Injection mold

Abstract

An injection mold (1) adapted to be arranged in an injection molding machine (2) and to be interconnected with said injection molding machine during operation for injection molding of a plastic part, said injection mold (1) comprising at least one sensor (3) and a tamper-proof protection assembly (4) for protecting said injection mold (1). The protection assembly comprises an electronic circuit (5) interconnected with said at least one sensor (3) and configured to detect at least one critical injection mold condition based on at least one predetermined condition, and an interrupting device (6) interconnected with said electronic circuit (5) and configured to at least temporarily directly and / or indirectly interrupt the operation of said injection mold (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of injection molding of plastics and other thermoplastic materials. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an injection mold including a protective device for protecting the injection mold. Background Technology

[0002] Based on existing technology, injection molds with limited safety capabilities are known.

[0003] US2016332350A1, published in November 2016 under the name Inglass SPA, relates to a method for managing an injection molding apparatus for plastic materials. The apparatus includes at least one injection molder, comprising a needle valve movable between a fully closed position and an open position, an actuator for operating the needle valve, and an electronic control unit for the actuator. The method provides steps for providing auxiliary power and configuring the electronic control unit to operate an emergency command in the event of a main power failure, by which the needle valve of the injection molder is positioned in the fully closed position via the auxiliary power.

[0004] US10525626B2, published in January 2020 under the name of Imflux Corporation, describes a method for monitoring and controlling molding processes using strain changes sensed by strain gauges. It establishes a target strain profile for the molding process of the molding equipment. Upper and lower limits for deviation from the target strain profile used for the molding process are provided. An alarm is activated if the sensed strain change exceeds the deviation limits. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Pre-existing injection molds present several disadvantages in a globalized and increasingly digitally interconnected industry. This is particularly true when owners of expensive injection molds outsource their use to third parties, such as contract manufacturers. Here, proper use of the injection mold is crucial for the mold owner, meaning maintaining process parameters within predetermined ranges during operation. Furthermore, maintenance and / or repair procedures for the injection mold should be performed correctly according to predetermined and / or indicated procedures. In other words, improper use of the injection mold should be detected, predicted, and prevented, if necessary.

[0006] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to an injection mold that typically includes a first mold half and a second mold half, the first and second mold halves being arranged to be movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position during operation. The first and second mold halves typically form at least one cavity in the closed position to accommodate molten plastic. It should be understood that more complex injection molds including two or more mold halves also form part of this disclosure, particularly cubic molds.

[0007] Good results can be obtained when the injection mold includes at least one sensor. The at least one sensor is preferably connected to a tamper-proof protection component for protecting the injection mold. The tamper-proof protection component may be at least partially attached to and / or integrated into at least one of the half-mold components. The at least one sensor can typically be at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a (melting or cavity) pressure sensor, a proximity or contact sensor, an optical sensor, an acoustic sensor, or an acceleration sensor. Depending on the field of application, the injection mold may include multiple sensors, particularly combinations of the above types of sensors. Preferably, the protection component can protect the injection mold autonomously, particularly without external supervision; however, if appropriate, the protection component can be configured to receive external input.

[0008] Typically, the tamper-proof protection component includes electronic circuitry interconnected with the at least one sensor and configured to detect and predict at least one critical injection mold condition based on at least one predetermined condition. To allow for individual protection of the injection mold, an interruption device is interconnected with the electronic circuitry and configured to at least temporarily interrupt the operation of the injection mold, directly and / or indirectly. In this way, the capabilities of the injection mold are extended beyond mere monitoring to include effective protection. Preferably, the electronic circuitry is configured to actuate the interruption device upon detecting and predicting critical injection mold conditions. The interruption device and the electronic circuitry will be described in more detail below.

[0009] The electronic circuitry typically has a centralized topology, wherein one or more sensors in the injection mold are interconnected to the electronic circuitry. However, a distributed topology is also feasible, where at least one electronic sub-circuit is interconnected to one or more sensors, and the electronic sub-circuit is configured to detect at least one critical injection mold condition based on at least one predetermined condition. This at least one sub-circuit is preferably interconnected to a (main) electronic circuitry for providing data related to the conditions of the injection moldry to the (main) circuitry.

[0010] Preferably, the electronic circuitry is arranged in a housing attached to and / or integrated into the injection mold. If appropriate, the housing may be attached to the exterior of the injection mold. In some variations, the housing of the electronic circuitry may also form part of a cable junction box of the injection mold.

[0011] When the enclosure is tamper-proof, good results can be obtained, making unauthorized access to the electronic circuitry detectable. If necessary, the electronic circuitry can be configured to actuate the interrupting device upon detection of unauthorized access. Depending on the design, an electrical tamper detection circuit interconnected with the electronic circuitry can be located at or integrated into the enclosure. The electrical tamper detection circuitry can be formed as a sensor, such as a contact sensor or a distance sensor; however, other implementations are also feasible. The electronic circuitry can monitor the electrical tamper detection circuitry to detect interference, thereby detecting unauthorized access to the enclosure, particularly interference that may be caused by opening the enclosure. Upon detection of interference with the electrical tamper detection circuitry, the electronic circuitry can actuate the interrupting device. To allow for maintenance by authorized personnel, the electronic circuitry can be configured to receive input from an interconnected input device to at least temporarily prevent actuation of the interrupting device, particularly when interference with the tamper detection circuitry is detected. When the received input, such as an access code, is verified in the electronic circuitry, the electronic circuitry can temporarily ignore the interference with the tamper detection circuitry.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, the housing and / or its attachment members for attaching the housing to the injection mold may be tamper-proof. This can be achieved, for example, by using tamper-proof screws with special screw heads, making them removable only with specific tools. Typically, these tools can only be used by authorized personnel.

[0013] To further prevent tampering, the interruption device is preferably configured to activate automatically when disconnected from the electronic circuitry. In this way, protection of the injection mold can be ensured autonomously.

[0014] To effectively protect the injection mold, the interruption device is preferably configured to block the supply to the injection mold. This supply can be at least one of the following: a hydraulic supply, a pneumatic supply, an electrical supply, or a molten plastic supply. Therefore, the interruption device can be configured as a valve, a switch, or an actuator, or a combination thereof. The supply that can be blocked by the interruption device is preferably a supply critical to the operation of the injection mold. According to an embodiment, the interruption device may include an actuator and a valve connected thereto, at least temporarily controlled by the actuator. The actuator is further preferably connected to the electronic circuitry and configured to open or close the valve.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, the interruption device can block externally monitored process variables of the injection mold. Specifically, the interruption device can be configured to manipulate sensor data transmitted from sensors disposed in or at the injection mold to external electronic circuitry connected thereto, such that the external electronic circuitry, based on the manipulated sensor data, can at least temporarily halt the operation of the injection mold and / or the injection molding machine. In other words, the interruption device can manipulate the sensor data, for example, to induce a (simulated / virtual) malfunction of the injection mold, which can be detected by the external electronic circuitry. Alternatively or additionally, the interruption device can be configured to transmit an interrupt / stop operation signal to external electronic circuitry connected thereto. The external electronic circuitry can, in particular, form part of the injection molding machine and / or at least one process controller.

[0016] In a preferred variant, the electronic circuitry can serve as the interruption device. This allows for simple design of the protective components and easy reassembly of the injection molds known according to the prior art.

[0017] A second aspect of this disclosure relates to electronic circuitry for monitoring at least one condition of the injection mold, the electronic circuitry typically including at least one processor. The electronic circuitry described herein can also be used with injection molds not described herein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to pursue this aspect separately in one or more divisional applications.

[0018] The at least one processor of the electronic circuit is preferably configured to determine at least one time interval. The determined at least one time interval may be measured between receiving two definable sensor data points. Alternatively or additionally, the determined at least one time interval may be measured between two or more definable inputs received from an input device connected to the electronic circuit. If appropriate, the at least one time interval may be used to verify in the processor whether a specific maintenance or repair procedure has been performed. The at least one time interval may be at least one of the following: downtime, cycle duration, or the time between two (specific) input values ​​received from an input device connected to the electronic circuit, for example, in relation to a (specific) maintenance / repair period.

[0019] Depending on the required computational workload, the at least one processor may be a microprocessor, such as an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array); however, general-purpose computing units such as CPUs (Central Processing Units) or combinations thereof are conceivable.

[0020] For good performance, the electronic circuitry may include at least one memory, which is configured to at least temporarily store:

[0021] Sensor data received from the at least one sensor, and / or

[0022] At least one time interval, and / or

[0023] At least one input value received from the input device connected to the electronic circuit, and / or

[0024] Values ​​derived from the sensor data and / or the at least one time interval, and / or

[0025] The at least one input value, and / or

[0026] The above combinations.

[0027] In this case, the at least one processor is preferably configured to detect the critical conditions of the injection mold based at least in part on data stored in the memory. This allows the at least one processor to detect the critical conditions of the injection mold based on stored data (particularly including historical measurement data). The input device can be configured as a keyboard, however, an optical or short-range radio interface, such as a QR code scanner or RFID scanner, or a combination thereof, is also possible.

[0028] In one variant, the at least one processor is configured to adapt at least two predetermined conditions based on historical data stored in the at least one memory. This allows, for example, consideration of the aging of the injection mold and adjustment of the predetermined conditions accordingly.

[0029] Depending on the application, the at least one memory is configured to store reference data for the at least one predetermined condition. The reference data can be understood as a standard used for the at least one predetermined condition. The reference data may include at least one threshold and / or at least one comparison value. In this case, the at least one processor is preferably configured to determine whether at least one of the following (see below) is higher than or lower than the at least one threshold and / or does not match a comparison value, each threshold and comparison value defining a critical injection mold condition:

[0030] Sensor data received from the at least one sensor, and / or

[0031] The at least one time interval and / or at least one input value received from an input device connected to the electronic circuit, and / or

[0032] Values ​​derived from the sensor data, and / or

[0033] The at least one time interval, and / or

[0034] The at least one input value, and / or

[0035] The above combinations

[0036] The at least one threshold may be a fixed value such as an upper temperature limit; however, the threshold is not limited to a fixed value and may include, for example, limits on the variation of the temperature profile relative to a reference temperature profile (set temperature sensor data points). The at least one threshold may also define limits on derived or relative values, such as limits on the deviation of two simultaneous measurements from two sensors. The comparison value may, for example, but not limited to, a part identifier (ID) for a spare part installed in the injection mold. The part ID may be input via an input device configured to transmit the part ID to a processor connected thereto, enabling the processor to compare the part ID with reference data to verify the consistency of the spare part. In this way, it can be ensured that the correct part and / or a part of known origin that meets quality standards is installed during the repair and / or maintenance of the injection mold.

[0037] For granular monitoring, the injection mold includes: at least one replaceable component with a component identification (ID); and electronic circuitry configured to store the component identification of the at least one replaceable component and to detect at least one critical injection mold condition based on at least one definable critical condition of the at least one replaceable component. In this case, the injection mold is a multi-part injection mold. The at least one replaceable component can be at least one of the following: a cavity block, a cavity plate, a cavity insert, a slider, a sensor, a hot runner section, or a nozzle. Typically, the performance / condition of the injection mold depends on the performance / condition of the at least one replaceable component. This component may be subject to wear and therefore requires regular maintenance. The component ID can be implemented, for example, as an engraved mark on the replaceable component.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one replaceable component includes an information carrier storing at least one component identifier readable by an input device connected to the electronic circuitry. The information carrier may be implemented as a QR code, barcode, RFID tag, NFC tag (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth beacon, or storage device interconnected to the electronic circuitry via a cable. Furthermore, the information carrier may store at least one of the following: threshold data defining critical conditions for the at least one replaceable component; historical data related to the use of the at least one replaceable component; molding formula data for the replaceable component; or a combination thereof.

[0039] The input device can be configured to obtain the component identifier from the replaceable component in an automatic, semi-automatic, or manual manner and forward it to the electronic circuitry. Manual can be understood herein as the input device receiving the component identifier via manual input from a user, such as keyboard input. Automatic can be understood as the input device being configured to read the component identifier from the replaceable component without user interaction when the replaceable component is installed in the injection mold. Semi-automatic generally refers to the input device reading the component identifier from the replaceable component when the replaceable component is present or within the reading range of the input device.

[0040] When the electronic circuitry is configured to determine the critical conditions of the at least one replaceable component based at least in part on data received from the at least one sensor, favorable results are possible. This allows for the determination of the conditions of the at least one replaceable component, particularly during operation. Preferably, the data received from the at least one sensor in the electronic circuitry relates to at least one of the following: the operating temperature of the at least one replaceable component or the number of cycles of the injection mold, preferably the at least one replaceable component. However, depending on the type of sensor, other data may be received from the at least one sensor, such as pressure data, proximity data, etc.

[0041] To achieve the intended operation of the injection mold, the electronic circuitry may include at least one communication unit configured to transmit an analysis request, comprising data relating to at least one condition of the injection mold, to a computer system via a communication network. This enables the computer system to obtain an injection mold analysis, at least in part, based on the data in the analysis request, and to transmit the injection mold analysis for display to a visual user interface. Alternatively or additionally, the processor may also be configured to obtain the injection mold analysis. Preferably, the processor may transmit the injection mold analysis to a visual user interface for display.

[0042] According to the design, the electronic circuitry may include a positioning module to determine the location of the injection mold within a production and / or storage area, particularly relative to the injection molding machine. Preferably, the analysis request also includes the location of the injection mold, particularly geolocation data such as GPS coordinates.

[0043] If appropriate, the electronic circuitry can be configured to receive data from the injection molding machine that is at least related to the operation. In this case, the analysis request may also include at least a portion of the data received from the injection molding machine.

[0044] In a preferred variant, the electronic circuitry is configured to trigger an alarm if disconnected from the interrupting device. Specifically, the communication unit may be configured to transmit alarm messages to the computer system via a communication network, enabling the computer system to process and / or transmit the alarm messages for display to the visual user interface.

[0045] For ease of use, the visual user interface is advantageously designed as a user-interactive dashboard accessible to the operator via a user device (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop connected to the computer system via the communication network). However, as described above and further below, the electronic circuitry can be directly connected to the user device and / or the visual user interface. The communication network typically includes mobile wireless networks such as GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), 5G, WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network), etc. However, alternatively or additionally, the communication network may include wire- or cable-based networks, such as networks provided by LAN (Local Area Network), Ethernet connections, or USB connections, and / or the Internet.

[0046] If appropriate, the injection mold analysis includes at least one of the following: at least one condition of the injection mold and / or at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold corresponding to at least one of the following: value, target, status, trend, and / or weight. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one communication unit may be configured to receive an analysis response from the computer system via a communication network. The analysis response may include at least one condition of the injection mold and / or at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold and / or instructions for the interruption device. According to an embodiment, the analysis response may alternatively or additionally include reference data for updating the reference data stored in the memory of the electronic circuitry.

[0047] The at least one KPI can be understood, but is not limited to, as a measure of the health (indicating the need for repair and / or maintenance) or performance (indicating the possibility of improving operation) of the injection mold. The at least one KPI can assist the operator of the injection mold in increasing its lifespan and / or efficiency. However, the KPI can also indicate the correct operation of the injection mold, for example, how well the predetermined repair and / or maintenance procedures and / or predetermined operating conditions of the injection mold are followed.

[0048] Depending on the application field, the at least one processor of the electronic circuit is preferably configured to determine at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold based on data stored in the at least one memory, and to provide the at least one KPI for display to a visual user interface connected to the electronic circuit. The visual user interface may be integrated into a user device, or it may be integrated into the injection molding machine or the injection mold. As described above, the at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold may correspond to a value, target, status, trend, and weight.

[0049] To simplify and facilitate the minimization of problems in the injection mold operation, the electronic circuitry can be configured to trigger the display of maintenance information on a visual user interface directly or indirectly connected to it based on at least one condition of the injection mold. Preferably, the maintenance information relates to potential improvements in the at least one KPI, such as health or performance. The maintenance information may include notifications and / or descriptions of the at least one condition of the injection mold. Alternatively or additionally, the maintenance information may include guidelines, particularly visual guidelines, such as instructions based on pictures or videos, for performing repair and / or maintenance procedures related to the at least one condition of the injection mold. For example, the electronic circuitry may trigger the display of a notification of sensor failure and, in addition, provide video instructions on how to replace the faulty sensor with a spare sensor.

[0050] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and features of this disclosure. The inclusion of the accompanying drawings is intended to provide a further understanding and is incorporated into and constitutes a part of this application. The drawings illustrate various embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operation of the disclosed concepts. Attached Figure Description

[0051] The disclosure described herein will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings given below, which should not be construed as limiting the disclosure described in the appended claims. The drawings show:

[0052] Figure 1This is the first variation of the injection mold;

[0053] Figure 2 This is the second variation of the injection mold;

[0054] Figure 3 A block diagram of the protective components;

[0055] Figure 4 A block diagram of an electronic circuit;

[0056] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an injection mold connected to a computer system and a visual user interface;

[0057] Figure 6 A timing diagram illustrating an exemplary sequence of steps is provided for transferring data from an injection mold to a visual user interface; and

[0058] Figure 7 This is the third variation of injection molds. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Reference will now be made in detail to certain embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, features are shown. In fact, the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same parts or components.

[0060] Figure 1 The first variation of injection mold 1 is shown, while Figure 2 A second variation of injection mold 1 is shown. Figure 3 A block diagram of protection component 4 is shown, while Figure 4 It shows the formation Figure 3 The electronic circuit 5 is part of the protection component 4. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an injection mold 1 connected to a computer system 12 and a visual user interface 15 is shown. Figure 6 The diagram illustrates a sequence of exemplary steps for transferring data from an injection mold to a visual user interface. Figure 7 A third variation of the injection mold according to this disclosure is shown.

[0061] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Two variations of the injection mold 1 according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 7A similar third variation is shown. These are shown arranged in an injection molding machine 2. In the variation shown, the injection mold 1 includes a first half and a second half attached to the injection molding machine 2, respectively, such that they can move relative to each other between an open position and a closed position during operation. In the closed position, the first half and the second half typically form at least one cavity (not shown) adapted to receive molten plastic to form a plastic part. Both variations of the injection mold 1 include at least one sensor 3 interconnected with a tamper-proof protection assembly 4 of the injection mold 1 for protecting the injection mold 1.

[0062] The tamper-proof protection component 4 typically includes electronic circuitry 5, which is interconnected with at least one sensor 3 and configured to detect at least one critical injection mold condition based on at least one predetermined condition. Electronic circuitry 5... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram is shown below and described in more detail. For optimal results, the protection component 4 also includes an interruption device 6 interconnected with the electronic circuitry 4 and configured to interrupt the operation of the injection mold 1 at least temporarily, directly and / or indirectly. The electronic circuitry 5 is typically configured to actuate the interruption device 6 upon detection of critical injection mold conditions, thereby protecting the injection mold 1 from harmful operating conditions.

[0063] like Figure 2 In the second variant of the injection mold 1, the electronic circuit 5 can be arranged in the housing 7, as shown in the example. Figure 1 As shown, the housing is attached to the injection mold 1. In this variant ( Figure 2 The outer casing forms a component of the cable connector box 17 of the injection mold 1, for efficient wiring therebetween. This allows the sensor 3, which is connected to the cable connector box 17, to be easily connected to the electronic circuit 5.

[0064] In the first variant, such as Figure 1 As shown, the interruption device 6 is configured to interrupt the supply 8 of the injection mold. The supply 8 may be, in particular, a hydraulic supply, a pneumatic supply, or an electric supply for controlling the melt flow within the injection mold 1. In the variant shown, the interruption device 6 includes an actuator 19 and a valve 20 connected thereto and controlled by the actuator 19, wherein the actuator 19 controls the movement of a needle (not shown) for opening and closing the valve 20. Figure 3 This embodiment of the interrupt device 6 is illustrated schematically.

[0065] like Figure 2In the second variant shown, the interruption device 6 is integrated into the electronic circuit 5 and connected to an external electronic circuit 18. In this variant, the external electronic circuit 18 forms part of the injection molding machine 2 and is configured to at least temporarily control the operation of the injection molding machine 2. Upon detection of critical mold conditions, the electronic circuit 5 actuates the interruption device 6, which then transmits an interrupt / stop operation signal to the external electronic circuit 18. This enables the external electronic circuit 18 to at least temporarily stop the operation of the injection mold 1. Alternatively or additionally, the interruption device 6 can manipulate sensor data transmitted from sensors 3 arranged in or at the injection mold to the external electronic circuit 18 connected thereto. This allows the external electronic circuit 18 to at least temporarily halt the operation of the injection mold 1 and / or the injection molding machine 2 based on the manipulated sensor data.

[0066] Figure 3 A block diagram of the protection assembly 4, including electronic circuit 5 and interruption device 6, is shown. Furthermore, at least one sensor 3 connected to the electronic circuit provides sensor data to the illustrated electronic circuit 5. Additionally, an external electronic circuit 18 is shown connected to the electronic circuit 5. Once the electronic circuit 5 detects critical injection mold conditions, the interruption device 6 can, depending on the change, either block the supply 8 controlled by valve 20 or trigger a stop operation of the injection molding machine 2 via the external electronic circuit 18.

[0067] exist Figure 4 The diagram shows a block diagram of electronic circuit 5 and its connected computer system 13, input device 10, and sensor 3. Variations of the electronic circuit 5 shown include a processor 9, memory 11, communication unit 12, and positioning module 16. The processor 9 is typically configured to interact with the shown components of electronic circuit 5; however, direct interaction between components of electronic circuit 5 is also possible. The communication device is preferably configured to communicate with the (remote) computer system via communication network 14, and is particularly configured to transmit analysis requests to computer system 13 and to receive analysis responses from that computer system.

[0068] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a production site is shown, which includes at least one injection mold 1 connected to a computer system 13. In the illustrated case, there are two injection molds 1, each arranged in an injection molding machine. One of the injection molds 1 ( Figure 5The one on the right is connected to the local computer system 13 via a local communication network 14, such as LAN, USB, WiFi, or Bluetooth. In this embodiment, a visual user interface 15 is integrated into the local computer system 13. Furthermore, the same injection mold 1 is connected to a remote computer system 13 via the same or another communication network 14 (e.g., GSM or the Internet). The second visual user interface 15 forms a component of the user device 21 connected to the remote computer system 13. Figure 5 The one on the left is indirectly connected to the remote computer system 13 via a local gateway 22 that can be connected to multiple injection molds 1. The electronic circuit 5 is typically configured to communicate with one or more local gateways 22. The local gateway 22 can forward data received from the injection mold 1 to the computer system 13 (remote / local) and vice versa.

[0069] exist Figure 6 The diagram illustrates exemplary steps related to communication between electronic circuit 5 and computer system 13, and indirectly utilizes a visual user interface 15. The communication unit 12 of electronic circuit 5 is preferably configured to transmit an analysis request S1 to computer system 13. The analysis request typically includes at least data related to at least one condition of the injection mold. This data may be, but is not limited to, cycle count data, pressure or temperature data, error code data, spare part ID data, location data, downtime data, or certification data, etc. This enables computer system 13 to obtain injection mold analysis S2 based on the received data, which includes at least one KPI. Furthermore, the analysis of injection mold 1 may include maintenance information related to at least one condition of injection mold 1 and its improvement. Computer system 13 may use historical data on injection mold conditions and machine learning methods to improve the accuracy of injection mold analysis.

[0070] In the example shown, computer system 13 transmits at least part of the injection mold analysis for display, S3, to visualization user interface 15. Upon receiving at least part of the injection mold analysis, visualization user interface 15 can display S4, such as KPIs or conditions for injection mold 1. Visualization user interface 15 is typically implemented as a user-interactive visualization user interface and configured to display information upon user request. If appropriate, visualization user interface 15 is configured to communicate with computer system 13 to request additional data, S4.1, from computer system 13 and to display the additional data upon receiving S4.1 from computer system 13.

[0071] In step S5, as Figure 6As shown, the communication unit 12 can also be configured to receive the S5 analysis response from the computer system 13 via the communication network 14. This analysis response may include internal instructions for the electronic circuit 5, depending on the conditions of the injection mold 1 and therefore on the injection mold analysis. For example, if the computer system 13 obtains an injection mold analysis indicating undesirable mold conditions, this instruction may actuate the interruption device 6. In this case, the electronic circuit 5 can execute the S6 instruction and actuate the interruption device 6 to at least temporarily halt the operation of the injection mold 1.

[0072] like Figure 7 As shown, a third variant of the injection mold includes a replaceable component 23. The replaceable component 23 is removably attached to the injection mold 1. An information carrier 24 is attached to the replaceable component 23. The information carrier 24 is configured to store a component identifier for identifying the replaceable component 23. An input device 10 connected to the electronic circuit 5 is configured to read the component identifier from the information carrier 24 and forward the component identifier to the electronic circuit 5. In the third variant shown, the replaceable component 23 is a cavity plate comprising multiple cavities attached to a base manifold of the injection mold 1. The information carrier is an RFID tag, on which multiple cycle thresholds, in addition to the component identifier, are stored, exceeding which maintenance of the cavity plate is required. The input device 10 is implemented as an RFID reader for identifying the cavity plate and receiving the thresholds therefrom. The sensor 3 is implemented as a cycle counter. In this configuration, an interruption device is actuated when a certain range of thresholds is exceeded to ensure maintenance of the replaceable component 23 and thus its proper functioning.

[0073] Conversely, the terms used in this specification are descriptive rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0074] List of reference numerals

[0075] 1 Injection mold

[0076] 2 Injection Molding Machine

[0077] 3 Sensors

[0078] 4 Protection Components

[0079] 5 Electronic Circuits

[0080] 6. Interrupt device

[0081] 7. Casing (Electronic Circuits)

[0082] 8. Supply

[0083] 9. Processor (electronic circuit)

[0084] 10 Input Devices

[0085] 11. Memory (electronic circuit)

[0086] 12. Communication Unit (Electronic Circuit)

[0087] 13 Computer Systems

[0088] 14. Communication Network

[0089] 15 Visual User Interface

[0090] 16. Positioning Module (Electronic Circuit)

[0091] 17 Cable junction box

[0092] 18 External electronic circuits

[0093] 19 Actuators

[0094] 20 valves

[0095] 21 User Equipment

[0096] 22 Gateways

[0097] 23 Replaceable parts

[0098] 24 Information carriers

Claims

1. An injection mold (1) adapted to be arranged in an injection molding machine (2) and interconnected with the injection molding machine (2) during operation for injection molding of plastic parts, the injection mold (1) comprising: a. At least one sensor (3), said at least one sensor being a temperature sensor and / or a pressure sensor; b. A tamper-proof protection component (4) for autonomously protecting the injection mold (1), the tamper-proof protection component comprising: i. Electronic circuit (5), said electronic circuit being interconnected with said at least one sensor (3), and said electronic circuit (5) comprising 1) At least one memory (11), said at least one memory being configured to at least temporarily store a. Sensor data received from the at least one of the sensors; and / or b. Values ​​derived from the sensor data; or c. The combination of the sensor data and the value; and 2) At least one processor (9), said at least one processor being configured to detect critical conditions of the injection mold based at least in part on data stored in said memory (11); and ii. An interruption device (6) interconnected with the electronic circuit (5) and configured to at least temporarily and directly interrupt the operation of the injection mold (1) to protect the injection mold; The interruption device is configured to interrupt the supply of the injection mold, the supply being at least one of the following: a hydraulic supply, a pneumatic supply, an electric supply, or a molten plastic supply, and the interruption device is configured as a valve, a switch, or an actuator.

2. The injection mold (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) is configured to actuate the interruption device (6) when critical injection mold conditions are detected.

3. The injection mold (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) is arranged in a housing (7), which is attached to and / or combined with the injection mold (1).

4. The injection mold (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The casing (7) is tamper-proof, enabling the detection of unauthorized access to the electronic circuit (5).

5. The injection mold (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The interrupting device (6) is configured to activate automatically when disconnected from the electronic circuit (5).

6. The injection mold (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The interruption device (6) is configured to manipulate sensor data transmitted from a sensor arranged in or at the injection mold (1) to an external electronic circuit (5) connected thereto, so that the external electronic circuit (5) can, based on the manipulated sensor data, at least temporarily prevent the operation of the injection mold (1) and / or the injection molding machine (2).

7. The injection mold (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) serves as the interrupt device (6).

8. The injection mold (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) includes at least one processor (9), which is configured to determine at least one time interval as follows: a. The time interval between receiving two quantifiable sensor data points; and / or b. The time interval between two or more definable inputs received from the input device (10) connected to the electronic circuit (5).

9. The injection mold (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) includes: a. At least one memory (11), said at least one memory being configured for at least temporary storage: i. Sensor data received from the at least one sensor; and / or ii. at least one time interval; and / or iii. At least one input value received from the input device (10) connected to the electronic circuit (5); and / or iv. Values ​​derived from the sensor data and / or the at least one time interval and / or the at least one input value; or v. the combination of the above; and b. At least one processor (9), the at least one processor being configured to detect critical conditions of the injection mold based at least in part on data stored in the memory (11).

10. The injection mold (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The at least one memory is configured to store reference data for the at least one predetermined condition, the reference data including at least one threshold and / or at least one comparison value; and the at least one processor (9) is configured to determine at least one of the following: a. Sensor data received from the at least one sensor; and / or b. the at least one time interval; and / or c. At least one input value received from the input device (10) connected to the electronic circuit (5); and / or d. Values ​​derived from the sensor data and / or the at least one time interval and / or the at least one input value; and / or e. The above combinations Whether it is higher or lower than the at least one threshold and / or does not match the comparison value, each of the threshold and the comparison value respectively defines the critical injection mold conditions.

11. The injection mold (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) includes at least one communication unit (12), which is configured to: a. Transmitting an analysis request, including data relating to at least one condition of the injection mold, to a computer system (13) via a communication network (14), so that the computer system (13) can obtain an injection mold analysis based at least in part on the data in the analysis request, and transmitting the injection mold analysis for display to a visual user interface (15), the injection mold analysis including: i. at least one condition of the injection mold (1); and / or ii. At least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold (1), the at least one key performance indicator corresponding to at least one of the following: value, target, status, trend and / or weight; and / or b. Receive an analysis response from the computer system (13) via a communication network (14), the analysis response including at least one condition of the injection mold (1) and / or at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold (1) and / or instructions for the interrupt device (6).

12. The injection mold (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The at least one processor (9) of the electronic circuit (5) is configured to determine at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold (1) based on data stored in the at least one memory (11), and is configured to provide the at least one key performance indicator for display to a visual user interface (15) connected to the electronic circuit (5), wherein the at least one key performance indicator (KPI) of the injection mold (1) corresponds to a value, target, status, trend and weight.

13. The injection mold (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) is configured to trigger the display of maintenance information on a visual user interface (15) connected thereto, based on at least one condition of the injection mold (1).

14. The injection mold (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) includes a positioning module (16) to determine the position of the injection mold (1) relative to the injection molding machine (2) within the production and / or storage area.

15. The injection mold (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The housing (7) of the electronic circuit (5) forms part of the cable connector box (17) of the injection mold (1).

16. The injection mold (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The injection mold (1) includes at least one replaceable part (23) having a part identifier, and the electronic circuit (5) is configured to store the part identifier of the at least one replaceable part (23) and detect at least one critical injection mold condition based on at least one definable critical condition of the at least one replaceable part (23).

17. The injection mold (1) according to claim 16, wherein, The at least one replaceable component (23) includes an information carrier (24) storing at least a component identifier that can be read by an input device (10) connected to the electronic circuit (5), and additionally storing at least one of the following: threshold data defining critical conditions of the at least one replaceable component (23); historical data related to the use of the at least one replaceable component (23); or molding formula data for the replaceable component.

18. The injection mold (1) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The electronic circuit (5) is configured to determine the critical conditions of the at least one replaceable component (23) based at least in part on data received from the at least one sensor (3), wherein the data received from the at least one sensor (3) in the electronic circuit (5) relates to at least one of the following: the operating temperature of the at least one replaceable component (23), or the number of cycles of the injection mold (1), or the number of cycles of the at least one replaceable component (23).

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