Mold molding device and mold molding method

Abstract

Provided is a mold molding apparatus and a mold molding method that reduce waste of strokes for extrusion, improve efficiency of a carrier plate replacement operation, and assist in auxiliary operations. The mold molding apparatus includes: a carrier plate replacement device of a turret type; a sand box carrying-in / out device that carries in a sand box to a molding space formation position provided in the carrier plate replacement device and carries out the molded sand box; a sand box carrier plate superposition device that superposes each carrier plate with the carried-in sand box to form a molding space; a molding sand filling device that fills the molding space with molding sand; a molding station that is provided adjacent to the molding space formation position and includes a molding sand pressing device that molds a mold by pressing the molding sand; and a sand box carrier plate moving device that moves the carrier plate and the sand box in a superposed state from the molding space formation position to the molding station.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a molding apparatus for a mold using molding sand and a molding method for implementing the molding apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] To shape the mold, molding sand is filled into the molding space formed by a model platform on which the model is fixed and a sand box. By pressing the added molding sand and removing the model, a sand-formed mold is formed.

[0003] As a molding apparatus for manufacturing such a mold, Patent Document 1 describes a molding station and a model changing station. The model changing station alternately changes the upper mold carrier plate and the lower mold carrier plate, which are fixed with the model and the model platform, relative to the molding station in a turntable manner. A sand box in-and-out line is also provided, which moves sand boxes into the molding station in an arrangement that intersects with the molding station.

[0004] At the model changing station, models that have completed a predetermined number of modeling operations are moved out onto each carrier plate and placed into a carrier plate pre-fixed with the model for the next modeling operation. These processes are automated, allowing model changing to be completed during the modeling process at the modeling station, resulting in an excellent device that eliminates delays in the modeling cycle.

[0005] However, at the molding station, the sand box inlet and outlet lines intersect. Therefore, when rotating the carrier plate with the model fixed at the model changing station, it is necessary to ensure that the upper surface of the model does not interfere with the mold protrusion on the lower surface of the sand box. Therefore, the distance between the upper surface of the model and the lower surface of the sand box is set to be relatively large.

[0006] Additionally, in the molding station, the following settings are required: a gap must be maintained between the sand box and the upper holding box arranged vertically, and a gap must also be maintained between the lower surface of the extrusion head and the upper surface of the upper holding box. Furthermore, the following settings are required: a gap must also be maintained between the lower surface of the carrier plate and the upper surface of the extrusion table.

[0007] Here, the total length of the aforementioned gaps needs to be added to the stroke of the cylinder device that raises and lowers the extrusion table. However, the output of the cylinder device, which is supposed to have a large pressure, is only needed for compressing the molding sand in the sand box, and the stroke of the aforementioned gap amount is wasted as the power to drive the cylinder device.

[0008] Patent document 2 describes a device for separating the model from the sand mold taken out of the sand box through the model.

[0009] In Patent Document 2, only the molding sand is compressed at the molding station, while the molding sand is fed into the sand box and demolded after extrusion at the mold changing unit. Therefore, the pressure device in the molding station has a short stroke and less wasted power.

[0010] Existing technical documents

[0011] Patent documents

[0012] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6577321

[0013] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-512048 Summary of the Invention

[0014] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0015] However, in Patent Document 2, the model changing unit that replaces the upper mold carrier plate and the lower mold carrier plate has the modeling station arranged side by side in the center of the straight model changing unit. Furthermore, a sand box conveyor line (carrying in empty sand boxes and taking out extruded sand boxes) is arranged in an overlapping manner above the model changing unit.

[0016] Therefore, when a new carrier plate is replaced in the model replacement section, as in Patent Document 2... Figure 4 Similar to models 36a and 36b, the molds need to be moved to two dedicated locations that are 90 degrees away from both ends of the straight mold changing section. Necessary auxiliary operations such as cold molding and surface sanding must also be performed at these two dedicated locations.

[0017] Therefore, additional labor and time are required to move the model from the replacement unit to two dedicated locations at a 90-degree angle and to move it into those locations.

[0018] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a mold molding apparatus and mold molding method that reduces the waste of the stroke used for extrusion and improves the efficiency of carrier plate replacement and auxiliary operations.

[0019] means for solving problems

[0020] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the mold molding apparatus includes a carrier plate changing device, which mounts an upper sand box carrier plate at one position on an imaginary horizontal plane and a lower sand box carrier plate at the other position on the same horizontal plane. The carrier plate changing device changes the upper sand box carrier plate and the lower sand box carrier plate by rotating along the horizontal plane between an auxiliary operation position where auxiliary operations are performed on each of the carrier plates and a molding space forming position where a molding space for filling molding sand is formed by overlapping the sand box onto each of the carrier plates.

[0021] Additionally, it includes: a sand box loading and unloading device that loads the sand box before molding, which is used to overlap with the carrier plate, into the molding space forming position, and unloads the sand box after molding, which has been used to shape the mold; and a sand box carrier plate overlapping device that overlaps the sand box loaded by the sand box loading and unloading device with the carrier plate to form a molding space.

[0022] In addition, the molding apparatus includes: a molding sand filling device that fills the formed molding space with molding sand; a molding station that is adjacent to the formation position of the molding space and has a molding sand pressing device that presses the molding sand placed into the molding space to mold the mold; and a sand box carrier plate moving device that moves the carrier plate and the sand box in an overlapping state from the formation position of the molding space to the molding station.

[0023] Therefore, in the molding station, only the pressing process of molding sand is performed. The short stroke of the molding sand pressing device in the molding station can reduce the waste of power.

[0024] Furthermore, it enables the replacement of carrier plates and other auxiliary operations at a single auxiliary work location, thereby achieving high operational efficiency.

[0025] According to the second aspect of the mold-forming apparatus of the present invention, based on the first aspect of the mold-forming apparatus, the molding station is arranged on a straight line formed by the auxiliary operation position and the molding space formation position.

[0026] Therefore, it is possible to perform auxiliary operations on the carrier plate that is replaced at the auxiliary operation position, and further, it is possible to move the sand box and carrier plate that overlap in the modeling space into the modeling station in the shortest distance and time without wasting any path.

[0027] According to the third-party mold molding apparatus of the present invention, based on the first or second mold molding apparatus, a lateral offset prevention device is provided at the molding space forming position. When the sand box and the carrier plate overlap, the lateral offset prevention device prevents the sand box and the carrier plate from shifting relative to each other in the horizontal direction while overlapping.

[0028] This prevents lateral shift of the overlapping sandboxes and carrier plates when they move toward the molding station.

[0029] According to the fourth aspect of the mold-forming apparatus of the present invention, based on the third aspect of the mold-forming apparatus, the lateral offset prevention device is provided on the sand box carrier plate overlapping device.

[0030] Therefore, since the lateral offset prevention device is installed on the sand box carrier plate overlapping device, lateral offset can be easily and reliably prevented without the need for a special dedicated device.

[0031] According to the fifth aspect of the mold molding apparatus of the present invention, based on the fourth aspect of the mold molding apparatus, the sand box carrier plate moving device is provided with an overlapping device moving mechanism. When the overlapping sand box and the carrier plate are moved by the sand box carrier plate moving device, the overlapping device moving mechanism causes the sand box carrier plate overlapping device to move together with the sand box and the carrier plate toward the molding station.

[0032] Therefore, when transferring from the lifting action used to overlap the sand box with the carrier plate to the lateral action, no additional device is needed for the transfer, which can shorten the transfer time and simplify the device.

[0033] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, based on the mold molding apparatus of any one of the first to fifth aspects, a molding station conveyor is provided at the molding station. The molding station conveyor is a roller conveyor extending in the direction of the carrier plate changing device. A movable roller conveyor is provided at the position where the carrier plate is mounted on the carrier plate changing device. When the movable roller conveyor is positioned at the molding space forming position, it is aligned with the molding station conveyor.

[0034] Therefore, it is possible to move easily and reliably between the forming position in the modeling space and the modeling station while keeping the sand box overlapping the carrier plate unchanged.

[0035] According to the seventh aspect of the mold molding apparatus of the present invention, based on the fifth aspect of the mold molding apparatus, the overlapping device moving mechanism comprises: a groove having an insertion portion at its end, disposed in the sand box carrier plate overlapping device in a longitudinally extending manner; a slider portion inserted from the insertion portion and sliding along the groove; a rotating shaft disposed in the structure of the molding station; a crank arm portion rotating about the rotating shaft along an imaginary vertical plane including the groove between the molding space forming position and the molding station, causing the slider portion to reciprocate within the groove; and a rotation driving device that rotates the crank arm portion such that, when the sand box and the carrier plate overlap, the slider portion is inserted from the insertion portion into the groove.

[0036] Therefore, when the sand box and the carrier plate overlap, the slider part is inserted into the groove part, and through the rotation of the crank arm, the sand box, the carrier plate, and the sand box-carrier plate overlapping device can move towards the molding station. In this way, the descent and lateral movement of the sand box can be instantly linked, enabling rapid and reliable lateral movement towards the molding station.

[0037] According to the eighth aspect of the mold molding apparatus of the present invention, based on the mold molding apparatus of any of the first to seventh aspects, the molding sand pressing device at the molding station causes the molding sand pressing member disposed on the upper side of the sand box to descend and squeeze the molding sand.

[0038] Therefore, the molding sand pressing device lowers the molding sand pressing component from above the sand box overlapping the carrier plate to pressurize the molding sand. This eliminates the need for space for a drive mechanism (e.g., an extrusion table, or a large cylinder device that raises the extrusion table) located below the carrier plate, saving space and reducing the depth of the recess used to accommodate the drive mechanism. Furthermore, since the large pressing device is located on the ground, maintainability is improved.

[0039] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the mold molding apparatus, based on the sixth aspect of the mold molding apparatus, includes a locking device in the carrier plate changing device. This locking device prevents the carrier plates from moving outward in the radial direction when the carrier plate changing device rotates, at the position where each carrier plate is mounted.

[0040] Therefore, by means of a locking device, movement of the carrier plate caused by centrifugal force during the rotation of the carrier plate changing device can be prevented.

[0041] According to the tenth aspect of the mold molding apparatus of the present invention, based on the sixth aspect of the mold molding apparatus, the molding station is provided with: an extrusion worktable, which is capable of bearing the overlapping sand box and the carrier plate on its upper surface; and a conveyor lifting device, which lowers the molding station conveyor to a position lower than the upper surface of the extrusion worktable when the molding sand is pressed by the molding sand pressing device.

[0042] Therefore, when pressing molding sand, it can prevent the carrier plate from falling onto the surface of the extrusion workbench and causing overload on the molding station conveyor.

[0043] According to the eleventh aspect of the mold-forming apparatus of the present invention, based on the mold-forming apparatus of any one of the first to tenth aspects, the molding sand filling device is configured to be adapted to the position of the forming space.

[0044] Therefore, by placing the molding sand filling device at the molding space forming position, especially the installation of the naturally falling molding sand filling device, it becomes easy to scrape off the remaining sand after the filling is completed, which can also be carried out when moving the overlapping sand box and carrier plate to the molding station without setting a special mechanism.

[0045] According to the twelfth aspect of the mold-forming apparatus of the present invention, based on the mold-forming apparatus of any of the first to tenth aspects, the molding sand filling device is configured to be adapted to the position of the molding station.

[0046] Therefore, by arranging the molding sand filling device at the molding station, especially the installation of the blow-type molding sand filling device, it is easy to prevent the generation of residual sand after the filling is completed.

[0047] According to the thirteenth aspect of the molding method of the present invention, a carrier plate replacement step is included. In this carrier plate replacement step, an upper sand box carrier plate is mounted at one position on an imaginary horizontal plane, and a lower sand box carrier plate is mounted at the other position on the same horizontal plane. The upper sand box carrier plate and the lower sand box carrier plate are replaced by rotating along the horizontal plane between an auxiliary operation position where auxiliary operations are performed on each of the carrier plates and a molding space forming position where the sand box is overlapped on each of the carrier plates to form a molding space for filling molding sand.

[0048] Additionally, the device includes: a sand box loading process, in which a sand box for overlapping with each of the carrier plates before molding is loaded into the molding space forming position by a sand box loading device; and a sand box carrier plate overlapping process, in which the sand box loaded by the sand box loading device is overlapped with each of the carrier plates to form a molding space.

[0049] Additionally, the system includes: a molding sand filling process in which molding sand is filled into the formed molding space; a sand box carrier plate moving process in which the carrier plate and the sand box are moved in an overlapping state to a molding station adjacent to the formation position of the molding space; and a molding sand pressing process in which a molding sand pressing device provided at the molding station is used to press the molding sand that has been placed into the molding space to shape the mold.

[0050] Therefore, in the molding station, only the pressing process of molding sand is performed. The short stroke of the molding sand pressing device in the molding station can reduce the waste of power.

[0051] Furthermore, it enables the replacement of carrier plates and other auxiliary operations at a single auxiliary work location, thereby achieving high operational efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the first embodiment of the casting molding apparatus of the present invention as viewed from the front.

[0053] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 AA section view in the image.

[0054] Figure 3 This diagram shows the state in which the locking device has been released using the release device.

[0055] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 BB section view in the middle.

[0056] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 CC section view in the image.

[0057] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 DD section view in the image.

[0058] Figure 7 This diagram shows the state of overlapping sand boxes and upper storage boxes formed by stacking them on a carrier plate.

[0059] Figure 8 This diagram shows the state of molding sand being poured into the shape space of the overlapping box and the state of the slider being inserted into the groove.

[0060] Figure 9 This diagram shows the state after the sand box, the upper holding box, and the sand box conveyor frame, which are superimposed on the carrier plate, are moved to the molding station.

[0061] Figure 10 This diagram shows the state after the molding station conveyor descends and transfers the carrier plate to the extrusion worktable.

[0062] Figure 11 This diagram shows the state of the molding sand in the overlapping box after it has been squeezed using a molding sand pressing device.

[0063] Figure 12 This diagram shows the state after the extrusion foot of the molding sand pressing device rises, causing the molding station conveyor to rise to its original position.

[0064] Figure 13 This diagram shows the state after the crank arm is rotated, causing the carrier plate, the molded sand box, the upper holding box, and the sand box conveyor frame to move to the molded space and form their positions.

[0065] Figure 14 This diagram shows the state after the sand box and the upper holding box are separated from the carrier plate by the sand box conveyor frame lifting device.

[0066] Figure 15 This diagram shows the state in which the sand box conveyor frame lifting device is positioned at the rising end.

[0067] Figure 16 This diagram shows the state of the sand box conveyor frame lifting device being positioned at the lowering end.

[0068] Figure 17 This diagram shows the state after the crank arm is rotated, causing the carrier plate, sand box, upper holding box, and sand box conveyor frame to move to the molding station.

[0069] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the molding apparatus of the second embodiment.

[0070] Figure 19 This diagram illustrates the molding process of the molding apparatus according to the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0071] (First Implementation)

[0072] The following is based on Figures 1 to 17 The first embodiment of the casting mold making apparatus and casting mold making method involved in the present invention will be described.

[0073] like Figure 1 As shown, the molding apparatus 1 of the first embodiment includes a carrier plate replacement device 2, a sand box loading and unloading device 3, a sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4, a molding sand filling device 5, a molding station 6, and an overlapping device moving mechanism 7.

[0074] Furthermore, the horizontal direction in which the carrier plate changing device 2 and the molding station 6 are arranged in a straight line is designated as the X direction, and the horizontal direction perpendicular to the X direction is designated as the Y direction. In the case of a conveyed item, an imaginary centerline along its conveying direction is considered, and the side closer to this centerline is called the "inner side", and the side farther from this centerline is called the "outer side".

[0075] In addition, in the transport of sand boxes, the starting point of the transport is called the upstream side, and the ending point of the transport is called the downstream side.

[0076] (Carrier plate replacement device)

[0077] The carrier plate changing device 2 is configured to change the carrier plate CP between the auxiliary operation position AWP and the modeling space forming position SFP. The carrier plate CP has an upper mold model UM or a lower mold model DM used at the modeling station 6 fixed on its upper surface.

[0078] The carrier plate changing device 2 includes a rotating peripheral wall 21, a supporting rectangular body 22, a supporting frame 23, and a rotary drive mechanism (not shown in the figure).

[0079] The rotating peripheral wall 21 is formed into a cylindrical shape and is externally embedded in the structure in a rotatable manner via a bearing (not shown).

[0080] A rectangular support body 22 extending horizontally is assembled at the lower center of the rotating peripheral wall 21 in a manner that prevents relative movement. Two support frames 23 are fixed to the support rectangle 22, and these two support frames 23 are configured to extend parallel to each other along opposite sides of the support rectangle 22. Multiple (four pairs in this embodiment) roller conveyors 24 (moving roller conveyors) are provided at both ends of the support frames 23, arranged in an inwardly opposing manner. The rotating peripheral wall 21 reciprocates in a forward and reverse rotation manner every 180 degrees by a rotary drive device equipped with an electric motor, a gearbox, etc. The operation of the electric motor is controlled by a control device (not shown).

[0081] (Clocking device)

[0082] A locking device 25 is provided on the supporting rectangular body 22 of the carrier plate changing device 2. The locking device 25 prevents each carrier plate CP from moving from its mounting position by means of the centrifugal force generated in the radial direction outward when the carrier plate changing device 2 rotates.

[0083] The locking device 25 includes: a fixed platform 251, a locking rod 252, and a locking rod force application device 253 provided on the carrier plate replacement device 2; a locking groove CPG provided on the lower outer side of the carrier plate CP in the radial direction of the carrier plate replacement device 2; and a release device 26 provided on the base 1a of the structure.

[0084] The fixed platform 251 is, for example, made of iron and formed into a rectangular plate shape, and is vertically fixed to the lower end face of the roller conveyor 24 supporting the rectangular body 22 in a manner that maximizes the area of ​​the plate. A central support shaft 251a is provided in the center of the fixed platform 251, extending in a direction parallel to the support frame 23. Additionally, at one of the lower corners of the fixed platform 251 (in...) Figure 2 The right side of the middle section is provided with a rectangular column-shaped stop protrusion 251b.

[0085] A locking rod 252 is rotatably provided on the central support shaft 251a. The locking rod 252 is, for example, made of iron and formed as a long plate with a central bulge. The central support shaft 251a is provided at the bulge. The end of the long plate has: an upper side 252a along a straight line extending in a direction tangent to an imaginary concentric circle relative to the central support shaft 251a; and a lower side 252b provided parallel to the upper side 252a at a position opposite to it. The length from the central support shaft 251a to the upper side 252a is set to be shorter than the length from the central support shaft 251a to the lower side 252b.

[0086] A first locking hole is provided on the side of the locking rod 252, located on the lower side 252b of the central support shaft 251a. A hanging member 254, extending from the support rectangle 22 via a bracket (not shown), is positioned opposite the locking rod 252. A second locking hole is provided at the lower end of the hanging member 254, opposite the first locking hole, and a helical spring (locking rod force application device 253) is tensioned between the first and second locking holes. The locking rod 252 is pulled by the helical spring (locking rod force application device 253). Figure 2 Apply force in a counterclockwise direction.

[0087] During timing, such as Figure 2 As shown, the upper part 252a of the locking rod 252 is embedded in the locking groove CPG. Moreover, the side of the locking rod 252 on the helical spring side abuts against the stop protrusion 251b, stopping the rotation of the locking rod 252.

[0088] The locking state of the locking device 25 is released by the releasing device 26.

[0089] (Release device)

[0090] like Figure 1 As shown, the release device 26 is positioned below the carrier plate changing device 2 and opposite the locking device 25 on the side of the molding station 6. The release device 26 is housed in a recess provided in the base 1a of the structure.

[0091] like Figure 2 As shown, the release device 26 includes a rotating arm 261, a rotation drive unit 262, and a support platform 263. The rotating arm 261 and the opposing locking rod 252 rotate in the same plane about the output shaft of the rotation drive unit 262. A roller is provided at the front end of the rotating arm 261, which smoothly rolls when in contact with the locking rod 252, causing the locking rod 252 to rotate in the release direction (see reference). Figure 3 The rotary drive unit 262 is, for example, an electric motor, which causes the rotating arm 261 to rotate in both directions via a reduction gear. The operation of the electric motor is controlled by a control device (not shown in the figure).

[0092] The support platform 263 is formed, for example, from an iron component with a U-shaped cross-section. It is configured to be open at the bottom and protrude from the wall of the recess in a manner extending in the X direction. A rotary drive unit 262 is fixed to the upper surface of the support platform 263, for example, by bolts, nuts, or the like (not shown in the figure).

[0093] (Sandbox loading device, sandbox unloading device)

[0094] like Figure 2 As shown, the sand box loading and unloading device 3 includes a sand box loading device 31 and a sand box unloading device 32.

[0095] The sand box loading device 31 moves the sand box MF used for molding to the vicinity of the molding space forming position SFP.

[0096] The sand box removal device 32 removes the sand box MF, which contains the sand mold after molding, from the downstream side adjacent to the molding space forming position SFP towards the next process.

[0097] The sand box loading device 31 and the sand box unloading device 32 are roller conveyors, comprising a support member 31a extending in the Y direction and a plurality of rollers 31b disposed opposite each other on the inner side of the support member 31a. The sand boxes MF being loaded and conveyed are transported by, for example, by a plurality of propulsion devices and buffer devices arranged in a manner not shown in the figure.

[0098] In the shaping space, the sand box MF is transferred to the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4.

[0099] (Sandbox carrier plate overlapping device)

[0100] The sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 includes a sand box conveying frame 41, a sand box conveying frame lifting device 42, and a lateral offset prevention device 43.

[0101] (Sandbox conveyor frame)

[0102] The sand box conveying frame 41 is positioned between the downstream end of the sand box loading device 31 and the upstream end of the sand box unloading device, and is configured to move laterally in both the up-down direction and the direction of the molding station 6. It receives the sand box MF loaded by the sand box loading device 31 and hands over the sand box MF after molding at the molding station 6 to the sand box unloading device 32.

[0103] The sand box conveying frame 41 includes a frame body 411, a roller conveyor section 412, and an upper holding box holding section 413.

[0104] The frame body 411 is formed, for example, by placing two iron plates that are generally H-shaped opposite each other. On the upper outer sides of the frame body 411, engaging protrusions 411a are provided in two layers extending along the X direction, which engage with the sand box conveying frame lifting device 42 described later.

[0105] The first upper roller conveyor section 424, described later, engages with the two layers of engaging protrusions 411a on both sides so that it can move in the X direction.

[0106] (Upper storage box holding section)

[0107] An upper container holding part 413 is provided on the inner side of the middle part of the frame body 411. The upper container holding part 413 is formed on the inner wall of the frame body 411 by a rectangular plate (not shown) that protrudes inward in a horizontal direction with a large area of ​​the plate. The plate is positioned opposite to the inner wall of the frame body 411. A cylindrical engaging protrusion (not shown) is provided on the upper surface of each plate in a way that protrudes upward. The engaging protrusion corresponds to the engaging part of the upper container TF, which will be described later.

[0108] (Upper storage box)

[0109] The upper container TF is held overlapping the sand box MF to prevent excess molding sand CS, which is used for pressing, from overflowing into the molding space. After molding in the sand box MF, it is removed.

[0110] The upper container TF is formed into a rectangular frame shape. At each of the four corners of the upper container, there is a locking portion (not shown) protruding outwards in the X direction. Through the locking portion, it is detachably locked to the locking protrusion of the upper container holding portion 413.

[0111] (Roller conveyor)

[0112] A roller conveyor section 412 is provided at the lower part of the frame body 411. The roller conveyor sections 412 are mounted in pairs across the lower parts of the two opposing frame bodies 411. The roller conveyor sections 412 are similar to the roller conveyors of the sand box loading device 31 and the sand box unloading device 32, including a support member 412a extending in the Y direction and multiple rollers 412b disposed opposite each other on the inner side of the support member. The roller conveyor sections 412 are configured such that when the frame body 411 is in the raised position, they are aligned with the roller conveyors of the sand box loading device 31 and the sand box unloading device 32 (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0113] (Lateral offset prevention device)

[0114] The lateral offset prevention device 43 includes a long plate-shaped retaining portion (not shown) and a plate engaging portion 43b. The long plate-shaped retaining portion (not shown) is configured to extend along the support member 412a of the roller conveyor section 412 in the Y direction from the lower part of the opposing frame body 411. The plate engaging portion 43b is formed in the shape of a square rod, protruding downward from the lower part of the center of the long plate retaining portion, and further bent inward at a 90-degree angle. The plate engaging portion 43b is configured to protrude inward from below the center of the support member 412a of the roller conveyor section 412.

[0115] The board engagement part 43b engages with the engagement part CPK of the carrier board CP, which will be described later.

[0116] (Carrier plate)

[0117] The carrier plate CP has a model platform assembled on its upper surface for fixing the model, an overlapping sand box MF, and an upper holding box TF to form a modeling space.

[0118] The carrier plate CP is, for example, made of iron and formed into a rectangular thick plate, with a locking part (illustration omitted) on the upper surface for fixing the model platform.

[0119] A locking part CPK is provided on the side of the carrier plate CP arranged along the X direction. When viewed from above, the locking part CPK is open laterally in a roughly U-shape.

[0120] The carrier plate CP is equipped with a locking slot CPG.

[0121] The locking groove CPG is located on the inner bottom surface of the carrier plate CP in the carrier plate CP disposed in the carrier plate changing device 2 in the radial direction when the carrier plate changing device 2 rotates, and is set at a predetermined length in the tangential direction of the track circle when the carrier plate changing device 2 rotates.

[0122] (Sandbox conveyor frame lifting device)

[0123] The sand box conveyor frame lifting device 42 lowers the sand box conveyor frame 41 to overlap the upper holding box TF and the sand box MF with the carrier plate CP. After molding, the sand box MF and the upper holding box TF are raised and removed from the carrier plate CP.

[0124] The sand box conveying frame lifting device 42 is installed on the top plate 1b of the structure and includes a lifting support frame 421, a lifting cylinder device 422, and a lifting guide 423.

[0125] The lifting support frame 421 is, for example, made of iron and formed into a rectangular frame, and is provided above the top plate portion 1b in a manner that extends along the horizontal plane. The front end of the piston rod portion 422b of the lifting cylinder device 422 (described later) is assembled on the lower central center of the sides of the lifting support frame 421 that are arranged opposite each other in the Y direction.

[0126] The lifting cylinder devices 422 are arranged in pairs, each having a cylinder part 422a, a piston rod part 422b, and a hydraulic pump and an electromagnetic switching valve (not shown in the figure).

[0127] The cylinder section 422a is cylindrical, extending through and fixed to the top plate section 1b. The piston rod section 422b is inserted into the opening side of the cylinder section 422a, allowing it to move forward and backward in a vertical direction. The cylinder section 422a is connected to a hydraulic pump via an oil supply pipe (not shown). An electromagnetic switching valve (not shown) is installed between the cylinder section 422a and the hydraulic pump. The operation of the electromagnetic switching valve is controlled by a control device (not shown).

[0128] The front ends of the guide rod portions 423b of the lifting guide 423 are respectively assembled at the four corners of the lifting support frame 421. The lifting guide 423 has a cylindrical guide portion 423a and a guide rod portion 423b, and a first upper roller conveyor portion 424 at its lower end.

[0129] Each cylindrical guide portion 423a is formed as a cylinder with an open upper end and a closed lower end, and is respectively connected to and fixed to the top plate portion 1b. A rod-shaped guide rod portion 423b is slidably inserted into the cylindrical guide portion 423a. As described above, the front end of the guide rod portion 423b is assembled to the lower surface of the lifting support frame 421 in a manner that prevents relative movement.

[0130] The lower end of the guide rod portion 423b is provided with a first upper roller conveyor portion 424.

[0131] (First upper roller conveyor section)

[0132] like Figure 2 As shown, the first upper roller conveyor section 424 includes two first upper roller support members 424a extending along the X direction, a plurality of rollers 424b disposed opposite to each other on the inner side of the two first upper roller support members 424a, and a plurality of side rollers 424c arranged on the lower surface of each first upper roller support member 424a.

[0133] The first upper roller support member 424a is cross-braced between the lower ends of the guide rods 423b arranged along the X direction.

[0134] (Molding sand filling device)

[0135] In this embodiment, the molding sand filling device 5 is positioned at the molding space forming position SFP.

[0136] The molding sand filling device 5 collects the molding sand CS required for the one-time molding of the mold as a unit, and puts the molding sand CS into the molding space made by the storage box TF and the sand box MF (either the upper sand box or the lower sand box) on the overlapping of the carrier plate CP and fills it.

[0137] The molding sand filling device 5 includes a hopper 51. The hopper 51 includes a sand metering unit 52, a gate 53, and a chute 54.

[0138] The hopper 51 is made of iron, for example, and is integrally shaped as a square cylinder. The sand metering section 52 is located above the hopper 51 and is separated from the chute section 54 by a gate 53. In the sand metering section 52, molding sand CS is conveyed and stored by a conveyor device (not shown).

[0139] Multiple gates 53 are formed, for example, into rectangular flat iron plates, arranged along the X direction to divide the hopper 51 vertically. Each gate 53 rotates about a horizontal axis extending along the Y direction via a rotating device (not shown). When the gate 53 is positioned horizontally, it divides the hopper 51 vertically, allowing molding sand CS to be stored in the sand metering section 52. When the gate is positioned vertically, the stored molding sand CS falls naturally and fills the molding space formed by the upper holding box TF, the sand box MF, and the carrier plate CP.

[0140] The chute portion 54 includes a first chute portion 541 and a second chute portion 542, which are respectively formed in the shape of a square tube. The first chute portion 541 is continuous with the sand metering portion 52 and extends downward by a predetermined dimension. The second chute portion 542 is externally fitted into the first chute portion 541 and is configured to slide up and down relative to the first chute portion 541, thereby causing the chute portion 54 to extend downward.

[0141] When the sand box conveying frame lifting device 42 is at the rising end, the lower end face of the second chute portion 542 abuts against the upper surface of the upper holding box TF held on the sand box conveying frame 41. As the sand box conveying frame 41 descends via the sand box conveying frame lifting device 42, the second chute portion 542, while maintaining contact with the upper holding box TF, descends along with it. When the sand box conveying frame lifting device 42 reaches the falling end, the upper holding box TF overlaps with the sand box MF to form an overlapping box.

[0142] A locking strip 542a is provided around the outer edge of the upper end of the second slide section 542. The locking strip 542a is locked to the locking claw 1b1 that hangs down from the lower surface of the top plate section 1b in a manner that surrounds the second slide section 542. The lower end of the second slide section 542 is configured not to descend from the upper surface of the upper storage box TF.

[0143] (Overlapping device moving mechanism)

[0144] The overlapping device moving mechanism 7 moves the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 together with the overlapping upper storage box TF, sand box MF and carrier plate CP to the molding station 6.

[0145] The overlapping device moving mechanism 7 includes a groove 71, a slider 72, a rotating shaft 73, a crank arm 74, and a rotation drive device 75.

[0146] The groove 71 is vertically disposed at the end of the sand box conveying frame 41 of the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 on the molding station 6 side. The groove 71 has two wall portions extending vertically and arranged in the X direction. The two wall portions are disposed at the end of the sand box conveying frame 41 on the molding station 6 side, protruding upward in the Y direction. The slider portion 72 slides between the two walls. The lower end of the groove 71 is open, forming an insertion portion 71a.

[0147] The trough 71 engages with the guide roller 1c fixed to the transverse wall on the upstream side of the structure to guide the lifting and lowering movement of the sand box conveying frame 41 (see reference). Figure 1 as well as Figure 15 It is inserted into the slider portion 72 described later, and functions as the slot portion 71 of the slider-crank mechanism (see reference). Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 ).

[0148] The slider portion 72 is provided at the front end of the crank arm portion 74, which will be described later. The slider portion 72 is formed of a roller and slides or rolls within the groove portion 71.

[0149] The rotating shaft 73 is connected to the output shaft of the rotating drive device 75, which is fixed to the wall of the structure, via a speed change device. The base end of the crank arm 74 is assembled to the rotating shaft 73 in a non-rotatable manner. The crank arm 74 is formed to produce a stroke of half the length of the distance that the sand box conveyor frame 41 moves from the molding space forming position SFP to the molding station 6.

[0150] The rotary drive 75 is, for example, an electric motor, and the crank arm 74 is configured to rotate in both directions via the aforementioned speed change device. By rotating the crank arm 74 in both directions, the sand box conveyor frame 41 reciprocates between the forming position SFP in the molding space and the molding station 6. The operation of the rotary drive 75 is controlled by a control device (not shown in the figure).

[0151] The sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 (mainly the sand box conveying frame 41) is moved by the rotation of the crank arm 74, but the force applied to the lateral movement moves from the lower part to the upper part and then to the lower part of the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4. Thus, the force applied to the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 is different.

[0152] However, in this embodiment, the upper part of the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 can move while being held by the first upper roller conveyor section 424 and the upper molding station conveyor 63. Therefore, smooth and stable lateral movement of the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 is possible.

[0153] (Styling workstation)

[0154] In molding station 6, the molding position MP presses the upper holding box TF, which is superimposed on the carrier plate CP, and the molding sand CS, which is filled in the sand box MF, to shape the sand mold in the sand box MF.

[0155] like Figure 4 As shown, the molding station 6 is equipped with a molding sand pressing device 61, a molding station conveyor 62, an upper molding station conveyor 63, and a conveyor lifting device 64.

[0156] (Molding sand pressing device)

[0157] The molding sand pressing device 61 includes an extrusion frame 61a, extrusion feet 61b, a hydraulic cylinder 61c, and an extrusion worktable 61d. The molding sand pressing device 61 is known technology, so detailed description is omitted.

[0158] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the extrusion worktable 61d is fixed to the base 1a of the structure and is configured to bear the carrier plate CP on its upper surface. It is also positioned between the opposing rollers of the molding station conveyor 62, which will be described later.

[0159] The molding sand pressing device 61 lowers the extrusion foot 61b, which is located above the upper holding box TF and the sand box MF, which overlap with the carrier plate CP, to extrude the molding sand CS filled in the molding space.

[0160] (Massaging station conveyor)

[0161] When positioning the roller conveyor 24 (moving roller conveyor) of the carrier plate changing device 2 at the molding space forming position SFP, it is aligned with the molding station conveyor 62 (see reference). Figure 5 The molding station conveyor 62 is configured to transport an overlapping box, on which the carrier plate CP is stacked, containing the upper holding box TF, the sand box MF, and the molding sand CS, to the molding station 6.

[0162] The molding station conveyor 62 includes a pair of second roller support members 621 extending in the X direction and a plurality of second rollers 622 arranged in the X direction on the opposing inner walls of the second roller support members 621. The width of the opposing second rollers 622 is such that they can hold and convey the carrier plate CP.

[0163] (Upper molding station conveyor)

[0164] The upper molding station conveyor 63 is aligned with the first upper roller conveyor section 424 of the sand box conveyor frame 41 in the descending position. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the upper molding station conveyor 63 has second upper roller support members 631 respectively installed on the upper inner side of the two transverse walls arranged along the Y direction of the structure. The upper roller support members are arranged opposite each other and are respectively arranged to extend along the X direction.

[0165] On the inner surface of the second upper roller support member 631, a plurality of rollers 632 are arranged in the X direction. Each roller 632 rotates about a rotation axis extending in the Y direction. Each roller 632 rotates by contacting the lower surface of the upper engaging protrusion 411a with its outer periphery.

[0166] Multiple side rollers 633 are arranged along the X direction on the lower surface of the second upper roller support member 631. Each side roller 633 rotates about a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. Each side roller 633 rotates by contacting the front end face of the lower engagement protrusion 411a with its outer periphery (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0167] The upper molding station conveyor 63 can receive the sand box conveying frame 41 (together with the overlapping box on the carrier plate CP, which has the upper holding box TF, the sand box MF and the molding sand CS) from the first upper roller conveyor section 424 and convey it to the molding position MP of the molding station 6.

[0168] (Conveyor Lifting Device)

[0169] like Figure 4 As shown, the conveyor lifting device 64 is located below the molding station conveyor 62.

[0170] The conveyor lifting device 64 transfers the overlapping box filled with molding sand CS and positioned at the molding position MP from the molding station conveyor 62 to the extrusion worktable 61d.

[0171] The conveyor lifting device 64 includes a lifting device 641 and a lifting guide device 642.

[0172] The lifting device 641 is, for example, a hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is assembled to the lower surface of the central part of the second roller support member 621 of the molding station conveyor 62 in a manner that prevents relative movement. It has a cylinder part 641a fixed to the base 1a and a piston rod 641b that moves forward and backward in a vertical direction from the opening of the cylinder part 641a.

[0173] The lifting guide device 642 includes a guide rod 642a and a sliding tube 642b. The guide rod 642a is configured to extend vertically between an upper stop 642c and a lower stop 642d protruding inwards on the lower part of the inner side of the transverse wall. The sliding tube 642b is externally fitted to the guide rod 642a in a slidable manner and assembled to the sides of both ends of the second roller support member 621 of the molding station conveyor 62 in a non-movable manner.

[0174] When the piston rod 641b of the conveyor lifting device 64 is at the rising end, the upper end of the outer periphery of the second roller 622 of each molding station conveyor 62 is set to a position higher than the upper surface of the extrusion table 61d.

[0175] When the piston rod 641b of the conveyor lifting device 64 is in the descending position, the upper end of the outer periphery of the second roller 622 of each molding station conveyor 62 is set to a position lower than the upper surface of the extrusion table 61d. When the molding sand CS is pressed using the molding sand pressing device 61, the conveyor lifting device 64 lowers the upper end of the second roller 622 of the molding station conveyor 62 to a position lower than the upper surface of the extrusion table 61d.

[0176] All cylinder sections 641a are connected to a hydraulic pump (not shown) via oil supply pipes. An electromagnetic switching valve is installed between the hydraulic cylinder section 641a and the hydraulic pump. The switching action of the electromagnetic switching valve is controlled by a control device (not shown).

[0177] (Work)

[0178] The following is for reference Figure 1 , Figures 7 to 17 The operation of the casting molding device 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0179] exist Figure 1 In this context, the carrier plate (CP) is positioned at the shape space forming location (SFP).

[0180] Above the carrier plate CP, the sand box conveying frame 41 is positioned at the rising end by the sand box conveying frame lifting device 42. The sand box conveying frame 41 holds the upper storage box TF and the sand box MF.

[0181] The sand metering section 52 of the molding sand filling device 5 stores the molding sand CS required for one molding.

[0182] Next, as Figure 7 As shown, the control device lowers the sand box conveying frame 41, thereby overlapping the upper holding box TF and the sand box MF onto the carrier plate CP to form an overlapping box, creating a shaping space. At this time, the slider part 72, which is provided at the front end of the crank arm part 74 of the overlapping device moving mechanism 7, is inserted from the insertion part 71a of the groove part 71. The sand box conveying frame 41 and the carrier plate CP can move together as a single unit by means of the lateral offset prevention device 43.

[0183] Next, as Figure 8 As shown, the control device rotates the gate 53 ninety degrees, causing the molding sand CS in the sand metering section 52 to fall naturally and be put into the molding space.

[0184] Next, the control device causes the crank arm 74 of the overlapping device moving mechanism 7 to... Figure 8 Rotate 180 degrees clockwise. For example... Figure 16 as well as Figure 17As shown, the upper storage box TF and the sand box MF, which overlap with the carrier plate CP, are reliably and quickly transported to the molding position MP of the molding station 6 in an overlapping state through the sand box conveyor frame 41.

[0185] The sand box conveyor frame is smoothly conveyed through the connection of the first upper roller conveyor section 424 and the upper molding station conveyor 63, and the carrier plate CP is smoothly conveyed through the connection of the roller conveyor (moving roller conveyor 24) and the molding station conveyor 62.

[0186] When moving, such as Figure 9 As shown, the remaining portion of molding sand CS overflowing from the upper container TF is removed by the lower end of the second chute 542, making the upper surface flat.

[0187] Next, as Figure 10 As shown, the control device lowers the molding station conveyor 62 via the conveyor lifting device 64. The upper end of the second roller 622 of the molding station conveyor 62 is lowered to a position lower than the upper surface of the extrusion table 61d.

[0188] Next, as Figure 11 As shown, the control device drives the molding sand pressing device 61 to compress the molding sand CS filled in the molding space.

[0189] Next, as Figure 12 As shown, the control device raises the extrusion foot 61b of the molding sand pressing device 61. At this time, the molding station conveyor 62 is raised to receive the carrier plate CP, the molded sand box MF, and the upper storage box TF from the extrusion worktable 61d. The height of the molding station conveyor 62 is raised in the same manner as the roller conveyor (moving roller conveyor 24).

[0190] Next, as Figure 13 As shown, the control device rotates the crank arm 74 counterclockwise by 180 degrees. As a result, the sand box MF, the upper holding box TF, and the sand box conveyor frame 41, which overlap with the carrier plate CP, are moved from the molding station 6 to the molding space forming position SFP.

[0191] Next, as Figure 14 As shown, the control device drives the sand box conveying frame lifting device 42, causing the sand box conveying frame 41 to rise. During the rising process of the sand box conveying frame 41, the sand box MF is demolded from the carrier plate CP, and then the upper holding box TF is removed from the sand box MF.

[0192] After molding, the sand box MF is transported to the next process by the sand box removal device 32, and the upper storage box TF returns to the holding position of the upper storage box TF.

[0193] The carrier plate CP is positioned at the modeling space forming position SFP by the carrier plate replacement device 2.

[0194] When replacing the carrier plate CP configured in the auxiliary work position AWP with a new carrier plate CP, in order to make the replacement, the carrier plate being moved out is released from the locking device by, for example, the release device (not shown), and then moved upward or laterally away from the carrier plate replacement device by the removal device (not shown).

[0195] The same applies below.

[0196] As described above, the molding apparatus 1 of this embodiment includes a carrier plate replacement device 2. The carrier plate replacement device 2 has an upper sand box carrier plate UCP mounted at one position on an imaginary horizontal plane and a lower sand box carrier plate DCP mounted at the other position on the horizontal plane. The carrier plate replacement device 2 replaces the upper sand box carrier plate UCP and the lower sand box carrier plate DCP by rotating along the horizontal plane between the auxiliary operation position AWP, which performs auxiliary operations on each carrier plate CP, and the molding space forming position SFP, which forms a molding space for feeding molding sand CS by overlapping the sand box MF on each carrier plate CP.

[0197] Additionally, it includes: a sand box loading and unloading device 3, which loads sand boxes MF before molding into the molding space forming position SFP for overlapping with each carrier plate CP, and unloads sand boxes MF after molding that have been used to shape the mold; and a sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4, which overlaps the sand boxes MF loaded by the sand box loading and unloading device 3 with each carrier plate CP to form a molding space.

[0198] Additionally, it includes: a molding sand filling device 5, which feeds molding sand CS into the formed molding space; and a molding station 6, which is set adjacent to the molding space forming position SFP, and has a molding sand pressing device 61 that presses the molding sand CS fed into the molding space to mold the mold.

[0199] In addition, it is equipped with a sand box carrier plate moving device (7), which moves the carrier plate CP and the sand box MF from the forming position SFP to the forming station 6 in an overlapping state.

[0200] Therefore, in molding station 6, only the pressing process of molding sand CS is performed. The stroke of molding sand pressing device 61 in molding station 6 is short, which can reduce the waste of power.

[0201] Furthermore, the carrier plate (CP) can be replaced and auxiliary operations can be performed at one location of the auxiliary work position (AWP), thereby achieving high efficiency in the operation.

[0202] In addition, the modeling station 6 is positioned on the straight line formed by the auxiliary work position AWP and the modeling space forming position SFP.

[0203] Therefore, auxiliary operations are performed on the carrier plate CP replaced at the auxiliary operation position, so that the sand box MF and carrier plate CP, which overlap at the position of SFP in the modeling space, can be moved into the modeling station 6 in the shortest distance and time without wasting any path.

[0204] In addition, a lateral offset prevention device 43 is provided at the SFP where the molding space is formed. This lateral offset prevention device 43 prevents the sand box MF and the carrier plate CP from shifting to each other in the horizontal direction when they overlap.

[0205] This prevents the overlapping sand box MF and carrier plate CP from shifting laterally when moving towards the molding station 6.

[0206] In addition, the lateral offset prevention device 43 is provided on the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4.

[0207] Therefore, since the lateral offset prevention device 43 is installed on the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4, lateral offset can be easily and reliably prevented without the need for a special dedicated device.

[0208] In addition, the aforementioned sand box carrier moving device has an overlapping device moving mechanism 7, which moves the sand box carrier overlapping device 4 together with the overlapping sand box MF and carrier plate CP to the molding station 6.

[0209] Therefore, when transferring from the lifting action used to overlap the sand box MF with the carrier plate CP to the lateral action, no additional device is needed for the transfer, which can shorten the transfer time and simplify the device.

[0210] In addition, a roller conveyor 62 extending toward the carrier plate changing device 2 is provided at the molding station 6, and a movable roller conveyor 24 that is aligned with the molding station conveyor 62 when the carrier plate changing device 2 is positioned at the carrier plate CP is provided.

[0211] Therefore, with the sand box MF overlapping the carrier plate CP, it is possible to easily and reliably move the sand box MF between the molding space forming position SFP and the molding station 6.

[0212] Additionally, the overlapping device moving mechanism 7 includes: a groove 71 having an insertion portion 71a at its end, which is disposed on the sand box carrier plate overlapping device 4 in a longitudinally extending manner; a slider portion 72, which is inserted from the insertion portion 71a and slides along the groove 71; a rotating shaft 73, which is disposed on the structure of the molding station 6; a crank arm portion 74, which rotates about the rotating shaft 73 along an imaginary vertical plane including the groove 71 between the molding space forming position SFP and the molding station 6, causing the slider portion 72 to reciprocate within the groove 71; and a rotation drive device 75, which rotates the crank arm portion 74.

[0213] Furthermore, when the sand box MF overlaps with the carrier plate CP, the slider part 72 is inserted into the groove part 71 from the insertion part 71a.

[0214] Therefore, when the sand box MF and the carrier plate CP overlap, the slider part 72 is inserted into the groove part 71, and through the rotation of the crank arm part 74, the sand box MF, the carrier plate CP, and the sand box and carrier plate overlapping device 4 can move towards the molding station 6. In this way, the descent action and the lateral movement action of the sand box MF can be instantly connected, and a rapid and reliable lateral movement action towards the molding station 6 can be achieved.

[0215] In addition, the molding sand pressing device 61 at the molding station 6 lowers the extrusion foot 61b (equivalent to the molding sand pressing component) located on the upper side of the sand box MF to extrude the molding sand CS.

[0216] Therefore, the molding sand pressing device 61 lowers the extrusion foot 61b above the sand box MF, which overlaps with the carrier plate CP, to pressurize the molding sand CS. This eliminates the need for space for a drive mechanism (e.g., an extrusion table, or a large cylinder device that raises the extrusion table) located below the carrier plate CP, saving space and reducing the depth of the recess used to accommodate the drive mechanism. Furthermore, since the large pressing device is located on the ground, maintainability is improved.

[0217] In addition, in the carrier plate changing device 2, a locking device 25 is provided at the position where each carrier plate CP is mounted. The locking device 25 prevents each carrier plate CP from moving outward in the radial direction when the carrier plate changing device 2 rotates.

[0218] Therefore, by means of the locking device 25, the movement of the carrier plate CP in the radial direction caused by the centrifugal force when the carrier plate changing device 2 rotates can be prevented.

[0219] In addition, the molding station 6 is equipped with: an extrusion worktable 61d, which can bear the overlapping sand box MF and carrier plate CP on its upper surface; and a conveyor lifting device 64, which lowers the molding station conveyor 62 to a position lower than the upper surface of the extrusion worktable when the molding sand CS is pressed by the molding sand pressing device 61.

[0220] Therefore, when pressing the molding sand CS, it is possible to prevent the carrier plate CP from falling onto the upper surface of the extrusion worktable 61d and causing overload on the molding station conveyor 62.

[0221] In addition, the molding sand filling device 5 is configured to be compatible with the SFP position where the molding space is formed.

[0222] Therefore, by arranging the molding sand filling device 5 at the molding space forming position SFP, especially the naturally falling molding sand filling device 5, it becomes easy to implement the scraping of the remaining sand after the filling is completed, which can also be carried out when moving the overlapping sand box MF and carrier plate CP to the molding station 6 without setting a special mechanism.

[0223] In addition, the molding method includes a carrier plate replacement process. In this carrier plate replacement process, an upper sand box carrier plate UCP is mounted at one position on an imaginary horizontal plane, and a lower sand box carrier plate DCP is mounted at the other position on the horizontal plane. The upper sand box carrier plate UCP and the lower sand box carrier plate DCP are replaced by rotating along the horizontal plane between the auxiliary operation position AWP, where auxiliary operations are performed on each carrier plate, and the molding space forming position SFP, where the sand box MF is overlapped on each carrier plate CP to form a molding space for feeding molding sand CS.

[0224] In addition, it includes: a sand box loading process, in which a sand box MF, which is used to overlap with each carrier plate CP, is loaded into the molding space forming position SFP by a sand box loading device 31; a sand box carrier plate overlapping process, in which the sand box MF loaded by the sand box loading device 31 is overlapped with each carrier plate CP to form a molding space; and a molding sand filling process, in which molding sand CS is injected into the formed molding space.

[0225] In addition, it includes: a sand box carrier plate moving process, in which the carrier plate CP and the sand box MF are moved in an overlapping state to the molding station 6, which is set to be adjacent to the molding space forming position SFP; and a molding sand pressing process, in which the molding sand pressing device 61 set at the molding station 6 is used to press the molding sand CS that is put into the molding space to shape the mold.

[0226] Therefore, in molding station 6, only the pressing process of molding sand CS is performed. The stroke of molding sand pressing device 61 in molding station 6 is short, which can reduce the waste of power.

[0227] Furthermore, the carrier plate (CP) can be replaced and auxiliary operations can be performed at one location of the auxiliary work position (AWP), thereby achieving high efficiency in the operation.

[0228] (Second Implementation)

[0229] Next, the following is based on Figure 18 as well as Figure 19 A second embodiment of the molding apparatus will be described.

[0230] In the second embodiment of the molding apparatus 101, a molding sand filling device (air blowing tank 110) is provided at the molding station MP. The filling of molding sand CS into the molding space is carried out by so-called blowing using compressed air to apply pressure.

[0231] Therefore, the molding device 101 is configured differently from the first embodiment.

[0232] The following mainly describes the aspects that differ from the first embodiment.

[0233] like Figure 18 As shown, the molding apparatus 101 of the second embodiment includes an air blowing tank 110, an extrusion cylinder 120, a holding box 130, and an extrusion plate 140.

[0234] Lower the air canister 110 so that the holding box 130 overlaps with the configured carrier plate CP and sand box MF.

[0235] Then, the air pump is driven to spray molding sand CS from the sand ejection hole and fill the molding space formed by the carrier plate CP, the sand box MF and the holding box 130.

[0236] Next, the air blowing tank 110 is lowered further, and the extrusion plate 140, which is integral with the air blowing tank 110, is used to extrude the molding sand CS filling the molding space.

[0237] Therefore, by arranging the molding sand filling device (air blowing tank 110) at the molding station MP, especially the setting of the blowing type molding sand filling device, it is easy to prevent the generation of residual sand after the filling is completed.

[0238] Furthermore, in the molding sand pressing device 61, a hydraulic cylinder 61c is used to press the molding sand CS, but it is not limited to this. For example, an electric cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, etc., can also be used.

[0239] Furthermore, the rotary drive 75 of the overlapping device moving mechanism 7 is an electric motor, but it is not limited to this. For example, a hydraulic motor or a pneumatic motor can be used.

[0240] Furthermore, regarding the molding sand pressing device 61, it lowers the extrusion foot 61b to press from above, but it is not limited to this. For example, it could be a method of raising the extrusion worktable to press from below, or a method of pressing in two stages from above and from below (dual extrusion method).

[0241] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the above and accompanying drawings, and may be implemented with appropriate modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0242] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0243] 1: Molding device; 2: Carrier plate changing device; 24: Roller conveyor (moving roller conveyor); 25: Locking device; 26: Release device; 3: Sand box loading and unloading device; 31: Sand box loading device; 4: Carrier plate overlapping device; 41: Sand box conveying frame; 412: Roller conveyor section; 413: Upper holding box holding section; 42: Sand box conveying frame lifting device; 424: First upper roller conveyor section; 43: Lateral offset prevention device; 5: Molding sand filling device; 6: Molding station; 61: Molding sand pressing device; 61b: Extrusion foot (molding sand pressing component); 61d: Extrusion worktable; 62: Molding station conveyor; 63: Upper molding station conveyor. 64: Conveyor lifting device; 7: Overlapping device moving mechanism; 71: Groove; 71a: Insertion part; 72: Slider part; 73: Rotating shaft; 74: Crank arm part; 75: Rotary drive device; 101: Molding mold device; 110: Molding sand filling device; 120: Extrusion cylinder (molding sand pressing device); 130: Storage box; 140: Extrusion plate (molding sand pressing component); AWP: Auxiliary operation position; CP: Carrier plate; CPG: Locking groove; CPK: Locking part; CS: Molding sand; DCP: Carrier plate for lower sand box; UCP: Carrier plate for upper sand box; MF: Sand box; MP: Molding position; SFP: Molding space forming position; TF: Upper storage box.

Claims

1. A molding apparatus for casting, wherein, The molding device includes: A carrier plate replacement device has an upper sand box carrier plate mounted at one position on an imaginary horizontal plane and a lower sand box carrier plate mounted at the other position on the same horizontal plane. The carrier plate replacement device replaces the upper sand box carrier plate and the lower sand box carrier plate by rotating along the horizontal plane between an auxiliary operation position where auxiliary operations are performed on each of the carrier plates and a molding space forming position where the sand box is overlapped on each of the carrier plates to form a molding space for filling molding sand. A sand box loading and unloading device moves the sand box before molding, which is used to overlap with each of the carrier plates, into the molding space forming position, and moves out the sand box after molding, which has been used to shape the mold. A sand box carrier plate overlapping device, which overlaps the sand box brought in by the sand box moving in and out device with each of the carrier plates to form the shaping space; A molding sand filling device that fills the formed molding space with molding sand; A molding station, configured adjacent to the molding space formation location, includes a molding sand pressing device for pressing the molding sand fed into the molding space to mold the mold; and A sand box carrier plate moving device moves the carrier plate and the sand box in an overlapping state from the molding space forming position to the molding station. The sand box carrier plate overlapping device includes a sand box conveying frame capable of maintaining the sand box and the carrier plate in an overlapping state. The sand box carrier plate moving device has an overlapping device moving mechanism, which moves the sand box conveying frame together with the overlapping sand box and the carrier plate to the molding station.

2. The mold molding apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The modeling station is located on the straight line formed by the auxiliary work position and the modeling space formation position.

3. The mold molding apparatus according to claim 1, wherein A lateral offset prevention device is provided at the location where the shaping space is formed. When the sand box and the carrier plate overlap, the lateral offset prevention device prevents the sand box and the carrier plate from shifting relative to each other in the horizontal direction while they are overlapping.

4. The mold molding apparatus according to claim 3, wherein The lateral offset prevention device is installed on the sand box carrier plate overlapping device.

5. The molding apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, A molding station conveyor is provided at the molding station. This molding station conveyor is a roller conveyor that extends along the direction of the carrier plate changing device. A movable roller conveyor is provided at the position where the carrier plate is mounted in the carrier plate changing device. When the movable roller conveyor is positioned at the forming space position, it is aligned with the forming station conveyor.

6. The molding apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The overlapping device moving mechanism includes: A groove, having an insertion portion at its end, is disposed in the sand box carrier plate overlapping device in a longitudinally extending manner; A slider portion that is inserted from the insertion portion and slides along the groove portion; A rotating shaft, which is a structure located at the molding station; The crank arm rotates about the rotation axis along an imaginary vertical plane containing the groove between the forming position in the shaping space and the shaping station, causing the slider to reciprocate within the groove. as well as A rotary drive mechanism that rotates the crank arm. When the sand box overlaps with the carrier plate, the slider portion is inserted from the insertion portion into the groove portion.

7. The mold forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The molding sand pressing device at the molding station causes the molding sand pressing component located on the upper side of the sand box to descend and squeeze the molding sand.

8. The molding apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The carrier plate changing device is provided with a locking device, which prevents the carrier plates from moving outward in the radial direction when the carrier plate changing device is rotated.

9. The mold molding apparatus according to claim 5, wherein The molding station is equipped with: an extrusion worktable, which can support the overlapping sand box and the carrier plate on its upper surface; and a conveyor lifting device, which lowers the molding station conveyor to a position lower than the upper surface of the extrusion worktable when the molding sand is pressed by the molding sand pressing device.

10. The mold molding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The molding sand filling device is configured to be compatible with the location where the molding space is formed.

11. The mold molding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The molding sand filling device is configured to be compatible with the location of the molding station.

12. A method for molding using a casting mold, wherein, The casting molding method includes: In the carrier plate replacement process, an upper sand box carrier plate is mounted at one position on an imaginary horizontal plane, and a lower sand box carrier plate is mounted at the other position on the same horizontal plane. The upper sand box carrier plate and the lower sand box carrier plate are replaced by rotating along the horizontal plane between an auxiliary operation position where auxiliary operations are performed on each of the carrier plates and a molding space forming position where the sand box is overlapped on each of the carrier plates to form a molding space for filling molding sand. The sand box loading process involves using a sand box loading device to load the sand box, which is intended to overlap with each of the carrier plates before molding, into the molding space forming position. In the sand box carrier plate overlapping process, the sand box that is brought in by the sand box loading device is overlapped with each of the carrier plates to form the shaping space. The molding sand filling process involves filling the formed molding space with molding sand. In the sand box carrier plate moving process, the carrier plate and the sand box are moved in an overlapping state to a modeling station that is adjacent to the modeling space formation position; as well as In the molding sand pressing process, a molding sand pressing device installed at the molding station is used to press the molding sand that has been placed into the molding space to shape the mold. The sand box carrier plate overlapping device includes a sand box conveying frame capable of maintaining the sand box and the carrier plate in an overlapping state. In the sand box carrier plate moving process, the sand box conveying frame, the overlapping sand box and the carrier plate are moved together to the molding station by the overlapping device moving mechanism.

Images