Display device for injection molding machine

Abstract

A display device of an injection molding machine provides a technology for supporting control of setting of extraction of gas from the inside of a mold device to the outside. The display device of the injection molding machine displays a screen. The screen has a tab display area in which a plurality of tabs are arranged, and a selection screen display area that displays a selection screen selected for each of the tabs. The tab display area has a first tab. A first selection screen displayed in the selection screen display area when the first tab is selected includes a plurality of input fields for control of extraction of gas from the inside of the mold device to the outside.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-201552, filed on December 13, 2021. The entire contents of that Japanese application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a display device for an injection molding machine. Background Technology

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an injection molding machine equipped with a display screen. The display screen shows an injection / metering display. The injection / metering display screen has a waveform display section that shows the change in parting line opening amount from the start of injection to the end of cooling. The parting line opening amount is the size of the gap generated between the moving mold and the stationary mold. The clamping force can be set while simultaneously confirming the waveform (change) of the parting line opening amount. The clamping force is set in a manner that ensures the parting line opening amount falls within a specified range. This allows for effective evacuation.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-134442

[0005] The injection molding machine's display device shows a screen. The screen includes a tab display area with multiple tabs arranged in a row, and a selection screen display area showing the selection options for each tab. Multiple selection screens can be switched between in the selection screen display area.

[0006] Previously, the input fields for controlling the extraction of gas from the inside of the mold device to the outside were scattered across multiple selection screens, making the settings for controlling the gas extraction complex. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention provides a technique for supporting the setting of controlling the extraction of gas from the inside of a mold device to the outside.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a display screen of an injection molding machine. The screen has a tab display area with multiple tabs arranged therein and a selection screen display area displaying a selection screen for each of the tabs. The tab display area has a first tab. When the first tab is selected, the first selection screen displayed in the selection screen display area includes multiple input fields for controlling the extraction of gas from the inside of the mold assembly to the outside.

[0009] Invention Effects

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, by setting multiple input fields for controlling gas extraction together on the first selection screen, it is possible to support the setting of controlling gas extraction. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the state of the injection molding machine at the end of mold opening according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the state of the injection molding machine during mold closing according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how function blocks represent the components of a control device.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a process in the molding cycle.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of molding material flowing into the mold assembly.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the waveform representing the actual value of the clamping force.

[0017] Figure 7 This is an example of the first selection screen.

[0018] Figure 8 This is an example of the second selection screen.

[0019] In the diagram: 10 - Injection molding machine, 760 - Display device, 761 - Screen, 763 - Tab display area, 764 - Selection screen display area, 800 - Mold device, T3 - First tab. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or corresponding structures are sometimes labeled with the same symbols, and descriptions are omitted.

[0021] (Injection molding machine)

[0022] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the state of the injection molding machine at the end of mold opening according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the mold-closing state of the injection molding machine according to one embodiment. In this specification, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are mutually perpendicular directions. The X-axis and Y-axis represent horizontal directions, and the Z-axis represents vertical directions. When the mold-closing device 100 is horizontal, the X-axis represents the mold opening and closing direction, and the Y-axis represents the width direction of the injection molding machine 10. The negative side of the Y-axis is referred to as the operating side, and the positive side of the Y-axis is referred to as the opposite side of the operating side.

[0023] like Figures 1-2As shown, the injection molding machine 10 includes: a mold clamping device 100, a mold opening and closing device 800; an ejection device 200 for ejecting the molded article formed by the mold device 800; an injection device 300 for injecting molding material into the mold device 800; a moving device 400 for moving the injection device 300 forward and backward relative to the mold device 800; a control device 700 for controlling each component of the injection molding machine 10; and a frame 900 for supporting each component of the injection molding machine 10. The frame 900 includes: a mold clamping device frame 910 for supporting the mold clamping device 100; and an injection device frame 920 for supporting the injection device 300. The mold clamping device frame 910 and the injection device frame 920 are respectively mounted on the base plate 2 via horizontal adjusting casters 930. The control device 700 is arranged in the internal space of the injection device frame 920. 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 moving direction of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is closed (e.g., the positive X-axis direction) is set to forward, and the moving direction of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is opened (e.g., the negative X-axis direction) is set to rearward.

[0026] The mold closing device 100 performs mold closing, pressurization, mold closing, depressurization, and mold opening of the mold device 800. The mold device 800 includes a fixed mold 810 and a moving mold 820.

[0027] The mold closing device 100 is, for example, horizontal, and the mold opening and closing direction is horizontal. The mold closing device 100 has a fixed pressure plate 110 for mounting the fixed mold 810, a movable pressure plate 120 for mounting the moving mold 820, and a moving mechanism 102 for moving the movable pressure plate 120 relative to the fixed pressure plate 110 in the mold opening and closing direction.

[0028] The fixed pressure plate 110 is fixed relative to the mold closing device frame 910. The fixed mold 810 is installed on the surface of the fixed pressure plate 110 opposite to the movable pressure plate 120.

[0029] The movable pressure plate 120 is configured to move freely relative to the mold clamping device frame 910 in the mold opening and closing direction. A guide member 101 for guiding the movable pressure plate 120 is laid on the mold clamping device frame 910. A moving mold 820 is mounted on the surface of the movable pressure plate 120 opposite to the fixed pressure plate 110.

[0030] The moving mechanism 102 performs mold closing, pressurization, mold clamping, demolding, and mold opening of the mold device 800 by moving the movable pressure plate 120 forward and backward relative to the fixed pressure plate 110. The moving mechanism 102 includes an toggle seat 130 spaced apart from the fixed pressure plate 110, a connecting rod 140 connecting the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130, an toggle mechanism 150 that moves the movable pressure plate 120 relative to the toggle seat 130 in the mold opening and closing direction, a mold clamping motor 160 that operates the toggle mechanism 150, a motion conversion mechanism 170 that converts the rotational motion of the mold clamping motor 160 into linear motion, and a mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 that adjusts the distance between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130.

[0031] The toggle seat 130 is spaced apart from the fixed pressure plate 110 and is mounted on the mold clamping device frame 910 so as to move freely in the mold opening and closing direction. Furthermore, the toggle seat 130 can be configured to move freely along a guide member laid on the mold clamping device frame 910. The guide member of the toggle seat 130 can be the same as the guide member 101 of the movable pressure plate 120.

[0032] In addition, in this embodiment, the fixed pressure plate 110 is fixed relative to the mold clamping device frame 910, and the toggle seat 130 is configured to move freely relative to the mold clamping device frame 910 in the mold opening and closing direction. However, it is also possible that the toggle seat 130 is fixed relative to the mold clamping device frame 910, and the fixed pressure plate 110 is configured to move freely relative to the mold clamping device frame 910 in the mold opening and closing direction.

[0033] 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). The multiple connecting rods 140 are configured parallel to the mold opening and closing direction and extend according to the clamping force. A connecting rod strain detector 141 for detecting the strain of the connecting rod 140 can be installed on at least one 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 for detecting the clamping force, etc.

[0034] In this embodiment, a connecting rod strain gauge 141 is used as the clamping force detector to detect the clamping force, but the present invention is not limited to this. The clamping force detector is not limited to a strain gauge and can also be piezoelectric, capacitive, hydraulic, or electromagnetic, etc., and its installation position is not limited to the connecting rod 140.

[0035] A toggle mechanism 150 is positioned between a movable pressure plate 120 and a toggle seat 130, allowing the movable pressure plate 120 to move relative to the toggle seat 130 in the mold opening and closing direction. The toggle mechanism 150 has a crosshead 151 that moves in the mold opening and closing direction and a pair of linkages that extend and retract with the movement of the crosshead 151. Each linkage has a first linkage 152 and a second linkage 153 connected by pins or the like, allowing for free extension and retraction. The first linkage 152 is mounted by pins or the like to allow for free oscillation relative to the movable pressure plate 120. The second linkage 153 is mounted by pins or the like to allow for free oscillation relative to the toggle seat 130. The second linkage 153 is mounted to the crosshead 151 via a third linkage 154. When the crosshead 151 moves forward or backward relative to the toggle seat 130, the first linkage 152 and the second linkage 153 extend and retract, causing the movable pressure plate 120 to move 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, in Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this configuration, each link group has 5 nodes, but it can be 4, or it can be the node where one end of the 3rd link 154 is connected to the 1st link 152 and the 2nd link 153.

[0037] The clamping motor 160 is mounted on the toggle seat 130 and operates the toggle mechanism 150. The clamping motor 160 moves the crosshead 151 forward and backward relative to the toggle seat 130, causing the first link 152 and the second link 153 to extend and retract, thereby moving the movable pressure plate 120 forward and backward relative to the toggle seat 130. The clamping motor 160 is directly connected to the motion conversion mechanism 170, but 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 and a lead screw nut screwed to the lead screw shaft. Balls or rollers may be located between the lead screw shaft and the lead screw nut.

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

[0040] In the mold closing process, the mold closing motor 160 is driven to advance the crosshead 151 to the mold closing end position at a set speed, causing the movable pressure plate 120 to advance so that the moving mold 820 contacts the fixed mold 810. For example, a mold closing motor encoder 161 is used to detect the position and speed of the crosshead 151. 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.

[0041] 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 clamping motor encoder 161; conventional detectors can be used. Similarly, the movable platen position detector for detecting the position of the movable platen 120 and the movable platen movement speed detector for detecting the movement speed of the movable platen 120 are not limited to the mold clamping motor encoder 161; conventional detectors can be used.

[0042] In 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 clamping force.

[0043] During the mold closing process, the mold closing motor 160 is driven to maintain the position of the crosshead 151 in the mold closing position. During the mold closing process, the mold closing force generated during the pressurization process is maintained. During the mold closing process, a cavity space 801 (see reference) is formed between the moving mold 820 and the fixed mold 810. Figure 2 The injection unit 300 fills the cavity space 801 with liquid molding material. The filled molding material is then cured to obtain a molded product.

[0044] The number of cavity spaces 801 can be one or more. In the latter case, multiple molded articles can be obtained simultaneously. An insert can be configured in a part of the cavity space 801, and the other part of the cavity space 801 can be filled with molding material. A molded article in which the insert and the molding material are integrated can be obtained.

[0045] During the depressurization process, the crosshead 151 is retracted from the mold-closing position to the mold-opening start position by driving the mold-closing motor 160, thereby causing the movable pressure plate 120 to retract and reducing the mold-closing force. The mold-opening start position and the mold-closing end position can be the same position.

[0046] In the mold opening process, the crosshead 151 is retracted from the mold opening start position to the mold opening end position at a set moving speed by driving the mold closing motor 160, causing the movable pressure plate 120 to retract, so that the moving mold 820 separates from the fixed mold 810. Then, the ejector device 200 ejects the molded product from the moving mold 820.

[0047] The setting conditions in the mold closing process, the pressure raising process, and the mold closing process are set uniformly as a series of setting conditions. For example, the moving speed, 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 process and the pressure raising process are set uniformly as a series of setting conditions. The mold closing start position, moving speed switching position, mold closing end position, and mold closing position are arranged sequentially from back to front, and represent the start and end points of the range for setting the moving speed. The moving speed is set for each range. There can be one or more moving speed switching positions. The moving speed switching position can be omitted. Only the mold closing position and the mold closing force can be set.

[0048] 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 uniformly 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 range for setting the moving speed. The moving speed is set for each range. There can be one or more moving speed switching positions. A moving speed switching position may not be set. The mold opening start position and the mold closing end position can be the same position. Furthermore, the mold opening end position and the mold closing start position can be the same position.

[0049] In addition, 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.

[0050] However, the toggle mechanism 150 amplifies the driving force of the clamping motor 160 and transmits it to the movable pressure plate 120. This amplification factor is also known as the toggle ratio. The toggle ratio varies depending on 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 by the position of the crosshead 151. The toggle ratio reaches its maximum when the link angle θ is 180°.

[0051] When the thickness of the mold assembly 800 changes due to replacement of the mold assembly 800, temperature changes of the mold assembly 800, etc., mold thickness adjustment is performed to obtain the specified mold closing force during mold closing. In mold thickness adjustment, for example, the distance 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 the specified angle at the moment when the moving mold 820 contacts the fixed mold 810.

[0052] The mold clamping device 100 includes a mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180. The mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 adjusts the distance L between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130, thereby adjusting the mold thickness. Furthermore, the timing of the mold thickness adjustment is performed, for example, during the period from the end of the molding cycle to the start of the next molding cycle. The mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 includes, for example: a lead screw shaft 181 formed at the rear end of the connecting rod 140; a lead screw nut 182 held in the toggle seat 130 for free rotation and immobility; and a mold thickness adjustment motor 183 that rotates the lead screw nut 182 screwed to the lead screw shaft 181.

[0053] Each connecting rod 140 is provided with a lead screw shaft 181 and a lead screw nut 182. 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. Multiple lead screw nuts 182 can be rotated synchronously. In addition, by changing the transmission path of the rotational driving force transmission unit 185, multiple lead screw nuts 182 can also be rotated individually.

[0054] The rotary drive force transmission unit 185 is composed of, for example, 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 kept rotatably in the center of the toggle seat 130. Alternatively, instead of gears, the rotary drive force transmission unit 185 may also be composed of belts and pulleys.

[0055] 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. As a result, the position of the toggle seat 130 relative to the connecting rod 140 is adjusted, and the distance L between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130 is adjusted. Alternatively, multiple die thickness adjustment mechanisms can be used in combination.

[0056] The die thickness adjustment motor encoder 184 is used to detect the interval L. The die thickness adjustment motor encoder 184 detects the rotation amount and direction 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 for monitoring and controlling the position and interval L of the toggle seat 130. 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; conventional detectors can be used.

[0057] The mold clamping device 100 may have a mold temperature regulator for adjusting the temperature of the mold assembly 800. The mold assembly 800 has a flow path for a temperature regulating medium inside it. The mold temperature regulator adjusts the temperature of the temperature regulating medium supplied to the flow path of the mold assembly 800, thereby regulating the temperature of the mold assembly 800.

[0058] 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.

[0059] Furthermore, the mold clamping device 100 of this embodiment includes a mold clamping motor 160 as a drive unit, but a hydraulic cylinder may be used instead of the mold clamping motor 160. Also, the mold clamping device 100 may include a linear motor for mold opening and closing, or it may include an electromagnet for mold clamping.

[0060] (Ejection device)

[0061] In the description of the ejector device 200, similar to the description of the mold closing device 100, the moving direction of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is closed (e.g., the positive X-axis direction) is set to forward, and the moving direction of the movable pressure plate 120 when the mold is opened (e.g., the negative X-axis direction) is set to rearward.

[0062] Ejection device 200 is mounted on movable pressure plate 120 and moves forward and backward together with movable pressure plate 120. Ejection device 200 includes: ejection rod 210 for ejecting molded article from mold device 800; and drive mechanism 220 for moving ejection rod 210 along the moving direction (X-axis direction) of movable pressure plate 120.

[0063] Ejector rod 210 is configured to move freely in and out of the through hole in movable pressure plate 120. The front end of ejector rod 210 contacts ejector plate 826 of moving mold 820. The front end of ejector rod 210 may or may not be connected to ejector plate 826.

[0064] The drive mechanism 220 includes, for example, an ejector motor and a motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the ejector motor into the linear motion of the ejector rod 210. The motion conversion mechanism includes a lead screw and a lead screw nut screwed to the lead screw. Balls or rollers may be located between the lead screw and the lead screw nut.

[0065] The ejection device 200 performs the ejection process under the control of the control device 700. In the ejection process, the ejector rod 210 is moved forward from the standby position to the ejection position at a set speed, causing the ejector plate 826 to move forward and eject the molded product. Then, the ejection motor is driven to move the ejector rod 210 backward at a set speed, causing the ejector plate 826 to return to the original standby position.

[0066] For example, an ejector motor encoder is used to detect the position and speed of the ejector rod 210. The ejector motor encoder detects the rotation of the ejector motor and sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. In addition, the ejector rod position detector for detecting the position of the ejector rod 210 and the ejector rod speed detector for detecting the speed of the ejector rod 210 are not limited to the ejector motor encoder, and conventional detectors can be used.

[0067] (Injection device)

[0068] In the description of the injection device 300, unlike the description of the mold clamping device 100 and the description of the ejection device 200, the direction of movement of the screw 330 during filling (e.g., the negative X-axis direction) is set to forward, and the direction of movement of the screw 330 during metering (e.g., the positive X-axis direction) is set to rearward.

[0069] An injection unit 300 is mounted on a sliding base 301, which is configured to move freely forward and backward relative to the injection unit frame 920. The injection unit 300 is also configured to move freely forward and backward relative 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 for heating the molding material, a nozzle 320 disposed at the front end of the cylinder 310, a screw 330 configured to move freely forward and backward and rotate freely within the cylinder 310, a metering motor 340 for rotating the screw 330, an injection motor 350 for moving the screw 330 forward and backward, and a load detector 360 for detecting the load transmitted between the injection motor 350 and the screw 330.

[0070] The cylinder body 310 heats the molding material supplied to it from 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. A first heater 313, such as a belt heater, and a first temperature detector 314 are provided on the outer periphery of the cylinder body 310, further forward than the cooler 312.

[0071] The cylinder block 310 is divided into multiple regions along its axial direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). A first heater 313 and a first temperature detector 314 are respectively provided in each of the multiple regions. A set temperature is set for each of the multiple regions, and the control device 700 controls the first heater 313 so that the temperature detected by the first temperature detector 314 becomes the set temperature.

[0072] The nozzle 320 is located at the front end of the cylinder 310 and presses against the mold assembly 800. A second heater 323 and a second temperature detector 324 are provided on the outer periphery of the nozzle 320. The control device 700 controls the second heater 323 so that the detected temperature of the nozzle 320 becomes the set temperature.

[0073] The screw 330 is configured to rotate freely and move forward and backward within the cylinder 310. When the screw 330 is rotated, the molding material is conveyed forward along the spiral grooves of the screw 330. As the molding material is conveyed forward, it is gradually melted by heat from the cylinder 310. As the liquid molding material is conveyed forward 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 injected from the nozzle 320 and fills the mold assembly 800.

[0074] The check ring 331 is installed at the front of the screw 330 so that it can move freely forward and backward. The check ring 331 acts as a check valve to prevent the molding material from flowing backward from the front of the screw 330 when the screw 330 is pushed forward.

[0075] When the screw 330 is advanced, the check ring 331 is pushed backward by the pressure of the molding material in front of the screw 330, and retracts 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.

[0076] 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 conveyed forward along the spiral groove of the screw 330, and advances relative to the screw 330 to the open position where the flow path of the molding material is opened (see reference). Figure 1 Thus, the molding material is conveyed to the front of the screw 330.

[0077] The check ring 331 can be either a cotransformer that rotates with the screw 330 or a non-cotransformer that does not rotate with the screw 330.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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, rollers, etc., 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.

[0081] Load detector 360 detects the load transmitted between injection motor 350 and screw 330. The detected load is converted into pressure by control device 700. Load detector 360 is positioned along the load transmission path between injection motor 350 and screw 330, and detects the load acting on load detector 360.

[0082] The load detector 360 sends the detected load signal to the control device 700. The load detected by the load detector 360 is converted into the pressure acting between the screw 330 and the molding material, and is used for the control and monitoring of the pressure borne by the screw 330 from the molding material, the back pressure on the screw 330, and the pressure acting from the screw 330 on the molding material.

[0083] Furthermore, the pressure detector for detecting the pressure of the molding material is not limited to the load detector 360; conventional detectors can be used. For example, a nozzle pressure sensor or a mold pressure sensor can be used. The nozzle pressure sensor is located at the nozzle 320. The mold pressure sensor is located inside the mold assembly 800.

[0084] The injection unit 300 performs metering, filling, and pressure holding processes under the control of the control unit 700. The filling and pressure holding processes can be collectively referred to as the injection process.

[0085] In the metering process, the metering motor 340 drives the screw 330 to rotate at a set speed, conveying the molding material forward along the spiral grooves of the screw 330. As a result, the molding material is gradually melted. As the molten molding material is conveyed forward of the screw 330 and accumulates at the front of the cylinder 310, the screw 330 retracts. For example, a metering motor encoder 341 is used to detect the rotational speed of the screw 330. 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. However, the screw speed detector for detecting the rotational speed of the screw 330 is not limited to the metering motor encoder 341; conventional detectors can be used.

[0086] In the metering process, to limit the screw 330 from retracting too rapidly, the injection motor 350 can be driven to apply a set back pressure to the screw 330. For example, a load detector 360 can be used to detect the back pressure on the screw 330. 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.

[0087] The position and speed of the screw 330 in the metering process are uniformly set as a series of preset conditions. For example, the metering start position, 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 set speed interval. The speed is set for each interval. There can be one or more speed switching positions. Alternatively, no speed switching position can be set. Furthermore, the back pressure is set for each interval.

[0088] 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. For example, an injection motor encoder 351 is used to detect the position and speed of the screw 330. 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 the 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 of the screw 330, time, etc.

[0089] The position and moving speed of the screw 330 in the filling process are uniformly set as a series of preset conditions. For example, the filling start position (also called the "injection start position"), the moving speed switching position, and the V / P switching position are set. These positions are arranged sequentially from back to front and represent the start and end points of the set moving speed interval. The moving speed is set for each interval. There can be one or more moving speed switching positions. It is also possible not to set any moving speed switching positions.

[0090] The upper limit of the pressure of the screw 330 is set for each range of the screw 330's moving speed. The pressure of the screw 330 is detected by the load detector 360. When the pressure of the screw 330 is below the set pressure, the screw 330 moves forward at the set moving speed. On the other hand, when the pressure of the screw 330 exceeds the set pressure, in order to protect the mold, the screw 330 moves forward at a slower moving speed than the set moving speed, so that the pressure of the screw 330 falls below the set pressure.

[0091] Furthermore, during the filling process, after the screw 330 reaches the V / P switching position, it can be paused at the V / P switching position before the V / P switch is performed. Instead of stopping the screw 330 immediately before the V / P switch, the screw 330 can be moved forward or backward at a slight speed. Moreover, 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; conventional detectors can be used.

[0092] 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, and pushing the remaining molding material in the cylinder 310 towards the mold assembly 800. This replenishes any insufficient molding material in the mold assembly 800 due to cooling shrinkage. For example, a load detector 360 is used to detect the holding pressure. The set value of the holding pressure can be changed according to the elapsed time since the start of the holding pressure process. The holding pressure and the holding time for each of the multiple holding pressure processes can be set separately, or they can be set uniformly as a series of setting conditions.

[0093] During the holding pressure process, the molding material in the cavity space 801 within the mold assembly 800 is gradually cooled. 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 backflow of molding material 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.

[0094] Furthermore, the injection device 300 in this embodiment is a coaxial screw type, but it can also be a pre-plasticizing type, etc. In a pre-plasticizing type injection device, molten molding material in a plasticizing cylinder is supplied to the injection cylinder, and the molding material is injected from the injection cylinder into the mold device. In the plasticizing cylinder, the screw is configured to rotate freely but not retract, or the screw is configured to rotate freely and retract freely. On the other hand, in the injection cylinder, the plunger is configured to retract freely.

[0095] Furthermore, the injection device 300 in this embodiment is horizontal with the cylinder 310's axis in the horizontal direction, but it can also be vertical 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.

[0096] (Mobile device)

[0097] In the description of the moving device 400, similarly to the description of the injection device 300, the direction of movement of the screw 330 during filling (e.g., the negative X-axis direction) is set to forward, and the direction of movement of the screw 330 during metering (e.g., the positive X-axis direction) is set to rearward.

[0098] The moving device 400 causes the injection device 300 to move forward and backward relative to the mold device 800. Furthermore, the moving device 400 presses the nozzle 320 relative to the mold device 800 to generate 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.

[0099] 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 a tank and discharge working fluid from either the first port 411 or the second port 412.

[0100] Motor 420 operates hydraulic pump 410. Motor 420 drives hydraulic pump 410 by means of rotational direction and rotational torque corresponding to control signals from control device 700. Motor 420 can be an electric motor or an electric servo motor.

[0101] The hydraulic cylinder 430 has a cylinder body 431, a piston 432, and a piston rod 433. The cylinder body 431 is fixed relative to the injection device 300. The piston 432 divides the interior of the cylinder body 431 into a front chamber 435, which serves as a first chamber, and a rear chamber 436, which serves as a second chamber. The piston rod 433 is fixed relative to the fixed pressure plate 110.

[0102] 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 ejected 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 pressed against the fixed mold 810. The front chamber 435 functions as a pressure chamber, generating the nozzle contact pressure of the nozzle 320 through the pressure of the working fluid supplied from the hydraulic pump 410.

[0103] 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 ejected 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. The injection device 300 retracts and the nozzle 320 separates from the fixed mold 810.

[0104] In addition, in this embodiment, the moving device 400 includes a hydraulic cylinder 430, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, instead of the hydraulic cylinder 430, 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 also be used.

[0105] (Control device)

[0106] The control device 700 is, for example, composed of a computer, such as Figures 1-2 As shown, the device 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 performs various controls by causing the CPU 701 to execute programs stored in the storage medium 702. 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.

[0107] The control device 700 repeatedly manufactures molded products by repeatedly performing metering, mold closing, pressurizing, mold closing, filling, pressure holding, cooling, depressurizing, mold opening, and ejection processes. 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 "material injection" or "molding cycle." Furthermore, the time required for one material injection is also called "molding cycle time" or "cycle time."

[0108] A typical molding cycle may include, for example, the following steps in sequence: metering, mold closing, pressure increase, mold closing, filling, pressure holding, cooling, pressure release, mold opening, and ejection. This sequence refers to the order in which each step begins. The filling, pressure holding, and cooling steps occur during the mold closing step. Alternatively, the start of the mold closing step can coincide with the start of the filling step. The end of the pressure release step can coincide with the start of the mold opening step.

[0109] 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 during the mold closing process. In this case, the mold closing process can be set to be performed at the very beginning of the molding cycle. The filling process can also begin during the mold closing process. 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.

[0110] In addition, a single molding cycle can include processes other than metering, mold closing, pressurization, mold closing, filling, pressure holding, cooling, depressurization, mold opening, and ejection.

[0111] For example, a pre-metering back suction process can be performed after the pressure holding process ends and before the metering process begins, to retract the screw 330 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, and prevents the screw 330 from retracting abruptly when the metering process begins.

[0112] Furthermore, a post-metering back suction process can be performed after the metering process is completed and before the filling process begins, retracting the screw 330 to a pre-set filling start position (also known as the "injection start position"). This reduces the pressure of the molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 before the filling process begins, thus preventing leakage of the molding material from the nozzle 320 before the filling process begins.

[0113] The control device 700 is connected to the operation device 750, which receives user input, and the display device 760, which displays a screen. The operation device 750 and the display device 760 are, for example, composed of a touch panel 770, and can be integrated. The touch panel 770, as the display device 760, displays a screen under the control of the control device 700. Information such as the settings of the injection molding machine 10 and the current status of the injection molding machine 10 can be displayed on the screen of the touch panel 770. Furthermore, operation sections such as buttons and input fields for receiving user input can be displayed on the screen of the touch panel 770. The touch panel 770, as the operation device 750, detects user input on the screen and outputs a signal corresponding to the input operation to the control device 700. Thus, for example, the user can simultaneously check the information displayed on the screen and operate the operation sections on the screen to set the injection molding machine 10 (including inputting setting values). Furthermore, by operating the operation sections on the screen, the user can cause the injection molding machine 10 corresponding to the operation sections to operate. Furthermore, the operation of the injection molding machine 10 can include, for example, the operation (including stopping) of the mold clamping device 100, the ejection device 200, the injection device 300, the moving device 400, etc. Also, the operation of the injection molding machine 10 can include switching the screen displayed on the touch panel 770, which is a display device 760.

[0114] Furthermore, while the operation device 750 and display device 760 of this embodiment are integrated into a touch panel 770, they can also be provided independently. Additionally, multiple operation devices 750 can be provided. The operation device 750 and display device 760 are disposed on the operation side (negative Y-axis direction) of the mold clamping device 100 (more specifically, the fixed pressure plate 110).

[0115] (Detailed description of the control device)

[0116] Next, refer to Figure 3An example of the constituent elements of the control device 700 will be described. Furthermore, Figure 3 The functional blocks illustrated are conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. All or part of each functional block can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit. All or any part of the processing functions performed by each functional block can be implemented by a program executed by the CPU or by hardware based on wiring logic.

[0117] like Figure 3 As shown, the control device 700 includes, for example, a mold closing control unit 711, an ejection control unit 712, an injection control unit 713, and a metering control unit 714. The mold closing control unit 711 controls the mold closing drive source of the mold closing device 100 and implements... Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the mold closing process, pressure boosting process, mold clamping process, pressure release process, and mold opening process. The mold clamping drive source is, for example, a mold clamping motor 160, but could also be a hydraulic cylinder, etc. The ejection control unit 712 controls the ejection device 200 and performs the ejection process. The injection control unit 713 controls the injection drive source of the injection device 300 and performs the injection process. The injection drive source is, for example, an injection motor 350, but could also be a hydraulic cylinder, etc. The injection process includes a filling process and a holding pressure process. The injection process is performed during the mold clamping process. The metering control unit 714 controls the metering drive source of the injection device 300 and performs the metering process. The metering drive source is, for example, a metering motor 340, but could also be a hydraulic pump, etc. The metering process is performed during the cooling process.

[0118] The filling process is a process of controlling the injection drive source so that the actual value of the moving speed of the injection component located inside the cylinder 310 is equal to a set value. The filling process is a process of filling the mold assembly 800 with liquid molding material accumulated in front of the injection component by moving the injection component forward. The injection component is, for example, a screw 330 (see reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 (It can also be a plunger.)

[0119] The movement speed of the injection unit is detected using a speed detector. The speed detector is, for example, an injection motor encoder 351. During the filling process, as the injection unit advances, the pressure (hereinafter also referred to as "fill pressure") acting on the molding material from the injection unit increases. The filling process, preceding the holding pressure process, may include a process that temporarily stops the injection unit or a process that retracts the injection unit.

[0120] The holding pressure process is a process of controlling the injection drive source to ensure that the actual filling pressure value is the set value. The holding pressure process replenishes the amount of molding material in the mold assembly 800 that is insufficient due to cooling shrinkage by pressing the injection component forward. The filling pressure is detected using a pressure detector such as a load detector 360. A nozzle pressure sensor or a mold pressure sensor can be used as the pressure detector.

[0121] Next, refer to Figure 5 An example of molding material M flowing into the mold assembly 800 will be described. Molding material M is, for example, resin. Molding material M flows into the cavity space 801 inside the mold assembly 800. Cavity space 801 is formed at the parting surface 830 between the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820. Parting surface 830 is commonly referred to as parting line.

[0122] If the molding material M flows rapidly into the cavity space 801, the gas in the cavity space 801 will have difficulty escaping to the outside of the mold device 800 via the parting surface 830, etc. As a result, a defect known as gas burning will occur. Gas burning is the phenomenon where the molding material M carbonizes due to the heat generated by the compression of the gas in the cavity space 801.

[0123] When gas burning occurs, the gas in the cavity space 801 has difficulty escaping to the outside of the mold device 800 and tends to remain in the cavity space 801. Therefore, a defect known as incomplete filling may occur. Incomplete filling is the phenomenon that the molding material M is cooled and solidified before filling the entire cavity space 801.

[0124] The flow pattern of the molding material M changes, for example, depending on the moving speed of the injection unit. The faster the injection unit moves forward, the faster the molding material M flows. During the holding pressure process, when the actual filling pressure is less than the set value, the injection unit is advanced to bring the actual filling pressure to the set value. If the injection unit advances rapidly, the flow of the molding material M will become rapid.

[0125] During the transition from the filling process to the holding pressure process (the so-called V / P switch), a rapid advance of the injection unit can easily occur. A gap is typically left in the cavity space 801 during the V / P switch. If the actual filling pressure is less than the set value and the difference between the actual and set values ​​is large during the V / P switch, a rapid advance of the injection unit may occur.

[0126] like Figure 3As shown, the control device 700 includes a limiting unit 715. The limiting unit 715 restricts the advance of the injection component during the pressure holding process. For example, the limiting unit 715 sets an upper limit value for the advance speed of the injection component during the pressure holding process. During the pressure holding process, even if the actual value of the filling pressure is less than the set value and the difference between the actual value and the set value is large, the advance speed of the injection component will not exceed the upper limit value. As a result, burning is suppressed. Not only is burning suppressed, but the occurrence of underfilling is also suppressed.

[0127] Previously, gas burning was suppressed by setting an upper limit on the forward speed of the injection component using the limiting section 715, but the suppression of gas burning was not sufficient. For example, this is because even if the forward speed is below the upper limit, if the forward acceleration is large, the acceleration of the flow front of the molding material is large, and the gas is easily compressed.

[0128] Therefore, the limiting unit 715 of this embodiment sets an upper limit value for the forward acceleration of the injection component during the pressure holding process. Both the upper limit value for the forward speed and the upper limit value for the forward acceleration of the injection component are set. During the pressure holding process, even if the actual value of the filling pressure is less than the set value and the difference between the actual value and the set value is large, the forward acceleration of the injection component will not exceed the upper limit value. As a result, gas burning can be suppressed. Not only is gas burning suppressed, but the occurrence of incomplete filling can also be suppressed.

[0129] Furthermore, while the limiting unit 715 in this embodiment sets upper limits for both the forward speed and forward acceleration of the injection component during the pressure holding process, there are also cases where gas burning can be suppressed by setting an upper limit for either the forward speed or the forward acceleration. Therefore, the limiting unit 715 only needs to set at least one upper limit for the forward speed and the forward acceleration of the injection component during the pressure holding process.

[0130] However, as Figure 5 As shown, when the molding material M flows into the mold assembly 800, if the filling pressure P1 is greater than the mold closing pressure P2, the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820 open, causing the molding material M to leak. This results in a defect known as burrs. Burrs are the phenomenon where the molding material M leaks between the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820 and solidifies. To suppress burr formation, the mold closing force F tightens the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820. Furthermore, the mold closing pressure P2 is the value of the mold closing force F divided by the area S of the parting surface 830 (P2 = F / S).

[0131] However, if the clamping pressure P2 and clamping force F are too large, the gas in the cavity space 801 will have difficulty escaping to the outside of the mold device 800 through the parting surface 830 when the molding material M flows into the cavity space 801. As a result, a defect known as gas burning will occur. In addition to gas burning, a defect known as incomplete filling will also occur.

[0132] After the molding material M is injected by the injection device 300, it flows through the sprue (not shown) of the fixed mold 810 and into the cavity space 801 formed between the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820. Before the flow tip of the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830 of the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820, even if the clamping force F is low, the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820 will not open, thus preventing burrs from being generated.

[0133] like Figure 6 As shown, in order to suppress the generation of both burrs and burn-out, the mold clamping control unit 711 can change the set value of the clamping force F from a first set value F1 (F1 > 0) to a second set value F2 (F2 > F1) that is greater than the first set value F1 by using a pre-set pressure increase timing during the filling process. By setting the clamping force F to low before the middle of the filling process, the generation of burn-out can be suppressed; by setting the clamping force F to high after the middle of the filling process, the generation of burrs can be suppressed. By setting the clamping force F to low before the middle of the filling process, not only the generation of burn-out can be suppressed, but also the generation of incomplete filling can be suppressed.

[0134] The timing of the clamping force F is set, for example, using the position of the injection unit. After the filling process begins, the injection unit is advanced. The position of the injection unit is detected using a position detector. The position detector is, for example, an injection motor encoder 351. If the position of the injection unit reaches a set position (hereinafter also referred to as the clamping force switching position), the set value of the clamping force F changes from the first set value F1 to the second set value F2.

[0135] The further forward the clamping force switching position is moved, the later the pressure boosting timing. The pressure boosting timing is set midway through the filling process; therefore, the clamping force switching position is set further forward than the filling start position and further backward than the V / P switching position. Additionally, the pressure boosting timing can be set using elapsed time since the start of the filling process. If the elapsed time reaches the set time, the set value of the clamping force F changes from the first set value F1 to the second set value F2.

[0136] However, if the clamping force F is increased too early, the gas will have difficulty escaping from the inside of the mold assembly 800 to the outside. Inside the mold assembly 800, the gas will be compressed and heated, leading to gas burning. Furthermore, if the clamping force F is increased too late, the molding material M will leak between the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820, resulting in burrs. Previously, skilled operators set the pressure timing based on their experience, making it difficult for other personnel to set the pressure timing.

[0137] like Figure 3As shown, the control device 700 includes a monitoring unit 716. The monitoring unit 716 monitors the change in the actual value of the clamping force F as the set value of the clamping force F changes. If the set value of the clamping force F changes, the actual value of the clamping force F changes; therefore, the monitoring unit 716 monitors this subsequent change. The monitoring unit 716 uses a clamping force detector such as a connecting rod strain detector 141 to obtain the actual value of the clamping force F. Details will be described later, but based on the change in the actual value of the clamping force F, the filling status of the molding material M can be inferred. Therefore, by simply monitoring the change in the actual value of the clamping force F, the setting of the pressurization timing can be supported.

[0138] The mold clamping control unit 711, for example, converts the set value of the clamping force F into a set value of the crosshead position, and controls the mold clamping motor 160 so that the actual value of the crosshead position becomes the set value. The first set value F1 and the second set value F2 of the clamping force F are converted into the first set value and the second set value of the crosshead position. The crosshead position is the relative position of the crosshead 151 with respect to the toggle seat 130. The further the crosshead 151 advances, the greater the clamping force F.

[0139] If the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830 between the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820, and the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820 open due to the filling pressure P1, then the gap L between the fixed pressure plate 110 and the toggle seat 130 increases. The increased gap L indicates that the connecting rod 140 extends, and that the actual value of the clamping force F increases. Therefore, based on the change in the actual value of the clamping force F, the filling status of the molding material M can be inferred.

[0140] like Figure 6 As shown, when the pressurization timing is appropriately early, the actual value of the clamping force F stabilizes at the second set value F2 until the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830 of the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820. Then, if the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830, the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820 begin to open under the filling pressure P1, and the actual value of the clamping force F deviates from the second set value F2 to a higher value. Furthermore, the opening amount of the fixed mold 810 and the moving mold 820 is such that burrs are not generated.

[0141] Furthermore, if the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830, the actual value of the clamping force F may sometimes deviate from the second set value F2 and become lower. For example, this could occur when the center of the mold assembly 800 or the cavity space 801 is eccentric relative to the center of the fixed pressure plate 110 or the movable pressure plate 120. In this case, if the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830, the deformation of a portion of the connecting rod 140 may be alleviated, and the tensile stress acting on a portion of the connecting rod 140 may decrease. As a result, the detection value of the connecting rod strain detector 141 may sometimes decrease, and the actual value of the clamping force F may also decrease.

[0142] In addition, Figure 6 In this process, after the set value of the clamping force F is changed from the first set value F1 to the second set value F2, the actual value of the clamping force F stabilizes at the second set value F2, but sometimes it stabilizes at the value F2′ (F2′=F2+E (E is a value other than zero)) which is the displacement from the second set value F2. The error E is, for example, the error that occurs when converting the set value of the clamping force F into the set value of the crosshead position, or the error that occurs due to the dimensional changes of the mold device 800 accompanied by temperature changes.

[0143] Hereinafter, the time t0 at which the actual value of the clamping force F deviates from the reference value after stabilizing with a reference value (e.g., F2 or F2′) is called the reference time t0. Reference time t0 represents the time at which the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830. Reference time t0 is, for example, the time derivative of the actual value of the clamping force F exceeding a threshold. The threshold can be determined using input field A13 on screen 761 described later (see reference). Figure 7 Use this setting to make changes.

[0144] After the actual value of the clamping force F exceeds the reference value (e.g., F2 or F2′), it remains constant with a displacement from the reference value. This is because the clamping pressure P2 (P2 = F2 / S) is less than the filling pressure P1, and the fixed mold 810 and moving mold 820 will not close after opening. Furthermore, after the actual value of the clamping force F exceeds the reference value, it can decrease towards the reference value. This is because, regardless of the magnitude of the second set value F2, the reference timing t0 represents the timing at which the molding material M reaches the parting surface 830.

[0145] like Figure 3 As shown, the control device 700 may include a setting change unit 717. The setting change unit 717 changes the setting of the pressure increase timing based on the change in the actual value of the clamping force F monitored by the monitoring unit 716. For example, the setting change unit 717 changes the pressure increase timing so that the timing t1 at which the actual value of the clamping force F reaches the reference value (e.g., F2 or F2′) falls within the allowable range Δt1.

[0146] The allowable range Δt1 is set based on the reference timing t0. The allowable range Δt1 has a lower limit and an upper limit. When timing t1 falls within the allowable range Δt1, it can suppress the generation of spikes and postpone the pressure boost timing as much as possible, thereby also suppressing gas burning. It can automatically set pressure boost timings that were previously only set by skilled operators.

[0147] The allowed range Δt1 has a width, and its lower limit and upper limit are different. However, the allowed range Δt1 can be a point, and its lower limit and upper limit can be the same. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the allowable range Δt1 is the range earlier than the reference timing t0, but it can also be the range including the reference timing t0.

[0148] The center value of the allowable range Δt1 and the time difference Δt2 between the reference timing t0 can be set. The time difference Δt2 can be entered in input field A12 of screen 761 (described later). Figure 7 The value can be either the input field or a pre-set value. You can select which value to use using the input field A11 on screen 761, which will be described later.

[0149] When the timing t1 is reached earlier than the allowable range Δt1, the setting change unit 717 changes the boost timing setting to be delayed. Conversely, when the timing t1 is reached later than the allowable range Δt1, the setting change unit 717 changes the boost timing setting to be advanced. The setting change amount can be a predetermined amount or an amount corresponding to the deviation between the timing t1 and the allowable range Δt1. In the latter case, the larger the deviation between the timing t1 and the allowable range Δt1, the larger the setting change amount.

[0150] Changing the pressure boosting timing setting to earlier includes, for example, changing the mold clamping force switching position setting to later. On the other hand, changing the pressure boosting timing setting to later includes, for example, changing the mold clamping force switching position setting to earlier. In addition, as mentioned above, the pressure boosting timing can be set using the elapsed time from the start of the filling process instead of the mold clamping force switching position.

[0151] The setting change unit 717 repeatedly changes the setting of the boost timing until the timing t1 falls within the allowable range Δt1. For example, the setting change unit 717 changes the setting of the boost timing in the molding cycle after the (n+1)th molding cycle based on the timing t1 reached in the nth molding cycle (n is a natural number greater than or equal to 1).

[0152] (screen)

[0153] Next, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 An example of a screen 761 displayed via display device 760 will be described. For example... Figure 7 As shown, screen 761 may include, for example, an icon display area 762, a tab display area 763, and a selection screen display area 764. Screen 761 may be, for example, a touch panel 770 (see reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 (The image is shown.)

[0154] Multiple icons I1 to I9 are arranged in the icon display area 762. Icons I1 to I9 can be selected, for example, by an operator observing the tab display area 763 while touching the icons. Display control unit 720 (reference) Figure 3 The tabs corresponding to the input operations of the staff will be displayed in the tab display area 763.

[0155] In the tab display area 763, multiple tabs T1 to T4 are arranged according to each icon I1 to I9. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The multiple tabs T1 to T4 shown are displayed in the tab display area 763 when icon I4 is selected. Tabs T1 to T4 are selected, for example, by an operator observing the tab display area 763 while touching the tab. The display control unit 720 displays a selection screen corresponding to the operator's input operation in the selection screen display area 764.

[0156] The selection screen is displayed in the selection screen display area 764, showing the selection screen selected by each tab T1 to T4. Multiple selection screens are displayed and switched between in the selection screen display area 764. Figure 7 The selection screen 765 shown is displayed in the selection screen display area 764 when tab T3 is selected. Hereinafter, tab T3 will also be referred to as the first tab T3, and selection screen 765 will also be referred to as the first selection screen 765.

[0157] like Figure 7 As shown, the first selection screen 765 includes multiple input fields A1 to A14 for controlling the extraction of gas from the inside of the mold device 800 to the outside. By placing the multiple input fields A1 to A14 for controlling gas extraction all at once on the first selection screen 765, compared to the case where the multiple input fields A1 to A14 are distributed across multiple selection screens, it is possible to support the setting of controlling the extraction of gas.

[0158] Tab 1, T3, includes characters representing gases, for example. Besides "gas," other characters such as "gas" can also be used to represent gases. When an operator observes the tab display area 763, touching Tab 1, T3, will easily reveal the first selection screen 765 for controlling gas extraction displayed in the selection screen display area 764. Figure 7 As shown, tab 1 T3 may include the character for "vacuum". Although not shown, tab 1 T3 may include the character for "gas burn".

[0159] Controlling the extraction of gas from inside the mold device 800 to the outside may include, for example, selecting two or more from the first control, second control, and third control described later. By setting multiple input fields A1 to A14 for two or more controls together on the first selection screen 765, compared to the case where multiple input fields A1 to A14 are scattered across multiple selection screens, it is possible to support the setting of controlling the extraction of gas.

[0160] The first control is a control that limits the forward movement of the injection component during the holding process of an injection drive source that controls the forward and backward movement of the injection component in a way that makes the actual value of the pressure of the molding material acting on the front of the injection component from the injection component a set value. The injection component is, for example, a screw 330 (reference). Figure 1 and Figure 2 It can be a plunger, but it can also be an injection drive source, such as an injection motor 350, but it can also be a hydraulic cylinder, etc.

[0161] By implementing the first control, during the pressure holding process, even if the actual value of the filling pressure is less than the set value and the difference between the actual value and the set value is large, the forward speed or forward acceleration of the injection component will not exceed the upper limit. As a result, the molding material slowly flows into the cavity space 801, and the gas in the cavity space 801 easily escapes to the outside of the mold device 800.

[0162] The second control involves temporarily stopping the injection component at the end of the filling process of the injection drive source that drives the injection component forward and backward, in a manner that controls the actual value of the movement speed of the injection component pushing the molding material from rear to front to a set value. By temporarily stopping the injection component before the V / P switch, the flow of molding material into the cavity space 801 can be slowed down. Therefore, the gas in the cavity space 801 can easily escape to the outside of the mold assembly 800.

[0163] The third control involves controlling the clamping force F by adjusting the timing of a pressure increase during the filling process of the injection drive source that drives the injection component forward and backward, so that the actual value of the moving speed of the injection component pushing the molding material from rear to front is a set value. By setting the clamping force F to low before the middle of the filling process, the gas in the cavity space 801 can easily escape to the outside of the mold assembly 800. Furthermore, by setting the clamping force F to high after the middle of the filling process, the generation of burrs can be suppressed.

[0164] The first selection screen 765 includes multiple input fields A1 to A2 for the first control. These input fields A1 to A2 are located in the first input area 765a. Input field A1 is used to input the upper limit value of the forward speed of the injection component during the pressure holding process. Input field A2 is used to input the upper limit value of the forward acceleration of the injection component during the pressure holding process.

[0165] The limiting unit 715 restricts the forward movement of the injection component during the pressure holding process according to the settings entered in input fields A1 and A2.

[0166] The first selection screen 765 includes multiple input fields A3 to A5 for the second control. These input fields A3 to A5 are located in the second input area 765b. Input field A3 allows you to select whether to set the stop time for temporarily stopping the injection component before V / P switching to "automatic" or "manual".

[0167] Enter the stop time set to "Auto" in input field A4. Input field A4 can be a toggle or drop-down menu, allowing you to select one candidate from a list of pre-registered candidates. For example, ... Figure 7 As shown, when the "Fill Time Ratio" is entered in input field A4, the stop time is a time that has a specified ratio relative to the filling process time. Enter the stop time set to "Manual" in input field A5.

[0168] The injection control unit 713 temporarily stops the injection component before performing a V / P switch, according to the settings entered in input fields A3 to A5. However, if "manual" is entered in input field A3 and "0.0" is entered in input field A5, the injection control unit 713 will not temporarily stop the injection component before performing a V / P switch.

[0169] The first selection screen 765 includes multiple input fields A6 to A9 for the third control. These input fields A6 to A9 are located in the third input area 765c. Input field A6 is used to select whether to increase the clamping force F midway through the filling process, i.e., whether to implement the third control. Input field A6 is, for example, a switch-type or drop-down type input field, where one candidate input field is selected from multiple pre-registered candidates. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, when "Multiple Switch" is entered in input field A6, the third control is implemented. Although not shown, when "Choose" is entered in input field A6, the third control is not implemented.

[0170] Enter the first setting value F1 for the clamping force F in input field A7. The first setting value F1 is entered as a ratio relative to the second setting value F2. Enter the boost timing in input field A8. The boost timing is set, for example, using the position of the injection part. Alternatively, the boost timing can be set using the elapsed time since the start of the filling process. Enter the second setting value F2 for the clamping force F in input field A9.

[0171] When "multiple switching" is entered in input field A6, the mold closing control unit 711 increases the mold closing force F midway through the filling process according to the settings entered in input fields A7 to A9.

[0172] The first selection screen 765 includes multiple input fields A10 to A14 for automatically changing the settings of the third control, that is, for implementing the setting changes of the third control performed by the setting change unit 717. These input fields A10 to A14 are located in the fourth input area 765d.

[0173] In input field A10, enter your selection of whether to allow settings changes for the third control. Input field A10 is, for example, a switch-type or drop-down input field, and selects one candidate input field from multiple pre-registered candidates. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, when "Timer" is entered in input field A10, the settings of the third control can be changed. Although not shown, when "Cut" is entered in input field A10, the settings of the third control are disabled.

[0174] In input field A11, enter your choice of whether to set the time difference Δt2 using "Automatic" or "Manual" settings. For example, ... Figure 7 As shown, when "Automatic" is entered in input field A11, the time difference Δt2 is a time with a specified ratio relative to the filling process time. The time difference Δt2 is entered in input field A12 to be set as "Manual".

[0175] Enter the threshold value to be referenced at the base timing t0 in input field A13. Input field A13 can be a switch or drop-down menu, and it selects one candidate from multiple pre-registered candidates. The candidate is represented in multiple stages based on the threshold value, for example, "high", "standard", and "low".

[0176] Input field A14 is the start button for initiating settings changes for the third control. If the start button for input field A14 is pressed while "timer" is entered in input field A10, the settings change unit 717 will begin changing the settings for the third control according to the settings entered in input fields A11 to A13.

[0177] Figure 8 The selection screen 766 shown is displayed in the selection screen display area 764 when tab T4 is selected. Hereinafter, tab T4 will also be referred to as the second tab T4, and selection screen 766 will also be referred to as the second selection screen 766. The second selection screen 766 includes an input field A15 for indicating whether to display the selection of the first tab T3 in the tab display area 763.

[0178] Input field A15, for example, is a switch-type or drop-down input field, where one candidate input is selected from multiple pre-registered candidates. For example, as... Figure 7As shown, when "enter" is input into the input field A15, the first tab T3 is displayed in the tab display area 763. Although not shown, when "switch" is input into the input field A15, the first tab T3 is not displayed in the tab display area 763.

[0179] Through the input field A15, the display of the tab display area 763 can be switched. When the staff does not use the first tab T3, the first tab T3 can be removed from the tab display area 763, thereby improving the visual recognition of the tab display area 763.

[0180] As described above, the embodiments of the display device of the injection molding machine according to the present invention have been described, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and the like. Within the scope described in the technical solution, various changes, corrections, replacements, additions, deletions, and combinations can be made. Of course, these also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A display device for an injection molding machine, comprising a screen display area having a tab display area with a plurality of tabs arranged therein and a selection screen display area displaying a selection screen for each of the tabs, wherein in the display device of the injection molding machine, The tab display area has a first tab for settings related to the control of extracted gas and a third tab for settings related to injection. When the first tab is selected, the first selection screen displayed in the selection screen display area includes multiple input fields for controlling the extraction of gas from the inside to the outside of the mold device. The first tab contains the following three screens arranged from top to bottom: The section for setting the pressure holding time; The fields for inputting the on / off state of the third control and the field for manually setting the boost timer; and This field sets the time difference between the timed timing and the baseline timing.

2. The display device for the injection molding machine according to claim 1, wherein, The first tab includes characters representing gases.

3. The display device for the injection molding machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control of drawing gas from the inside of the mold assembly to the outside includes a first control, which restricts the forward movement of the injection component during the pressure-holding process of the injection drive source that controls the forward and backward movement of the injection component in a manner that makes the actual value of the pressure of the molding material acting on the front of the injection component from the injection component a set value. The first selection screen includes an input field for the first control.

4. The display device for the injection molding machine according to claim 1, wherein, The control of drawing gas from the inside of the mold assembly to the outside includes a second control, which controls the injection component to temporarily stop at the end of the filling process of the injection drive source that drives the injection component to move forward and backward, in a manner that makes the actual value of the moving speed of the injection component that pushes the molding material from the rear to the front a set value. The first selection screen includes an input field for the second control.

5. The display device for the injection molding machine according to claim 1, wherein, The control of drawing gas from the inside of the mold assembly to the outside includes the third control, which controls a predetermined pressure boosting time during the filling process of the injection drive source that moves the injection component forward and backward, such that the actual value of the moving speed of the injection component that pushes the molding material from the rear to the front is a set value, thereby increasing the clamping force. The first selection screen includes an input field for the third control.

6. The display device for the injection molding machine according to claim 1, wherein, The control of drawing gas from the inside of the mold assembly to the outside includes the third control, which controls a predetermined pressure boosting time during the filling process of the injection drive source that moves the injection component forward and backward, such that the actual value of the moving speed of the injection component that pushes the molding material from the rear to the front is a set value, thereby increasing the clamping force. The first selection screen includes an input field for automatically changing the settings of the third control.

7. The display device for the injection molding machine according to claim 1, wherein, The tab display area has a second tab. When the second tab is selected, the second selection screen displayed in the selection screen display area includes an input field for indicating whether the first tab is displayed in the tab display area.

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