Molding unit, molding machine, and molding method

Abstract

The molding unit includes: an upper sand box; a lower sand box that can be connected to the upper sand box; a sand box guide member that movably connects the upper and lower sand boxes and guides the upper and lower sand boxes; a first compaction member and a second compaction member that are arranged across the upper and lower sand boxes and can enter the upper and lower sand boxes respectively; a compaction cylinder that is movable relative to the upper and lower sand boxes, having a piston rod and a cylinder body for extending and retracting the piston rod, with the first compaction member fixed to the end of the piston rod; and a compaction guide member that fixes the relative position between the second compaction member and the cylinder body, the sand box guide member being a hollow rod member, and the compaction guide member being a movable rod member disposed inside the sand box guide member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a modeling unit, a modeling machine, and a modeling method. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a molding machine for molding by compacting sand. The molding machine includes an upper sand box, a lower sand box, a parting plate held by the upper and lower sand boxes, an upper compaction member inserted into the upper sand box, a lower compaction member inserted into the lower sand box, an upper actuator for moving the upper compaction member, a lower actuator for moving the lower compaction member, and a support frame.

[0003] The upper and lower actuators are connected to the support frame. The upper and lower actuators are, for example, hydraulic cylinders that extend and retract piston rods. The upper and lower actuators extend, thereby moving the upper and lower compaction members toward the parting plate, compacting the sand in the molding spaces within the upper and lower sand boxes.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-525948

[0005] The molding machine described in Patent Document 1 requires an upper actuator and a lower actuator for compaction. Here, to reduce manufacturing costs, including initial costs, it is possible to reduce the number of actuators. However, for compaction to be performed with a single actuator, the actuator that guides one compaction member into the upper and lower sand boxes requires a guide member to fix the other compaction member. Furthermore, to achieve uniform compaction, the guide member needs to be positioned to stably support the compaction member. However, the position where the guide member stably supports the compaction member is the same position where the weight of the upper and lower sand boxes is stably supported; therefore, the guide member for the compaction member interferes with the guide members used to guide the upper and lower sand boxes. Thus, it is difficult to position the guide member for the compaction member appropriately. Therefore, simply reducing the number of actuators to reduce manufacturing costs may result in the inability to produce high-quality molds. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a modeling unit, modeling machine, and modeling method that can ensure modeling accuracy and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0007] The molding unit of one side of this disclosure includes: an upper sand box; a lower sand box that can be connected to the upper sand box; a sand box guide member that movably connects the upper and lower sand boxes and guides the upper and lower sand boxes; a first compaction member and a second compaction member that are arranged across the upper and lower sand boxes and can enter the upper and lower sand boxes respectively, the upper and lower sand boxes being the connected upper and lower sand boxes; a compaction cylinder that is movable relative to the upper and lower sand boxes, having a piston rod and a cylinder body for extending and retracting the piston rod, the first compaction member being fixed to the end of the piston rod; and a compaction guide member that can fix the relative position between the second compaction member and the cylinder body, the sand box guide member being a hollow rod member, and the compaction guide member being a movable rod member disposed inside the sand box guide member.

[0008] In this molding unit, the first compaction member enters the upper and lower sand boxes through the extension of the piston rod of the compaction cylinder. Here, it is configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes, so the compaction cylinder moves in the opposite direction to the compaction direction of the first compaction member due to the reaction force obtained via the first compaction member. The second compaction member is fixed to the cylinder body by a compaction guide member, and thus moves in the opposite direction to the compaction direction of the first compaction member in accordance with the movement of the compaction cylinder. Therefore, the first and second compaction members can move close to each other using a single compaction cylinder. In this way, the molding unit can perform compaction effectively using a single compaction cylinder. Therefore, compared to molding units of molding machines that use two actuators for compaction, this molding unit can reduce initial costs. Furthermore, the compaction guide member can be movably disposed inside the sand box guide member. Therefore, the molding unit can avoid interference between the compaction guide member and the sand box guide member. Therefore, this molding unit can, for example, be configured with a compaction guide member at a location that can stably support the compaction member, and with a sand box guide member at a location that can stably support the weight of the upper and lower sand boxes. Thus, this molding unit can ensure molding accuracy and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0009] In one embodiment, the molding machine may include: a pair of sand box guide members, each comprising a sand box guide member; and a pair of compaction guide members, each comprising a compaction guide member. The sand box guide members are hollow rod members, and the compaction guide members are movable rod members disposed inside their respective sand box guide members. In this case, the pair of compaction guide members are movably disposed inside their respective sand box guide members. Thus, the molding unit can avoid interference between the pair of compaction guide members and the pair of sand box guide members. Therefore, the molding unit can, for example, arrange a pair of compaction guide members at a position where the compaction members can be stably supported, and arrange a pair of sand box guide members at a position where the weight of the upper and lower sand boxes can be stably supported. Thus, the molding unit can reliably ensure molding accuracy.

[0010] In one embodiment, a pair of sand box guide members may be arranged symmetrically at positions separated by a centerline passing through the centers of the upper and lower sand boxes. In this case, the pair of sand box guide members and a pair of compaction guide members disposed inside the pair of sand box guide members are arranged symmetrically with respect to the centers of the upper and lower sand boxes. Thus, the pair of sand box guide members can provide balanced support for the weight of the upper and lower sand boxes, thereby stably guiding them. Furthermore, the pair of compaction guide members can secure the second compaction member to the cylinder body in a balanced manner, thus stably applying uniform and appropriate pressure to the interior of the upper and lower sand boxes. Therefore, this molding unit can further suppress the reduction in molding accuracy.

[0011] In one embodiment, the compaction guide member may have a top portion and an end portion, and the second compaction member may be fixed to the top portion of the compaction guide member. The shaping unit may also include a fixing member that fixes the compaction guide member relative to the cylinder body. In this case, the shaping unit can use the fixing member to fix the relative position between the second compaction member and the cylinder body of the compaction cylinder.

[0012] The molding machine of another aspect of this disclosure includes: a molding unit; a sand box moving part that moves an upper sand box and a lower sand box relative to each other along a sand box guiding member to clamp or release a template member using the upper and lower sand boxes; a conveying part that moves the template member between the upper and lower sand boxes and moves the template member out; and a conveying conversion part that rotates the conveying part.

[0013] In this molding machine, template components are moved in and out between the upper and lower sand boxes using a conveyor unit. The conveyor conversion unit, for example, can rotate the conveyor unit from a position facing the upper and lower sand boxes to a position not facing them. Thus, for example, after a new template component is placed on the conveyor unit positioned not facing the sand boxes, rotation of the conveyor conversion unit allows for easy replacement of the new template component to be held between the upper and lower sand boxes. Therefore, this molding machine can easily change template components and perform molding even when using multiple template components.

[0014] In one embodiment, the molding machine may also include a sliding part that allows the lower sand box to slide when the upper and lower sand boxes are separated. In this case, the operator can easily perform processing operations on the lower sand box without interfering with the sand box guide member and the upper sand box. For example, this improves operability when setting sand cores into the lower sand box.

[0015] Another aspect of the shaping method disclosed herein utilizes a shaping unit comprising: an upper sand box; a lower sand box capable of being connected to the upper sand box; a sand box guide member movably connected to the upper and lower sand boxes, the sand box guide member guiding the upper and lower sand boxes; a first compaction member and a second compaction member disposed across the upper and lower sand boxes, respectively capable of entering the upper and lower sand boxes, the upper and lower sand boxes being connected; and a compaction cylinder configured to be relative to... The upper and lower sand box moves, and has a piston rod and a cylinder body for extending and retracting the piston rod. A first compaction member is fixed to the end of the piston rod; and a compaction guide member is capable of fixing the relative position between the second compaction member and the cylinder body. The sand box guide member is a hollow rod member, and the compaction guide member is a movable rod member disposed inside the sand box guide member. The molding method includes: the step of fixing the compaction guide member to the cylinder body, and the step of performing compaction by extending the piston rod to perform compaction by the first compaction member and the second compaction member.

[0016] Using this modeling method, the same modeling unit and modeling machine mentioned above can ensure modeling accuracy and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0017] By employing the modeling unit, modeling machine, and modeling method disclosed herein, modeling accuracy can be ensured and manufacturing costs can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a side view showing an example of a molding machine for implementing an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The side view of the sandbox unit shown.

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The front view of the sandbox unit shown.

[0021] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 A front view of an example of the connected state of the upper and lower sand boxes of the shown sand box unit.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a side view of an example of a molding machine with the upper and lower sandboxes connected.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a side view of an example of a molding machine in a state where the sandbox unit is rotated.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a top view showing an example of a molding unit before compaction.

[0025] Figure 8This is a front view showing an example of a guide fixing part.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a modeling method for implementing an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a top view representing an example of a molding unit in the compaction process.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a front view of an example of a modeling machine that represents a variation.

[0029] Figure 12 It is a partial sectional view of the modeling unit representing a variation.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 1… Sandbox unit; 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D… Molding unit; 2… Upper sandbox; 3… Lower sandbox; 4, 4B, 4C, 4D… Compaction guide member; 5, 5B, 5C, 5D… Sandbox guide member; 6… Lower compaction plate (an example of the first compaction member); 7… Upper compaction plate (an example of the second compaction member); 8… Template member; 13… Upper sandbox adjusting cylinder (an example of the sandbox moving part); 14, 14B, 14C, 14D… Lower sandbox adjusting cylinder (an example of the sandbox moving part); 40… Conveying part; 45… Loading part; 46… Conveying conversion part; 60… Compaction cylinder; 61… Piston rod; 63… Cylinder body; 74… Wedge member (an example of the fixing member); 90… Sliding part; 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D… Molding machine. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, the same or equivalent elements will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and descriptions will be repeated repeatedly. The scale of the drawings may not necessarily match the composition of the description. "Top," "bottom," "left," and "right" are based on the illustrated states and are used for convenience.

[0033] [Overview of the molding machine]

[0034] Figure 1 This is a side view illustrating an example of a molding machine according to an embodiment. In the figure, the X and Y directions are horizontal, and the Z direction is vertical. The X, Y, and Z directions are mutually orthogonal axes in a three-dimensional coordinate system. Hereinafter, the Z direction will also be referred to as the up-down direction. Figure 1The molding machine 100 shown is used for molding both the upper and lower molds. The molding machine 100 includes a sand box unit 1, a rotating part 102, a template changing part 103, and a compaction unit 104. The sand box unit 1 is configured to move to a first position 101 and a second position 105. The first position 101 is the working position of the molding machine 100, where the model (template) is placed between the upper and lower sand boxes and the mold is removed. The second position is the position where the molding machine 100 loads sand into the upper and lower sand boxes and performs compaction.

[0035] Figure 1 The sand box unit 1 shown is located at position 101. The sand box unit 1 includes an upper sand box 2 and a lower sand box 3. The upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 are box-shaped frames with openings at the upper and lower ends, respectively. The upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 move close to each other and are connected to clamp the template member 8 brought in by the template changing part 103. The template member 8 is a plate member capable of arranging a model. At least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the template member 8 is arranged with a model. Hereinafter, the connected upper sand box 2 and lower sand box 3 will also be referred to as the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3.

[0036] The rotating part 102 causes the sand box unit 1, which includes the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 holding the template member 8, to rotate in a horizontal, coplanar manner (XY plane). The sand box unit 1, rotated by the rotating part 102, moves to a second position 105 located above the first position 101 and is assembled into the compaction unit 104. At the second position 105, sand is filled into the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 assembled into the compaction unit 104. The sand filled into the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 is pressurized by the compaction unit 104, for example, in the X direction, forming an upper mold in the upper sand box 2 and a lower mold in the lower sand box 3. Afterward, the sand box unit 1 rotates from the second position 105 to the first position 101 under the drive of the rotating part 102. At position 101, the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 are separated, and the template component 8 is pulled out from between the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. Then, the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 are closed. The upper and lower molds (upper and lower molds) in the closed state are pulled out from the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3 and moved out of the device. In this way, the molding machine 100 molds the upper and lower molds without sand boxes.

[0037] [Details of the sandbox unit]

[0038] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The side view of the sand box unit shown. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The front view of the sandbox unit shown. Figures 1-3 The initial state of the upper and lower sand boxes being separated is shown. Figure 4 It means Figure 1A front view of an example of the connected upper and lower sand boxes of the shown sand box unit. (See example...) Figures 1-4 As shown, the sand box unit 1, which can rotate under the drive of the rotating part 102, includes an upper sand box 2, a lower sand box 3, sand box guide members 5, 5, compaction guide members 4, 4, and an upper compaction plate 7 (an example of the second compaction member).

[0039] In position 101, the upper sand box 2 is positioned above the position where the template member 8 is moved in, and is positioned between the sand box guide members 5, 5 in the Y direction. The upper sand box 2 has an internal space capable of accommodating the model disposed on the upper surface of the template member 8. The lower end of the upper sand box 2 can, for example, abut against the upper surface of the template member 8. A sand inlet hole 2a is provided on the side wall of the upper sand box 2, providing a space extending from the outside to the inside.

[0040] In position 101, the lower sand box 3 is positioned below the location where the template member 8 is moved in, and is positioned between the sand box guide members 5 in the Y direction. The lower sand box 3 has an internal space capable of accommodating the model disposed on the lower surface of the template member 8. The upper end of the lower sand box 3 can, for example, abut against the lower surface of the template member 8. A sand inlet hole 3a is provided on the side wall of the lower sand box 3, providing a space extending from the outside to the inside.

[0041] Sand box guide component 5 is a rod component that guides the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. Figures 1-4 The sand box extends vertically. The sand box guide member 5 is, for example, cylindrical. The upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 are movably connected to the sand box guide members 5, 5. The upper sand box 2 is movably connected to the sand box guide members 5, 5 via upper sand box connecting parts 11, 11. Upper sand box adjusting cylinders 13, 13 (an example of a sand box moving part) are connected to the upper sand box 2. The upper sand box 2 moves under the driving force of the upper sand box adjusting cylinders 13, 13. The lower sand box 3 is movably connected to the sand box guide members 5, 5 via lower sand box connecting parts 12, 12. Lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14 (an example of a sand box moving part) are connected to the lower sand box 3. The lower sand box 3 moves under the driving force of the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14. Thus, the upper sand box adjusting cylinder 13 and the lower sand box adjusting cylinder 14 cause the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 to move relative to each other along the sand box guide members 5, 5, so as to clamp the template member 8 or release the clamping by using the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. The upper sand box adjusting cylinder 13 and the lower sand box adjusting cylinder 14 can be hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, or electric cylinders. The upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 approach each other by moving one of them or both of them, such as... Figure 4 The template components are connected as shown in Figure 8.

[0042] The upper compaction plate 7 is a plate component that can enter the upper sand box 2 through the opening at the top of the upper sand box 2. The upper compaction plate 7, together with the upper sand box 2 and the template component 8, defines the molding space for the upper mold. The upper compaction plate 7 is guided by compaction guide components 4. The compaction guide component 4 is a rod component connected to the upper compaction plate 7. Figures 1-4 The compaction guide member 4 extends vertically. For example, it is cylindrical. The top ends of the compaction guide members 4 are connected to the frame 15, and the compaction guide members 4 are connected to the upper compaction plate 7 via the frame 15. That is, the compaction guide members 4 are fixed integrally with the upper compaction plate 7. Compared to the central portion of the compaction guide member 4 (the portion of the rod member excluding both ends), the diameter of the end portion of the compaction guide member 4 is larger. Thus, the compaction guide member 4 has a top end portion that fixes the upper compaction plate 7 and an end portion with a larger diameter.

[0043] The sand box guide member 5 is a hollow rod member, or, for example, a cylindrical member. The sand box guide member 5 is, for example, cylindrical, with its internal space extending along the axial direction. The corresponding compaction guide member 4 is movably disposed within the internal space of the sand box guide member 5. That is, the inner diameter of the sand box guide member 5 is larger than the outer diameter of the central portion of the corresponding compaction guide member 4. Furthermore, the end portion of the compaction guide member 4 protrudes from the end of the corresponding sand box guide member 5 and has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the corresponding sand box guide member 5. Thus, the guide member has a double-layered structure, so the compaction guide members 4 and 4 and the sand box guide members 5 and 5 are disposed in the same position without interfering with each other. The compaction guide members 4 and 4 can move independently of the sand box guide members 5 and 5 until the top or bottom portion of the compaction guide members 4 and 4 abuts against the end of the sand box guide members 5 and 5.

[0044] As an example, the sand box guide members 5 and 5 are respectively positioned symmetrically across the centerlines passing through the centers of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. For example, when the sand box unit 1 is positioned at position 101, the sand box guide members 5 and 5 are respectively positioned symmetrically across the centerlines passing through the centers of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 in the XY plane. The symmetrical positions across the centerlines passing through the centers of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 ensure that the sand box guide members 5 and 5 can stably support the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3, reducing the likelihood of mold misalignment and uneven wear. Furthermore, the symmetrical positions across the centerlines passing through the centers of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 ensure that the compaction guide members 4 and 4 can stably support the upper compaction plate 7, reducing the likelihood of uneven compaction force. The guide members employ a double-layer structure, thereby placing the compaction guide members 4 and 4 and the sand box guide members 5 and 5 in optimal positions.

[0045] [Details of the rotating part]

[0046] Figure 5 This is a side view of an example of a molding machine with the upper and lower sandboxes connected. Figure 6 This is a side view of an example molding machine with the sandbox unit rotated. (Example:) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the rotating part 102 is mounted on a support column 22 erected on the base 21 of the molding machine 100. The support column 22 is positioned to the side of the first position 101 (near the positive X-axis direction). The rotating part 102 has a mounting frame 31, a rotating shaft 32, and rotating drive parts 33, 33. Sand box guide members 5, 5 are fixed to the mounting frame 31. Thus, the mounting frame 31 supports the sand box unit 1. The mounting frame 31 has an opening to allow the template member 8 to be moved from the template changing part 103 into the first position 101 and to be moved out of the template member 8.

[0047] The rotating shaft 32 is a component provided on the support column 22 and extending in the Y direction. The rotating shaft 32 is rotatably provided on the support column 22 about its axis. The rotating drive unit 33 is the driving source for the rotation of the sand box unit 1. The rotating drive unit 33 is, for example, a cylinder having a piston rod that can extend and retract along the axial direction. The rotating drive unit 33 is fixed to the base 21 such that its end can rotate around the axis extending in the Y direction, and the rotating drive unit 33 is fixed to the mounting frame 31 such that its top end can rotate around the axis extending in the Y direction. By extending the piston rods of the rotating drive units 33 under the action of the cylinder, an upward force (clockwise about the rotating shaft 32) is applied to the mounting frame 31, moving the mounting frame 31 to the second position 105. By retracting the piston rods of the rotating drive units 33 under the action of the cylinder, a downward force (counterclockwise about the rotating shaft 32) is applied to the mounting frame 31, moving the mounting frame 31 to the first position 101. In this way, the rotating part 102 can make the sand box unit 1 rotate together with the mounting frame 31.

[0048] [Details of the Template Replacement Department]

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the template changing unit 103 is positioned to the side of the first position 101 (in the positive X-axis direction). The template changing unit 103 includes a conveying unit 40 and a conveying conversion unit 46. The conveying unit 40 moves the template member 8 between the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. The conveying unit 40 includes a conveying base 41, a conveying guide rail 42, an arm moving part 43, an arm 44, and a mounting part 45.

[0050] The conveying base 41 supports the conveying guide rail 42. The conveying guide rail 42 extends in a forward / backward direction relative to the first position 101 (here, the X-axis direction). As an example, the conveying guide rail 42 is straight, allowing the two arm units to move along the extension direction of the guide rail. The first arm unit includes a first arm moving part 43a, a first arm 44a, and a first mounting part 45a. The first arm moving part 43a has, for example, a motor, which moves on the conveying guide rail 42. The motor of the first arm moving part 43a is, for example, an electric motor or a hydraulic motor. The first arm 44a is provided at the first arm moving part 43a and supports the first mounting part 45a. The first mounting part 45a can mount the template member 8. The second arm unit has the same configuration as the first arm unit, including a second arm moving part 43b, a second arm 44b, and a second mounting part 45b. The first arm unit and the second arm unit are arranged at both ends of the conveying guide rail 42.

[0051] The conveying conversion unit 46 supports the conveying base 41 and rotates the conveying base 41. The conveying conversion unit 46 rotates the conveying base 41 so that the arm unit disposed at the end of the conveying guide rail 42 faces the first position 101. The arm unit located at the position facing the first position 101 moves on the conveying guide rail 42 in a manner close to the first position 101 under the drive of the arm moving unit 43, and the arm 44 is disposed between the sand box guide members 5, 5 at the first position 101, and the template member 8 is moved in and out by the loading unit 45.

[0052] With the first arm unit facing the first position 101, the second arm unit is located at the template preparation position 40b. The template preparation position 40b is the position where a new template member 8 is placed on the placement part 45, and the position where the used template member 8 is retrieved.

[0053] For example, when replacing the template component 8, the first mounting section 45a of the first arm unit receives the used template component 8 from the first position 101 and removes it. The second mounting section 45b of the second arm unit receives the new template component 8 at the template preparation position 40b. Next, the first arm moving section 43a moves the first mounting section 45a, which has received the used template component 8, backward from the first position 101 towards the center (positive X-axis direction) of the transport base 41. The second arm moving section 43b moves the second mounting section 45b, which has received the new template component 8, backward from the template preparation position 40b towards the center (negative X-axis direction) of the transport base 41. This prevents the rotating first and second arm units from contacting the molding machine 100 components, such as the sandbox unit 1, when the transport base 41 rotates (described later). Then, the transport conversion section 46 rotates the transport base 41 180 degrees. Therefore, the second mounting section 45b, which holds the new template component 8, moves towards the first position 101, while the first mounting section 45a, which holds the used template component 8, moves towards the template preparation position 40b. The second mounting section 45b of the second arm unit receives the new template component 8 at the first position 101. The template component 8 placed in the first mounting section 45a of the first arm unit is retrieved by the operator at the template preparation position 40b. Thus, the replacement of the template component 8 is completed.

[0054] [Details of the compaction unit]

[0055] Figure 7 This is a top view showing an example of a molding unit before compaction. For example... Figure 6 As shown, sand box unit 1 is located at position 2 105 and assembled with compaction unit 104, thereby constituting Figure 7 The molding unit 1A shown is assembled into the compaction unit 104 to form molding spaces for the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. Sand is then supplied to the molding spaces of the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3, and compacted using the compaction unit 104. Details are explained below.

[0056] The compaction unit 104 includes a shaping support 51, shaping guide rails 52, 52, a lower compaction plate 6 (an example of a first compaction member), a compaction cylinder 60, and guide fixing parts 70, 70.

[0057] The shaping support 51 is a frame-shaped component fixed to the support column 22 and extending horizontally. The shaping support 51 has a space inside its frame capable of accommodating the sandbox unit 1. This space is open vertically.

[0058] The molding guide rails 52, 52 guide the compaction cylinder 60 along the X-axis. The molding guide rails 52, 52 are, for example, located on the inner wall of the molding support 51. The molding guide rails 52, 52 are each opposite to each other in the Y-direction and extend along the compaction direction (X-direction). The number or position of the molding guide rails can be appropriately varied depending on the shape of the molding support 51. In this way, the compaction cylinder 60 is configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes 2, 3.

[0059] The lower compaction plate 6 is a plate component that can enter the lower sand box 3 through an opening at the lower end of the lower sand box 3. The lower compaction plate 6, together with the lower sand box 3 and the template component 8, defines the molding space for the lower mold. The lower compaction plate 6 is configured such that the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3 are located between the lower compaction plate 6 and the upper compaction plate 7. The lower compaction plate 6 enters the lower sand box 3 under the drive of the compaction cylinder 60.

[0060] The compaction cylinder 60 includes a piston rod 61 and a cylinder body 63. The end of the piston rod 61 is fixed to the lower compaction plate 6 via a compaction base 62. The cylinder body 63 controls the extension and retraction of the piston rod 61 and the timing thereof. The compaction cylinder 60 can be a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric cylinder.

[0061] The cylinder body 63 has a mounting member 64, which is disposed on the aforementioned molding guide rails 52, 52. The mounting member 64 is connected to the piston rod of the movable cylinder 65 for moving the compaction cylinder 60 along the X-axis (see reference). Figure 1 The movable cylinder 65 can be a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric cylinder. The piston rod of the movable cylinder 65 extends, causing the cylinder body 63 to approach the lower sand box 3. With the cylinder body 63 approaching the lower sand box 3, the piston rod 61 extends. This causes the compaction base 62 to push the lower compaction plate 6 along the positive X-axis, causing the lower compaction plate 6 to enter the opening of the lower sand box 3. This defines the molding space for shaping the lower mold.

[0062] The mounting member 64 of the cylinder body 63 has a first opening 64a, 64a into which the ends of the compaction guide members 4, 4 can be inserted. The first opening 64a extends along the X-axis. The inner diameter of the first opening 64a is larger than the outer diameter of the central portion and the outer diameter of the end portion of the compaction guide member 4. Thus, the compaction guide member 4 can pass through the first opening 64a of the mounting member 64 of the cylinder body 63. The compaction guide member 4, passing through the first opening 64a, is restricted from moving in the positive X-axis direction by the guide fixing portion 70 provided on the mounting member 64. The compaction guide member 4, passing through the first opening 64a, is fixed to the mounting member 64 in such a way that its movement in the positive X-axis direction is restricted, thereby fixing the relative position of the upper compaction plate 7 and the cylinder body 63 during compaction. Thus, during compaction, the movement of the cylinder body 63 is linked to the movement of the upper compaction plate 7. Furthermore, when the movement of the compaction guide components 4, 4 in the positive X-axis direction is restricted, the upper compaction plate 7 enters the upper sand box 2 through the opening at the top end of the upper sand box 2. Thus, the upper compaction plate 7, the upper sand box 2, and the template component 8 define the molding space for the upper mold.

[0063] Figure 8 This is a front view showing an example of a guide fixing part. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, guide fixing parts 70, 70 are provided on the mounting member 64, restricting the movement of the compaction guide member 4, which is inserted into the first opening 64a, in the positive X-axis direction. Guide fixing parts 70, 70 are respectively provided corresponding to the compaction guide members 4, 4. The guide fixing part 70 has a fixing base 71, 71, a fixing cylinder 72, 72, and wedge members 74, 74 (an example of a fixing member).

[0064] The fixed base 71 is, for example, a plate member erected on the mounting member 64 of the compaction cylinder 60, supporting the fixing cylinder 72. The fixing cylinders 72 have fixing piston rods 73 and 73. The fixing piston rod 73 extends from the fixing cylinder 72 toward the first opening 64a. The fixing piston rod 73 extends and retracts under the drive of the fixing cylinder 72. For example, a wedge member 74 is provided at the lower end of the fixing piston rod 73. The wedge member 74 is a hook member that engages with the outer peripheral surface of the central portion of the compaction guide member 4. As an example, the wedge member 74 has a notch along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion of the compaction guide member 4, and the outer peripheral surface of the central portion of the compaction guide member 4 is inserted into the notch, thereby engaging the compaction guide member 4. Furthermore, the shape of the wedge member 74 is not particularly limited; it can be any shape as long as it can engage the compaction guide member 4. Alternatively, a pair of guide rails (not shown) may be provided in the guide fixing part 70. These guide rails support the mounting member 64 and the fixing base 71 and extend from the position of the fixing cylinder 72 toward the first opening 64a. The pair of guide rails are positioned close to or in contact with the outer edge of the wedge member 74, guiding the wedge member 74 in a manner that makes it relatively stable and movable.

[0065] When the compaction cylinder 60 moves in the positive X-axis direction, and the ends of the compaction guide members 4, 4 respectively penetrate the first openings 64a, 64a of the mounting member 64, with the ends protruding completely from the first openings 64a, the wedge members 74, 74 are engaged with the central portions of the compaction guide members 4, 4 respectively. Specifically, the fixing cylinders 72, 72 are driven, thereby extending the fixing piston rods 73, 73, and moving the wedge members 74, 74 downwards. The wedge members 74, 74 reach the central portions of the compaction guide members 4, 4 respectively, and lock the compaction guide members 4, 4 respectively. With the compaction guide members 4, 4 respectively locked by the wedge members 74, 74, when the compaction guide members 4, 4 want to move in the positive X-axis direction, the ends of the compaction guide members 4, 4 with increased diameter abut against the wedge members 74, 74. Therefore, the movement of the compaction guide members 4, 4 in the positive X-axis direction is restricted. In addition, after compaction is completed, the fixing cylinders 72 and 72 are driven to extend the fixing piston rods 73 and 73, and the wedge members 74 and 74 move upward, thereby releasing the engagement between the compaction guide members 4 and 4 and the wedge members 74 and 74.

[0066] After the compaction guide members 4 and 4 are fixed to the cylinder body 63, sand is supplied to the molding spaces of the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3 respectively. The sand supply device 106 for supplying sand will be described later. After the sand is filled into each molding space, compaction is performed. The compaction cylinder 60 extends the piston rod 61 in the positive X-axis direction, causing the lower compaction plate 6 to enter the lower sand box 3. Due to the reaction force of the pressure applied to the sand in the lower sand box 3, the cylinder body 63 moves in the negative X-axis direction. Corresponding to the movement of the cylinder body 63, the compaction guide members 4 and 4 are pulled in the negative X-axis direction by means of the wedge members 74 and 74, and the upper compaction plate 7 enters the upper sand box 2. In this way, the lower compaction plate 6 and the upper compaction plate 7 move toward the template member 8, thereby performing compaction.

[0067] [Details of the sand supply system]

[0068] A sand supply device 106 is installed at position 2, 105. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the sand supply device 106 includes: a storage container 106a for storing sand, and a supply section 106b for supplying sand supplied from the storage container 106a to the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. The storage container 106a is, for example, box-shaped, and has an internal space for storing sand. The shape of the storage container 106a is not limited to box-shaped, but may also be, for example, cylindrical. The supply section 106b is continuous with the internal space of the storage container 106a and is located at the lower end of the storage container 106a. Compressed air is supplied to the storage container 106a. The lower end of the supply section 106b is bifurcated, supplying sand to the sand inlet hole 2a of the upper sand box 2 and the sand inlet hole 3a of the lower sand box 3. Thus, the interior of the upper sand box 2 and the interior of the lower sand box 3 are filled with sand.

[0069] [Control Department]

[0070] like Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 107 is, for example, located on the negative X-axis side of the first position 101. As an example, the control unit 107 is composed of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The control unit 107 can also be composed of a common computer system, including main storage devices such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read Only Memory), input devices such as a touch panel and keyboard, output devices such as a display, and auxiliary storage devices such as a hard disk. The control unit 107, for example, is equipped with an operator's workbench. The control unit 107 controls the movements of the upper sand box 2 and lower sand box 3, the conveying of the template component 8, the rotation of the sand box unit 1, and the compaction of the lower compaction plate 6 and upper compaction plate 7, among other actions of the molding machine 100.

[0071] [Styling Methods]

[0072] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a modeling method for implementing an embodiment. Figure 9 The modeling method of this embodiment shown is initiated by the control unit 107 based on operator instructions. First, as a loading process (S11), the template changing unit 103 loads the template component 8 into the first position 101. With the first mounting part 45a of the template changing unit 103 in the template preparation position 40b, the operator or others mount the template component 8 onto the first mounting part 45a of the template changing unit 103. Next, the second arm moving unit 43b moves the second mounting part 45b, which is located facing the first position 101, backward from the first position 101 towards the center (positive X-axis direction) of the transport base 41. The first arm moving unit 43a moves the first mounting part 45a, which has received the new template component 8, backward from the template preparation position 40b towards the center (negative X-axis direction) of the transport base 41. Next, the transport conversion unit 46 rotates the transport base 41 180 degrees, moving the template component 8 towards the position facing the first position 101. At this time, the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 are not connected together, but are separate. The first mounting part 45a moves in the negative X-axis direction of the conveying base 41 under the drive of the first arm moving part 43a. As a result, the first mounting part 45a is moved between the sand box guide members 5 and 5, and the template member 8 is moved between the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3.

[0073] Next, as a connection process (S13), the molding machine 100 connects the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. The connection process (S13) is the step whereby the molding machine 100 guides the lower sand box 3 upwards along the sand box guide members 5, 5, connecting the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 across the template member 8. The lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14 move the lower sand box 3 upwards using the lower sand box connecting parts 12, 12. As the lower sand box 3 moves upwards, it receives the template member 8 from the first mounting part 45a. The lower sand box 3 is moved upwards using the lower sand box connecting parts 12, 12 and the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14 until the upper surface of the template member 8 abuts against the lower surface of the upper sand box 2. Thus, the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 abut against the template member 8 respectively. Furthermore, after the template member 8 is supported by the lower sand box 3, the first mounting portion 45a of the template member 8, which is not supported after use, is moved backward from the first position 101 towards the center (positive X-axis direction) of the conveying base 41. This prevents the first arm unit from contacting the sand box unit 1 when the sand box unit 1 rotates (described later).

[0074] Next, as a first rotation process (S15), the rotating part 102 rotates the sand box unit 1 so that the sand box unit 1 changes from being located in the first position 101 to being located in the second position 105. As a result, the sand box unit 1 is located in the second position 105 and assembled into the compaction unit 104, thereby forming the molding unit 1A.

[0075] Next, as a fixing process (S17: an example of a fixing step), the guide fixing part 70 uses wedge members 74, 74 to fix the compaction guide members 4, 4 to the cylinder body 63 of the compaction cylinder 60. First, the moving cylinder 65 moves the compaction cylinder 60 (cylinder body 63) in the positive X-axis direction, and the ends of the compaction guide members 4, 4 pass through the first opening 64a, 64a of the mounting member 64 in a manner that extends along the X-axis. After this penetration, for the guide fixing part 70, 70, the fixing cylinders 72, 72 extend the fixing piston rods 73, 73, causing the wedge members 74, 74 to move downward, and the wedge members 74, 74 abut and engage with the body (central part) of the compaction guide members 4, 4. At this time, the upper compaction plate 7 enters the upper sand box 2, dividing the molding space for the upper mold, and the lower compaction plate 6 enters the lower sand box 3, dividing the molding space for the upper mold.

[0076] Next, as part of the supply process (S19), the sand supply device 106 supplies sand to the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. The supply section 106b of the sand supply device 106 supplies sand to the sand inlet hole 2a of the upper sand box 2 and the sand inlet hole 3a of the lower sand box 3, thereby filling the interior of the upper sand box 2 and the interior of the lower sand box 3 with sand.

[0077] Next, as part of the compaction process (S21: an example of a driving step), the compaction cylinder 60 extends the piston rod 61, causing the lower compaction plate 6 to move and compress the sand in the lower sand box 3. At this time, due to the reaction force of the extension force of the piston rod 61, the cylinder body 63 retracts in the negative X-axis direction. Linked with the retraction of the cylinder body 63, the upper compaction plate 7 moves in the negative X-axis direction, compressing the sand in the upper sand box 2. The following is a detailed explanation using the accompanying drawings. Figure 10 This is a top view representing an example of a molding unit in the compaction process. (Example:) Figure 10As shown, the compaction cylinder 60 extends the piston rod 61, causing the compaction base 62 and the lower compaction plate 6 to move in the positive X-axis direction. This causes the lower compaction plate 6 to compress the sand in the lower sand box 3 in the positive X-axis direction. The reaction force generated in the negative X-axis direction by the lower compaction plate 6 of the cylinder body 63 compressing the sand in the positive X-axis direction is transmitted through the piston rod 61, causing the mounting member 64 of the cylinder body 63 to move in the negative X-axis direction. At this time, the mounting member 64 of the cylinder body 63 is fixed to the compaction guide members 4, 4 via guide fixing parts 70, 70 during the fixing process (S17). Therefore, the mounting member 64 moves the ends of the compaction guide members 4, 4 in the negative X-axis direction via wedge members 74, 74. The compaction guide members 4, 4 move the upper compaction plate 7 in the negative X-axis direction via the frame 15, in conjunction with the aforementioned structure. The upper compaction plate 7 compresses the sand in the upper sand box 2 in the negative X-axis direction, thereby compacting the sand. In this way, the lower compaction plate 6 and the upper compaction plate 7 press towards the template component 8 respectively, compacting the sand stored inside the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3, and shaping the upper and lower molds respectively.

[0078] Next, as a retraction process (S23), the piston rods 73 and 73 are extended by driving the fixing cylinders 72 and 72, thereby releasing the engagement between the compaction guide members 4 and 4 and the wedge members 74 and 74. Additionally, the piston rod 61 retracts. Furthermore, the moving cylinder 65 causes the cylinder body 63 to retract in the negative X-axis direction. As a result, the lower compaction plate 6 is removed from the lower sand box 3, and the compaction unit 104 is disassembled.

[0079] Next, as a second rotation process (S25), the rotating part 102 rotates the sand box unit 1 from the second position 105 to the first position 101.

[0080] Next, as part of the mold-removal process (S27), the upper sand box adjusting cylinders 13, 13 and the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14 separate the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. The template replacement unit 103 removes the template component 8. Specifically, the first placement unit 45a moves towards the negative X-axis direction of the conveying base 41 under the drive of the first arm moving unit 43a. The lower sand box 3 is moved downward by the lower sand box connecting units 12, 12 and the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14, thereby placing the template component 8 on the first placement unit 45a. The first arm moving unit 43a moves the first placement unit 45a, which has received the used template component 8, backward from the first position 101 towards the center (positive X-axis direction) of the conveying base 41, thereby removing the template component 8. After the template component 8 is removed, the upper sand box adjusting cylinders 13 and 14 and the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14 and 14 cause the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 to close and open.

[0081] Next, as part of the removal process (S29), the upper and lower molds are moved out of the device (e.g., a molding production line) by extending the ejection cylinder (not shown). Once the removal process (S29) is completed, the molding method using sand box unit 1 and molding unit 1A is finished.

[0082] [Summary of Implementation Methods]

[0083] According to the molding unit 1A and the molding machine 100, the lower compaction plate 6 enters the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3 through the extension of the piston rod 61 of the compaction cylinder 60. Here, the compaction cylinder 60 is configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3, so the compaction cylinder 60 moves in the opposite direction to the compaction direction of the lower compaction plate 6 due to the reaction force obtained via the lower compaction plate 6. The upper compaction plate 7 is fixed to the cylinder body 63 by a pair of compaction guide members 4 and 4, so it moves in the opposite direction to the compaction direction of the lower compaction plate 6 in accordance with the movement of the compaction cylinder 60. Thus, the lower compaction plate 6 and the upper compaction plate 7 can move closer to each other using a single compaction cylinder 60. In this way, the molding unit 1A can perform compaction properly using a single compaction cylinder 60. Therefore, compared with the molding unit of a molding machine that uses multiple actuators for compaction, the molding unit 1A and the molding machine 100 can reduce the initial cost. Furthermore, a pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 are movably disposed inside the corresponding sand box guide members 5, 5. Thus, the molding unit 1A can prevent interference between the pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 and the pair of sand box guide members 5, 5. Therefore, the molding unit 1A can, for example, arrange a pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 at a position that can stably support the compaction members (lower compaction plate 6 and upper compaction plate 7), and arrange a pair of sand box guide members 5, 5 at a position that can stably support the weight of the upper and lower sand boxes 2, 3. Thus, the molding unit 1A can effectively ensure molding accuracy and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0084] Furthermore, a pair of sand box guide members 5, 5 are respectively positioned symmetrically across a centerline passing through the center of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. In this case, the pair of sand box guide members 5, 5 and a pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 disposed inside the pair of sand box guide members 5, 5 are positioned symmetrically with respect to the center of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. Thus, the pair of sand box guide members 5, 5 can provide good balanced support for the weight of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3, thereby stably guiding the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3. Moreover, the pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 can fix the upper compaction plate 7 to the cylinder body 63 in a balanced and good manner, thus stably applying a uniform and appropriate pressure to the interior of the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3. As a result, the molding unit 1A can further suppress the reduction of molding accuracy.

[0085] In addition, each of the pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 has a top end and a bottom end, and the upper compaction plate 7 is fixed to the top end. The shaping unit 1A also includes wedge members 74, 74 for fixing the pair of compaction guide members 4, 4 relative to the cylinder body 63. In this case, the shaping unit 1A can use the wedge members 74, 74 to fix the relative position of the upper compaction plate 7 and the cylinder body 63 of the compaction cylinder 60.

[0086] Furthermore, in the molding machine 100, the template component 8 is moved in and out between the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 via the conveyor 40. The conveyor conversion unit 46, for example, can rotate the conveyor 40, which is positioned facing the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3, to a position where it does not face them. Thus, for example, after a new template component 8 is placed on the conveyor 40 (second loading unit 45b) positioned where it does not face the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3 (template preparation position 40b), the conveyor conversion unit 46 can be rotated to easily replace the template component 8 that needs to be clamped between the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3. Therefore, the molding machine 100 can easily replace the template component 8 and perform molding even when multiple template components are used for molding.

[0087] Furthermore, in the molding method, a pair of compaction guide members 4, 4, which are fixed together with the upper compaction plate 7, are fixed to the cylinder body 63 using a fixing process (S17: an example of the fixing step). In the compaction process (S21: an example of the driving step), the lower compaction plate 6 is driven by the compaction cylinder 60. Since the upper compaction plate 7 is fixed to the cylinder body 63 by the pair of compaction guide members 4, 4, it moves in the opposite direction to the compaction direction of the compaction plate 6, corresponding to the movement of the compaction cylinder 60. Similar to the molding unit 1A and molding machine 100 described above, this molding method can ensure molding accuracy and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0088] [Variation Example]

[0089] Furthermore, the above embodiments illustrate an example of the molding machine of this disclosure. The molding machine of this disclosure is not limited to the molding machine 100 of the embodiments; it can be modified or applied to other purposes without altering the key points described in the various technical solutions. For example, the molding machine 100 may also be a structure that only includes the molding unit 1A.

[0090] For example, the order of some steps in the molding method of the above embodiment is not limited. That is, they can be performed in a different order than that described. The molding method may include only the fixing process (S17) and the compaction process (S21), or it may not include some or all of the other processes.

[0091] The molding machine 100 can also adopt a structure without a rotating part 102, applying pressure from top to bottom or from bottom to top. The molding unit 1A can be used not only in flaskless molding machines (flaskless molding machines) where the mold is removed after molding, but also in flask molding machines, i.e., molding machines that do not remove the mold after molding but transport it to the casting production line while keeping the mold in the sand box.

[0092] Alternatively, the guide fixing part 70 may not have a fixing cylinder 72. In this case, for example, the guide fixing part 70 may replace the fixing cylinder 72 with a fixing guide rail and a fixing drive part. The fixing base 71 supports the fixing guide rail. The fixing guide rail extends toward the first opening 64a. The fixing drive part is movably mounted on the fixing guide rail. The fixing drive part has a motor and moves on the fixing guide rail. A wedge member 74 is provided at the lower end of the fixing drive part. Driven by each fixing drive part, the wedge members 74 move downward along each fixing guide rail, thereby engaging the wedge members 74 with the central part of each of the pressing guide members 4.

[0093] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the lower sand box 3 is fixed to the lower sand box connecting parts 12, 12, and the lower sand box 3 is guided along the sand box guide members 5, 5 by the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14, but it is not limited to this. In the following description, components having the same structure and function as those in the above embodiment are marked with the same reference numerals.

[0094] Figure 11 This is a front view of an example of a molding machine including a sliding part, showing a modified version. For example... Figure 11 As shown, compared to molding machine 100, molding machine 100A differs in that the support structure of the lower sand box 3 is different, and it also has sliding parts 90, 90; other structures are the same. The following explanation focuses on these differences, omitting repetitive details.

[0095] The molding machine 100A also includes: lower sand box support parts 80, 80 and sliding parts 90, 90. In the first position 101, the lower sand box 3 is supported by the lower sand box support parts 80, 80. The lower sand box 3 has an abutment part 91 on the upper part of its side.

[0096] The lower sand box support portions 80, 80 are fixed to the lower sand box connecting portions 12, 12. Therefore, the lower sand box support portions 80, 80 can move vertically under the action of the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14. The lower sand box support portion 80, for example, includes a side wall 80a extending along the XZ plane and a bottom portion 80b extending along the XY plane at the lower end of the side wall 80a. The lower sand box support portions 80, 80 separate in the Y direction to form a second opening 80c. The lower sand box support portion 80 divides a storage space 80d for accommodating the lower sand box 3.

[0097] On the inner side of the side wall 80a at the upper end of the lower sand box support 80, a support abutment 81 protruding toward the storage space 80d is provided. The support abutment 81 moves upward under the drive of the lower sand box adjusting cylinder 14, thereby abutting against the abutment 91 of the lower sand box 3 from below, and thus supporting the lower sand box 3.

[0098] The sliding portions 90, 90 allow the lower sand box 3 to slide when it is separated from the upper sand box 2. That is, the sliding portions 90, 90 allow the lower sand box 3 to slide out from between the sand box guide members 5, 5. The sliding portion 90 is, for example, a guide rail extending in the X direction. The sliding portions 90, 90 allow the lower sand box 3 to slide towards the operator in the negative X-axis direction at the first position 101. The sliding portion 90 can protrude from the second opening 80c of the lower sand box support portion 80 into the storage space 80d of the lower sand box support portion 80. The sliding portion 90 protrudes into this storage space 80d, thereby supporting the lower sand box 3 separately from the lower sand box support portion 80. After supporting the lower sand box 3, the sliding portions 90, 90 move the lower sand box 3 in the negative X-axis direction.

[0099] For example, after the mold-removal process (S27) and before the removal process (S29) and the process of re-inserting the first mounting part 45a between the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3, as a mold removal process, the operator can also remove the lower sand box 3 using the sliding parts 90, 90. In the mold-removal process (S27), the lower sand box support parts 80, 80 are moved downwards using the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14, 14. When the lower sand box support parts 80, 80 move to a predetermined position, the sliding parts 90, 90 relative to each other change from being inserted between the lower sand box support parts 80, 80 to being inserted upwards. Thus, the lower sand box 3, which was originally supported by the support abutment parts 81, 81 of the lower sand box support parts 80, 80, is now supported by the sliding parts 90, 90. After the lower sand box 3 is supported by the sliding parts 90, 90, a mold removal process can be performed, causing the lower sand box 3 to slide along the sliding parts 90, 90 in the negative X-axis direction. The sliding parts 90, 90 allow the lower sand box 3 to slide out from between the sand box guide members 5, 5. Therefore, the operator can easily perform processing operations on the lower sand box 3 without interfering with the sand box guide members 5, 5 and the upper sand box 2. This improves the operator's operability when setting sand cores into the lower sand box 3.

[0100] In addition, the sand box guide components 5, 5 and the compaction guide components 4, 4 may not be arranged symmetrically on the center line passing through the center of the upper sand box 2 and the lower sand box 3 respectively. Figure 12 (a) is a partial sectional view of the modeling unit of the variant example. Figure 12 (a) is the edge of the modeling unit 1B in the modified example. Figure 7A sectional view taken at the same position as line XII-XII, omitting some components. For example... Figure 12 As shown in (a), the molding unit 1B of molding machine 100B differs from molding unit 1A of molding machine 100 in that the compaction guide members 4B, 4B and the sand box guide members 5B, 5B are concentrated on one side wall of the upper sand box 2 relative to the upper sand box 2; other structures are the same. The following description focuses on the differences, omitting repeated descriptions.

[0101] At position 2, 105, the compaction guide members 4B, 4B and sand box guide members 5B, 5B of the molding unit 1B extend, for example, along the XY plane. Upper sand box connecting portions 11B, 11B are respectively connected to a side wall of the upper sand box 2 extending along the XZ plane. The upper sand box connecting portions 11B, 11B are configured to be located at a position symmetrical with respect to the center of the side wall of the upper sand box 2. The upper sand box connecting portion 11B is movably connected to the sand box guide member 5B. The upper sand box 2 is supported by the compaction guide members 4B, 4B, the sand box guide members 5B, 5B, and the upper sand box connecting portions 11B, 11B provided on the upper sand box 2. Although in Figure 12 Not shown in (a), the lower sand box 3 is also supported by compaction guide members 4B, 4B, sand box guide members 5B, 5B, and the lower sand box connecting part, which are provided on one side wall of the lower sand box 3. The lower sand box 3 is moved by the driving force of the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14B, 14B.

[0102] Similar to the embodiment described above, the compaction cylinder 60 of the molding unit 1B is also configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3, thus allowing the molding unit 1B to be properly compacted using a single compaction cylinder. Compared to the molding units of conventional molding machines, this molding unit 1B and molding machine 100B can also reduce the manufacturing cost of the mold, including initial costs. Furthermore, similar to the embodiment described above, in the molding unit 1B, the compaction guide member 4B is configured to move inside the sand box guide member 5B, thus preventing interference between the compaction guide member 4B and the sand box guide member 5B. Compared to the case where the compaction guide member and the sand box guide member are configured independently, the molding unit 1B saves space, thus making it easier for operators to handle each component of the molding unit 1B before and after molding, and improving operability. Furthermore, in the molding unit 1B, the compaction guide members 4B, 4B and the sand box guide members 5B, 5B are concentrated on one side wall of the upper and lower sand boxes 2, 3, thus saving space on the other side walls facing the upper and lower sand boxes 2, 3. Additionally, the molding unit 1B is configured to have two compaction guide members 4B, 4B and two sand box guide members 5B, 5B, but it can also have three or more compaction guide members 4B and three or more sand box guide members 5B.

[0103] Alternatively, the molding unit and molding machine may also have a compaction guide component and a sand box guide component to replace compaction guide components 4, 4 and sand box guide components 5, 5. Figure 12 (b) is a partial sectional view of the modeling unit of the variant example. Figure 12 (b) is the edge of the modeling unit 1C in the modified example. Figure 7 A sectional view taken at the same position as line XII-XII, omitting some components. For example... Figure 12 As shown in (b), compared with molding unit 1A of molding machine 100, the positions and number of compaction guide members and sand box guide members relative to the upper sand box 2 are different in molding unit 1C of molding machine 100C, while other structures are the same. The following description focuses on the differences, omitting repeated descriptions.

[0104] The molding unit 1C includes a compaction guide member 4C, a sand box guide member 5C, and an upper sand box connecting part 11C. The compaction guide member 4C and the sand box guide member 5C extend, for example, along the XY plane. The upper sand box connecting part 11C is connected to a side wall of the upper sand box 2 extending along the XZ plane. The upper sand box connecting part 11C is configured to be located at the center of the side wall of the upper sand box 2 when viewed from the X direction. The upper sand box connecting part 11C is movably connected to the sand box guide member 5C. The upper sand box 2 is supported by the compaction guide member 4C, the sand box guide member 5C, and the upper sand box connecting part 11C provided on the upper sand box 2. Although in Figure 12 (b) is not illustrated, but the lower sand box 3 is also supported by a compaction guide member 4C, a sand box guide member 5C, and a lower sand box connecting part, all located on one side wall of the lower sand box 3. The lower sand box 3 moves using the driving force of the lower sand box adjusting cylinder 14C.

[0105] Similar to the embodiments described above, the compaction cylinder 60 of the molding unit 1C is also configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3, thus allowing the molding unit 1C to perform compaction effectively using a single compaction cylinder. Therefore, compared to the molding units of conventional molding machines, this molding unit 1C and the molding machine 100C can reduce the manufacturing cost of the mold, including initial costs. Furthermore, similar to the embodiments described above, in the molding unit 1C, the compaction guide member 4C is configured to move inside the sand box guide member 5C, thus preventing interference between the compaction guide member 4C and the sand box guide member 5C. Compared to the case where the compaction guide member and the sand box guide member are configured independently, the molding unit 1C saves space, thus making it easier for operators to handle the various components of the molding unit 1C before and after molding, improving operability.

[0106] Furthermore, molding unit 1C is equipped with only one compaction guide member 4C and one sand box guide member 5C. Therefore, compared to the structures of molding units 1A, 1B, and molding unit 1D (described later), which are equipped with multiple compaction guide members and multiple sand box guide members, space can be saved. Compared to molding units 1A, 1B, and molding unit 1D (described later), and even molding machines 100A, 100B, and molding machine 100D (described later), this molding unit 1C and molding machine 100C can reduce the number of compaction guide members and the number of sand box guide members, thereby further reducing manufacturing costs, including initial costs.

[0107] The sand box guide components 5, 5 and the compaction guide components 4, 4 may also be positioned opposite each other at the upper sand box 2 and lower sand box 3 at the second position 105, separated by a plane along the XZ plane. Figure 12 (c) is a partial sectional view of the modeling unit of the variant example. Figure 12 (c) is the edge of the modeling unit 1D of the variant example. Figure 7 A sectional view taken at the same position as line XII-XII, omitting some components. For example... Figure 12 As shown in (c), the molding unit 1D of molding machine 100D differs from the molding unit 1A of molding machine 100 in that the compaction guide members 4D, 4D and the sand box guide members 5D, 5D are not positioned opposite each other across the XZ plane relative to the upper sand box 2 at the second position 105, but are respectively positioned in a centrally symmetrical manner across the center of the upper sand box 2 on the YZ plane. Other structures are the same. The following description focuses on the differences, omitting repeated descriptions.

[0108] At position 2 105, the compaction guide members 4D, 4D and sand box guide members 5D, 5D of the molding unit 1D extend, for example, along the XY plane. The upper sand box connecting portions 11D, 11D are respectively connected to the two side walls of the upper sand box 2 extending along the XZ plane. The upper sand box connecting portions 11D, 11D are not positioned opposite each other across the XZ plane, but are centrally symmetrically positioned across the center of the upper sand box 2 on the YZ plane. The upper sand box connecting portion 11D is movably connected to the sand box guide member 5D. The upper sand box 2 is supported by the compaction guide members 4D, 4D, sand box guide members 5D, 5D, and upper sand box connecting portions 11D, 11D provided on the upper sand box 2. Although in Figure 12 (c) is not illustrated, but the lower sand box 3 is also supported by compaction guide members 4D, 4D, sand box guide members 5D, 5D respectively provided on the two side walls of the lower sand box 3, and the lower sand box connecting part. The lower sand box 3 is moved by the driving force of the lower sand box adjusting cylinders 14D, 14D.

[0109] Similar to the embodiments described above, the compaction cylinder 60 of the molding unit 1D is also configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes 2 and 3, thus allowing the molding unit 1D to perform compaction effectively using a single compaction cylinder. Compared to the molding units of conventional molding machines, this molding unit 1D and molding machine 100D can reduce the manufacturing cost of the mold, including initial costs. Furthermore, similar to the embodiments described above, the compaction guide member 4D in the molding unit 1D is configured to move inside the sand box guide member 5D, thus preventing interference between the compaction guide member 4D and the sand box guide member 5D. Compared to the case where the compaction guide member and the sand box guide member are configured independently, the molding unit 1D saves space, thus making it easier for operators to process each component of the molding unit 1D before and after molding, and improving operability. Furthermore, in the molding unit 1D at position 2 105, the compaction guide members 4D, 4D and the sand box guide members 5D, 5D are arranged in different positions in the Z direction. Therefore, the molding unit 1D or other components of the molding machine 100D can be arranged in different positions, increasing design freedom. In addition, the molding unit 1D is configured to have two compaction guide members 4D, 4D and two sand box guide members 5D, 5D, but it can also have three or more compaction guide members 4D and three or more sand box guide members 5D.

Claims

1. A design unit, wherein, This design unit features: sand loading box; The lower sand box can be connected to the upper sand box; A sand box guide member, wherein the upper sand box and the lower sand box are movably connected to the sand box guide member, and the sand box guide member guides the upper sand box and the lower sand box; The first compaction member and the second compaction member are arranged with the upper and lower sand boxes separated by the upper and lower sand boxes, respectively, and can enter the upper and lower sand boxes. The upper and lower sand boxes refer to the connected upper sand box and the lower sand box. A single compaction cylinder, configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes, having a piston rod and a cylinder body for extending and retracting the piston rod, the first compaction member being fixed to the end of the piston rod; and The compaction guide member can fix the relative position between the second compaction member and the cylinder body. The sand box guide component is a hollow rod component. The compaction guide member is a movable rod member disposed inside the sand box guide member.

2. The modeling unit according to claim 1, wherein, This design unit features: A pair of sandbox guide members, comprising the sandbox guide members; and A pair of compaction guide members, comprising the compaction guide members. The pair of sand box guide components are hollow rod components. The pair of compaction guide members are respectively rod members disposed inside the corresponding sand box guide members and capable of movement.

3. The modeling unit according to claim 2, wherein, The pair of sand box guide members are respectively positioned symmetrically across the center line passing through the center of the upper sand box and the lower sand box.

4. The modeling unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The compaction guide member has a top portion and an end portion, and the second compaction member is fixed to the top portion of the compaction guide member. The shaping unit also includes a fixing component, namely a wedge, which fixes the end of the compaction guide component to the cylinder body.

5. A molding machine, wherein, This molding machine has the following features: The modeling unit as described in any one of claims 1 to 4; A sand box moving part that moves the upper sand box and the lower sand box relative to each other along the sand box guide member, so as to clamp the template member or release the clamping by means of the upper sand box and the lower sand box; The conveying unit moves the template component between the upper sand box and the lower sand box and moves the template component out. and A conveying conversion unit that causes the conveying unit to rotate.

6. The molding machine according to claim 5, wherein, The molding machine also has a sliding part that allows the lower sand box to slide when the upper sand box and the lower sand box are separated.

7. A modeling method that uses modeling units, wherein The styling unit includes: sand loading box; The lower sand box can be connected to the upper sand box; A sand box guide member, wherein the upper sand box and the lower sand box are movably connected to the sand box guide member, and the sand box guide member guides the upper sand box and the lower sand box; The first compaction member and the second compaction member are arranged with the upper and lower sand boxes separated by the upper and lower sand boxes, respectively, and can enter the upper and lower sand boxes. The upper and lower sand boxes refer to the connected upper sand box and the lower sand box. A single compaction cylinder, configured to move relative to the upper and lower sand boxes, has a piston rod and a cylinder body for extending and retracting the piston rod, the first compaction member being fixed to the end of the piston rod; and The compaction guide member can fix the relative position between the second compaction member and the cylinder body. The sand box guide component is a hollow rod component. The compaction guide member is a movable rod member disposed inside the sand box guide member. The styling methods include: The steps of fixing the compaction guide member to the cylinder body, and The compaction step, performed by the first compaction member and the second compaction member, is carried out by extending the piston rod.

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