Hollow container manufacturing apparatus

Abstract

The hollow container manufacturing device (100) of the present application is characterized in that it has a fixed forming die (1), a movable forming die (2), a heating portion (3), a guide rail (13, 13) and a driving mechanism (4), wherein the fixed forming die (1) has a die cavity (11); the movable forming die (2) has a die cavity (21) and moves in the direction of approaching or leaving the fixed forming die (1); the heating portion (3) is arranged between the fixed forming die (1) and the movable forming die (2) to heat the workpieces (w1, w2) located in the fixed forming die (1) and the movable forming die (2); a part of the guide rail (13, 13) is arranged on the facing surface of the fixed forming die facing the movable forming die or the facing surface of the movable forming die facing the fixed forming die; the driving mechanism (4) drives the heating portion (3) to advance and retreat along the guide rail (13, 13) relative to the fixed forming die (1) or the movable forming die (2), and after heating a pair of workpieces (w1, w2) by the heating portion (3), the two workpieces are welded.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a hollow container manufacturing apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, a hollow container manufacturing apparatus is known which has a hollow portion inside, like a fuel tank which stores fuel (Patent Literature 1). The prior art hollow container manufacturing apparatus is one which, after forming a pair of semi-hollow formed products (workpieces) by one-shot forming, heats the end portions of the peripheral wall portions of the workpieces using a heating portion such as a heater, and welds the workpieces to each other, for example, by vibration welding. The prior art hollow container manufacturing apparatus has a heater device which holds one end portion of the heating portion and advances and retreats it relative to a forming die.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent No. 6657280 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] The heating portion of the prior art hollow container manufacturing apparatus which has a heating portion for welding workpieces is cantilevered. Therefore, the other end side (the top end side in the advancing direction) can tilt or vibrate downward relative to the one end side which supports the heating portion. The applicant has found that when the heating portion tilts or vibrates, the position adjustment of the heating portion becomes difficult, and as a result, temperature deviations occur at the end portions of the workpieces, which can lead to poor welding. In addition, in the case of manufacturing a large hollow container, the heating portion also becomes large, and therefore the above problems become more apparent.

[0008] The present application was completed in view of the above-described points, and aims to provide a hollow container manufacturing apparatus which can easily perform position adjustment of a heating portion relative to a pair of workpieces and which can improve the strength of the weld.

[0009] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0010] To solve the technical problem, the present application is characterized in that a fixed molding die, a movable molding die, a heating section, a guide rail for moving the heating section, and a driving mechanism are provided, wherein the fixed molding die has a mold cavity; the movable molding die has a mold cavity and moves in a direction approaching or leaving the fixed molding die; the heating section is arranged between the fixed molding die and the movable molding die to heat workpieces in the mold cavities of the fixed molding die and the movable molding die; a part of the guide rail for moving the heating section is arranged on a facing surface of the fixed molding die facing the movable molding die or a facing surface of the movable molding die facing the fixed molding die; and the driving mechanism makes the heating section advance and retreat along the guide rail for moving the heating section relative to the fixed molding die or the movable molding die, and welds the workpieces after the workpieces are heated by the heating section.

[0011] In the prior art hollow container manufacturing device, the heater device with the heating section and the molding die are operated respectively. In contrast, according to the present application, since a part of the guide rail for moving the heating section is arranged on the fixed molding die or the movable molding die, the distance between the heating section and the fixed molding die or the movable molding die is constant even if the heating section advances and retreats. In addition, since the heating section advances and retreats on the guide rail for moving the heating section, vibration does not occur. Accordingly, the position adjustment of the heating section relative to the workpieces can be easily performed, and the end portions of the workpieces can be heated uniformly. Accordingly, uneven heating can be eliminated or reduced, and the welding strength can be improved.

[0012] In addition, preferably, the workpieces have at least a bottom portion and a peripheral wall portion standing from the bottom portion, and the hollow container manufacturing device has a holding mechanism that presses a part of the workpieces in the mold cavities of the fixed molding die and the movable molding die to the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively.

[0013] According to this structure, even if the workpieces have cooling shrinkage or deformation due to one-time molding, the workpieces can be reliably fixed to the mold cavities. Accordingly, the workpieces can be prevented from floating from the mold cavities, and the workpieces can be prevented from contacting the heating section moving between the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, and the accuracy of the position adjustment of the heating section relative to the workpieces can be improved.

[0014] In addition, preferably, the holding mechanism has a cylinder and a partial core that advances and retreats by the cylinder, and the cylinder advances the partial core to press a part of the workpieces to the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively.

[0015] According to this structure, a mechanism for reliably fixing a workpiece in a mold cavity can be easily configured.

[0016] Further, preferably, the holding mechanism has a force applying unit that applies a force from the outside toward the side surface of the workpiece, and a pressing portion provided at the tip of the force applying unit that presses a portion of the workpiece against the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively, by the force of the force applying unit.

[0017] According to this structure, a mechanism for reliably fixing a workpiece in a mold cavity can be easily configured.

[0018] Further, preferably, the holding mechanism has a force applying unit that applies a force from the outside toward the side surface of the workpiece, and a pressing portion provided at the tip of the force applying unit that presses a portion of the workpiece against the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively, by the force of the force applying unit.

[0019] According to this structure, a mechanism for reliably fixing a workpiece in a mold cavity can be easily configured.

[0020] Further, preferably, the holding mechanism has a force applying unit that applies a force from the outside toward the side surface of the workpiece, and a pressing portion provided at the tip of the force applying unit that presses a portion of the workpiece against the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively, by the force of the force applying unit.

[0021] According to this structure, a mechanism for reliably fixing a workpiece in a mold cavity can be easily configured.

[0022] Further, preferably, the holding mechanism has a force applying unit that applies a force from the outside toward the side surface of the workpiece, and a pressing portion provided at the tip of the force applying unit that presses a portion of the workpiece against the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively, by the force of the force applying unit.

[0023] According to this structure, a mechanism for reliably fixing a workpiece in a mold cavity can be easily configured.

[0024] Further preferably, the centering mechanism has a guide plate, a centering guide, a first link, and a pair of second links, wherein the guide plate extends outward from the heating section; the centering guide is used for fitting the guide plate; the center of the first link is rotatably fixed to the centering guide; the first ends of the pair of second links are rotatably fixed to the ends of the first link, respectively, and the second ends thereof are rotatably attached to the fixed forming die and the movable forming die, respectively.

[0025] According to this structure, a mechanism for equally and reliably heating the ends of the pair of workpieces can be easily configured.

[0026] Further preferably, in the case where the heating section is brought into contact with the pair of workpieces during welding, the fixed forming die or the movable forming die has a first communication hole that is in communication with the outside, and the heating section has a second communication hole that is in communication with the first communication hole.

[0027] According to this structure, since air can escape to the outside via the first communication hole and the second communication hole, the pressure acting on the contact portions of the ends of the workpieces and the heating section due to thermal expansion can be prevented from decreasing. Accordingly, the welding strength of the workpieces to each other can be further improved.

[0028] Further preferably, in the case where the heating section is brought into contact with the pair of workpieces during welding, the heating section has a heating section communication hole that discharges air inside the fixed forming die and the movable forming die to the outside.

[0029] According to this structure, since air can escape to the outside via the heating section communication hole, the pressure acting on the contact portions of the ends of the workpieces and the heating section due to thermal expansion can be prevented from decreasing. Accordingly, the welding strength of the workpieces to each other can be further improved.

[0030] Further preferably, in the case where the heating section is not brought into contact with the pair of workpieces during welding, a protective frame that covers the periphery of the heating section is provided, and the protective frame advances and retreats with respect to the fixed forming die along the heating section moving guide together with the heating section.

[0031] According to this structure, when the heating section is moved between the dies, the heating section can be reliably prevented from coming into contact with the fixed forming die or the movable forming die, or the workpieces. Therefore, the heating section can be prevented from being damaged.

[0032] Effects of the Invention

[0033] According to the hollow container manufacturing apparatus, the position adjustment of the heating section with respect to the pair of workpieces can be easily performed, and the welding strength can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 is a rear view of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus in the first, fifth embodiments.

[0035] Figure 2 is a side view of the stationary molding die of Figure 1

[0036] Figure 3 is a plan view of A-A of Figure 1

[0037] Figure 4 is a plan view of B-B of Figure 1

[0038] Figure 5 is an explanatory view of the holding mechanism in the second embodiment (1).

[0039] Figure 6 is an explanatory view of the holding mechanism in the second embodiment (2-1), (a) is a view at the time of extension, and (b) is a view at the time of contraction.

[0040] Figure 7 is an explanatory view of the holding mechanism in the second embodiment (2-2).

[0041] Figure 8 is an explanatory view of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus in the third embodiment (1).

[0042] Figure 9 is an explanatory view of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus in the third embodiment (2).

[0043] Figure 10 is a side view of the spring type centering mechanism in the fourth embodiment.

[0044] Figure 11 is a rear view as viewed from the C direction of Figure 10

[0045] Figure 12 is a plan view of D-D of Figure 10

[0046] Figure 13 is an explanatory view of an example of the operation of the spring type centering mechanism.

[0047] Figure 14 is a side view of the rack and pinion type centering mechanism in the fourth embodiment.

[0048] Figure 15 is a rear view of the rack and pinion type centering mechanism of Figure 14

[0049] ​​​​​​Figure 16 yes Figure 14 EE top view.

[0050] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 FF view of the section.

[0051] Figure 18 yes Figure 14 The middle view is the rear view when the mold is in the open state.

[0052] Figure 19 This is a side view of the linkage-type centering mechanism in the fourth embodiment.

[0053] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Rear view of the linkage-type centering mechanism.

[0054] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 The middle view is the rear view when the mold is in the open state. Detailed Implementation

[0055] In describing each embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the opening and closing direction of the movable forming mold relative to the fixed forming mold is set to up and down, and the moving direction of the heating part between the fixed forming mold and the movable forming mold is set to left and right (see reference). Figure 1 (etc.). Front and back directions, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0056] [First Implementation]

[0057] Reference Figures 1-4 The hollow container manufacturing apparatus of the first embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is a rear view of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus. Figure 2 This is a side view of a fixed molding die. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top view from the AA direction. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 BB view from top.

[0058] [structure]

[0059] The hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the first embodiment includes a fixed forming mold 1, a movable forming mold 2, a heating unit 3, and a drive mechanism 4.

[0060] The fixed molding mold 1 is a fixed molding mold used for secondary molding. The fixed molding mold 1 has a mold cavity 11, grooves 12, 12, guide rails 13, 13 and brackets 14, 14.

[0061] The mold cavity 11 is a portion where the workpiece w1 is arranged. The workpiece w1 is a semi-hollow molded product as a primary molded product. The workpiece w1 is carried by a dedicated carrying device (not shown) to between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, and is arranged in the mold cavity 11.

[0062] The groove portions 12, 12 are each formed in the upper surface (a facing surface facing the movable molding die 2) of the fixed molding die 1 and on the outside in the front-rear direction of the mold cavity 11, and are recessed portions extending in the left-right direction.

[0063] The rails 13, 13 are rails for moving the heating portion 3 in the moving direction. The rails 13, 13 are rail members extending in the left-right direction, a part of which is arranged on the bottom of the groove portions 12, 12, and the remaining part of which is arranged on the brackets 14, 14. That is, a part of the rails 13, 13 is provided on the facing surface of the fixed molding die 1 facing the movable molding die 2.

[0064] The brackets 14, 14 are members supporting the part of the rails 13, 13 extending to the left side from the groove portions 12, 12 of the fixed molding die 1. The brackets 14, 14 are attached to the side surface of the fixed molding die 1.

[0065] The movable molding die 2 is a molding die movable up and down for secondary molding. The movable molding die 2 has a mold cavity 21. The upward direction of the movable molding die 2 is a direction away from the fixed molding die 1, and the downward direction of the movable molding die 2 is a direction approaching the fixed molding die 1.

[0066] The mold cavity 21 is a portion where the workpiece w2 is arranged. The workpiece w2 is a semi-hollow molded product as a primary molded product. The workpiece w2 is carried by a dedicated carrying device (not shown) to between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, and is arranged in the mold cavity 21.

[0067] The heating portion 3 is a heat source for heating and melting the respective welding surfaces of the workpieces w1, w2. The heating portion 3 of the first embodiment is, for example, an IR heater of a non-contact type (the heating portion 3 does not contact the workpieces w1, w2). As the IR heater, a halogen heater, a carbon heater, or the like can be used, and there is no limitation as long as a heater capable of radiating infrared rays, near-infrared rays, or the like to heat the heating portion 3 in a non-contact manner. The shape of the heating portion 3 corresponds to the shape of the welding surface of the workpieces w1, w2. In addition, the heating portion 3 can be a structure in which a plurality of rod-shaped heaters or a heater of a folded-back structure are arranged so as to heat the welding surface as a whole. The heating portion 3 has a protection frame 31 ( Figure 3The heating section 3 is fixed to the protection frame 31 by the holding sections 311. In the case where a plurality of holding sections 311 are provided, the heating section 3 is less likely to shake, and thus the shape of the heating section 3 and the protection frame 31 can be designed with the plurality of holding sections 311. The details of the protection frame 31 will be described later. In the first embodiment, the heating section 3 is described as a section including the protection frame 31.

[0068] The drive mechanism 4 is a mechanism that advances and retreats the heating section 3 in the left-right direction between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2. The drive mechanism 4 is capable of advancing and retreating the heating section 3 with respect to the fixed molding die 1 along the guide rails 13, 13. The drive mechanism 4 has a motor M, a coupling 41, a ball screw 42, a ball screw nut 43, bearing housings 44, 44, a plate 45, a bracket 46, guide rails 47, 47, sliders 48, 48, guide rods 49, 49, a plate 50, and four sliders 51.

[0069] The motor M is, for example, a servo motor. The coupling 41 is a member that connects the motor M and the ball screw 42. The ball screw 42 extends in the left-right direction. The ball screw nut 43 moves in the left-right direction along the ball screw 42 in response to the drive of the motor M. The bearing housings 44, 44 have bearings (not shown) and are members that support both end portions of the ball screw 42.

[0070] The plate 45 is a plate-shaped body that is connected to the ball screw nut 43. The plate 45 is capable of moving along the guide rails 47, 47 via the sliders 48, 48.

[0071] The bracket 46 is a member that supports the guide rails 47, 47. The bracket 46 has a substantially Japanese "コ" shape in a side view and extends in the left-right direction. The bracket 46 is mounted to the side surface of the fixed molding die 1.

[0072] The guide rails 47, 47 are rail members that extend in the left-right direction and are arranged on the upper surface of the bracket 46 at intervals in the front-rear direction.

[0073] The sliders 48, 48 are sliding bodies that are fitted on the guide rails 47, 47 and slide in the left-right direction along the guide rails 47, 47. The plate 45 is fixed to the sliders 48, 48. The guide rails 47, 47 are members that guide the movement of the plate 45.

[0074] The guide rods 49, 49 are rod-shaped bodies that are mounted to the upper surface of the plate 45 and extend upward. The guide rods 49, 49 pass through the plate 50 and are mounted to the plate 50.

[0075] The plate 50 is a plate-shaped body that is connected to the plate 45 via the guide rods 49, 49. The end portion of the plate 50 is mounted to the end portion of the heating section 3.

[0076] The four sliders 51 are sliding bodies that are fitted to the guides 13, 13 and slide to the left and right along the guides 13, 13. The upper surfaces of the sliders 51 are fixed to the four corners of the heating section 3, respectively. As described above, the heating section 3 is able to move in the left and right directions along the guides 13, 13 by the driving of the motor M.

[0077] [Effects]

[0078] Before the start of the secondary molding, the ball screw nut 43 is on standby at the leftmost side of the ball screw 42. Along with this, the plate 45 is also on standby at the leftmost side of the guides 47, 47. Also, the plate 50 and the heating section 3 are on standby at the leftmost side of the guides 13, 13, that is, at a position that does not interfere with the mold.

[0079] At the start of the secondary molding, the fixed molding mold 1 and the movable molding mold 2 are opened, and the workpieces wl, w2 are disposed in the mold cavities 11, 21, respectively. Next, the movable molding mold 2 is moved downward, leaving a space in which the heating section 3 can be inserted, and is stopped.

[0080] After this, the motor M is rotated in the forward direction, moving the ball screw nut 43 in the right direction. Then, the plate 45 connected to the ball screw nut 43 slides on the guides 47, 47 along with the sliding of the sliders 48, 48, and moves in the right direction. Also, the plate 50 and the heating section 3 connected to the plate 45 via the guides 49, 49 slide on the guides 13, 13 along with the sliding of the four sliders 51, and move in the right direction. As a result, the heating section 3 is disposed in a position close to the workpieces wl, w2, and the heating section 3 heats the end surfaces of the workpieces wl, w2. After the heating, the motor M is reversed, moving the ball screw nut 43 in the left direction. Then, the plate 45 connected to the ball screw nut 43 slides on the guides 47, 47 along with the sliding of the sliders 48, 48, and moves in the left direction. Also, the plate 50 and the heating section 3 connected to the plate 45 via the guides 49, 49 slide on the guides 13, 13 along with the sliding of the four sliders 51, and move in the left direction to retreat. After this, the movable molding mold 2 is moved downward, and the workpieces wl, w2 are pressed to be welded. After the welding, the molds are opened, and the workpieces wl, w2 are taken out, and the secondary molding is completed.

[0081] In the related-art hollow container manufacturing apparatus, the heater device having the heating section and the molding die are operated separately. In contrast, in the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, since a part of the guide rails 13, 13 is provided to the fixed molding die 1, the distance between the heating section 3 and the fixed molding die 1 is constant even if the heating section 3 is advanced and retracted. In addition, since the heating section 3 is advanced and retracted on the guide rails 13, 13, vibration does not occur. Thus, the position adjustment of the heating section 3 with respect to the pair of workpieces w1, w2 can be easily performed, and the end portions of the pair of workpieces w1, w2 can be uniformly heated. Thus, uneven heating can be eliminated or reduced, and the welding strength can be improved. In other words, according to the present embodiment, since the distance between the fixed molding die 1 and the heating section 3 is determined, the distance between the movable molding die 2 and the heating section 3 can be adjusted in accordance with the distance between the fixed molding die 1 and the heating section 3, and thus the position adjustment of the heating section 3 can be easily performed.

[0082] In addition, in the present embodiment, since the pair of guide rails 13 is provided on both sides of the mold cavity 11, the heating section 3 can be stably supported without vibration.

[0083] In addition, since the heating section 3 is moved only on the guide rails 13, 13 provided to the fixed molding die 1, the distance between the fixed molding die 1 and the heating section 3 can be kept constant even if the setting accuracy of the guide rails 47, 47, etc. is poor. In this case, for example, by providing a gap between the guide rod 49 and the plate 50 and engaging them, the setting error of the guide rails 47, 47, etc. can be absorbed.

[0084] [Second Embodiment]

[0085] Reference Figures 5-7 A hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 5 Fig. 1 is an explanatory view of a holding mechanism in the second embodiment. Figure 6 Fig. 2-1 is an explanatory view of the holding mechanism in the second embodiment (2-1), (a) is a view at the time of extension, and (b) is a view at the time of contraction. Figure 7 Fig. 2-2 is an explanatory view of the holding mechanism in the second embodiment (2-2).

[0086] [Structure (1)]

[0087] Figure 5 Fig. 3 is a sectional view showing a workpiece w1 provided in a mold cavity 11 of a fixed molding die 1. First, the workpiece w1 will be described. The workpiece w1 includes a bottom portion w11, a peripheral wall portion w12, a flange portion w13, and a welding portion w14.

[0088] The bottom portion w11 is a portion that is in close contact with the bottom of the mold cavity 11. The peripheral wall portion w12 is a portion that stands from the periphery of the bottom portion w11 and is in close contact with the peripheral wall portion of the mold cavity 11.

[0089] The flange portion w13 is a portion that protrudes outward in the circumferential direction from the peripheral wall portion w12. Figure 5 The flange portion w13 shown has a first flange portion w131 and a second flange portion w132.

[0090] The first flange portion w131 is a portion that protrudes outward from the peripheral wall portion w12. The height position of the first flange portion w131 is the same as the height position of the end portion of the peripheral wall portion w12.

[0091] The second flange portion w132 is a portion that protrudes outward from the first flange portion w131.

[0092] A step is formed between the first flange portion w131 and the second flange portion w132. As Figure 5 shown, when the workpiece w1 is disposed in the mold cavity 11, the height position of the second flange portion w132 is lower than the height position of the first flange portion w131.

[0093] The welding portion w14 is a portion that protrudes from the flange portion w13 toward the side opposite the bottom portion w11. The end portion of the welding portion w14 is heated and melted by the heating portion 3. The position of the welding portion w14 in the case where the workpiece w1 is disposed in the mold cavity 11 is located above the facing surface of the fixed mold 1. Accordingly, it is possible to bring the protruding welding portion w14 close to the heating portion 3, and thus it is possible to improve the heating efficiency.

[0094] In addition, the fixed mold 1 has a peripheral portion 15. The peripheral portion 15 is a portion that protrudes in the entire circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the upper portion of the mold cavity 11. The peripheral portion 15 has a first peripheral portion 151 and a second peripheral portion 152.

[0095] The first peripheral portion 151 is a portion that protrudes in the entire circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the upper portion of the mold cavity 11. The first flange portion w131 of the workpiece w1 disposed in the mold cavity 11 is fitted in the first peripheral portion 151.

[0096] The second peripheral portion 152 is a portion that protrudes in the entire circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the first peripheral portion 151. As Figure 5 shown, in the case where the workpiece w1 is disposed in the mold cavity 11, the height position of the second peripheral portion 152 is lower than the height position of the first peripheral portion 151. The second flange portion w132 of the workpiece w1 disposed in the mold cavity 11 is placed on the second peripheral portion 152.

[0097] In addition, the fixed mold 1 has a holding mechanism 16. The holding mechanism 16 has a partial core 161 and a cylinder 162.

[0098] The partial core 161 is a sliding body that slides on the facing surface (upper surface) of the fixed forming die 1. The partial core 161 has a shape that can engage with the second peripheral portion 152 and the second flange portion w132 placed on the second peripheral portion 152. The partial core 161 has a crank shape when viewed from the side in the present embodiment.

[0099] The cylinder 162 is a driving unit that advances or retreats the partial core 161 toward or from the workpiece w1. The cylinder 162 can be, for example, but is not limited to, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric. In addition, a limit switch or the like for confirming the operation of the partial core 161 is preferably provided on the cylinder 162. Thereby, it is possible to confirm that the partial core 161 reliably fixes the workpiece w1, and thus it is possible to prevent a malfunction caused by a malfunction. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, a portion of the partial core 161 is buried in the upper portion of the fixed forming die 1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the partial core 161 that advances or retreats with respect to the workpiece w1 from floating up from the fixed forming die 1. Figure 5

[0100] [Effects]

[0101] After the workpiece w1 molded by the primary molding is disposed in the mold cavity 11, the cylinder 162 advances the partial core 161 so as to slide on the upper surface of the fixed forming die 1. Then, the tip end of the partial core 161 is disposed on the second flange portion w132 on which the second peripheral portion 152 is placed. Thereby, the partial core 161 can press the second flange portion w132 from above on the fixed forming die 1. The heating portion 3 that moves between the dies can heat and melt the welding portion w14 of the workpiece w1 pressed by the partial core 161.

[0102] The workpiece molded by the primary molding shrinks or deforms due to cooling. Therefore, in the related art, in the case where the workpiece is heated and welded by changing the forming die to perform the secondary molding, the workpiece becomes inconsistent with respect to the mold cavity of the forming die, and thus there is a possibility that the workpiece floats up or flies out from the mold cavity. If the workpiece is not properly disposed in the forming die, the distance between the heating portion and the workpiece can be deviated, or the workpiece can come into contact with the heating portion that moves between the dies.

[0103] In view of this, the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment can reliably fix the workpiece w1 disposed in the mold cavity 11 to the fixed forming die 1 even if the workpiece w1 shrinks or deforms due to the primary molding. Thereby, since the workpiece w1 can be properly disposed with respect to the mold cavity 11 of the fixed forming die 1, it is possible to prevent the distance between the heating portion 3 and the workpiece w1 from being deviated. In addition, it is possible to prevent the workpiece w1 from floating up from the mold cavity 11, and thus it is possible to avoid the workpiece w1 coming into contact with the heating portion 3 that moves between the fixed forming die 1 and the movable forming die 2.​

[0104] Furthermore, since the retaining mechanism 16 uses part of the core 161 and the cylinder 162, it is easy to construct a mechanism that reliably fixes the workpiece w1 set in the mold cavity 11.

[0105] Furthermore, it is preferable to arrange a plurality of retaining mechanisms 16, which utilize partial cores 161 and cylinders 162, at equal intervals along the entire circumference of the flange portion w13 of the workpiece w1.

[0106] The above description describes the case where the retaining mechanism 16 is provided on the fixed forming mold 1, but the retaining mechanism 16 can also be provided on the movable forming mold 2. Even if there is cooling shrinkage or deformation in the workpiece w2 during one-time molding, the workpiece w2, which is disposed in the mold cavity 21, can be reliably fixed by providing the retaining mechanism 16 around the mold cavity 21 of the movable forming mold 2. Accordingly, the same effect as the fixed forming mold 1 can be obtained.

[0107] [Structure (Part Two)]

[0108] As other ways to maintain the institution, there are Figure 6 , Figure 7 The retaining mechanism 17 is shown. For example, a recess is formed on the upper surface of the fixed molding die 1, and the retaining mechanism 17 is housed in the formed recess. The retaining mechanism 17 has a pressing part 171, a force-applying unit 172, and a base 173.

[0109] The pressing part 171 constitutes the head of the holding mechanism 17 and is disposed at the top of the force-applying unit 172. The top of the pressing part 171 can be formed into a hemispherical shape, for example, abutting against the flange portion w13 of the workpiece w1. Figure 6 As shown, by making the hemispherical surface of the pressing part 171 serrated, the frictional resistance with the workpiece w1 is increased, thereby enabling the workpiece w1 to be pressed more reliably.

[0110] The force-applying unit 172 is a spring component (coil spring) that applies force from the outside toward the peripheral wall portion w12 of the workpiece w1. Specifically, the force-applying unit 172 can apply force to the pressing portion 171 to press the flange portion w13 of the workpiece w1 toward the peripheral wall portion w12 (the side side of the peripheral wall portion w12).

[0111] The base 173 forms the root of the retaining mechanism 17 and is disposed at the rear end of the force-applying unit 172. The end of the base 173 is snap-locked into the recess of the receiving retaining mechanism 17.

[0112] [effect]

[0113] like Figure 7As shown, the stationary molding die 1 has a rim portion 15 protruding in the entire circumferential direction on the outer periphery of the upper portion of the mold cavity 11. The flange portion w13 of the workpiece w1 provided to the mold cavity 11 is fitted in the rim portion 15. In addition, as shown in Figure 7 As shown, the holding mechanism 17 is embedded in the upper portion of the stationary molding die 1. Therefore, the holding mechanism 17 that advances and retreats with respect to the workpiece w1 can be prevented from floating up from the stationary molding die 1.

[0114] Figure 6 (a) of FIG. 9 shows a case where the workpiece w1 is not provided to the mold cavity 11. That is, the urging unit 172 is in the maximum extended state. As shown in Figure 6 (b) and Figure 7 As shown in (b) and (c) of FIG. 9, in a case where the workpiece w1 is provided to the mold cavity 11, the flange portion w13 of the workpiece w1 pushes back the pressing portion 171 in the contraction direction of the urging unit 172. That is, the workpiece w1 is provided to the mold cavity 11 against the urging force of the urging unit 172. Therefore, the holding mechanism 17 can press the flange portion w13 against the stationary molding die 1 by the urging force of the urging unit 172. The heating portion 3 that moves between the dies can heat and melt the welding portion w14 of the workpiece w1 pressed against the pressing portion 171.

[0115] With respect to the holding mechanism 17 as well, as with the holding mechanism 16, even if the workpiece w1 has a cooling shrinkage or deformation by one-time molding, the workpiece w1 provided to the mold cavity 11 can be reliably fixed. Thereby, since the workpiece w1 can be appropriately provided with respect to the mold cavity 11 of the stationary molding die 1, a deviation in the distance between the heating portion 3 and the workpiece w1 can be prevented. In addition, the workpiece w1 can be prevented from floating up from the mold cavity 11, and thus the workpiece w1 can be prevented from coming into contact with the heating portion 3 that moves between the stationary molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2.

[0116] In addition, since the holding mechanism 17 uses the pressing portion 171, the urging unit 172, and the base portion 173, a mechanism that reliably fixes the workpiece w1 provided to the mold cavity 11 can be easily configured.

[0117] Further, it is preferable that a plurality of holding mechanisms 17 using the pressing portion 171, the urging unit 172, and the base portion 173 be arranged at equal intervals in the entire circumferential direction of the flange portion w13 of the workpiece w1.

[0118] The above describes a case where the holding mechanism 17 is provided to the stationary molding die 1, but the holding mechanism 17 can also be provided to the movable molding die 2. Even if a cooling shrinkage or deformation occurs in the workpiece w2 by one-time molding, the workpiece w2 provided to the mold cavity 21 can be reliably fixed by providing the holding mechanism 17 around the mold cavity 21 of the movable molding die 2. Thereby, the same effects as the stationary molding die 1 can be obtained.

[0119] Further, although the shape of the tip end of the pressing portion 171 has been exemplified as a shape in which the hemispherical surface shape is sawtoothed, as long as the workpieces w1, w2 can be easily and reliably held when the workpieces w1, w2 are disposed in the mold cavities 11, 21, respectively, other shapes can be employed.

[0120] Further, in the structures (one, two), although an example in which the holding mechanism 16 or the holding mechanism 17 is provided on the fixed molding die 1 or the movable molding die 2 and is fixed after the workpieces w1, w2 are disposed in the mold cavities 11, 21 has been shown, the present application is not limited thereto. The holding mechanism 16 or the holding mechanism 17 can be provided on both the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2. Further, more preferably, the movable molding die 2 can be moved downward after the workpieces w1, w2 are disposed in the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, respectively, and the workpieces w1, w2 can be fixed by the holding mechanism 16 or the holding mechanism 17 in a state in which the welding portions of the workpieces w1, w2 are in light contact with each other. By doing so, since the workpieces w1, w2 become reliably fitted in the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, the workpieces w1, w2 can be more reliably fixed.

[0121] [3rd Embodiment]

[0122] Reference Figure 8 , Figure 9 A hollow container manufacturing apparatus of the 3rd embodiment will be described. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram (1) of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus in the 3rd embodiment. Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram (2) of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus in the 3rd embodiment.

[0123] [Structure (one)]

[0124] As shown in Figure 8 , the heating portion 3 of the 3rd embodiment is in a plate shape, and is a contact type heating portion that contacts the workpieces w1, w2 at the time of welding. The heating portion 3 can heat and melt the end faces of the workpieces w1, w2 disposed in the mold cavities 11, 21.

[0125] The fixed molding die 1 has a 1st communication hole 18 at the bottom of the mold cavity 11. The 1st communication hole 18 is a hole that communicates with the outside of the fixed molding die 1. Further, the workpiece w1 has a hole that corresponds to the 1st communication hole 18. On the other hand, the movable molding die 2 does not have a hole that communicates with the outside in the mold cavity 21.

[0126] The heating portion 3 has a 2nd communication hole 32. The 2nd communication hole 32 is a hole that penetrates the plate thickness direction in the substantially center of the heating portion 3. Therefore, at the time of welding, the 2nd communication hole 32 communicates with the 1st communication hole 18.

[0127] [effect]

[0128] In the prior art, since the heating element 3 does not have a second connecting hole 32, it is impossible to expel the air inside the workpiece w1, which expands due to heating and melting, to the outside. Therefore, the pressure inside the workpiece w2 increases, and the temperature inside the workpiece w2 also rises. As a result, due to the thermal expansion of the air inside the workpiece w2, the heating element 3 cannot fully contact the workpiece w2, increasing the contact thermal resistance on the workpiece w2 side, thus causing poor heating and welding.

[0129] In contrast, according to Figure 8 The structure allows air to be expelled from workpieces w1 and w2 to the outside through the first connecting hole 18 and the second connecting hole 32, as the heating part 3 has a second connecting hole 32 and the fixing mold 1 has a first connecting hole 18. This suppresses thermal expansion within workpieces w1 and w2, thereby reducing contact thermal resistance without reducing the pressure applied to the contact portion between the ends of workpieces w1 and w2 and the heating part 3. As a result, workpieces w1 and w2 can melt evenly, further improving welding strength. Furthermore, an opening is formed on workpiece w1, which can be used, for example, as a location for mounting internal components such as a pump.

[0130] Furthermore, while the above-described structure includes a first connecting hole 18 on the fixed forming mold 1, the first connecting hole 18 can also be provided on the movable forming mold 2. Additionally, the second connecting hole 32 of the heating section 3 can be formed at any position as long as it is located inside the ends of the workpieces w1 and w2.

[0131] [Structure (Part Two)]

[0132] like Figure 9 As shown, the heating section 3 in the third embodiment is plate-shaped and is a contact heating section that contacts the fixed forming mold 1 and the movable forming mold 2 during welding. The heating section 3 can heat and melt the end faces of the workpieces w1 and w2 provided in the mold cavities 11 and 21.

[0133] The fixed molding die 1 does not have a hole connecting the mold cavity 11 to the outside. Similarly, the movable molding die 2 also does not have a hole connecting the mold cavity 21 to the outside.

[0134] The heating section 3 has a second connecting hole 32. The second connecting hole 32 is a hole that extends through the heating section 3 approximately at its center along the thickness direction. Additionally, the heating section 3 has a third connecting hole 33 (heating section connecting hole). The third connecting hole 33 is a hole that extends from approximately the center of the second connecting hole 32 in the thickness direction to the side of the heating section 3 parallel to the plate surface. That is, air passing through the second connecting hole 32 and the third connecting hole 33 is discharged to the outside.

[0135] [Effects]

[0136] According to Figure 9 , the heating section 3 has the second communication hole 32 and the third communication hole 33, whereby air of the workpieces w1, w2 can be discharged to the outside. According to this, even if the air of the workpieces w1, w2 is thermally expanded due to heating of the heating section 3, the pressure applied to the contact portions of the end portions of the respective workpieces w1, w2 and the heating section 3 does not decrease, and the contact thermal resistance can be reduced. As a result, the welding strength of the workpieces w1, w2 to each other can be further improved. In addition, according to Figure 9 , a hole for allowing air to escape to the outside can not be formed in the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2.

[0137] Further, the position of the second communication hole 32 is not limited to the center. The second communication hole 32 can be formed at any position as long as it is formed inside the end portions of the workpieces w1, w2 and communicates with the outside via the third communication hole 33.

[0138] [4th Embodiment]

[0139] Referring to Figures 10-21 , a hollow container manufacturing apparatus of the 4th embodiment will be described. Figure 10 is a side view of a spring type centering mechanism in the 4th embodiment. Figure 11 is a rear view as viewed from the C direction of Figure 10 . Figure 12 is a D-D direction view of Figure 10 . Figure 13 is an explanatory view of an action example of the spring type centering mechanism.

[0140] [Structure (1)]

[0141] Figures 10-13 is a view of a state in which the heating section 3 is moved between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view. In the 4th embodiment, a case in which the heating section 3 is of a contact type in which the heating section 3 is in a plate shape will be described, but the heating section 3 can also be of a non-contact type such as an IR heater.

[0142] The hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the 4th embodiment has a centering mechanism 60. The centering mechanism 60 is provided in total four on the front and rear outer sides of the heating section 3, and Figures 10-13 only one side is illustrated in the 4th embodiment. Since each centering mechanism 60 has the same function, in the following description, only one centering mechanism 60 will be described. Further, the centering mechanism 60 is provided in at least two or more, and more preferably three or more.

[0143] The centering mechanism 60 includes an intermediate plate 61, a first spring 62, a second spring 63, a shaft portion 64, a lower end portion of the shaft 65, an upper end portion of the shaft 66, and a washer 67.

[0144] The intermediate plate 61 is a plate-shaped body that extends outward from the side of the heating section 3. The intermediate plate 61 is installed on the side of the heating section 3 by means of screws or the like.

[0145] The first spring 62 is a force-applying unit that applies force to the intermediate plate 61. The first spring 62 is disposed between the intermediate plate 61 and the fixed forming mold 1, and more specifically, is disposed in such a way that it abuts against the upper surface of the lower end 65 of the shaft and the lower surface of the intermediate plate 61.

[0146] The second spring 63 is a force-applying unit that applies force to the intermediate plate 61. The second spring 63 is disposed between the intermediate plate 61 and the movable forming mold 2, more specifically, in abutting against the upper surface of the intermediate plate 61 and the lower surface of the gasket 67. The spring constants of the first springs 62 and 63 are the same as those of the second springs 63 and 63. Furthermore, the dimensions of the first spring 62 are the same as those of the second spring 63.

[0147] The shaft 64 is a rod-shaped body that passes through the hollow portion of the first spring 62, the hole in the intermediate plate 61 that extends in the plate thickness direction, the hollow portions of the second springs 63 and 63, and the hole in the washer 67 that extends in the plate thickness direction.

[0148] The lower end 65 of the shaft is the lower end of the shaft portion 64 and serves as the abutment of the first spring 62. The lower end 65 of the shaft is positioned on the slider 51. Figure 11 As shown, the lower end 65 of the shaft on the left is L-shaped when viewed from the rear, and the end of the drive support bar 52 is mounted on the side of the lower end 65 by screws or the like. The lower end 65 of the shaft on the right is plate-shaped.

[0149] The drive support bar 52 is a reinforcing component of the centering mechanism 60. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the drive support bar 52, when viewed from above, is shaped like the Japanese character "コ" (partial illustration omitted). The end of the drive support bar 52 is mounted on the side of the lower end 65 of the centering mechanism 60 shaft by means of screws or the like. Furthermore, the drive support bar 52 has a hole for inserting the guide rod 49. Therefore, the heating section 3, on which the drive support bar 52 is mounted via the centering mechanism 60, can move or retract between molds via the drive mechanism 4. That is, the drive mechanism 4 of the first embodiment can be applied to the fourth embodiment.

[0150] In addition, a terminal block 521 is disposed on the upper surface of the drive support bar 52. Multiple heater wires 34 are connected between the terminal block 521 and the terminals of the heating unit 3, which can supply electrical power to the heating unit 3.

[0151] likeFigure 10 、 Figure 11 As shown in FIG. 2, a hole 22 is provided in the facing surface (lower surface) of the movable forming die 2. The shaft upper end portion 66 is the upper end portion of the shaft portion 64, and functions as a stopper portion for stopping the gasket 67 to be pressed by the second spring 63. The shaft upper end portion 66 is smaller than the hole 22, and is disposed inside the hole 22. The gasket 67 is a member that functions as an abutting portion of the second spring 63. The gasket 67 is larger than the hole 22. The amount of downward movement of the heating portion 3 to which the intermediate plate 61 is attached is always half the amount of downward movement of the movable forming die 2.

[0152] [Effects]

[0153] The heating portion 3 and each pair of centering mechanisms 60 are moved between the fixed forming die 1 and the movable forming die 2 by the driving mechanism 4. At the end of the movement, the hole 22 of the movable forming die 2 is positioned above the centering mechanisms 60. After the closing operation is started, the movable forming die 2 approaches the fixed forming die 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the peripheral portion of the hole 22 in the facing surface of the movable forming die 2 abuts on the upper surface of the gasket 67. At this time, the shaft upper end portion 66 is positioned inside the hole 22. When the movable forming die 2 further approaches the fixed forming die 1, as shown in FIG. 4, the peripheral portion of the hole 22 presses the gasket 67 downward. Thus, the first spring 62 and the second spring 63 are contracted, and the intermediate plate 61 is moved downward. Figure 10 Figure 13

[0154] The spring constant of the first spring 62 and the spring constant of the second spring 63 are the same. Thus, after the movable forming die 2 initially abuts on the gasket 67, until the movable forming die 2 moves to the lowermost position, the distance between the upper surface of the intermediate plate 61 and the lower surface of the gasket 67, and the distance between the lower surface of the intermediate plate 61 and the upper surface of the shaft lower end portion 65 are the same. In addition, the distance between the facing surface of the movable forming die 2 and the upper surface of the heating portion 3, and the distance between the facing surface of the fixed forming die 1 and the lower surface of the heating portion 3 are also the same. In addition, the distance between the welding portion w24 of the workpiece w2 provided in the mold cavity 21 of the movable forming die 2 and the upper surface of the heating portion 3, and the distance between the welding portion w14 of the workpiece w1 provided in the mold cavity 11 of the fixed forming die 1 and the lower surface of the heating portion 3 are also the same.

[0155] In the related art, for example, in the case where a non-contact heating portion is used, after the heating portion is inserted between the fixed forming die and the movable forming die, the position adjustment (mainly, the height position adjustment) of the heating portion and the fixed forming die and the movable forming die is performed. If the position adjustment is not uniform, the heating between the workpieces is also not uniform, and thus the welding strength is adversely affected. However, the position adjustment is not easy, requires skilled techniques, and the operation time is long.

[0156] ​​In contrast, according to the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment, after the heating section 3 is disposed between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, the four centering mechanisms 60 can make the distance of the heating section 3 from the fixed molding die 1 and the distance of the heating section 3 from the movable molding die 2 the same. The contact thermal resistance of the heating section 3 to the workpiece varies depending on the pressing pressure, and in this method, the heating section 3 is contacted to the workpieces wl, w2 at the same pressure at the same time. Therefore, the end portions of the pair of workpieces wl, w2 can be heated evenly and reliably. Accordingly, uneven heating can be eliminated or reduced, and the welding strength can be improved. In addition, adjustment of the alignment of the heating section 3 itself is not required, and the operation time can be shortened. In addition, since the centering mechanisms 60 can be configured in a spring type, a mechanism for evenly and reliably heating the end portions of the pair of workpieces wl, w2 can be configured simply.

[0157] In addition, although the distance of the heating section 3 from the fixed molding die 1 and the distance of the heating section 3 from the movable molding die 2 can be made the same by only the centering mechanisms 60, if the workpieces wl, w2 are lifted from the respective mold cavities 11, 21, a temperature difference at the time of heating can occur.

[0158] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, by providing the holding mechanisms 17, the workpieces wl, w2 can be prevented from being lifted from the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, and thus the workpieces wl, w2 can also be made the same distance from the heating section 3. That is, by simultaneously using the holding mechanisms 16, 17 and the centering mechanisms 60, the accuracy of the position adjustment can be improved in cooperation. Figure 13

[0159] [Structure (Two)]

[0160] Referring to Figures 14-18 A hollow container manufacturing apparatus of another example of the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 14 is a side view of a rack-and-pinion type centering mechanism in the fourth embodiment. Figure 15 is a rear view of the rack-and-pinion type centering mechanism of Figure 14 Figure 16 is an E-E direction view of Figure 14 Figure 17 is an F-F direction view of Figure 16 Figure 18 is a side view when the mold is in an open state in Figure 14

[0161] The hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of another example of the fourth embodiment has centering mechanisms 70. The centering mechanisms 70 are provided outside in the front-rear direction of the heating section 3, and in Figures 14-18 only one is illustrated in the drawing. Since the centering mechanisms 70 outside in the front-rear direction have the same function, only one will be described in the following description.​​​​​

[0162] The centering mechanism 70 has a guide rail (centering guide rail) 71, a guide plate 72, a connecting block 73, a rack 74, 74, a gear 75, and a gear box 76. In addition, the motor M, the coupling 41, the ball screw 42, the ball screw nut 43, the bearing box 44, 44 of the driving mechanism 4 that have been described are provided to the centering mechanism 70.

[0163] The guide rail 71 is a concave strip portion that extends in the left-right direction and has a groove portion on a surface facing the heating section 3. A portion of the guide rail 71 extends along the entire dimension of the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 in the left-right direction, and the remaining portion extends a prescribed amount from the left side surface of the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 to the left side. The guide rail 71 is a member that guides the moving direction of the heating section 3. In addition, as shown in Figure 15 , the ball screw 42 extends in the left-right direction, and the right end portion extends to a position slightly forward of the right end portion of the guide rail 71, and the left end portion extends to a position slightly forward of the left end portion of the guide rail 71.

[0164] As shown in Figure 15 , guide pins 19 that are vertically provided in the up-down direction are provided at the four corners of the fixed molding die 1. The guide rail 71 has holes that pass through in the up-down direction for the guide pins 19, 19 to be inserted. The guide rail 71 is guided by the guide pins 19 and is able to move in the up-down direction.

[0165] The guide plate 72 is a plate-shaped body that protrudes outward from the side surface of the heating section 3. As shown in Figure 16 , the guide plate 72 is mounted to the side surface of the heating section 3 by screws or the like. In addition, one edge of the guide plate 72 on the side opposite the heating section 3 is fitted into the groove portion of the guide rail 71 (see Figure 17 ).

[0166] The connecting block 73 is a member that connects the guide plate 72 and the ball screw nut 43. Therefore, in response to the movement of the ball screw nut 43, the guide plate 72 and the heating section 3 on which the guide plate 72 is mounted are able to move.

[0167] The racks 74, 74 are members that are flat plates that are cut and that extend in the up-down direction. The racks 74, 74 are respectively mounted to the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2. The gear 75 is a gear that engages with the racks 74, 74. The gear box 76 houses the gear 75 and a portion of the racks 74, 74. The gear box 76 is mounted to the surface of the guide rail 71 on the side opposite the heating section 3. The amount of downward movement of the heating section 3 on which the guide plate 72 is mounted is always half the amount of downward movement of the movable molding die 2.

[0168] [Effects]

[0169] As shown in Figure 18As shown, in the open mold state, the tip side of the racks 74, 74 engages with the pinion 75, and the fixed mold 1 and the movable mold 2 are located at the most distant positions. Although not shown, in this state, the workpieces w1, w2 are disposed in the fixed mold 1 and the movable mold 2, respectively. Thereafter, by the drive mechanism 4, the guide plate 72 is moved in the right direction along the groove portion of the rail 71 toward the fixed mold 1 and the movable mold 2 in the open mold state. Accordingly, the heating section 3 mounted to the guide plate 72 is moved between the fixed mold 1 and the movable mold 2.

[0170] As shown, when the closing operation is started, the movable mold 2 approaches the fixed mold 1. Then, the racks 74, 74 rotate the pinion 75, and thus the gear box 76 housing the pinion 75 is moved downward. Along with this, the rail 71 mounted to the gear box 76 is moved downward, and the guide plate 72 fitted to the rail 71 and the heating section 3 mounted with the guide plate 72 are moved downward. Figure 15

[0171] As with the spring type centering mechanism 60, by the closing operation, during the period in which the movable mold 2 moves to the lowermost position, the distance between the facing surface of the movable mold 2 and the upper surface of the heating section 3, and the distance between the facing surface of the fixed mold 1 and the lower surface of the heating section 3 are the same. In addition, the distance between the welding portion w24 of the workpiece w2 disposed in the mold cavity 21 of the movable mold 2 and the upper surface of the heating section 3, and the distance between the welding portion w14 of the workpiece w1 disposed in the mold cavity 11 of the fixed mold 1 and the lower surface of the heating section 3 are the same.

[0172] The effects of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 using the rack-pinion type centering mechanism 70 are the same as those of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 using the spring type centering mechanism 60, and thus the description is omitted.

[0173] [Structure (Third)]

[0174] Referring to Figures 19-21 A hollow container manufacturing apparatus of a further example of the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 19 is a side view of a link type centering mechanism in the fourth embodiment. Figure 20 is a rear view of the link type centering mechanism of Figure 19 Figure 21 is a rear view of Figure 19 in the open mold state.

[0175] The hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the further example of the fourth embodiment includes a centering mechanism 80. The centering mechanism 80 is disposed outside in the front-rear direction of the heating section 3, and Figures 19-21 ​​Only one is shown in the figure. Since the centering mechanisms 80 located on the outer side in the front-rear direction have the same function, the following description will continue to focus on one centering mechanism.

[0176] The centering mechanism 80 includes a guide rail 71, a guide plate 72, a connecting block 73, a long connecting rod (first connecting rod) 81, and short connecting rods (second connecting rods) 82, 82. The guide rail 71, guide plate 72, and connecting block 73 are the same as those described previously. Additionally, the motor M, coupling 41, ball screw 42, ball screw nut 43, and bearing housings 44, 44 of the described drive mechanism 4 are provided in the centering mechanism 70.

[0177] The long connecting rod 81 is a plate-shaped body and is disposed on the surface of the guide rail 71 opposite to the heating part 3. The center of the long connecting rod 81 is rotatably fixed to the guide rail 71 by a pin 811. In addition, the two ends of the long connecting rod 81 are rotatably fixed to the respective first ends of the short connecting rods 82 and 82 by pins 812 and 812, respectively, and are movable relative to the fixed molding mold 1 and the movable molding mold 2.

[0178] Short connecting rods 82 and 82 are plate-shaped bodies connected to long connecting rod 81. The second ends of each of the short connecting rods 82 and 82 are rotatably mounted to the side of the fixed molding mold 1 and the side of the movable molding mold 2 via pins 821 and 821. The short connecting rods 82 and 82 have the same length. The downward movement of the heating part 3, on which the guide plate 72 is mounted, is always half of the downward movement of the movable molding mold 2. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the long connecting rod 81 (first connecting rod 81) is longer than the short connecting rod 82 (second connecting rod 82), but their lengths can be appropriately set according to the mold opening and closing stroke.

[0179] [effect]

[0180] like Figure 21 As shown, in the open mold state, the long connecting rod 81 and the short connecting rods 82 are at their maximum extension, and the fixed forming mold 1 and the movable forming mold 2 are at their maximum distance from each other. Although not shown, in this state, workpieces w1 and w2 are respectively placed in the fixed forming mold 1 and the movable forming mold 2. Afterwards, via the drive mechanism 4, the guide plate 72 moves to the right along the groove of the guide rail 71 toward the fixed forming mold 1 and the movable forming mold 2 in the open mold state. Accordingly, the heating unit 3, on which the guide plate 72 is mounted, moves between the fixed forming mold 1 and the movable forming mold 2.

[0181] After the move is completed, such as Figure 20As shown, when the closing operation is started, the movable forming die 2 approaches the fixed forming die 1. Then, the angle between the long link 81 and each of the short links 82, 82 becomes small, the short links 82, 82 approach each other, and the long link 81 moves downward. In addition, the guide rail 71 mounted to the long link 81 moves downward, and the guide plate 72 fitted to the guide rail 71 and the heating section 3 on which the guide plate 72 is mounted move downward.

[0182] As with the spring type centering mechanism 60 and the rack-and-pinion type centering mechanism 70, by the closing operation, during the movable forming die 2 moves to the lowermost position, the distance between the facing surface of the movable forming die 2 and the upper surface of the heating section 3 and the distance between the facing surface of the fixed forming die 1 and the lower surface of the heating section 3 are the same. In addition, the distance between the welding portion w24 of the workpiece w2 provided in the mold cavity 21 of the movable forming die 2 and the upper surface of the heating section 3 and the distance between the welding portion w14 of the workpiece w1 provided in the mold cavity 11 of the fixed forming die 1 and the lower surface of the heating section 3 are the same.

[0183] The effects of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 using the link type centering mechanism 80 are the same as those of the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 using the spring type centering mechanism 60 and the rack-and-pinion type centering mechanism 70, and thus the description is omitted.

[0184] [5th Embodiment]

[0185] Referring mainly to Figure 3 A hollow container manufacturing apparatus of the 5th embodiment will be described (see other drawings as appropriate). The 5th embodiment relates to the heating section 3 and the protection frame 31 already described. The heating section 3 of the 5th embodiment is, for example, a non-contact type IR heater.

[0186] As Figure 3 shown, the heating section 3 is substantially ring-shaped in plan view, and is formed in a manner corresponding to the shape of the welding portion of the workpiece w1, w2. The both end portions of the heating section 3 extend from the left side of the substantially ring-shaped portion of the heating section 3 to the left direction, and pass through the holes formed in the holding portion 311 of the protection frame 31. In addition, the both end portions of the heating section 3 are connected to a heater wire (not shown) for supplying electric power to the heating section 3. Further, it can be configured that a terminal table is provided on the plate 50, and the heater wire is connected to the terminal table.

[0187] The protection frame 31( Figure 3The protection frame 31 covers the periphery of the heating section 3, and is formed one turn larger than the workpieces w1, w2, and has a thickness in the up-down direction larger than the heating section 3. The protection frame 31 has a holding section 311. The holding section 311 is located in the center of the left side of the protection frame 31. The holding section 311 has holes through which both end sections of the heating section 3 pass, and can hold the heating section 3 to the protection frame 31. In addition, the right end of the plate 50 is disposed on the upper surface of the left side portion of the protection frame 31, and is mounted by screwing or the like (see also Figure 1 ). In addition, four sliders 51 are mounted on the lower surface of the protection frame 31 by screwing or the like (see also Figure 1 ).

[0188] [Effects]

[0189] The driving mechanism 4 moves the heating section 3 and the protection frame 31 between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 that are open. The protection frame 31 has a thickness larger than the heating section 3. In addition, the protection frame 31 can advance and retreat relative to the fixed molding die 1 along the guide rails 13, 13 together with the heating section 3. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent the heating section 3 from contacting the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, which the heating section 3 moves between. As a result, it is possible to prevent damage to the heating section 3 due to contact with the fixed molding die 1, the movable molding die 2, and the workpieces w1, w2. If the protection frame 31 has contacted the fixed molding die 1, the movable molding die 2, or the workpieces w1, w2, for example, by stopping the operation by detecting a change in the torque of the motor, or the like, it is possible to reliably protect the heating section 3. Furthermore, it is preferable that the protection frame 31 be designed so that the protection frame 31 that moves between the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 does not contact either the fixed molding die 1 or the movable molding die 2.

[0190] In the related art, there is no mechanism that protects the heating section such as an IR heater. Therefore, in the closing operation, contact of the heating section with the molding die is avoided by intentionally increasing the distance between the heating section and the molding die. However, since this method does not allow the heating section to approach the workpiece, there is a problem of a decrease in heating efficiency. In view of the reduction in heating time and the meltability of the workpiece, it is preferable to make the heating section approach the workpiece as much as possible.

[0191] In contrast, according to the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment, since the protection frame 31 is used, the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 are not in contact with the heating section 3, and the heating section 3 can be easily brought close to the workpieces w1, w2. Therefore, the heating time can be shortened, and the heating efficiency of the workpieces can be improved. Moreover, since the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 are brought close, the time from when the heating section 3 retreats to when the dies are closed can be shortened. Accordingly, the temperature of the workpieces can be prevented from decreasing, and thus the quality of the welded portion can be expected to be improved.

[0192] In addition, according to the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment, the front and rear portions of the protection frame 31 are provided with four sliders 51. Therefore, the protection frame 31 is advanced and retreated on the guide rails 13, 13, and thus the heating section 3 can be prevented from vibrating. The vibration of the heating section 3 not only makes the alignment in the height direction difficult, but also decreases the durability of the heating section 3, and thus the life of the heating section 3 can be shortened. However, according to the hollow container manufacturing apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment, since the heating section 3 hardly vibrates, the alignment in the height direction becomes easy, and the decrease in the durability of the heating section 3 can be suppressed, and thus the life of the heating section 3 can be prolonged.

[0193] [Modifications]

[0194] (a) In the first embodiment, the height position of the drive mechanism 4 can be made the same as the height position of the guide rails 13, 13. Specifically, the drive mechanism 4 can be arranged between the guide rails 13, 13, and the axial dimension of the guide rods 49, 49 can be shortened. In addition, the drive mechanism 4 can have one guide rod 49.

[0195] (b) In the first embodiment, the heating section 3 is not limited to the non-contact type, and can be the contact type. In the case of the contact type, for example, the heating section 3 can be in the form of a plate.

[0196] (c) In the first embodiment, a part of the guide rails 13, 13 can be provided to the movable molding die 2. That is, a part of the guide rails 13, 13 can be provided to the facing surface of the movable molding die 2 which faces the fixed molding die 1.

[0197] (d): In embodiments 1 to 5, the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 are not limited to vertically movable molding dies, but can also be horizontally movable molding dies. That is, the forward and backward direction of the heating part 3 can also be vertical (top and bottom direction). Furthermore, in the embodiments described, examples of primary molding and secondary molding using different molding dies were illustrated, and the case of using the present invention as a molding die for secondary molding was explained, but it is not limited to this. The present invention can also be applied to molding dies capable of both primary molding and secondary molding.

[0198] (e): An interlocking mechanism may also be introduced into the retaining mechanism 16 of the second embodiment. That is, it may be controlled so that the next action is not performed before the part of the core 161 of the retaining mechanism 16 is moved to a predetermined position by the cylinder 162.

[0199] (f): In the second embodiment, Figure 6 In the holding mechanism 17 shown, the top end of the pressing part 171 is set to a hemispherical shape, but the top end of the pressing part 171 can also be set to a saw blade shape. In this case, by making the orientation of the saw blade the same as the orientation in which the workpieces w1 and w2 are respectively placed in the mold cavities 11 and 21, the workpieces w1 and w2 can be smoothly placed. In addition, by forming a saw blade shape, the workpieces w1 and w2 can be reliably held.

[0200] (g): In the holding mechanism 17 of the second embodiment, the structure in which the force-applying unit 172 applies force from the outside toward the peripheral wall portion w12 of the workpiece w1 has been described. However, it is not limited to the peripheral wall portion w12; for example, it may also be a structure in which force is applied from the outside toward the flange portion w13. More generally, it may also be a structure in which force is applied from the outside toward the side of the workpiece w1.

[0201] (h): The holding mechanisms 16 and 17 of the second embodiment can also be used in combination.

[0202] (i): In the second embodiment, the heating part 3 is not limited to a non-contact type, but can also be a contact type. In the case of a contact type, it can be plate-shaped, for example.

[0203] (j): The holding mechanisms 16 and 17 of the second embodiment are capable of holding workpieces w1 and w2 that do not have flanges. That is, the holding mechanisms 16 and 17 are capable of pressing a portion of workpieces w1 and w2, which have at least a bottom and a peripheral wall portion that rises from the bottom, onto the fixed forming mold 1 and the movable forming mold 2, respectively.

[0204] (k) The holding mechanisms 16, 17 of the second embodiment can press the workpieces wl, w2 provided in (or located in) the cavities of the molding dies to the molding dies regardless of the types of the molding dies. That is, as in the second embodiment, the holding mechanisms 16, 17 can be such that the workpieces wl, w2 molded by one-time molding are temporarily taken out and provided in the cavities 11, 21 of the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2 for two-time molding, respectively, and then a part of each of the workpieces wl, w2 is pressed to the fixed molding die 1 and the movable molding die 2, respectively. Alternatively, the holding mechanisms 16, 17 can be such that even if the workpieces molded by one-time molding are not taken out, the molding dies can perform two-time molding, and the holding mechanisms 16, 17 press the workpieces located in the cavities of the molding dies.

[0205] (l) The heating portion 3 of the third embodiment can not be plate-shaped. For example, the heating portion 3 can be three-dimensionally curved.

[0206] (m) The centering mechanisms 60, 70, 80 of the fourth embodiment are described as two-end support structures that support the heating portion 3 from the outer sides of the front and rear of the heating portion 3, but can be cantilever structures that support the heating portion 3 from the outer side of either the front or the rear.

[0207] (n) In the spring-type centering mechanism 60 of the fourth embodiment, the amount of movement of the heating portion 3 with respect to the movable molding die 2 can be changed by changing the ratio of the spring constant of the first spring 62 to the spring constant of the second spring 63.

[0208] (o) In the centering mechanisms 70, 80 of the fourth embodiment, the guide rail 71 can be a convex strip portion, the slider can be able to slide on the convex strip portion, and the heating portion 3 can be moved by mounting the slider on the heating portion 3.

[0209] (p) The thickness of the protection frame 31 of the fifth embodiment in the up-down direction can be equal to or less than the thickness of the heating portion 3 in the up-down direction. That is, the protection frame 31 can be a shape that covers at least the periphery of the heating portion 3. Even with such a shape, the protection frame 31 can be able to advance and retreat on the guide rails 13, 13 in a state in which the heating portion 3 is placed.

[0210] (q) The invention-specific matters described in each of the embodiments can be appropriately combined.

[0211] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0212] 100: hollow container manufacturing apparatus; 1: fixed forming mold; 2: movable forming mold; 3: heating section; 4: drive mechanism; 11: mold cavity; 12: groove section; 13: guide rail (guide rail for heating section movement); 14: bracket; 15: peripheral section; 151: first peripheral section; 152: second peripheral section; 16: holding mechanism; 161: partial core; 162: cylinder; 17: holding mechanism; 171: pressing section; 172: force applying unit; 173: base section; 18: first communication hole; 19: guide pin; 21: mold cavity; 22: hole; 31: protection frame; 311: holding section; 32: second communication hole; 33: third communication hole (heating section communication hole); 41: coupling; 42: ball screw; 43: ball screw nut; 44: bearing box; 45: plate; 46: bracket; 47: guide rail; 48: slide block; 49: guide rod; 50: plate; 51: slide block; 52: drive brace; 521: terminal table; 60: centering mechanism; 61: intermediate plate; 62: first spring; 63: second spring; 64: shaft section; 65: lower end section of shaft; 66: upper end section of shaft; 67: spacer; 70: centering mechanism; 71: guide rail (guide rail for centering); 72: guide plate; 73: connecting block; 74: rack; 75: gear; 76: gear box; 80: centering mechanism; 81: long link (first link); 82: short link (second link); 811, 812, 821: pin; w1, w2: workpiece; w11: bottom section; w12: peripheral wall section; w13: flange section; w131: first flange section; w132: second flange section; w14, w24: weld section; M: motor.

Claims

1. A hollow container manufacturing apparatus characterized by comprising a fixed molding die, a movable molding die, a heating section, a guide for moving the heating section, and a driving mechanism, wherein the fixed molding die has a die cavity, the movable molding die has a die cavity and moves in a direction approaching or departing from the fixed molding die, the heating section heats workpieces in the die cavities of the fixed molding die and the movable molding die by being disposed between the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, a part of the guide for moving the heating section is provided on a facing surface of the fixed molding die facing the movable molding die or a facing surface of the movable molding die facing the fixed molding die, the driving mechanism advances and retreats the heating section along the guide for moving the heating section with respect to the fixed molding die or the movable molding die, and the workpieces are welded after being heated by the heating section.

2. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the workpieces have at least a bottom and a peripheral wall portion rising from the bottom, and the hollow container manufacturing apparatus has a holding mechanism that presses a part of the workpieces in the die cavities of the fixed molding die and the movable molding die to the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively.

3. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the holding mechanism has a cylinder and a partial core that advances and retreats by the cylinder, and the partial core presses a part of the workpieces to the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively, by the cylinder.

4. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the holding mechanism has a force applying unit that applies a force to a side surface of the workpieces from an outside and a pressing portion provided at a top end of the force applying unit, and a part of the workpieces is pressed to the fixed molding die and the movable molding die, respectively, by the force of the force applying unit.

5. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the apparatus has a centering mechanism that makes a distance between the heating section and the fixed molding die and a distance between the heating section and the movable molding die the same after the heating section is disposed between the fixed molding die and the movable molding die.

6. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the centering mechanism has an intermediate plate that extends to an outside of the heating section, a first spring provided between the intermediate plate and the fixed molding die, and a second spring provided between the intermediate plate and the movable molding die and having the same spring constant as the first spring.

7. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The centering mechanism has a guide plate, a centering rail, a pair of racks, a gear, and a gear box, wherein The guide plate extends to the outside of the heating section; The centering rail is used for the guide plate to fit in; A pair of the racks are respectively installed in the fixed forming die and the movable forming die, and extend along the moving direction of the movable forming die; The gear meshes with a pair of the racks; The gear box houses the gear and a part of a pair of the racks, and is installed in the centering rail.

8. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein The centering mechanism has a guide plate, a centering rail, a first link, and a pair of second links, wherein The guide plate extends to the outside of the heating section; The centering rail is used for the guide plate to fit in; The center of the first link is rotatably fixed to the centering rail; The first end portions of a pair of the second links are rotatably fixed to the end portions of the first link, respectively, and the second end portions thereof are rotatably installed in the fixed forming die and the movable forming die, respectively.

9. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein In a case where the heating section is brought into contact with a pair of the workpieces at the time of welding, The fixed forming die or the movable forming die has a first communication hole that communicates with the outside, The heating section has a second communication hole that communicates with the first communication hole.

10. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein In a case where the heating section is brought into contact with a pair of the workpieces at the time of welding, The heating section has a heating section communication hole that discharges air inside the fixed forming die and the movable forming die to the outside.

11. The hollow container manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein In a case where the heating section is not brought into contact with a pair of the workpieces at the time of welding, There is a protection frame that covers the periphery of the heating section, The protection frame advances and retreats with respect to the fixed forming die along the heating section moving rail together with the heating section.

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