molding tasks in the queue. The order of the tasks may be determined based on the cycle time, average setup time, and average unload time of the molding tasks.

[0137] Fig.9A 1 is a flowchart showing the process of the injection molding system 1 performing injection molding. When the operator turns on the injection molding system 1, the controller 41 starts the initialization process (S901) to prepare the receiving mold and perform injection molding. The initialization process initializes the injection molding part 6200. The initialization process may also include the initialization process of the conveyor devices 3A and 3B, which includes the initialization of the conveying units 31A and 31B.

[0138] After initialization, the controller 41 sets the molding mode from the available mode options (S902). The injection molding system 1 includes a plurality of mode options, including Fig.10 , Figure 11 and Fig.17 The normal order of molding shown, such as Fig.18 The parallel molding shown and Fig.19 In the normal sequential molding mode, injection molding is performed in IMM 2 with one mold at a time. The operator performs injection molding, mold unloading, and mold setup at the conveyor device 3A / 3B.

[0139] Once the injection molding is completed, the mold is ejected from the IMM2 by the conveyor device 3A / 3B, and a new mold is inserted by the conveyor device 3A / 3B. Then, the next injection molding is started with the new mold. When the next injection molding is performed, the previously ejected mold is unloaded and a new mold is loaded onto the conveyor device 3A / 3B.

[0140] In the parallel molding mode, two molds are used in parallel in IMM2. For example, after the molten resin is injected into the mold 100A and after the pressure is maintained, the mold 100A is ejected to the conveyor device 3A by the transfer unit 31A, where a cooling process of the mold 100A is performed on the conveyor device 3A. In parallel with the ejection and cooling process of the mold 100A, the mold 100B is inserted from the conveyor device 3B into IMM2 by the transfer unit 31B.

[0141] IMM2 opens the mold 100B and ejects the molded part from the mold 100B, and then performs the injection and pressure holding of the next cycle. The mold 100B is then ejected to the conveyor 31B, where a cooling process is performed. Although the cooling process of the mold is performed outside the IMM2, the opening, ejection of the molded part, and injection and pressure holding of the next cycle are performed inside the IMM2. The details of the above mode will be described below.

[0142] Since in the normal sequential molding mode, mold setup can be performed on one mold while injection molding is performed with another mold, the normal sequential molding mode may be preferred for performing molding tasks in which the number of shots is relatively small and mold unloading and setup are performed relatively frequently. This may also be preferred for performing molding tasks in which the estimated total time of one injection molding task is approximately or greater than the sum of the unloading time of the previous molding task and the setup time of the next molding task.

[0143] Since in the parallel molding mode, the cooling process of one mold is performed while the other process is performed on the other mold, the parallel molding mode may be preferred for performing molding tasks with a relatively large number of shots. The parallel molding mode may also be preferred for performing molding tasks in which the cooling time of one mold is similar to the time of the other process of the other mold. Fig.19 Mode options describe a combination of these two modes.

[0144] After setting the molding mode, the controller 41 loads the data stored in the memory 6204. Figure 8C The controller 41 then selects one or more molding conditions from the queue (S904) for the next injection molding.

[0145] The controller 41 loads the selected set of molding conditions and sets IMM2 for the next injection molding. The controller 41 then performs injection molding with the mold inserted from the conveyor device 3A / 3B (S905). When injection molding of the selected molding conditions is completed, the controller 41 checks the queue to determine whether any molding conditions still exist (S906). If they still exist (No in S906), the process returns to S904 to select one or more molding conditions. If they no longer exist (Yes in S906), the controller 41 terminates the process (S907) and sets IMM2 to the 'idle' state. When the parallel molding mode is selected in step S902, two sets of molding conditions are selected by the controller 41 in step S904, and in step S905, IMM2 performs injection molding in parallel with two molds. .

[0146] In another exemplary embodiment, steps S902 (setting molding mode) and S903 (loading molding conditions) may be performed in parallel with step S901 (initialization). In yet another exemplary embodiment, the molding mode may be set for each of the molding tasks. In this exemplary embodiment, step S902 (setting molding mode) is performed as part of step S904 (selecting one or more molding conditions).

[0147] Fig. 9B is shown as being executed by the controller 41 to update Figure 8B and Figure 8C The flowchart of the process of forming the task list and forming the queue is shown in . These processes are Fig.9A The processes shown are executed in parallel.

[0148] After power is turned on, the controller 41 repeatedly checks for reception of new molding conditions ( S951 ). The new molding conditions may be manually input via the operation interface 6202 , may be provided from an external computer, and / or may be obtained from a memory via the communication I / F 6203 .

[0149] If a new molding condition is received (Yes in S951), the controller 41 creates data of a new molding task corresponding to the new molding condition, stores the new molding condition in the memory 6204, and adds a new record for the new molding condition to the molding task list (S952). Then, the controller 41 adds the molding task to the molding task list by adding the molding task to the molding task list (S953). Figure 8CThe molding task is planned in the queue shown in FIG. 4. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 41 adds the new task to the bottom of the queue. In another exemplary embodiment, the controller 41 arranges the order of the queue based on the molding conditions of the molding tasks in the molding task list. If no new molding conditions are received in step S951, the process proceeds to step S954.

[0150] In one example, if the controller 41 determines that a pair of molding tasks A and B have a cycle time that is similar to or shorter than the setup time of other molding tasks, the controller 41 rearranges the molding tasks in the queue so that molding tasks A and B are adjacent in the queue. In another example, if the controller 41 determines that molding tasks A, B, and C all have relatively small shot times, the controller 41 rearranges molding tasks A, B, and C in ascending order of shot times.

[0151] In another exemplary embodiment, a molding mode may be set for each of the molding tasks, and if the controller 41 determines a pair of molding tasks C and D, in which the cooling time of the molding task C is the same as the time of other processes of the molding task D except the cooling time, the controller 41 arranges the molding tasks C and D in the queue in the order of the molding tasks C and D. The controller 41 also sets the molding modes of the molding tasks C and D to mold in parallel with each other.

[0152] Return to Fig. 9B , in step S954, the controller 41 determines whether an input for modifying the queue is received. The input may be received via the operation interface 6202, received from an external computer, or received from a memory via the communication I / F 6203. If the input is received (yes in S954), the controller 41 modifies the queue based on the input (S955). The process then proceeds to step S956. If no input is detected (no in S954), the process proceeds to step S956.

[0153] In step S956, the controller 41 determines whether an input for shutting down the injection molding system 1 has been received, or whether an input for converting the injection molding system 1 to the power saving mode has been received. If an input is received (yes in S956), the controller 41 saves all information in the memory 6204 and terminates the process (S957). If no input is received, the process returns to step S951.

[0154] Fig.101 is a timing diagram showing exemplary processes of some components of the injection molding system 1 in a normal sequential molding mode. The following describes how the processes of the components are performed in parallel. The horizontal axis indicates the timeline from left to right in the diagram. Some processes can be performed by the components, while other processes can be performed manually.

[0155] In this exemplary process, power to IMM 2 is turned on, mold 100A is prepared on conveyor apparatus 3A, and mold 100B is prepared on conveyor apparatus 3B.

[0156] As described above with respect to step S901, IMM2 performs initialization (initialization etc. 1031). Initialization process 1031 also includes setting molding mode (S902), loading molding conditions (S903) and selecting molding conditions (S904) by controller 41. In initialization process 1031, IMM2 adjusts movable platen 62 to accommodate mold 100A / 100B based on mold thickness information associated with mold ID.

[0157] In the present exemplary process, the mold 100A is prepared at the conveyor device 3A (mold preparation 1021). The hoses 331A and 332B are connected to the connectors 6101A and 6102A, and then the temperature controllers 321A and 322A start to increase the temperature of the mold 100A (temperature increase 1022). After the initialization process 1031 is completed, the alarm device 350A issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 1011) before the actual mold insertion for a predetermined period of time. Since the temperature increase 1022 can be performed when the mold 100A is on the conveyor device 3A or when the mold 100A is in the IMM 2, in the present exemplary process, the temperature increase 1022 is performed in parallel with the pre-warning 1011.

[0158] In another exemplary embodiment, the advance warning 1011 may be issued in response to the mold 100A reaching a third temperature T3, which is less than or equal to the second temperature. The advance warning 1011 is to inform the operator that the temperature of the mold 100A is such that the mold 100A should not be touched.

[0159] After the advance warning 1011, the transfer unit 31A inserts the mold 100A into the IMM2 (mold insertion 1023). In parallel, the alarm device 350A issues a warning (insertion warning 1012) to inform the operator that the mold 100A is being inserted and to stay away from the transfer unit 31A and the mold 100A. After the mold insertion is completed, the IMM2 performs injection molding with the inserted mold 100A (injection molding 1032).

[0160] After mold preparation 1021 and at injection molding 1032, the mold 100B is prepared at the conveyor device 3B (mold preparation 1041). The temperature controllers 321B and 322B increase the temperature of the mold 100B by flowing a fluid through the hoses 331B and 332B connected to the mold 100B (temperature increase 1042).

[0161] In response to the completion of the injection molding 1032, the alarm device 350A issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 1013) before the actual ejection of the mold 100A for a predetermined period of time. In response to the completion of the injection molding 1032, the temperature controllers 321A and 322A begin to reduce the temperature of the mold 100A (temperature reduction 1024) to accelerate the temperature drop. After the pre-warning 1013, the conveyor unit 31a begins to eject the mold 100A (mold ejection 1025). During the mold ejection 1025, the alarm device 350A issues a warning (ejection warning 1014) to inform the operator that the mold 100A is being ejected to the conveyor device 3A. After the mold ejection 1025 is performed and the temperature of the mold 100A drops to the first temperature, the alarm device 350A informs the operator (unloading notification 1015) that the mold 100A can be touched and is ready to be unloaded. The mold 100A is then unloaded from the conveyor device 3A (mold unloading 1026).

[0162] The process includes disconnecting the hoses 331A and 332A from the connectors 6101A and 6102A and unloading the mold 100A from the conveyor device 3 A. A new mold is prepared on the conveyor device 3A (mold preparation 1027), and the temperature controllers 321A and 322A begin to increase the temperature of the new mold (temperature increase 1028) as described above for the mold 100A.

[0163] After injection molding 1032 , as described above with respect to step S904 after step S906 , IMM2 loads new molding conditions from memory 6204 and changes the settings (condition change 1033 ). Condition change 1033 may be performed partially in parallel with mold ejection 1025 .

[0164] In response to the mold ejection 1025, the alarm device 350A issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 1051) for a predetermined period of time before the actual insertion of the mold 100B. The conveyor device 3B then starts inserting the mold 100B (mold insertion 1043). In parallel with the mold insertion 1043, the alarm device 350B issues a warning notifying the operator that the mold 100B is being inserted into the IMM 2 (insertion warning 1052).

[0165] In another exemplary embodiment, the pre-warning 1013 may be activated for a predetermined number of seconds before the injection molding is completed. The controller 42A may receive the estimated completion time from the controller 41. The controller 42A controls the alarm device 350A based on the received information to perform the process, which may improve overall productivity. The same process may also be applied to the alarm device 350B.

[0166] In another exemplary embodiment, the pre-warning 1051 may be activated for a predetermined number of seconds before the mold ejection is completed. The controller 42B stores the standard time for the mold ejection. The controller 42B controls the alarm device 350B to issue the pre-warning based on the standard time, which can improve overall productivity. The same process can also be applied to the alarm device 350A.

[0167] During mold unloading 1026 , mold preparation 1027 , and temperature increase 1028 , the IMM 2 performs injection molding with the inserted mold 100B (injection molding 1034 ).

[0168] After injection molding 1034, a similar process as previously described is performed. After injection molding 1034, IMM2 changes the molding conditions (condition change 1035). In response to injection molding 1034, the alarm device 350B issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 1053), the conveyor device 3B ejects the mold 100B and the alarm device 350B issues a warning (ejection warning 1054). In addition, in response to injection molding 1034, the temperature controllers 321B and 322B begin to reduce the temperature of the mold 100B (temperature reduction 1044). In response to the temperature reaching the first temperature, the alarm device 350B notifies that unloading is ready (unloading notification 1055). The operator then begins to unload the mold 100B (mold unloading 1046).

[0169] After the mold is ejected 1045, the alarm device 350A issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 1053), the conveyor device 3A inserts a new mold into IMM2 (mold insertion 1029), and the alarm device 350A issues a warning (insertion warning 1017). After the mold is inserted 1029, IMM2 starts injection molding with the inserted new mold (injection molding 1036).

[0170] In the normal molding mode, the components in the injection molding system 1 repeatedly perform the process described above to perform injection molding with multiple molds. For example, in IMM2, injection molding is performed on mold 100A first, then mold 100B, and then on a new mold. IMM2 performs injection molding sequentially with multiple molds.

[0171] In another exemplary embodiment, the alarm device 350B may issue a warning when the temperature of the mold 100B reaches the third temperature in the temperature increase 1042. In this exemplary embodiment, the alarm device 350B issues a warning in addition to the advance warning 1051.

[0172] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A flow chart of the process of the injection molding system 1 in the sequential molding mode is shown. The process corresponds to steps S904 to S906 in FIG. 9 . The controllers 41, 42A, and 42B control the components in the injection molding system 1 to perform the process. In the process, the mold 100A is inserted into the IMM 2 and subjected to injection molding. Then the mold 100B is inserted and subjected to injection molding.

[0173] In step S1101, the controller 41 loads and sets the molding conditions to the injection molding part 6200. In step S1102, the injection device 5 performs measurement of the molten resin to be injected into the mold based on the set molding conditions. In step S1103, the clamping device 6 adjusts the position of the movable platen 62 to accommodate the mold to be inserted into the IMM 2. In another embodiment, steps S1102 and S1103 can be performed simultaneously.

[0174] In step S1104, the controller 41 controls the opening of the mold door 390A so that the mold 100A can be inserted into the IMM 2. The controller 41 then updates the state of the IMM 2 to 'mold insertion ready (left side)' in step S1105. Steps S1101 to S1105 are similar to Fig.10 Corresponding to the initialization etc. 1031 in.

[0175] In another exemplary embodiment, the mold door 390A is opened and closed manually, and a sensor (not shown) located near the mold door 390A detects the open / closed state of the mold door 390A. In step S1104, the controller 41 determines whether the mold door 390A is open. If the mold door 390A is determined to be open, the process proceeds to step S1105.

[0176] In step S1106, if the mold 100A is ready for insertion, the transfer unit 31A inserts the mold 100A. If the mold 100A is not ready, the insertion of the mold 100A will wait until the mold 100A is ready.

[0177] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the mold door 390A is opened and closed manually, and the conveyor device 3A, IMM2 or injection molding system 1 includes a button operated by an operator. The button is used to receive the operator's confirmation that the mold door 390A is open and ready for mold insertion from the conveyor device 3A side. When the button is operated for the first time, the controller 41 updates the state of the IMM2 to 'mold insertion ready (left side)'. In other words, the button triggers the start of transferring the mold. Any type of user interface other than a button that can receive operator input to start the conveyor device 3A to move the mold 100A is applicable.

[0178] Steps S1109 to S1118 and Fig.10 1032 in the injection molding. In step S1109, the clamping device 6 sets the clamping force to be applied to the inserted mold 100A. The clamping force is adjusted based on the mold to be used. In step S1110, the clamping device 6 closes the mold 100A.

[0179] Then, steps S1111 and S1112 are simultaneously performed. In step S1111, the clamping device 6 clamps the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102 with the fixed platen 61 and the movable platen 62. In step S1112, the injection device 5 moves the nozzle 52 forward so that the tip of the nozzle 52 contacts a hole provided on the fixed mold 101 to receive the molten resin.

[0180] In step S1113, the injection device 5 injects the molten resin into the cavity of the mold 100A through the nozzle 52. The clamping device 6 also adjusts the pressure inside the mold 100A to keep the pressure within an appropriate range. In response to the start of step S1113, the controller 41 updates the state of the IMM2 to 'first molding being performed'. In step S1114, the controller 41 performs a cooling process. During this process, the controller 41 starts a timer and periodically checks whether the timer value reaches a predetermined cooling time. If the timer value reaches the predetermined cooling time, the cooling process is completed.

[0181] In step S1115, the clamping device 6 opens the mold 100A, the removal robot 7 removes the molded part from the cavity of the mold 100A, and the clamping device 6 closes the mold 100A. From step S1113 to S1115, one cycle of injection molding is performed. The controller 41 has an integer type variable in the memory 6204 for counting the number of injections performed. Initially, the value of the variable is set to zero. After completing step S1115, the controller 41 increases the value by 1.

[0182] In steps S1116 to S1118, the controller 41 determines whether a predetermined number of test injections and normal injections are completed. In step S1116, the controller 41 determines whether the mold 100A requires any test injections. In this step, the controller 41 determines the current molding conditions loaded into the memory 6204 to determine whether the current molding conditions include information about the necessity of any test injections, and whether the information is true. If the information is true, the controller 41 determines that at least one test injection is required (yes in S1116), and the process proceeds to step S1117. If the information is not true, the controller 41 determines that a test injection is not required, and the process proceeds to step S1118.

[0183] In step S1117, the controller 41 determines whether the predetermined number of test shots has ended. The controller 41 determines a variable in the memory 6024 for counting the number of shots performed, and compares the value of the variable with the predetermined number of test shots in the molding conditions. If the predetermined number of test shots is greater than the variable, the controller 41 determines that the predetermined test shot has not ended (no in S1117). The process then returns to step S1113 to repeat the injection molding.

[0184] If the predetermined number of test shots is less than or equal to the variable, the controller 41 determines that the predetermined number of test shots has ended (yes in S1117). The process then proceeds to step S1118. In step S1118, the predetermined number of normal shots is completed. The controller checks the value of the predetermined number of test shots (N_t), the value of the predetermined number of normal shots (N_n), and the variable for counting the number of completed shots (N_completed). The controller 41 compares N_completed with the value of 'N_t+N_n', and if N_completed is smaller, the controller 41 determines that the predetermined number of shots has not been completed (no in S1118). The process then returns to step S1113 to repeat a series of injection molding. If N_completed is greater than or equal to the value of 'N_t+N_n', the controller 41 determines that the predetermined number of shots has been completed (yes in step S1118), and the injection molding performed with the mold 100A is completed. The process then proceeds to step S1119.

[0185] In steps S1119 to S1135, a process for replacing the mold in IMM2 is performed. In response to the completion of injection molding with mold 100A, temperature controllers 321A and 322A start to lower the temperature of mold 100A to replace the mold more quickly at conveyor device 3A. In S1120, alarm device 350A starts to issue a warning to notify the completion of injection molding with mold 100A and that ejection of mold 100A will be performed soon. Step S1120 is the same as Fig.10 In step S1121, the clamping device 6 releases the platen clamp of the mold 100A. In step S1122, the controller 41 determines whether any molding tasks are left in the queue. If any molding tasks are left, the process proceeds to step S1123. If no molding tasks are left, the process ends.

[0186] In step S1123, the controller 41 selects new molding conditions for the next injection molding. In step S1124, the injection device 5 performs measurement of the molten resin based on the new molding conditions. In step S1125, the controller 41 determines whether purging is required by checking the new set of molding conditions, i.e., removing / disposing of any residual resin left in the injection nozzle 52. If the controller 41 determines that purging is required (yes in S1125), the process proceeds to step S1126. If the controller 41 determines that purging is not required (no in S1125), the process proceeds to step S1128.

[0187] In step S1126, the injection device 5 completely removes the nozzle 52 from the opening portion 61a of the fixed platen 61. Then, in step S1127, the injection device 5 performs purging. The process then proceeds to step S1129. In step S1128, the injection device 5 removes the nozzle by a predetermined distance to prevent a collision between the nozzle 52 and the mold being ejected or inserted.

[0188] In step S1129, the clamping device 6 slightly opens the mold 100A by moving the movable platen 62 away from the movable mold 102. In step S1130, as shown in FIG. Fig.12 As shown, the clamping device 6 adjusts the position of the movable platen 62 so that the next mold 100B is accommodated between the fixed platen 61 and the movable platen 62. In another exemplary embodiment, step S1124 may be performed simultaneously with steps S1125 to S1130.

[0189] Steps S1132 to S1134 are executed in parallel with step S1130. In step S1132, the controller 41 updates the state of IMM2 to 'mold ejection ready (left side)'. In step S1133, as Fig.13As shown, the conveying unit 31A ejects the mold 100A to the conveyor device 3A. In step S1134, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 As shown, mold door 390A is closed.

[0190] After step S1134, the process proceeds to step S1135 and step S1136. In step S1135, the controller 41 determines whether the mold 100B on the conveyor device 3B is ready for insertion. The controller 41 obtains the state of the mold 100B on the conveyor device 3B and determines whether the state is 'placed on the conveyor - ready'. If the mold 100B is on the conveyor device 3B, the controller 41 determines that the mold is ready for insertion and the process returns to step S1104. The steps described above starting with step S1104 are described with respect to the mold 100A, the conveyor device 3A, the mold door 390A, etc. After step S1135, these steps are performed with respect to the mold 100B, the conveyor device 3B, the mold door 390B, etc. For example, in step S1104, Fig.15 As shown, mold door 390B is open.

[0191] The controller 42B executes step S1106 to control the transfer unit 31B to insert the mold 100B, such as Fig.16 shown.

[0192] The mold 100B is closed by the clamping device 6 by performing step S1109. The injection device 5 performs step S1111 to move the nozzle forward so that the tip of the nozzle 52 contacts the mold 100B. The injection device 5 and the clamping device 6 perform step S1112, in which the injection device 5 injects molten resin into the cavity of the mold 100B, and the clamping device 6 maintains the pressure inside the mold 100B.

[0193] Steps S1136 to S1144 are performed at the conveyor 3A to set up a new mold 100A. In step S1136, the controller 42A obtains the temperature of the mold 100A, and the temperature controllers 321A and 322A reduce the temperature of the mold. The controller 42A determines whether the obtained temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature. If the obtained temperature is less than or equal to the first temperature, the controller 42A determines that the temperature of the mold 100A is cold enough to unload, and the process proceeds to step S1137. If the temperature is greater than the first temperature, the process waits at step S1136 until the temperature drops. In step S1137, the alarm device 350A begins to notify the operator that the mold 100A is ready for unloading. Due to the notification, there is no need to monitor the temperature regularly. After step S1136, the conveyor door 302A can be opened.

[0194] After the temperature becomes lower than the first temperature, the flow of fluid in the hoses 331A and 332A stops, which causes the temperature controllers 321A and 322A to stop lowering the temperature.

[0195] In step S1138, the controller 42A determines whether the hoses 331A and 332A are disconnected from the mold 100A. The disconnection is determined by receiving the output of a sensor (not shown) for monitoring the connection and disconnection of the hoses 331A and 332A. The disconnection can also be determined by receiving a confirmation that the hoses 331A and 332A are disconnected via a user interface. If the hoses 331A and 332A are disconnected, the process proceeds to step S1139. If the hoses 331A and 332A are not disconnected, the process remains at step S1138 to wait until the hoses 331A and 332A are determined to be disconnected.

[0196] In step S1139, the controller 42A determines whether the mold 100A is unloaded from the conveyor device 3A. Unloading can be determined by receiving the output of a sensor (not shown) that detects the mold on the conveyor device 3A. Unloading can also be determined by receiving that the mold 100A is unloaded via a user interface. If it is determined that the mold 100A has been unloaded, the process proceeds to step S1140. If it is not determined that the mold 100A has been unloaded, the process remains at step S1139 to wait until the mold 100A is unloaded.

[0197] In step S1140, the controller 42A determines whether a new mold is loaded onto the conveyor device 3A. The determination can be made using a method similar to the method used in step S1139. If it is determined that a new mold is loaded onto the conveyor device 3A, the process proceeds to step S1141. If it is determined that a new mold is not loaded, the process remains at step S1140 to wait until a new mold is loaded.

[0198] In step S1141, the controller 42A determines whether the hoses 331A and 332A are connected to the mold 100A. The connection can be determined using a method similar to the method used in step S1138. If it is determined that the hoses 331A and 332A are connected, the process proceeds to step S1142. If it is determined that the hoses 331A and 332A are not connected, the process remains at step S1141 to wait until the hoses 331A and 332A are connected.

[0199] In another exemplary embodiment, a single input received via the user interface may be associated with all or part of the confirmation of disconnection, unloading, loading, and connection described above with respect to steps S1138 to S1141.

[0200] In step S1142, the temperature controllers 321A and 322A start to raise the temperature of the new mold to the second temperature. Fig.10 The temperature rise in the mold 1028 corresponds to the temperature rise in the mold 1028. In step S1143, the alarm device 350A starts to notify the operator that the mold insertion is ready. In step S1144, the controller 42A updates the status of the new mold to 'placed on the conveyor - ready'. The mold is now ready and waiting for insertion.

[0201] Fig.17 Shows that different from Fig.10 The example process in the normal sequential forming mode of the scenario shown. The alarm device 350A / 350B and the associated process are not in Fig.17 This is because these processes are similar to those in reference Fig.10 The processes described are the same. In this exemplary process, the number of injections for mold A is much greater than the number of injections for mold B and mold C inserted and ejected by conveyor device 3B.

[0202] IMM2 performs injection molding with mold A (injection molding (mold A) 2521), and then performs injection molding with mold B (injection molding (mold B) 2522). IMM2 then resumes injection molding with mold A (injection molding (mold A) 2523), and then performs injection molding with mold C (injection molding (mold C) 2524).

[0203] The conveyor device 3A ejects mold A (mold A ejection 2511) after injection molding 2521, inserts mold A (mold A insertion 2512) just after mold B ejection (mold B ejection 2535), and ejects mold A (mold A ejection 2513) after injection molding (mold A) 2523. In response to completion of injection molding (mold A) 2521 or injection molding (mold A) 2523, the temperature controllers 321A and 322A control the temperature of mold A so that the temperature of mold A is maintained at a second temperature (temperature maintenance 2514 or temperature maintenance 2515).

[0204] In another exemplary embodiment, the temperature of the mold A does not need to be maintained at the second temperature. By the time before the injection molding (mold A) 2523 is started, the temperature controllers 321A and 322A increase the temperature of the mold A to the second temperature.

[0205] Mold B is prepared at the conveyor device 3B (Mold B preparation 2531), and then the temperature controllers 321B and 322B begin to increase the temperature to the second temperature (temperature increase 2532). Since the temperature increase 2532 increases the temperature, the conveyor unit 31B inserts the mold (Mold B insertion 2533) after the mold A is ejected 2511 and before the injection molding (Mold B) 2522. Once the injection molding (Mold B) 2522 is completed, the temperature controllers 321B and 322B begin to reduce the temperature of the mold B (temperature reduction 2534) to the first temperature. After the injection molding (Mold B) 2522, the conveyor unit 31B ejects the mold B (Mold B ejection 2535) before the mold A is inserted 2512.

[0206] After the temperature is lowered 2534, the mold B is unloaded at the conveyor device 3B (mold B unloading 2536) and the mold C is prepared (mold C preparation 2537). The temperature controllers 321B and 322B then start to increase the temperature of the mold C (temperature increase 2538). The conveyor unit 31B then inserts the mold C (mold C insertion 2539).

[0207] In order to improve productivity, the temperature of mold B or mold C reaches the second temperature by the time just before starting injection molding with mold B or mold C. The controller 41 stores the standard time or average time for raising the temperature of mold B or mold C, and determines the time to stop injection molding in injection molding (mold A) 2521 or injection molding (mold A) 2523 from the stored time onward.

[0208] In another exemplary embodiment, in addition to Fig.17 In addition to the above-described process, the alarm device 350A continues to issue warnings until the injection molding with the mold A is completed, so that the operator does not need to be in the conveyor area of ​​the conveyor device 3A. In another exemplary embodiment, the alarm device 350A does not issue any warnings because under normal circumstances, the operator does not need to be in the conveyor area of ​​the conveyor device 3A. These exemplary embodiments achieve a reduction in the number of warnings issued by the injection molding system 1, thereby allowing the operator to concentrate on the conveyor device 3B side of the injection molding system 1.

[0209] Fig.18 A timing diagram showing an exemplary process of components in the injection molding system 1 in the parallel molding mode is shown. Initially, mold A is prepared at the conveyor device 3A (mold A preparation 2621), and mold B is prepared at the conveyor device 3B (mold B preparation 2641). Although the preparation of mold A and mold B can be completed sequentially, in order to reduce the idle time of IMM2, it can be done as follows. Fig.19 As shown, the preparation of mold A and mold B is performed simultaneously.

[0210] After the preparation is completed, the injection molding system 1 performs parallel molding. Since in this scenario, the mold A preparation 2621 is completed earlier than the mold B preparation 2641, the conveyor device 3B first inserts the mold B, the clamping device 6 closes the mold B, the injection device 6 injects the molten resin, the clamping device 6 maintains the pressure of the mold B, and the conveying unit 3B ejects the mold B to the conveyor device 3B (process 2631).

[0211] After ejecting the mold B, the conveyor unit 31A inserts the mold A into the IMM 2, and performs the same process as the process 2631 with the mold A. While the process is performed with the mold A, the mold B is in a cooling process on the conveyor device 3B.

[0212] After the cooling process of mold B, and after ejecting mold A to the conveyor device 3A, the conveyor device 3B inserts mold B into IMM2, the clamping device 6 opens mold B, the removal robot 7 removes the molded part from the cavity of mold B, the clamping device 6 closes mold B, the injection device 5 injects molten resin into the cavity of mold B, the clamping device 6 maintains the pressure of mold B, and then the conveyor 3B ejects mold B to the conveyor device 3A. While performing these processes with IMM2 and mold B, mold A is in the cooling process on the conveyor device 3A. In the parallel molding mode, the cooling process of one mold is performed outside the IMM2, while other processes are performed inside the IMM2 (AB parallel molding (mold cooling step performed outside) 2632).

[0213] In this scenario, at the end of parallel molding, the conveyor device 3B inserts mold B, the clamping device 6 opens mold B, the take-out robot 7 removes the molded part, the clamping device 6 closes mold B, and the conveying unit 31B ejects mold B to the conveyor device 3B (process 2633). Mold A is ejected to the conveyor device 3A during process 2633. After AB parallel molding (mold cooling step is performed externally) 2632 and process 2633, mold A is replaced with mold C at the conveyor device 3A by unloading mold A from the conveyor device 3A (mold A unloading 2622) and preparing mold C (mold C preparation 2623).

[0214] At the conveyor device 3B, mold B is replaced with mold D by unloading mold B from the conveyor device 3B (mold B unloading 2642) and preparing mold D (mold D preparation 2643). Mold A preparation 2621, mold B preparation 2641, mold C preparation 2623, or mold D preparation 2643 includes a process of raising the temperature of the mold to a second temperature. The second temperature of each of molds A to D may be different from each other.

[0215] After preparing molds C and D, the injection molding system 1 performs injection molding in a parallel molding mode with molds C and D. In this scenario, mold C preparation 2623 is completed earlier than mold D preparation 2643, and mold C is inserted first, while mold D is inserted later.

[0216] The alarm device 350A issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 2611) in response to the completion of the mold A preparation 2621 for a predetermined period of time. Then, during the AB parallel molding (mold cooling step performed externally) 2632, the alarm device 350A issues an alarm (alarm 2612), thereby notifying the operator that the mold A is intermittently moved in the conveyor area. After the AB parallel molding (mold cooling step performed externally) 2632 ends and the temperature of the mold A drops to the first temperature, the alarm device 350A notifies the operator that the mold A is ready for unloading (unloading notification 2613).

[0217] The alarm device 350B issues a pre-warning (pre-warning 2651) after mold B preparation is completed 2641, and issues an alarm during AB parallel molding (mold cooling step is performed externally) 2632. After the temperature of mold D drops to the first temperature, the alarm device 350B notifies the operator that mold B is ready for unloading (unloading notification 2653).

[0218] Fig.19 A timing diagram showing an exemplary process of components in the injection molding system 1 in combined mode is shown. In combined mode, the IMM 2 performs injection molding in both parallel molding mode and normal sequential molding mode. This exemplary process is similar to Fig.17 The same scenario is shown in Figure 1, where the estimated total time for injection molding with Mold A is much longer than the time for injection molding with Mold B, Mold C, or Mold D.

[0219] Initially, normal molding (injection molding (mold A) 2721) is performed by IMM2, while mold B is prepared at the conveyor device 3B (mold B preparation 2731). Mold B preparation 2731 includes a process of raising the temperature of mold B to a second temperature, which is performed by temperature controllers 321B and 322B. After mold B preparation 2731, IMM2, conveyor device 3A, and conveyor device 3B perform injection molding with molds A and B in parallel molding mode (AB parallel molding (mold cooling step performed externally) 2722). After completing a predetermined number of injections, IMM2 starts to perform normal injection molding (injection molding (mold A) 2723) using only mold A.

[0220] While performing injection molding (mold A) 2723, mold B is unloaded (mold B unloading 2732), and mold C is prepared at the conveyor device 3B (mold C preparation 2733). Mold C preparation 2733 also includes a process of raising the temperature of mold C to a second temperature, which is performed by temperature controllers 321B and 322B. In response to mold C preparation 2733, the injection molding system 1 returns to the parallel molding mode using molds A and C at this time (AC parallel molding (mold cooling step is performed externally) 2724).

[0221] After AC parallel molding (mold cooling step is performed externally) 2724, IMM2 performs injection molding (injection molding (mold A) 2725) using only mold A. During injection molding (mold A) 2725, mold C is unloaded (mold C unloading 2734), and mold D is prepared (mold D preparation 2735).

[0222] In these exemplary processes, a predetermined number of injections are completed with mold A in injection molding (mold A) 2725, and the conveyor 3A ejects mold A to the conveyor device 3A (mold A ejection 2711). After mold D preparation 2735, the conveyor device 3B inserts mold D into IMM2 (mold D insertion 2736), and then injection molding is performed with mold D in IMM2. In these exemplary processes, IMM2 performs normal injection molding with one mold while an operator prepares another mold, and after the preparation, parallel molding is performed in IMM2, which improves the productivity of the injection molding system 1.

[0223] In an exemplary embodiment, the cooling process in injection molding (mold A) 2721 is performed in IMM2, while the cooling process in AB parallel molding (mold cooling step is performed externally) 2722 can be performed outside IMM2 at the conveyor device 3A or the conveyor device 3B. The difference in the cooling process may affect the difference in the molded parts from the same mold. In order to reduce any difference, during the cooling process in AB parallel molding (mold cooling step is performed externally) 2722, the clamping device 6 can be released from the movable mold 102. This results in only the self-closing unit 103 maintaining the closed state of the mold 100A / 100B, which has the same effect as the cooling process in injection molding (mold A) 2721.

[0224] Although the exemplary embodiments described above discuss illustrative embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to these exemplary embodiments.

[0225] According to an exemplary embodiment, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding machine that performs injection molding with a mold; a first conveyor device on one side of the injection molding machine, the first conveyor device being used to eject and insert a first mold through a first opening of the injection molding machine; and a second conveyor device on the other side of the injection molding machine, the second conveyor device being used to eject and insert a second mold through a second opening of the injection molding machine. The injection molding machine also includes a first door for covering the first opening and a second door for covering the second opening. The injection molding machine includes at least one controller that stops injection molding with the first mold in response to opening of the second door.

[0226] According to another exemplary embodiment, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding machine that performs injection molding with a mold; a first conveyor device on one side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts a first mold through a first opening of the injection molding machine; and a second conveyor device on the other side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts a second mold through a second opening of the injection molding machine. The injection molding system also includes: a first safety wall having a first conveyor door, the first safety wall defining a first closed area enclosing the first conveyor device; a second safety wall having a second conveyor door, the second safety wall defining a second closed area. The injection molding system includes at least one controller that stops injection molding with the first mold in response to opening of the first conveyor door.

[0227] According to another exemplary embodiment, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding machine that performs injection molding with a mold; a first conveyor device on one side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts a first mold through a first opening of the injection molding machine; and a second conveyor device on the other side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts a second mold through a second opening of the injection molding machine. The injection molding system also includes one or more first temperature controllers that control the temperature of the first mold (100A) and one or more second temperature controllers that control the temperature of the second mold (100B). When the injection molding machine performs injection molding with the first mold, the first temperature controller begins to increase the temperature of the second mold on the second conveyor device.

[0228] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding machine that performs injection molding with a mold; a conveyor device on one side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts the mold through an opening of the injection molding machine. The injection molding machine includes an injection machine having a nozzle that moves in one direction to contact the mold in the injection molding machine and moves in an opposite direction to disengage the mold being ejected by the first conveyor device.

[0229] According to another exemplary embodiment, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding machine that performs injection molding with a mold; a conveyor device on one side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts the mold through an opening of the injection molding machine. The injection molding system also includes: one or more temperature controllers that control the temperature of the mold; and an alarm device that issues a notification in response to detecting that the temperature controller reduces the temperature of the mold on the conveyor device to a predetermined temperature.

[0230] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, an injection molding system includes: an injection molding machine that performs injection molding with a mold; a conveyor device on one side of the injection molding machine that ejects and inserts the mold through an opening of the injection molding machine. The injection molding system also includes: one or more temperature controllers that control the temperature of the mold; and an alarm device that issues a notification in response to detecting that the temperature controller raises the temperature of the mold on the conveyor device to a predetermined temperature.

[0231] definition

[0232] When referring to the description, specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed examples. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily lengthening the present disclosure.

[0233] It should be understood that if an element or portion is referred to herein as being "on another element or portion," "against," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or portion, it may be directly on, directly against, connected to, or coupled to the other element or portion, or there may be intervening elements or portions. In contrast, if an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or portion," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or portion, there may be no intervening elements or portions. When used, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, if so provided.

[0234] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "under", "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", "proximal", "distal", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another or more elements or features as shown in the figures. However, it should be understood that the spatially relative terms are also intended to cover the orientations shown in the drawings and other different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, the elements described as being "below" or "beneath" other elements or features will be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Therefore, spatially relative terms such as "below" can cover both the above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein will be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the spatially relative terms "proximal" and "distal" may also be interchangeable when applicable.

[0235] As used herein, the term "about" means, for example, within 10%, within 5%, or less. In some embodiments, the term "about" may mean within a measurement error.

[0236] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe various elements, components, regions, parts and / or sections. It should be understood that these elements, components, regions, parts and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish an element, component, region, part or section from another region, part or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this article, the first element, component, region, part or section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, part or section.

[0237] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing a specific embodiment and are not intended to be limited. Unless otherwise specified herein or the context is clearly contradictory, the use of the terms "one" and "a kind of" and "said" and similar references in the context of describing the present disclosure (especially in the context of the following claims) should be interpreted as covering both singular and plural forms. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "comprise", "have", "include" and "contain" should be interpreted as open terms (that is, meaning "including but not limited to") when used in this specification. Specifically, these terms, when used in this specification, stipulate that there are stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups that are not clearly stated. Unless otherwise specified herein, the description of the range of values ​​herein is only intended to be used as a shorthand method for individually referring to each independent value falling within the range, and each independent value is included in the specification, as if individually described in this article. For example, if a range of 10-15 is disclosed, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are also disclosed. Unless otherwise specified herein or the context is otherwise clearly contradictory, all methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order. Unless otherwise claimed, the use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is intended only to better illustrate the present disclosure and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure. No language in the specification should be interpreted as indicating that any unclaimed element is essential to the practice of the present disclosure.

[0238] It will be appreciated that the methods and compositions of the present disclosure may be incorporated in the form of various embodiments, only some of which are disclosed herein. After reading the foregoing description, variations of those embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. The inventors expect that the skilled person will appropriately adopt such variations, and the inventors wish to practice the present disclosure in a manner different from that specifically described herein.

[0239] Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law.In addition, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by this disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. An injection molding system, comprising: an injection molding apparatus configured to perform injection molding; a first conveyor device on one side of the injection molding device, the first conveyor device being configured to eject and insert a first mold through a first opening of the injection molding device; as well as a second conveyor device on a second side of the injection molding device, the second conveyor device being configured to eject and insert a second mold through a second opening of the injection molding device, The improvements to the injection molding system include: a first door movable between an open position in which the first door does not cover the first opening and a closed position in which the first door covers the first opening, a first sensor configured to detect whether the first door is in an open position or a closed position, a second door movable between an open position in which the second door does not cover the second opening and a closed position in which the second door covers the second opening, a second sensor configured to detect whether the second door is in an open position or a closed position, a wall comprising a conveyor door positioned around the second conveyor apparatus, a third sensor configured to detect whether the conveyor door is open, and a controller configured to prohibit alternate injection molding with the first mold and the second mold when the conveyor door is open, Wherein, the controller is configured to enable injection molding with the first mold while replacing the second mold on the second conveyor device with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second door is in a closed position and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open, and to prohibit injection molding with the first mold while replacing the second mold on the second conveyor device with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second door is in an open position and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open. 2 . The injection molding system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to prohibit starting injection molding with the first mold if the second sensor detects that the second door is in an open position. 3 . The injection molding system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to prohibit the first conveyor device from conveying the first mold if the second sensor detects that the second door is in an open position.

4. The injection molding system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to enable the first conveyor device to convey the first mold if the second sensor detects that the second door is in a closed position. 5 . The injection molding system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to prohibit the first conveyor device from starting to convey the first mold if the second sensor detects that the second door is in an open position.

6. The injection molding system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface configured to receive input to activate the first conveyor device to move the first mold. 7 . The injection molding system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to enable opening of the second door after adjusting a position of a platen of the injection molding apparatus with respect to the second mold. 8 . The injection molding system according to claim 1 , further comprising an alarm device configured to issue a notification prohibiting injection molding.

9. The injection molding system of claim 1, further comprising: a wall surrounding the first conveyor apparatus, the wall including a door; and a fourth sensor configured to detect whether a door of the wall is opened, The controller is further configured to prohibit injection molding using the first mold if the fourth sensor detects that the door of the wall is open.

10. The injection molding system of claim 9, wherein the first conveyor apparatus further comprises: a first actuator, the first actuator being used to move the first mold; a first connection member connected to the first actuator and configured to be connected to the first mold to transfer a force from the first actuator to the first mold, Wherein the wall limits access to the first actuator and the first connecting member.

11. The injection molding system of claim 1 , further comprising: a wall surrounding the first conveyor apparatus, the wall including a door; and a fourth sensor configured to detect whether a door of the wall is opened, The controller is further configured to prohibit the first conveyor device from conveying the first mold if the fourth sensor detects that the door of the wall is open.

12. The injection molding system of claim 1, wherein the first door is open while the injection molding is being performed with the first mold.

13. The injection molding system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to enable a conveyor door to be opened when the injection molding is performed with the first mold with the second door in a closed position.

14. The injection molding system of claim 1, further comprising: a wall surrounding said first conveyor apparatus, said wall comprising a door, wherein the first door is configured to restrict access to an interior of the injection molding apparatus via the first opening when the first door is in a closed position, and Wherein the wall is configured, when the door of the wall is in a closed state, to restrict access via the first opening when the first door is in an open position.

15. An injection molding system, comprising: An injection molding apparatus, the injection molding apparatus being configured to perform injection molding, the injection molding apparatus comprising: a first opening on a side of the injection molding apparatus; a second opening on a second side of the injection molding apparatus; and a conveyor device on the one side of the injection molding device, the conveyor device being configured to eject and insert a first mold through the first opening and to insert and eject a second mold through the second opening, The improvements to the injection molding system include: a first door movable between an open position in which the first door does not cover the first opening and a closed position in which the first door covers the first opening; a first sensor configured to detect whether the first door is in an open position or a closed position, a second door movable between an open position in which the second door does not cover the second opening and a closed position in which the second door covers the second opening; a second sensor configured to detect whether the second door is in an open position or a closed position, a wall including a conveyor door positioned around the conveyor apparatus; a third sensor configured to detect whether the conveyor door is open, and a controller configured to prohibit alternate injection molding with the first mold and the second mold when the conveyor door is open, and Wherein, the controller is configured to enable injection molding with the first mold while replacing the second mold on the conveyor equipment with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second door is in a closed position and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open, and to prohibit injection molding with the first mold while replacing the second mold on the conveyor equipment with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second door is in an open position and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open.

16. A method of manufacturing a product using an injection molding system, the injection molding system comprising: an injection molding apparatus having a first opening on one side of the injection molding apparatus and a second opening on a second side of the injection molding apparatus; a first conveyor apparatus for conveying a first mold through the first opening; a second conveyor device for conveying a second mold through the second opening; The improvement of the injection molding system includes: a first door, the first door is movable between an open position where the first door does not cover the first opening and a closed position where the first door covers the first opening, a first sensor, the first sensor is configured to detect whether the first door is in the open position or in the closed position, a second door, the second door is movable between an open position where the second door does not cover the second opening and a closed position where the second door covers the second opening, a second sensor, the second sensor is configured to detect whether the second door is in the open position or in the closed position, a wall, the wall includes a conveyor door placed around a second conveyor device, a third sensor, the third sensor is configured to detect whether the conveyor door is open, and a controller, the controller is configured to prohibit alternate injection molding with the first mold and the second mold when the conveyor door is open, the method includes: inserting the first mold through the first opening into the injection molding apparatus by the first conveyor apparatus; and The improvements of the method include: performing injection molding with the first mold by the injection molding apparatus while replacing the second mold on the second conveyor apparatus with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second opening is closed and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open, and Injection molding with the first mold by the injection molding apparatus is prohibited while replacing the second mold on the second conveyor apparatus with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second opening is open and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open.

17. A method of manufacturing a product using an injection molding system, the injection molding system comprising: an injection molding apparatus having a first opening on one side of the injection molding apparatus and a second opening on a second side of the injection molding apparatus; a conveyor apparatus for conveying a first mold through the first opening and conveying a second mold through the second opening; The improvement of the injection molding system includes: a first door, the first door is movable between an open position where the first door does not cover the first opening and a closed position where the first door covers the first opening, a first sensor, the first sensor is configured to detect whether the first door is in the open position or in the closed position, a second door, the second door is movable between an open position where the second door does not cover the second opening and a closed position where the second door covers the second opening, a second sensor, the second sensor is configured to detect whether the second door is in the open position or in the closed position, a wall, the wall includes a conveyor door placed around a conveyor device, a third sensor, the third sensor is configured to detect whether the conveyor door is open, and a controller, the controller is configured to prohibit alternate injection molding with the first mold and the second mold when the conveyor door is open, the method includes: inserting the first mold into the injection molding device through the first opening by the conveyor device, The improvements of the method include: performing injection molding with the first mold by the injection molding apparatus while replacing the second mold on the conveyor apparatus with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second opening is closed and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open, and Injection molding with the first mold by the injection molding apparatus is prohibited while replacing the second mold on the conveyor apparatus with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second opening is open and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open.

18. A method of manufacturing a product, comprising: Performing injection molding to manufacture a product using the injection molding system according to claim 1, Wherein, when the second door is located at the open position, injection molding using the first mold is prohibited by the controller.

19. A method of manufacturing a product, comprising: Performing injection molding to manufacture a product using the injection molding system according to claim 15, Wherein, when the second door is in the open position, the conveyor device is prohibited from conveying the mold through the controller.

20. An injection molding device comprising: a first opening on a side of the injection molding apparatus, wherein a first conveyor apparatus is configured to eject and insert a first mold through the first opening; as well as a second opening on a second side of the injection molding apparatus, wherein a second conveyor apparatus is configured to eject and insert a second mold through the second opening, The improvements of the injection molding equipment include: a first door movable between an open position in which the first door does not cover the first opening and a closed position in which the first door covers the first opening, a first sensor configured to detect whether the first door is in an open position or a closed position, a second door movable between an open position in which the second door does not cover the second opening and a closed position in which the second door covers the second opening, a second sensor configured to detect whether the second door is in an open position or a closed position, a wall comprising a conveyor door positioned around the second conveyor apparatus, a third sensor configured to detect whether the conveyor door is open, and a controller configured to prohibit alternate injection molding with the first mold and the second mold when the conveyor door is open, Wherein, the controller is configured to enable injection molding with the first mold while replacing the second mold on the second conveyor device with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second door is in a closed position and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open, and to prohibit injection molding with the first mold while replacing the second mold on the second conveyor device with the third mold when the second sensor detects that the second door is in an open position and the third sensor detects that the conveyor door is open.

21. A method of manufacturing a product, comprising: Performing injection molding to manufacture a product using the injection molding apparatus according to claim 20, Wherein, when the second door is located at the open position, injection molding using the first mold is prohibited by the controller.

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