Control device for an injection molding machine and injection molding machine

Abstract

The present invention provides a technology capable of easily determining a sequence of actions of an injection molding machine when the injection molding machine is abnormal by a user of the injection molding machine. A control device of the injection molding machine of the present invention controls actions of the injection molding machine, and has a display control section that displays a display screen in which a plurality of setting fields capable of replacing input of a module of actions of the injection molding machine to be sequentially performed when the injection molding machine is abnormal are arranged, and an action sequence creation section that creates a sequence of actions of the injection molding machine to be performed when the injection molding machine is abnormal in accordance with data input to the plurality of setting fields.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on March 26, 2019, with application number 201910230819.X and invention title "Control Device and Injection Molding Machine for Injection Molding Machine". Technical Field

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-065703, filed on March 29, 2018. The entire contents of that Japanese application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This invention relates to a control device for an injection molding machine and an injection molding machine. Background Technology

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for setting actions in the mold opening or mold closing process of an injection molding machine. This method involves, for example, preparing multiple display graphics that represent the actions to be performed in the mold opening process, and arranging these multiple display graphics to set the sequence of the multiple actions performed in the mold opening process.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-98810

[0006] Previously, the sequence of actions (the content and order of actions) of an injection molding machine in the event of an malfunction was defined by a program created by the injection molding machine manufacturer. Changes to the program required interpretation, which was therefore difficult for injection molding machine users. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One implementation provides a technique that allows the user of the injection molding machine to easily determine the sequence of actions of the injection molding machine when an malfunction occurs.

[0008] One embodiment is a control device for an injection molding machine that controls the operation of the injection molding machine, comprising:

[0009] The display control unit displays a screen on the display device. This screen contains multiple setting bars that can be used to sequentially replace the action modules of the injection molding machine when an malfunction occurs.

[0010] The action sequence creation unit creates an action sequence for the injection molding machine to be performed when an malfunction occurs, based on the data input into the multiple setting fields.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to one embodiment, the user of the injection molding machine can easily determine the sequence of actions of the injection molding machine when an malfunction occurs. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state of an injection molding machine at the end of mold opening according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the state of the injection molding machine during mold closing according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the components of a control device for an injection molding machine according to one embodiment, using function blocks.

[0016] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates a first display screen displayed by a first display control unit according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a display screen indicating the setting of an action sequence when a measurement time abnormality occurs, according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a display screen illustrating the setting of an action sequence for an injection motor in the event of a load abnormality, according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 The figure shows a display screen for setting the action sequence when a mold protection abnormality occurs, according to one embodiment.

[0020] In the diagram: 10 Injection molding machine, 600-First display screen, 610-Setting bar, 620-Time axis, 631-648-Icons, 700-Control device, 711-First display control unit, 712-First action sequence production unit, 713-Abnormal judgment unit, 714-First action sequence execution unit, 750-Operating device, 760-Display device. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Hereinafter, the embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical or corresponding structures in the drawings are labeled with the same or corresponding symbols, thus omitting explanations.

[0022] (Injection molding machine)

[0023] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state of an injection molding machine at the end of mold opening according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the state of an injection molding machine during mold closing according to one embodiment. Figures 1-2In this context, the X, Y, and Z directions are mutually perpendicular. The X and Y directions represent the horizontal direction, and the Z direction represents the vertical direction. When the mold clamping device 100 is horizontal, the X direction is the mold opening and closing direction, and the Y direction is the width direction of the injection molding machine 10. For example... Figures 1-2 As shown, the injection molding machine 10 includes a mold clamping device 100, an ejection device 200, an injection device 300, a moving device 400, a control device 700, and a frame 900. The components of the injection molding machine 10 will be described below.

[0024] (Mold closing device)

[0025] In the description of the mold closing device 100, the direction of movement of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is closed (e.g., the positive X direction) is taken as the front, and the direction of movement of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is opened (e.g., the negative X direction) is taken as the rear.

[0026] The mold closing device 100 performs mold closing, mold clamping, and mold opening of the mold device 800. The mold closing device 100 is, for example, horizontal, and the mold opening and closing direction is horizontal. The mold closing device 100 includes a fixed pressure plate 110, a movable pressure plate 120, a toggle seat 130, a connecting rod 140, a toggle mechanism 150, a mold closing motor 160, a motion conversion mechanism 170, and a mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180.

[0027] The fixed pressure plate 110 is fixed to the frame 900. A fixed mold 810 is installed on the surface of the fixed pressure plate 110 opposite to the movable pressure plate 120.

[0028] The movable pressure plate 120 can move freely relative to the frame 900 in the mold opening and closing direction. A guide 101 is provided on the frame 900 to guide the movable pressure plate 120. A moving mold 820 is installed on the surface of the movable pressure plate 120 opposite to the fixed pressure plate 110.

[0029] The movable pressure plate 120 moves forward and backward relative to the fixed pressure plate 110, thereby performing mold closing, mold assembly, and mold opening. The mold device 800 is composed of the fixed mold 810 and the movable mold 820.

[0030] The toggle seat 130 is connected to the fixed pressure plate 110 with a gap and is freely movable on the frame 900 in the mold opening and closing direction. In addition, the toggle seat 130 can also move freely along the guide laid on the frame 900. The guide of the toggle seat 130 can be interchanged with the guide 101 of the movable pressure plate 120.

[0031] In addition, in this embodiment, the fixed pressure plate 110 is fixed to the frame 900, and the toggle seat 130 can move freely relative to the frame 900 in the mold opening and closing direction. However, it is also possible that the toggle seat 130 is fixed to the frame 900, and the fixed pressure plate 110 can move freely relative to the frame 900 in the mold opening and closing direction.

[0032] Connecting rods 140 connect the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130 at a distance L in the mold opening and closing direction. Multiple connecting rods 140 can be used (e.g., four). Each connecting rod 140 is parallel to the mold opening and closing direction and extends according to the clamping force. A connecting rod strain detector 141 can be installed on at least one connecting rod 140 to detect the strain of the connecting rod 140. The connecting rod strain detector 141 sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. The detection result of the connecting rod strain detector 141 is used in the detection of clamping force, etc.

[0033] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a connecting rod strain gauge 141 is used as the mold clamping force detector for detecting the mold clamping force, but the present invention is not limited to this. The mold clamping force detector is not limited to a strain gauge, and may also be piezoelectric, capacitive, hydraulic, electromagnetic, etc., and its installation position is not limited to the connecting rod 140.

[0034] The toggle mechanism 150 is disposed between the movable pressure plate 120 and the toggle seat 130, and allows the movable pressure plate 120 to move relative to the toggle seat 130 in the mold opening and closing direction. The toggle mechanism 150 consists of a crosshead 151, a pair of connecting assemblies, etc. The pair of connecting rods respectively have a first connecting rod 152 and a second connecting rod 153 that are connected by pins to form a flexible telescopic linkage.

[0035] The first link 152 is mounted via pins, allowing it to swing freely relative to the movable pressure plate 120. The second link 153 is mounted via pins, allowing it to swing freely relative to the toggle seat 130. The second link 153 is mounted to the crosshead 151 via the third link 154. When the crosshead 151 moves forward or backward relative to the toggle seat 130, the first link 152 and the second link 153 extend and retract, and the movable pressure plate 120 moves forward or backward relative to the toggle seat 130.

[0036] Furthermore, the structure of the toggle mechanism 150 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure shown. For example. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this configuration, each link group has 5 nodes, but it can also have 4 nodes, and it can be the node where one end of the third link 154 is connected to the first link 152 and the second link 153.

[0037] A clamping motor 160 is mounted on a toggle seat 130 to operate the toggle mechanism 150. The clamping motor 160 causes the crosshead 151 to move forward and backward relative to the toggle seat 130, thereby extending and retracting the first connecting rod 152 and the second connecting rod 153, and causing the movable pressure plate 120 to move forward and backward relative to the toggle seat 130. The clamping motor 160 is directly connected to the motion conversion mechanism 170, but it can also be connected to the motion conversion mechanism 170 via a belt and pulleys.

[0038] The motion conversion mechanism 170 converts the rotary motion of the mold clamping motor 160 into the linear motion of the crosshead 151. The motion conversion mechanism 170 includes a lead screw shaft 171 and a lead screw nut 172 screwed to the lead screw shaft 171. Ball bearings or rollers may be clamped between the lead screw shaft 171 and the lead screw nut 172.

[0039] The mold closing device 100 performs the mold closing process, pressure raising process, pressure release process and mold opening process under the control of the control device 700.

[0040] During the mold closing process, the mold closing motor 160 is driven to advance the crosshead 151 at a set speed to the mold closing end position, thereby advancing the movable pressure plate 120 so that the moving mold 820 contacts the fixed mold 810. The position and speed of the crosshead 151 are detected, for example, using a mold closing motor encoder 161. The mold closing motor encoder 161 detects the rotation of the mold closing motor 160 and sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. Furthermore, the crosshead position detector for detecting the position of the crosshead 151 and the crosshead movement speed detector for detecting the movement speed of the crosshead 151 are not limited to the mold closing motor encoder 161; general detectors can be used. Similarly, the movable pressure plate position detector for detecting the position of the movable pressure plate 120 and the movable pressure plate movement speed detector for detecting the movement speed of the movable pressure plate 120 are not limited to the mold closing motor encoder 161; general detectors can be used. The crosshead 151 can be temporarily stopped midway through the mold closing process, thereby temporarily stopping the movable pressure plate 120. When the moving mold 820 is temporarily stopped, the insert can be placed in the moving mold 820 or the fixed mold 810.

[0041] During the pressurization process, the mold clamping motor 160 is further driven to advance the crosshead 151 from the mold closing end position to the mold closing position, thereby generating a mold closing force. During mold closing, a cavity space 801 is formed between the moving mold 820 and the fixed mold 810 (see reference). Figure 2 The injection unit 300 fills the cavity space 801 with liquid molding material. A molded article is obtained by the solidification of the filled molding material. The number of cavity spaces 801 can be one, or... Figure 2 Multiple are shown. In the latter case, multiple molded articles can be obtained simultaneously. Alternatively, an insert can be configured in a portion of the cavity space 801, while the other portion of the cavity space 801 is filled with molding material. This results in a molded article where the insert and molding material are integrated.

[0042] During the depressurization process, the drive mold clamping motor 160 causes the crosshead 151 to retract from the mold clamping position to the mold opening start position, thereby causing the movable pressure plate 120 to retract and reduce the mold clamping force. The mold opening start position and the mold closing end position can be the same.

[0043] During the mold opening process, the drive mold closing motor 160 causes the crosshead 151 to retract from the mold opening start position to the mold opening end position at a set moving speed, thereby causing the movable pressure plate 120 to retract and the moving mold 820 to separate from the fixed mold 810. Afterwards, the ejection device 200 ejects the molded product from the moving mold 820.

[0044] The settings for the mold closing and pressing processes are set as a series of conditions. For example, the moving speed and position (including the mold closing start position, moving speed switching position, mold closing end position, and mold closing position) and mold closing force of the crosshead 151 in the mold closing and pressing processes are set as a series of conditions. The mold closing start position, moving speed switching position, mold closing end position, and mold closing position are arranged sequentially from rear to front, indicating the start and end points of the intervals where moving speeds are set. A moving speed is set for each interval. The moving speed switching position can be one or multiple locations. Alternatively, no moving speed switching position can be set. Only either the mold closing position or the mold closing force can be set.

[0045] The settings for the depressurization and mold opening processes are also set in the same way. For example, the moving speed and position (mold opening start position, moving speed switching position, and mold opening end position) of the crosshead 151 in the depressurization and mold opening processes are set as a series of settings. The mold opening start position, moving speed switching position, and mold opening end position are arranged sequentially from front to back and represent the start and end points of the intervals where the moving speed is set. A moving speed is set for each interval. The moving speed switching position can be one place or multiple places. Alternatively, no moving speed switching position can be set. The mold opening start position and the mold closing end position can be the same. Furthermore, the mold opening end position and the mold closing start position can be the same position.

[0046] Alternatively, the moving speed and position of the movable pressure plate 120 can be set instead of the moving speed and position of the crosshead 151. Furthermore, the clamping force can be set instead of the position of the crosshead (e.g., the mold closing position) and the position of the movable pressure plate.

[0047] The toggle mechanism 150 amplifies the driving force of the clamping motor 160 and transmits it to the movable pressure plate 120. Its amplification ratio is also called the toggle ratio. The toggle ratio varies according to the angle θ (hereinafter also referred to as "link angle θ") formed by the first link 152 and the second link 153. The link angle θ is determined based on the position of the crosshead 151. The toggle ratio is at its maximum when the link angle θ is 180°.

[0048] When the thickness of the mold assembly 800 changes due to replacement of the mold assembly 800 or temperature changes, mold thickness adjustment is performed to obtain the specified mold closing force during mold closing. For example, the gap L between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130 is adjusted so that the linkage angle θ of the toggle mechanism 150 becomes a specified angle at the mold contact point when the moving mold 820 contacts the fixed mold 810.

[0049] The mold clamping device 100 has a mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 for adjusting the mold thickness by adjusting the gap L between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130. The mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 includes: a lead screw shaft 181 formed at the rear end of the connecting rod 140; a lead screw nut 182 that is rotatably held in the toggle seat 130 and cannot be moved forward or backward; and a mold thickness adjustment motor 183 that rotates the lead screw nut 182 screwed to the lead screw shaft 181.

[0050] A lead screw shaft 181 and a lead screw nut 182 are provided on each connecting rod 140. The rotational driving force of the die thickness adjustment motor 183 can be transmitted to multiple lead screw nuts 182 via the rotational driving force transmission unit 185. This enables the multiple lead screw nuts 182 to rotate synchronously. Alternatively, the multiple lead screw nuts 182 can be rotated individually by changing the transmission path of the rotational driving force transmission unit 185.

[0051] The rotary drive force transmission unit 185 is, for example, composed of gears. In this case, driven gears are formed on the outer periphery of each lead screw nut 182, drive gears are mounted on the output shaft of the die thickness adjustment motor 183, and intermediate gears that mesh with multiple driven gears and drive gears are rotatably held at the center of the toggle seat 130. Alternatively, the rotary drive force transmission unit 185 may be composed of belts and pulleys instead of gears.

[0052] The operation of the die thickness adjustment mechanism 180 is controlled by the control device 700. The control device 700 drives the die thickness adjustment motor 183 to rotate the lead screw nut 182, thereby adjusting the position of the toggle seat 130, which holds the lead screw nut 182 in a rotatable position, relative to the connecting rod 140, and thus adjusting the gap L between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130. Alternatively, multiple die thickness adjustment mechanisms can be used in combination.

[0053] The interval L is detected using a die thickness adjustment motor encoder 184. The die thickness adjustment motor encoder 184 detects the amount and direction of rotation of the die thickness adjustment motor 183 and sends a signal indicating the detection result to the control device 700. The detection result of the die thickness adjustment motor encoder 184 is used to monitor and control the position of the toggle seat 130 and the interval L. However, the toggle seat position detector for detecting the position of the toggle seat 130 and the interval detector for detecting the interval L are not limited to the die thickness adjustment motor encoder 184; general detectors can be used.

[0054] In addition, the mold closing device 100 in this embodiment is a horizontal type with the mold opening and closing direction in the horizontal direction, but it can also be a vertical type with the mold opening and closing direction in the vertical direction.

[0055] Furthermore, the mold clamping device 100 of this embodiment has a mold clamping motor 160 as a drive source, but a hydraulic cylinder may be used instead of the mold clamping motor 160. Also, the mold clamping device 100 may have a linear motor for opening and closing the mold, and an electromagnet for mold clamping.

[0056] (Ejection device)

[0057] In the description of the ejector device 200, similar to the description of the mold closing device 100, the direction of movement of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is closed (e.g., the positive X direction) is taken as the front, and the direction of movement of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is opened (e.g., the negative X direction) is taken as the rear.

[0058] Ejection device 200 ejects the molded article from mold device 800. Ejection device 200 includes ejection motor 210, motion conversion mechanism 220 and ejection rod 230, etc.

[0059] The ejector motor 210 is mounted on the movable pressure plate 120. The ejector motor 210 is directly connected to the motion conversion mechanism 220, but it can also be connected to the motion conversion mechanism 220 via a belt and pulleys.

[0060] The motion conversion mechanism 220 converts the rotary motion of the ejector motor 210 into the linear motion of the ejector rod 230. The motion conversion mechanism 220 includes a lead screw shaft and a lead screw nut screwed to the lead screw shaft. Ball bearings or rollers may be clamped between the lead screw shaft and the lead screw nut.

[0061] The ejector rod 230 moves freely in and out of the through hole in the movable pressure plate 120. The front end of the ejector rod 230 contacts the movable component 830, which is freely disposed inside the moving mold 820. The front end of the ejector rod 230 may or may not be connected to the movable component 830.

[0062] The ejection device 200 performs the ejection process under the control of the control device 700.

[0063] In the ejection process, the ejector motor 210 is driven to move the ejector rod 230 from the standby position to the ejection position at a set speed, thereby advancing the movable part 830 to eject the molded part. Afterwards, the ejector motor 210 is driven to move the ejector rod 230 backward at the set speed, and the movable part 830 is moved back to its original standby position. The position and speed of the ejector rod 230 are detected, for example, using an ejector motor encoder 211. The ejector motor encoder 211 detects the rotation of the ejector motor 210 and sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. However, the ejector rod position detector for detecting the position of the ejector rod 230 and the ejector rod speed detector for detecting the speed of the ejector rod 230 are not limited to the ejector motor encoder 211; general detectors can be used.

[0064] (Injection device)

[0065] In the description of the injection device 300, unlike the description of the mold clamping device 100 and the ejection device 200, the direction of movement of the screw 330 during filling (e.g., the negative X direction) is taken as the front, and the direction of movement of the screw 330 during metering (e.g., the positive X direction) is taken as the rear.

[0066] The injection unit 300 is mounted on a sliding base 301 that moves freely forward and backward relative to the frame 900 and to the mold assembly 800. The injection unit 300 contacts the mold assembly 800 and fills the cavity space 801 within the mold assembly 800 with molding material. The injection unit 300 includes, for example, a cylinder 310, a nozzle 320, a screw 330, a metering motor 340, an injection motor 350, and a pressure detector 360.

[0067] The cylinder body 310 heats the molding material supplied to its interior through the supply port 311. The molding material includes, for example, resin. The molding material is formed in granular form and supplied to the supply port 311 in a solid state. The supply port 311 is formed at the rear of the cylinder body 310. A cooler 312, such as a water-cooled cylinder, is provided on the outer periphery of the rear of the cylinder body 310. Further forward than the cooler 312, a heater 313, such as a belt heater, and a temperature detector 314 are provided on the outer periphery of the cylinder body 310.

[0068] The cylinder block 310 is divided into multiple regions along its axial direction (e.g., the X direction). A heater 313 and a temperature detector 314 are respectively provided in each of the multiple regions. A set temperature is set in each of the multiple regions, and the heater 313 is controlled by the control device 700 to ensure that the temperature detected by the temperature detector 314 reaches the set temperature.

[0069] The nozzle 320 is located at the front end of the cylinder 310 and is pushed toward the mold assembly 800. A heater 313 and a temperature detector 314 are provided on the outer periphery of the nozzle 320. The control device 700 controls the heater 313 to make the detected temperature of the nozzle 320 a set temperature.

[0070] The screw 330 is arranged within the cylinder 310 to rotate and retract freely. When the screw 330 is rotated, the molding material is fed forward along the spiral grooves of the screw 330. As the molding material is fed forward, it gradually melts due to heat from the cylinder 310. As the liquid molding material is fed forward to the front of the screw 330 and accumulates at the front of the cylinder 310, the screw 330 retracts. Then, when the screw 330 is moved forward, the liquid molding material accumulated at the front of the screw 330 is ejected from the nozzle 320 and fills the mold assembly 800.

[0071] The check ring 331 is retractably mounted on the front of the screw 330 as a check valve, which prevents the molding material from flowing backward from the front of the screw 330 when the screw 330 is pushed forward.

[0072] As the screw 330 advances, the check ring 331 is pushed backward by the pressure of the molding material in front of the screw 330, retracting relative to the screw 330 to a closed position that blocks the flow path of the molding material (see reference). Figure 2 This prevents the molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 from flowing backward.

[0073] On the other hand, when the screw 330 is rotated, the check ring 331 is pushed forward by the pressure of the molding material being fed forward along the spiral groove of the screw 330, and advances relative to the screw 330 to the open position of the open flow path of the molding material. Figure 1 (See reference). Thus, the molding material is fed forward to the screw 330.

[0074] The check ring 331 can be either a co-rotation type that rotates with the screw 330 or a non-co-rotation type that does not rotate with the screw 330.

[0075] Additionally, the injection device 300 may have a drive source that moves the check ring 331 back and forth relative to the screw 330 between an open position and a closed position.

[0076] The metering motor 340 rotates the screw 330. The drive source for rotating the screw 330 is not limited to the metering motor 340; for example, it could be a hydraulic pump.

[0077] The injection motor 350 moves the screw 330 forward and backward. A motion conversion mechanism is provided between the injection motor 350 and the screw 330 to convert the rotational motion of the injection motor 350 into the linear motion of the screw 330. This motion conversion mechanism may include, for example, a lead screw shaft and a lead screw nut screwed to the lead screw shaft. Ball bearings or rollers may be provided between the lead screw shaft and the lead screw nut. The drive source for moving the screw 330 forward and backward is not limited to the injection motor 350; for example, it may be a hydraulic cylinder.

[0078] Pressure detector 360 detects the force transmitted between injection motor 350 and screw 330. The detected force is converted into pressure by control device 700. Pressure detector 360 is located in the force transmission path between injection motor 350 and screw 330, and detects the force acting on pressure detector 360.

[0079] The pressure detector 360 sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. The detection result of the pressure detector 360 is used to control and monitor the pressure on the screw 330 from the molding material, the back pressure on the screw 330, and the pressure exerted by the screw 330 on the molding material.

[0080] The injection device 300 performs metering, filling, and pressure holding processes under the control of the control device 700.

[0081] In the metering process, the metering motor 340 drives the screw 330 to rotate at a set speed, feeding the molding material forward along the spiral grooves of the screw 330. The molding material gradually melts. As the molten molding material is fed forward to the screw 330 and accumulates at the front of the cylinder 310, the screw 330 retracts. The rotational speed of the screw 330 is detected, for example, using a metering motor encoder 341. The metering motor encoder 341 detects the rotation of the metering motor 340 and sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. Alternatively, the screw speed detector for detecting the rotational speed of the screw 330 is not limited to the metering motor encoder 341; a general detector can be used.

[0082] In the metering process, to limit the rapid retraction of the screw 330, a predetermined back pressure can be applied to the screw 330 by driving the injection motor 350. The back pressure on the screw 330 is detected, for example, using a pressure detector 360. The pressure detector 360 sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. If the screw 330 retracts to the metering end position and a predetermined amount of molding material accumulates in front of the screw 330, the metering process ends.

[0083] The position and rotational speed of the screw 330 in the metering process are set as a series of preset conditions. For example, the metering start position, rotational speed switching position, and metering end position are set. These positions are arranged sequentially from front to back and represent the start and end points of the intervals with preset rotational speeds. A speed is set for each interval. The rotational speed switching position can be one location or multiple locations. Alternatively, no rotational speed switching position may be set. Furthermore, a back pressure is set for each interval.

[0084] In the filling process, the injection motor 350 is driven to advance the screw 330 at a set speed, filling the cavity space 801 within the mold assembly 800 with the liquid molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330. The position and speed of the screw 330 are detected, for example, using an injection motor encoder 351. The injection motor encoder 351 detects the rotation of the injection motor 350 and sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. If the screw 330 reaches the set position, a switch is made from the filling process to the holding pressure process (so-called V / P switching). The position where V / P switching occurs is also called the V / P switching position. The set speed of the screw 330 can be changed according to the position and time of the screw 330.

[0085] The position and speed of the screw 330 during the filling process are set as a series of preset conditions. For example, the filling start position, the speed switching position, and the V / P switching position are set. These positions are arranged sequentially from rear to front and represent the start and end points of the intervals with set speeds. A speed is set for each interval. The speed switching position can be one location or multiple locations. Alternatively, no speed switching position may be set.

[0086] An upper limit value for the pressure of the screw 330 is set in each range of the screw 330's travel speed. The pressure of the screw 330 is detected by a pressure detector 360. When the detected value of the pressure detector 360 is below the set pressure, the screw 330 advances at the set travel speed. On the other hand, when the detected value of the pressure detector 360 exceeds the set pressure, in order to protect the mold, the screw 330 advances at a slower travel speed than the set travel speed, so that the detected value of the pressure detector 360 falls below the set pressure.

[0087] Alternatively, during the filling process, after the screw 330 reaches the V / P switching position, it can be temporarily stopped at the V / P switching position before the V / P switching is performed. Or, instead of stopping the screw 330, it can be moved forward or backward at a slight speed just before the V / P switching is about to occur. Furthermore, the screw position detector for detecting the position of the screw 330 and the screw speed detector for detecting the movement speed of the screw 330 are not limited to the injection motor encoder 351; general detectors can also be used.

[0088] During the holding pressure process, the injection motor 350 pushes the screw 330 forward, maintaining the pressure of the molding material at the front end of the screw 330 (hereinafter also referred to as "holding pressure") at a set pressure, pushing the molding material remaining in the cylinder 310 towards the mold assembly 800. This replenishes any insufficient molding material caused by cooling shrinkage within the mold assembly 800. The holding pressure is detected, for example, using a pressure detector 360. The pressure detector 360 sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. The set value of the holding pressure can be changed according to the time elapsed since the start of the holding pressure process. Multiple holding pressures and holding times for the holding pressure can be set separately during the holding pressure process, or they can be set together as a series of setting conditions.

[0089] During the holding pressure process, the molding material in the cavity space 801 within the mold assembly 800 gradually cools. At the end of the holding pressure process, the inlet of the cavity space 801 is blocked by the solidified molding material. This state is called gate sealing, which prevents the molding material from flowing back from the cavity space 801. After the holding pressure process, the cooling process begins. During the cooling process, the molding material within the cavity space 801 solidifies. To shorten the molding cycle time, a metering process can be performed during the cooling process.

[0090] Furthermore, the injection device 300 in this embodiment is a coaxial reciprocating screw type, but it can also be a pre-plasticizing type, etc. In a pre-plasticizing type injection device, the molten molding material in the plasticizing cylinder is supplied to the injection cylinder, and the molding material is injected from the injection cylinder into the mold device. The screw is rotatably or rotatably and retractably disposed in the plasticizing cylinder, and the plunger is retractably disposed in the injection cylinder.

[0091] Furthermore, the injection device 300 in this embodiment is a horizontal type with the cylinder 310's axis in the horizontal direction, but it can also be a vertical type with the cylinder 310's axis in the vertical direction. The mold clamping device combined with the vertical injection device 300 can be either vertical or horizontal. Similarly, the mold clamping device combined with the horizontal injection device 300 can be either horizontal or vertical.

[0092] (Mobile device)

[0093] In the description of the moving device 400, similar to the description of the injection device 300, the direction of movement of the screw 330 during filling (e.g., the negative X direction) is taken as the front, and the direction of movement of the screw 330 during metering (e.g., the positive X direction) is taken as the rear.

[0094] The moving device 400 moves the injection device 300 forward and backward relative to the mold device 800. Furthermore, the moving device 400 pushes the nozzle 320 towards the mold device 800, generating nozzle contact pressure. The moving device 400 includes a hydraulic pump 410, a motor 420 as a drive source, and a hydraulic cylinder 430 as a hydraulic actuator, etc.

[0095] The hydraulic pump 410 has a first port 411 and a second port 412. The hydraulic pump 410 is a bidirectional rotating pump, generating hydraulic pressure by switching the rotation direction of the motor 420, drawing in working fluid (e.g., oil) from either the first port 411 or the second port 412 and discharging it from the other port. Alternatively, the hydraulic pump 410 can also draw working fluid from an oil tank and discharge working fluid from either the first port 411 or the second port 412.

[0096] Motor 420 operates hydraulic pump 410. Motor 420 drives hydraulic pump 410 with a rotational direction and torque corresponding to the control signal from control device 700. Motor 420 can be an electric motor or an electric servo motor.

[0097] The hydraulic cylinder 430 has a cylinder body 431, a piston 432, and a piston rod 433. The cylinder body 431 is fixed to the injection device 300. The piston 432 divides the interior of the cylinder body 431 into a front chamber 435, which is a first chamber, and a rear chamber 436, which is a second chamber. The piston rod 433 is fixed to a fixed pressure plate 110.

[0098] The front chamber 435 of the hydraulic cylinder 430 is connected to the first port 411 of the hydraulic pump 410 via a first flow path 401. Working fluid discharged from the first port 411 is supplied to the front chamber 435 via the first flow path 401, thereby propelling the injection device 300 forward. As the injection device 300 advances, the nozzle 320 is pushed towards the fixed mold 810. The front chamber 435 functions as a pressure chamber that generates the nozzle contact pressure of the nozzle 320 by the pressure of the working fluid supplied from the hydraulic pump 410.

[0099] On the other hand, the rear chamber 436 of the hydraulic cylinder 430 is connected to the second port 412 of the hydraulic pump 410 via the second flow path 402. The working fluid discharged from the second port 412 is supplied to the rear chamber 436 of the hydraulic cylinder 430 via the second flow path 402, thereby pushing the injection device 300 backward. As the injection device 300 retracts, the nozzle 320 separates from the fixed mold 810.

[0100] In addition, the moving device 400 in this embodiment includes a hydraulic cylinder 430, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, an electric motor and a motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the electric motor into the linear motion of the injection device 300 may be used instead of the hydraulic cylinder 430.

[0101] (Control device)

[0102] The control device 700 is, for example, composed of a computer, such as Figures 1-2 The device shown includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 701, a storage medium 702 such as a memory, an input interface 703, and an output interface 704. The control device 700 causes the CPU 701 to execute a program stored in the storage medium 702, thereby performing various controls. Furthermore, the control device 700 receives signals from external sources through the input interface 703 and sends signals to external sources through the output interface 704.

[0103] The control device 700 repeatedly performs metering, mold closing, pressurizing, filling, holding, cooling, depressurizing, mold opening, and ejection processes to repeatedly manufacture molded products. The series of actions used to obtain the molded product, such as the actions from the start of the metering process to the start of the next metering process, is also called "feeding" or "molding cycle." Furthermore, the time required for one feeding cycle is also called "molding cycle time" or "cycle time."

[0104] A single molding cycle may consist of, for example, the following steps in sequence: metering, mold closing, pressurizing, filling, holding pressure, cooling, depressurizing, mold opening, and ejection. This sequence refers to the order in which each step begins. The filling, holding pressure, and cooling steps occur between the start of the pressurizing step and the end of the depressurizing step. The depressurizing step ends at the same time as the mold opening step begins.

[0105] Furthermore, to shorten the molding cycle time, multiple processes can be performed simultaneously. For example, the metering process can be performed during the cooling process of the previous molding cycle, or it can be performed between the start of the pressurization process and the end of the depressurization process. In this case, the mold closing process can be performed at the initial stage of the molding cycle. Furthermore, the filling process can begin during the mold closing process. And the ejection process can begin during the mold opening process. When an on / off valve is provided for the flow path of the nozzle 320, the mold opening process can begin during the metering process. This is because even if the mold opening process begins during the metering process, as long as the on / off valve closes the flow path of the nozzle 320, the molding material will not leak from the nozzle 320.

[0106] Furthermore, a single molding cycle can include processes other than metering, mold closing, pressurizing, filling, holding, cooling, depressurizing, mold opening, and ejection. For example, a pre-metering suction process can be performed after the holding process and before the metering process begins, causing the screw 330 to retract to a pre-set metering start position. This reduces the pressure of the molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 before the metering process begins, thus preventing the screw 330 from retracting rapidly at the start of the metering process.

[0107] The control device 700 is connected to the operating device 750 and the display device 760. The operating device 750 accepts user input operations and outputs signals corresponding to the input operations to the control device 700. Under the control of the control device 700, the display device 760 displays a screen corresponding to the input operations of the operating device 750.

[0108] The display screen is used for settings such as those of the injection molding machine 10. Multiple display screens are provided, and they can be switched or overlaid. The user operates the operation device 750 while looking at the display screen on the display device 760 to set the injection molding machine 10 (including inputting setting values).

[0109] The operating device 750 and the display device 760 can be integrated, for example, by a touch panel. Furthermore, while the operating device 750 and the display device 760 are integrated in this embodiment, they can also be installed independently. Additionally, multiple operating devices 750 can be provided.

[0110] (Action sequence during anomalies)

[0111] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the components of a control device for an injection molding machine according to one embodiment, using function blocks. Figure 3 The functional blocks shown in the diagram are conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. All or part of each functional block can be distributed and integrated in any functional or physical manner. All or any part of the processing functions performed within each functional block are implemented through a program executed by the CPU or can be implemented as hardware based on wiring logic.

[0112] like Figure 3 As shown, the control device 700 has a function to display the first display screen 600 (reference). Figure 4 The first display control unit 711 of the display device 760 displays a plurality of setting columns 610 that can replace the operation modules of the injection molding machine 10 that are sequentially executed when an input malfunction occurs (see reference). Figure 4 The action module of injection molding machine 10 refers to the unit of action function of injection molding machine 10. Multiple action modules are combined to form an action sequence. The combination and order of multiple action modules are arbitrary and determined by the user of injection molding machine 10.

[0113] Figure 4This diagram illustrates a first display screen displayed by a first display control unit according to one embodiment. The first display screen 600 includes, for example: a plurality of setting bars 610; a timeline 620 that determines the order in which action modules input into the setting bars 610 are executed; and icons 631 to 648 that graphically represent the action modules input into the setting bars 610 outside the setting bars 610.

[0114] The first display screen 600 is displayed on the display device 760. While looking at the first display screen 600 displayed on the display device 760, the user of the injection molding machine 10 operates the operation device 750 to input the action module of the injection molding machine 10 into the setting bar 610.

[0115] Multiple setting columns 610 are arranged in a column parallel to the time axis 620 (e.g., horizontally). Their arrangement order indicates the order in which the input action modules are executed. The order of action modules input into the setting columns 610 is determined according to the time axis 620.

[0116] A first setting bar group 611 is formed by multiple setting bars 610 arranged in a direction parallel to the time axis 620. An action sequence is formed by multiple action modules input to the multiple setting bars 610 that constitute a first setting bar group 611.

[0117] Multiple first setting groups 611 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the time axis 620 (e.g., vertically). Multiple first setting groups 611 can be used to set multiple action sequences, thereby enabling the simultaneous execution of multiple action sequences.

[0118] When multiple first setting column groups 611 are used to implement multiple action sequences simultaneously, multiple action modules arranged in a column along a direction perpendicular to the time axis 620 (e.g., vertical) begin execution simultaneously.

[0119] A second setting group 612 is formed by multiple setting bars 610 arranged perpendicular to the time axis 620. Multiple action modules input into a second setting group 612 begin execution simultaneously. Multiple second setting groups 612 are arranged in a direction parallel to the time axis 620 (e.g., horizontally). Their arrangement order indicates the order in which the input action modules are executed.

[0120] The action module of the second setting column group 612 (e.g., the second second setting column group 612 from the left) that is later in time input to timeline 620 will be executed after all the action modules of the second setting column group 612 (e.g., the first second setting column group 612 from the left) that is earlier in time input to timeline 620 have finished.

[0121] In this embodiment, multiple setting columns 610 are arranged horizontally and vertically in a matrix configuration. However, when multiple action sequences are not implemented simultaneously, i.e., when only one action sequence is implemented, multiple setting columns can be arranged in a single column parallel to the time axis 620 (e.g., horizontally). Multiple action modules constituting an action sequence are input into a first setting column group 611.

[0122] However, multiple action modules constituting an action sequence can be input into multiple first setting groups 611. For example, the actions of the mold clamping device 100, the ejection device 200, and the injection device 300 can be input into different first setting groups 611. By associating the first setting groups 611 with the main body of the action (i.e., the device), the settings of the action sequence can be easily identified when viewing the first display screen 600. Multiple action modules constituting an action sequence are effective when implemented by multiple devices.

[0123] Additionally, timeline 620 is... Figure 4 The setting bar can extend horizontally, but it can also extend vertically. In either case, a first setting bar group 611 is formed by multiple setting bars 610 arranged in a column parallel to the time axis 620. And a second setting bar group 612 is formed by multiple setting bars 610 arranged in a column perpendicular to the time axis 620.

[0124] While the text representing the action modules of the injection molding machine 10 is input in a replaceable form in the setting field 610, this embodiment uses icons 631-648, which graphically represent the action modules of the injection molding machine 10, to be input in a replaceable form. By using graphics instead of text, users can intuitively associate the content of the action modules. Icons 631-648 can be icons that graphically represent specific action modules when an abnormality occurs, or icons that graphically represent common action modules when an abnormality occurs (e.g., when molding is interrupted) and when normal (e.g., during molding).

[0125] Multiple icons 631-648 are displayed simultaneously with the setting bar 610 outside the setting bar 610. Candidate notifications for action modules that can be input into the setting bar 610 can be provided to the user of the injection molding machine 10. While viewing the first display screen 600 displayed on the display device 760, the user operates the operation device 750, thereby repeatedly performing the operation of specifying one of the multiple icons 631-648 and inputting the specified icon into the setting bar 610 while changing the setting bar 610.

[0126] Icon 631 graphically represents the action of the mold closing device 100 opening the mold assembly 800 (hereinafter also referred to as "mold opening action"). Icon 632 graphically represents the action of the mold closing device 100 closing the mold assembly 800.

[0127] Icon 633 graphically represents the action of the metering motor 340 accumulating molding material in front of the screw 330 inside the cylinder 310 (hereinafter also referred to as "metering action").

[0128] Icon 634 graphically represents the action of the injection motor 350 advancing the screw 330 and discharging the molding material accumulated inside the cylinder 310 in front of the screw 330 to the outside of the cylinder 310 (hereinafter also referred to as the "discharge action"). Icon 635 graphically represents the action of the injection motor 350 retracting the screw 330.

[0129] Icon 636 graphically represents the action of the control device 700 sending a signal to peripheral equipment (e.g., mold monitoring camera 840) of the injection molding machine 10 (hereinafter also referred to as "signal sending action"). If the mold monitoring camera 840 receives a preset signal sent by the control device 700, it takes a picture of the front side of the moving mold 820 opposite to the fixed mold 810 and sends the signal of the captured image to the control device 700.

[0130] Icon 637 graphically illustrates the action of the control device 700 in receiving a signal from a peripheral device (e.g., mold monitoring camera 840) of the injection molding machine 10 (hereinafter also referred to as "signal reception confirmation action"). If the control device 700 confirms that it has received a signal of an image captured by the mold monitoring camera 840, it performs image processing on the received image to determine whether there are any foreign objects attached to the front of the moving mold 820. Examples of foreign objects include, for instance, residual gas left after the molded part is ejected.

[0131] Icon 638 graphically represents the ejector motor 210 advancing the ejector rod 230, thereby causing the ejector pin 831 (see reference), which is part of the movable part 830. Figure 1 The action of ejecting the molded part from the moving mold 820 (hereinafter, also referred to as "ejection action"). Figure 639 graphically illustrates the action of the ejector motor 210 retracting the ejector rod 230, thereby returning the ejector pin 831 to its original position (hereinafter, also referred to as "return action").

[0132] Icon 640 graphically represents the action of the moving device 400 bringing the injection device 300 closer to the mold device 800, thereby causing the nozzle 320 to contact the mold device 800. Icon 641 graphically represents the action of the moving device 400 separating the injection device 300 from the mold device 800, thereby causing the nozzle 320 to separate from the mold device 800 (hereinafter also referred to as "nozzle separation action").

[0133] Icon 642 graphically represents the action of the mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 in advancing the toggle seat 130, i.e., the action of the mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 in shortening the gap L between the toggle seat 130 and the fixed pressure plate 110. Icon 643 graphically represents the action of the mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 in retracting the toggle seat 130, i.e., the action of the mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 in widening the gap L between the toggle seat 130 and the fixed pressure plate 110.

[0134] Icon 644 graphically illustrates the cleaning action of simultaneously supplying cleaning material into the cylinder 310 and discharging molding material from the cylinder 310. The cleaning material can be the same as the molding material or a different material. In the latter case, a material that is easier to discharge from the cylinder 310 than the molding material, i.e., a material with excellent flowability, can be used as the cleaning material. To prevent molding material from being filled into the mold assembly 800 from the nozzle 320 located at the front end of the cylinder 310, the cleaning action is performed with the nozzle 320 disengaged from the mold assembly 800. The cleaning action includes, for example, the action of the metering motor 340 rotating the screw 330 backward and the action of the injection motor 350 advancing the screw 330. The cleaning action can be the action of the metering motor 340 rotating the screw 330 while the injection motor 350 is preventing the screw 330 from moving forward or backward.

[0135] Icon 645 graphically represents the action of the control device 700 that starts by delaying the next action module by a preset delay time (hereinafter also referred to as "delayed action").

[0136] Icon 646 graphically represents the operation of the control device 700 that stops the power supply to the heater 313 of the heating cylinder 310 (hereinafter also referred to as "heating stop operation").

[0137] Icon 647 graphically illustrates the action of the air supply unit 850 blowing air forward from the front side (opposite to the fixed mold 810) of the driven mold 820. The air supply unit 850 supplies air, for example, to the gap between the ejector pin 831 and the through hole into which it is inserted, thereby blowing air forward from the front side of the driven mold 820. The ejector pin 831 is part of the movable part 830, forming part of the wall of the cavity space 801. The molded article formed in the cavity space 801 can be caused to fall forward from the driven mold 820 by the air supplied from the air supply unit 850. Furthermore, foreign objects attached to the front side of the driven mold 820 can be caused to fall forward from the driven mold 820 by the air supplied from the air supply unit 850. Furthermore, the airflow path supplied from the air supply unit 850 to the moving mold 820 is not limited to the gap between the through hole into which the ejector pin 831 of the moving mold 820 is inserted and the ejector pin 831. For example, the air supply unit 850 can blow air forward from the wall of the runner that is closer to the front of the cavity space 801.

[0138] Icon 648 graphically represents the action of the safety door opening device 190 opening the safety door (hereinafter also referred to as "safety door opening action"). The safety door opening device 190 is, for example, composed of an air pressure cylinder. Alternatively, the safety door opening device 190 may be composed of a motor, a ball screw that converts the rotational motion of the motor into the linear motion of the safety door, or a motion conversion mechanism. The safety door opens the opening of the cover of the mold closing device 100. If the safety door is open, the user can approach the mold device 800 through the opening of the cover of the mold closing device 100. Therefore, a safety door switch 191 for monitoring whether the safety door is open is provided at the opening of the cover of the mold closing device 100. If the safety door is open, in order to ensure the user's safety, the safety door switch 191 disconnects the power supply of the injection molding machine 10 from the various motors mounted on the injection molding machine 10 (e.g., mold closing motor 160, mold thickness adjustment motor 183, ejection motor 210, metering motor 340, injection motor 350, motor 420). On the other hand, if the safety door is closed, the safety door switch 191 electrically connects the power supply of the injection molding machine 10 to the various motors mounted on the injection molding machine 10.

[0139] Icons 631-648 Figure 4 It can be displayed in black and white, but it can also be displayed in color. Different colors can improve visibility. For example, an "×" symbol indicating prohibition will attract the user's attention, so it can be displayed in red.

[0140] The first display control unit 711 can display the first display screen 600 on the display device 760 according to the content of each anomaly. Furthermore, the first display control unit 711 can change at least one of the types, quantities, and arrangements of the icons 631-648 displayed together with the setting bar 610 outside the setting bar 610 according to the content of the anomaly. It can perform at least one of the following actions based on the content of the anomaly: icon replacement, increase or decrease in the number of icons, and change the arrangement of icons. It can prioritize displaying icons suitable for the content of the anomaly, thereby assisting the user in input operations.

[0141] The control device 700 includes a first action sequence generation unit 712 that generates a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when an malfunction occurs, based on data (e.g., icons) input into multiple setting fields 610. The user of the injection molding machine 10 can determine the sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when an malfunction occurs by inputting action modules into the multiple setting fields 610 while viewing the first display screen 600. Since there is no need to interpret the pre-installed program on the injection molding machine 10, the sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when an malfunction occurs can be easily determined.

[0142] The first motion sequence production unit 712 can produce multiple motion sequences that can be performed simultaneously. By implementing multiple motion sequences at the same time, it is possible to respond to anomalies that occur in a short period of time.

[0143] The first action sequence creation unit 712 can create action sequences for each abnormal situation. It can change the content and order of actions according to the abnormal situation, thereby enabling detailed responses to the abnormal situation.

[0144] The control device 700 includes an anomaly determination unit 713 for determining whether the injection molding machine 10 has an anomaly. The anomaly determination unit 713 determines whether the injection molding machine 10 has an anomaly based on the detection values ​​of the detectors in the injection molding machine 10. The anomaly determination unit 713 determines whether there are multiple anomalies based on the individual detection values ​​of multiple detectors.

[0145] The control device 700 includes a first action sequence execution unit 714 that controls the operation of the injection molding machine 10 according to the action sequence generated by the first action sequence generation unit 712 if the abnormality determination unit 713 determines that an abnormality exists. When an abnormality occurs, the injection molding machine 10 automatically performs the pre-generated action sequence, thus saving the user the effort of performing recovery work when an abnormality occurs.

[0146] Figure 5This diagram illustrates a first display screen showing the setting of an operation sequence in case of a measurement time anomaly, according to one embodiment. Measurement time refers to the time required for the measurement process, and a measurement time anomaly occurs when the screw 330 fails to retract to the measurement end position even if the elapsed time since the start of the measurement process exceeds a preset time. The anomaly determination unit 713 uses a timer from the control device 700 to measure the elapsed time since the start of the measurement process and determines whether a measurement time anomaly has occurred.

[0147] like Figure 5 As shown, the first display control unit 711 displays a first display screen 600A on the display device 760. This first display screen 600A contains multiple setting bars 610 that can replace the action modules of the injection molding machine 10 that are sequentially executed when a metering time abnormality occurs. The first display screen 600A and... Figure 4 Similarly, the first display screen 600 shown has multiple setting bars 610, a timeline 620 that determines the order in which action modules input into the setting bars 610 are executed, and icons 631 to 648 that graphically represent the action modules input into the setting bars 610 outside the setting bars 610.

[0148] Figure 5 In the first setting column group 611 from the top, along the arrow direction of the time axis 620, there are icons 641 for nozzle separation action, 644 for cleaning action, 633 for metering action, 645 for delay action, 644 for cleaning action, 634 for discharge action, and 646 for heating stop action.

[0149] The first motion sequence production unit 712 follows the input... Figure 5 The system uses icons in multiple settings panes 610 to create a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when a metering time error occurs. Specifically, the first action sequence creation unit 712 creates a sequence of actions according to the input... Figure 5 The action sequence of the injection molding machine 10 when a metering time abnormality occurs is created by using multiple icons from the first setting column group 611 at the top.

[0150] If the anomaly determination unit 713 determines that there is a metering time anomaly, the first action sequence execution unit 714 controls the operation of the injection molding machine 10 according to the action sequence generated by the first action sequence generation unit 712. In the event of a metering time anomaly, the molding material remains inside the cylinder 310 for a longer period, and therefore may undergo thermal degradation inside the cylinder 310. Therefore, the molding material inside the cylinder 310 is replaced.

[0151] Specifically, the first action sequence execution unit 714 first performs the nozzle separation action indicated by icon 641. The moving device 400 separates the injection device 300 from the mold device 800, thereby separating the nozzle 320 from the mold device 800. This prevents the molding material injected from the nozzle 320 from filling the interior of the mold device 800.

[0152] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the cleaning action indicated by icon 644. For example, it performs the action of the metering motor 340 rotating the screw 330 backward and the action of the injection motor 350 advancing the screw 330. As a result, while the cleaning material is supplied to the inside of the cylinder 310, the molding material that has been thermally degraded inside the cylinder 310 is discharged to the outside of the cylinder 310.

[0153] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the metering action indicated by icon 633. The metering motor 340 causes molding material to accumulate in front of the screw 330 inside the cylinder 310. Undegraded molding material accumulates inside the cylinder 310. In this way, the molding material inside the cylinder 310 is replaced.

[0154] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the delay action indicated by icon 645. If, before the time elapsed since the end of the metering action reaches the preset delay time, the user of the injection molding machine 10 performs a recovery operation, for example, by pressing the restart molding cycle button, the molding cycle restarts, and the action sequence is interrupted. In this case, new molding material is pre-accumulated inside the cylinder 310, so the user of the injection molding machine 10 can restart the molding cycle by pressing the restart molding cycle button.

[0155] On the other hand, if the user of the injection molding machine 10 does not perform a recovery operation before the time elapsed from the end of the metering action reaches the preset delay time, the user of the injection molding machine 10 is unaware that the metering time is abnormal. Therefore, during the time that the recovery operation begins, the molding material may undergo thermal degradation inside the cylinder 310. Therefore, the sequence of actions continues in order to discharge the molding material from inside the cylinder 310.

[0156] When continuing the action sequence, the first action sequence execution unit 714 first performs the cleaning action indicated by icon 644. For example, it performs the action of the metering motor 340 rotating the screw 330 backward and the action of the injection motor 350 advancing the screw 330. As a result, while the cleaning material is supplied to the inside of the cylinder, during the delay time, the molding material that has been thermally degraded inside the cylinder 310 is discharged to the outside of the cylinder 310.

[0157] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the discharge action indicated by icon 634. The injection motor 350 advances the screw 330, discharging the cleaning material accumulated inside the cylinder 310 in front of the screw 330 to the outside of the cylinder 310. Discharging the cleaning material from inside the cylinder 310 before stopping heating of the cylinder 310 prevents the cleaning material from solidifying inside the cylinder 310. This prevents accidental drive of the screw 330 and potential damage to the screw 330 while the cleaning material is solidified inside the cylinder 310.

[0158] Finally, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the heating stop operation indicated by icon 646. The current supply to the heater 313 of the heating cylinder 310 is stopped. This prevents the slight residual cleaning material from dry distilling inside the cylinder 310.

[0159] In addition, in this embodiment, heating of the cylinder 310 is stopped at the final stage of the action sequence, allowing the temperature of the cylinder 310 to drop from the molding temperature to room temperature. However, it is also possible to perform an action that lowers the temperature of the cylinder 310 from the molding temperature to the holding temperature. The holding temperature is a temperature lower than the molding temperature but higher than room temperature, thus shortening the standby time for raising the temperature of the cylinder 310 to the molding temperature when the molding cycle restarts.

[0160] Figure 6 This diagram shows the first display screen illustrating the operation sequence of the injection motor 350 when an abnormal load occurs, according to one embodiment. An abnormal load on the injection motor 350 refers to the load on the injection motor 350 exceeding a preset threshold during the filling or holding pressure process. The abnormality determination unit 713 measures the supply current to the injection motor 350 using an ammeter or similar device, and determines whether the injection motor 350 has an abnormal load based on whether the supply current value exceeds the threshold.

[0161] like Figure 6 As shown, the first display control unit 711 displays a first display screen 600B on the display device 760. This first display screen 600B contains multiple setting columns 610 that can sequentially replace the operation modules of the injection molding machine 10 when the input injection motor 350 experiences a load abnormality. The first display screen 600B and... Figure 4 Similarly, the first display screen 600 shown has multiple setting bars 610, a timeline 620 that determines the order in which action modules input into the setting bars 610 are executed, and icons 631 to 648 that graphically represent the action modules input into the setting bars 610 outside the setting bars 610.

[0162] Figure 6In the first setting group 611 from the top, along the arrow direction of the time axis 620, there are icons 631 for mold opening action, 638 for ejection action, 639 for return action, and 648 for safety door opening action.

[0163] and, Figure 6 In the second first setting column group 611, along the arrow direction of the time axis 620, there are icons 641 for nozzle separation action, 644 for clearing action, and 634 for discharge action arranged in sequence.

[0164] 1st Motion Sequence Production Department 712 Figure 6 The system inputs icons in multiple setting fields 610 to create a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when the injection motor 350 experiences a load malfunction. Specifically, the first action sequence creation unit 712 follows... Figure 6 The input of multiple icons in the first setting column 611 above creates a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when the injection motor 350 experiences a load malfunction. Furthermore, the first action sequence creation unit 712 follows... Figure 6 Enter multiple icons from the second set column 611 above to create the action sequence of the injection molding machine 10 when the injection motor 350 experiences a load abnormality.

[0165] If the anomaly determination unit 713 determines that the injection motor 350 has a load abnormality, the first action sequence execution unit 714 controls the operation of the injection molding machine 10 according to the action sequence generated by the first action sequence generation unit 712. When the load abnormality of the injection motor 350 occurs during the filling process, the filling process is interrupted, resulting in insufficient molding material filling the cavity space 801. Furthermore, when the load abnormality of the injection motor 350 occurs during the holding pressure process, the holding pressure process is interrupted while the molding material filling the cavity space 801 is not yet solidified. Therefore, defective molded products remain inside the mold assembly 800. If these molded products completely solidify inside the mold assembly 800, they will become firmly attached to the mold assembly 800. Therefore, to save the effort of cleaning the mold assembly 800, defective molded products are ejected from the mold assembly 800 to prevent them from completely solidifying inside the mold assembly 800. Furthermore, confirming the status of the injection motor 350 takes time, so molding material is discharged from the cylinder 310 to prevent thermal degradation of the molding material inside the cylinder 310 during this period. The processes of ejecting the molded article from the mold assembly 800 and discharging the molding material from the cylinder 310 are performed simultaneously.

[0166] Specifically, in order to eject the molded article from the mold device 800, firstly, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the mold opening action indicated by icon 631. The mold closing device 100 retracts the moving mold 820, thereby creating a space in front of the molded article attached to the moving mold 820 for the molded article to fall off.

[0167] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the ejection action indicated by icon 638. For example, the ejection motor 210 moves the ejection rod 230 forward, thereby ejecting the molded article from the moving mold 820 by the ejection pin 831, which is part of the movable part 830. As a result, the molded article falls from the moving mold 820.

[0168] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the return action indicated by icon 639. For example, the ejector motor 210 retracts the ejector rod 230 so that the movable part 830 retracts to its original position.

[0169] Thus, the molded article is ejected from the mold device 800. At the same time as the molded article is ejected, the molding material is discharged from the cylinder 310.

[0170] In order to discharge the molding material from the cylinder 310, the first action sequence execution unit 714 first performs the nozzle separation action indicated by icon 641. The nozzle separation action can be performed simultaneously with the mold opening action described above. The moving device 400 separates the injection device 300 from the mold device 800, thereby separating the nozzle 320 from the mold device 800. This prevents the molding material injected from the nozzle 320 from filling the interior of the mold device 800.

[0171] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the cleaning action indicated by icon 644. For example, it performs the action of the metering motor 340 rotating the screw 330 backward and the action of the injection motor 350 advancing the screw 330. The cleaning action can be performed simultaneously with the ejection action described above. Through the cleaning action, cleaning material is supplied to the interior of the cylinder 310, while the molding material that has been thermally degraded inside the cylinder 310 is discharged to the exterior of the cylinder 310.

[0172] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the discharge action indicated by icon 634. The discharge action can be performed simultaneously with the aforementioned return action. The injection motor 350 advances the screw 330 to discharge the cleaning material accumulated inside the cylinder 310 in front of the screw 330 to the outside of the cylinder 310. This prevents the cleaning material from dry distilling inside the cylinder 310.

[0173] Finally, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the safety door opening action indicated by icon 648. The safety door opening device 190 opens the safety door. If the safety door is open, the safety door switch 191 electrically cuts off the power supply to the injection molding machine 10 and the various motors mounted on the injection molding machine 10. By opening the safety door, the user of the injection molding machine 10 can visually confirm the state in which power to the motors is prohibited.

[0174] In addition, in this embodiment, Figure 6 The sequence of actions shown is performed when the injection motor 350 experiences a load abnormality, but it can also be performed when other abnormalities occur. Figure 6 The sequence of actions shown can be performed in case of any abnormality when the molding material is filled inside the mold device 800.

[0175] Figure 7 This diagram shows the first display screen illustrating the sequence of actions when a mold protection malfunction occurs according to one embodiment. A mold protection malfunction refers to a foreign object becoming trapped between the moving mold 820 and the fixed mold 810 during the mold closing process. Examples of such foreign objects include residual gas from the molded part that adhered to the moving mold 820 during the previous molding cycle.

[0176] If a foreign object gets stuck between the moving mold 820 and the fixed mold 810 during the mold closing process, the moving mold 820 will be pushed back to the fixed mold 810 by the foreign object, and the load on the mold closing motor 160 will exceed the threshold. Therefore, the fault determination unit 713 monitors the current supplied to the mold closing motor 160 during the mold closing process using an ammeter or the like, and determines whether there is a mold protection fault by checking whether the current supplied to the mold closing motor 160 during the mold closing process exceeds the threshold.

[0177] Furthermore, if a foreign object is trapped between the moving mold 820 and the fixed mold 810 during the mold closing process, the moving mold 820 will be pushed back to the fixed mold 810 by the foreign object, thus causing the extension of the connecting rod 140 to exceed the threshold. Therefore, the anomaly determination unit 713 can also monitor the extension of the connecting rod 140 during the mold closing process using the connecting rod strain detector 141, and determine whether there is a mold protection anomaly by whether the extension of the connecting rod 140 exceeds the threshold during the mold closing process.

[0178] like Figure 7 As shown, the first display control unit 711 displays a first display screen 600C on the display device 760. This first display screen 600C contains multiple setting columns 610 that can be used to replace the action modules of the injection molding machine 10 that are sequentially executed when a mold protection malfunction occurs. The first display screen 600C and... Figure 4Similarly, the first display screen 600 shown has multiple setting bars 610, a timeline 620 that determines the order in which action modules input into the setting bars 610 are executed, and icons 631 to 648 that graphically represent the action modules input into the setting bars 610 outside the setting bars 610.

[0179] Figure 7 In the first setting column group 611 from the top, along the arrow direction of the time axis 620, there are icons 631 for mold opening action and 647 for blowing action.

[0180] and, Figure 7 In the second setting group 611 from the top, along the arrow direction of the time axis 620, there are icons 636 for signal sending action and icons 637 for signal receiving confirmation action.

[0181] also, Figure 7 In the middle, from the third setting column 611 at the top, along the arrow direction of the time axis 620, there are icons 641 for nozzle separation action, 644 for clearing action, and 634 for discharge action.

[0182] 1st Motion Sequence Production Department 712 Figure 7 The input of icons in multiple setting fields 610 creates a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when a mold protection malfunction occurs. Specifically, the first action sequence creation unit 712 follows... Figure 7 The input field uses multiple icons in the first setting group 611 to create a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when a mold protection malfunction occurs. Furthermore, the first action sequence creation unit 712 follows... Figure 7 The input of multiple icons in the second first setting column group 611 from the top creates a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when a mold protection malfunction occurs. Furthermore, the first action sequence creation unit 712 follows... Figure 7 The input of multiple icons from the third setting column 611 above creates a sequence of actions for the injection molding machine 10 when a mold protection malfunction occurs.

[0183] If the anomaly determination unit 713 determines that a mold protection anomaly exists, the first action sequence execution unit 714 controls the operation of the injection molding machine 10 according to the action sequence generated by the first action sequence generation unit 712. If the mold protection anomaly occurs during the mold closing process, the mold assembly 800 may be damaged, requiring a confirmation operation. Therefore, to reduce the cleaning work required by the user of the injection molding machine 10 on the mold assembly 800, foreign objects adhering to the surface of the moving mold 820 opposite to the fixed mold 810 are removed. The removal of foreign objects is confirmed by the mold monitoring camera 840. Since confirming damage to the mold assembly 800 takes time, molding material is discharged from the cylinder 310 to prevent thermal degradation of the molding material inside the cylinder 310 during this period. The removal of foreign objects, the confirmation of their removal, and the discharge of molding material from the cylinder 310 can be performed simultaneously.

[0184] Specifically, in order to allow foreign objects to fall off, the first action sequence execution unit 714 first performs the mold opening action indicated by icon 631. The mold closing device 100 retracts the moving mold 820, thereby creating a space in front of the molded part with residual gas or other foreign objects attached to the moving mold 820 to allow the foreign objects to fall off.

[0185] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the blowing action indicated by icon 647. For example, the air supply unit 850 blows air forward from the front side of the moving mold 820 opposite to the fixed mold 810. As a result, foreign objects attached to the front of the moving mold 820 fall forward from the moving mold 820.

[0186] In this way, foreign objects are removed. This reduces the cleaning work required on the mold assembly 800 by the user of the injection molding machine 10. The removal of foreign objects is confirmed simultaneously by the mold monitoring camera 840.

[0187] To confirm the falling of foreign objects, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the signal transmission action indicated by icon 636. The control device 700 sends a signal to the mold monitoring camera 840, which simultaneously captures an image of the front of the moving mold 820 and transmits the captured image signal to the control device 700. Multiple images can be captured consecutively. That is, multiple images can be captured within a preset time period. The signal transmission action is performed simultaneously with the aforementioned air blowing action, thus enabling the confirmation of the falling of foreign objects attached to the front of the moving mold 820 while air is being blown forward from the front of the moving mold 820.

[0188] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the signal reception confirmation action indicated by icon 637. If it is confirmed that an image captured by the mold monitoring camera 840 has been received, the control device 700 performs image processing on the received image to determine whether there are any foreign objects attached to the front of the moving mold 820. It can automatically confirm the falling of foreign objects caused by the air blowing action.

[0189] Thus, the falling of foreign objects is confirmed. This allows for automatic confirmation of foreign object falling, reducing the workload for the user of the injection molding machine 10. Simultaneously, the falling of foreign objects and confirmation of their falling are performed to discharge molding material from the cylinder 310.

[0190] In order to discharge the molding material from the cylinder 310, the first action sequence execution unit 714 first performs the nozzle separation operation indicated by icon 641. The nozzle separation operation can be performed simultaneously with the mold opening operation described above. The moving device 400 separates the injection device 300 from the mold device 800, thereby separating the nozzle 320 from the mold device 800. This prevents the molding material injected from the nozzle 320 from filling the interior of the mold device 800.

[0191] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the cleaning action indicated by icon 644. For example, the metering motor 340 rotates the screw 330 backward and the injection motor 350 advances the screw 330. The cleaning action can be performed simultaneously with the aforementioned blowing action and the aforementioned signal sending action. Through the cleaning action, cleaning material is supplied to the interior of the cylinder 310, and the thermally degraded molding material inside the cylinder 310 is discharged to the exterior of the cylinder 310.

[0192] Next, the first action sequence execution unit 714 performs the discharge action indicated by icon 634. The discharge action can be performed simultaneously with the aforementioned signal reception confirmation action. The injection motor 350 advances the screw 330 to discharge the cleaning material accumulated inside the cylinder 310 in front of the screw 330 to the outside of the cylinder 310. This prevents the cleaning material from dry distilling inside the cylinder 310.

[0193] (Sequence of actions during molding)

[0194] like Figure 3 As shown, the control device 700 has a second display control unit 715 that displays a second display screen on the display device 760. This second display screen displays multiple setting columns that can replace the sequentially executed action modules of the injection molding machine 10 when it produces a molded product. The second display screen displayed by the second display control unit 715 and... Figure 4Similarly, the first display screen 600 shown also includes, for example, multiple setting bars 610, a timeline 620 that determines the order in which action modules input into the setting bars 610 are executed, and icons 631 to 648 that graphically represent the action modules input into the setting bars 610 outside the setting bars 610.

[0195] Multiple icons 631-648 are simultaneously displayed on the outside of the setting bar 610. The user of the injection molding machine 10 can receive notifications regarding the action modules that can be input into the setting bar 610. While viewing the second display screen on the display device 760, the user operates the operation device 750, thereby changing the setting bar 610 and repeatedly inputting one of the multiple icons 631-648 into the setting bar 610.

[0196] In the second display screen and the first display screen 600, at least one of the types, quantities, and configurations of the icons simultaneously displayed outside the setting bar 610 can be different. That is, in the second display screen and the first display screen 600, at least one of the following can be performed: replacing the icons simultaneously displayed outside the setting bar 610, increasing or decreasing the number of icons, and arranging the icons. In abnormal situations (e.g., when molding is interrupted) and normal situations (e.g., during molding), the appropriate icons can be displayed first, thereby assisting the user in input operations.

[0197] The control device 700 has a second action sequence generation unit 716 that generates a sequence of actions performed by the injection molding machine 10 when molding a molded article, based on data (e.g., icons) input into multiple setting fields 610. The user of the injection molding machine 10 can determine the sequence of actions performed by the injection molding machine 10 when molding a molded article by inputting action modules into the multiple setting fields 610 while viewing a second display screen. Since there is no need to interpret a program pre-installed on the injection molding machine 10, the sequence of actions performed by the injection molding machine 10 when molding a molded article can be easily determined.

[0198] The second motion sequence production unit 716 can produce multiple motion sequences that are performed simultaneously. By implementing multiple motion sequences in parallel, a finished product can be produced in a short time.

[0199] The second action sequence production unit 716 can produce action sequences for each mold device 800. It can change the content and sequence of actions according to the structure of the mold device 800, thereby enabling precise molding that conforms to the structure of the mold device 800.

[0200] The control device 700 includes a second action sequence execution unit 717 that controls the operation of the injection molding machine 10 according to the action sequence generated by the second action sequence generation unit 716. The injection molding machine 10 automatically performs the pre-generated action sequence, thus enabling the automatic execution of special molding actions and reducing the user's manual effort.

[0201] The control device and implementation method of the injection molding machine have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described implementation method and various modifications and improvements can be made within the scope of the spirit of the present invention as described in the technical solution.

Claims

1. A control device for an injection molding machine, controlling the operation of the injection molding machine, comprising: The display control unit displays a screen on the display device for setting parameters. This screen includes multiple setting columns that can be used to replace the sequential action modules of the injection molding machine when an malfunction occurs. The action sequence creation department generates an action sequence for the injection molding machine to perform when a metering time abnormality occurs, based on the data input into the multiple setting fields. The sequence of actions includes a cleaning action that discharges the thermally degraded molding material from inside the cylinder to outside the cylinder, a metering action that allows the undegraded molding material to accumulate inside the cylinder, and a delay action that causes the control device to start the next action module after a preset delay time. When a measurement time anomaly occurs, a clearing action, a measurement action, and a delay action are performed. The action sequence is interrupted when the user performs a recovery operation, and resumes when the user does not perform a recovery operation.

2. The control device for the injection molding machine as described in claim 1, wherein, The user initiates the recovery process by pressing the button to restart the molding cycle.

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