Optical electronic camera shell die-casting die

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical electronic camera shell die-casting die, and belongs to the technical field of die-casting. The die-casting die for the optical electronic camera shell comprises a die body, a sliding block and a movable part, wherein the die body is provided with a guide sliding groove; the sliding blocks are arranged in the guide sliding grooves in a sliding mode, and a forming cavity is defined by the sliding blocks and the inner wall of the mold body; an air cavity, an air inlet channel and a telescopic groove are formed in the sliding block, one end of the air inlet channel and one end of the telescopic groove are communicated with the air cavity, the other end of the air inlet channel and the other end of the telescopic groove extend to the forming face of the sliding block, and the air inlet channel is constructed to only allow air to enter. The movable part is arranged in the telescopic groove in a sliding manner and seals the telescopic groove; during die casting, the air cavity absorbs heat of the forming material to be heated, the internal air pressure of the air cavity is increased under the combined action of air entering through the air inlet channel and temperature rising, and therefore the movable part is pushed to move towards the forming cavity, and an opening is formed in a product. According to the optical electronic camera shell die-casting die provided by the embodiment of the invention, the appearance quality and the yield of products can be ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of die casting technology, and more specifically, to a die casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing. Background Technology

[0002] As a precision imaging device, the housing of an optical electronic camera plays a decisive role in the overall appearance and quality. Therefore, the appearance quality of the camera housing is high, and its surface must not have obvious defects such as flow marks, shrinkage marks, missing materials, or burning. In particular, the edges of various openings on the housing, such as button holes, microphone holes, and camera holes, must be clear, full, and flawless.

[0003] In die casting or injection molding processes, this type of housing is typically formed using a mold and a slider. The slider, as a key component for lateral core pulling or partial molding, works with the mold body to form the molding cavity. For openings on the sidewalls or at specific locations of the housing, a common practice in the prior art is to provide a fixed protrusion on the molding surface of the slider. This protrusion extends directly into the molding cavity, and the molding material flows around it, thus forming an opening on the product.

[0004] However, this method of using fixed protrusions to form the opening has significant technical drawbacks in actual production. During the process of filling the cavity with molding material (such as molten metal or plastic), the fixed protrusions directly and physically obstruct the flow of the material. After the melt flows past the protrusion, flow convergence easily occurs on the side opposite to the melt flow direction (i.e., the shaded area), causing gas to be trapped and unable to escape in time, which in turn leads to localized scorching or blistering of the product. At the same time, this area often suffers from insufficient melt filling, resulting in material shortages, shrinkage cavities, or obvious weld lines. These molding defects directly affect the opening edge and surrounding area of ​​the product, which are precisely the areas that users are visually and tactilely sensitive to, seriously affecting the overall appearance quality and yield rate of the optical electronic camera housing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to address the above-mentioned problems by providing a die-casting mold for optical electronic camera housings, which can ensure the appearance quality and yield of the product, thereby improving the aforementioned issues.

[0006] This application is achieved through the following technical solution: This application provides a die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing. The die-casting mold includes a mold body, a slider, and a movable part. The mold body is provided with a guide groove. The slider is slidably disposed in the guide groove and together with the inner wall of the mold body forms a molding cavity for molding the product. The slider is provided with an air cavity, an air inlet channel, and a telescopic groove. One end of the air inlet channel and the telescopic groove are connected to the air cavity, and the other end of both extend to the molding surface of the slider. The air inlet channel is configured to allow only gas to enter. The movable part is slidably disposed in the telescopic groove and closes the telescopic groove. During die casting, the air cavity absorbs heat from the molding material and heats up. The internal air pressure increases under the combined action of the gas entering through the air inlet channel and the temperature increase, thereby pushing the movable part to move toward the molding cavity to form an opening on the product.

[0007] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, during the initial stage of die casting filling, the moving parts do not protrude or only protrude slightly, and unlike fixed protrusions, they do not strongly obstruct the melt. The melt can fill the molding cavity more smoothly, reducing the flow shadow area. Because there is no localized flow around or convergence caused by fixed protrusions, gas is more easily discharged with the melt flow, and it is less likely to form trapped gas in the opening area, thus avoiding problems such as scorching and bubbling in the product. The melt filling is more continuous and sufficient, the opening edge is fully formed, and the outline is clear. Shrinkage cavities and obvious weld lines will not occur due to insufficient local filling or poor welding, improving the appearance quality of the optical electronic camera housing.

[0008] In some embodiments, a limiting structure is provided between the movable part and the inner wall of the telescopic groove to limit the movement of the movable part toward the molding cavity.

[0009] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the movement stroke of the movable part is limited by a limiting structure, controlling the depth of the movable part extending into the molding cavity. This avoids the movable part extending too far due to excessive air pressure (resulting in an excessively deep opening and uneven product wall thickness) or extending too shortly (resulting in an excessively shallow opening and failure to meet camera housing assembly requirements). This ensures uniform opening dimensions for camera housings produced in batches, improving product consistency. It also prevents the movable part from excessively extending due to a lack of stroke limitation, which could lead to collisions and wear between the front end of the movable part and the inner wall of the mold body (or other sliders), or jamming due to excessive friction between the movable part and the inner wall of the telescopic groove. This reduces mold failures, extends the service life of the mold and the movable part, and lowers production and maintenance costs. Under the action of the limiting structure, the movable part maintains a fixed extended position, ensuring uniform extrusion force on the molding material. This optimizes the flatness and contour clarity of the opening edge, preventing skewed or rough opening edges caused by the movable part's movement, thus meeting the precision appearance requirements of optical electronic camera housings. The limiting structure requires no manual adjustment and can automatically limit the stroke according to the change of air pressure in the air chamber. The operation is stable and reliable, does not affect the die-casting efficiency, and is suitable for the automation needs of mass production of camera housings, improving production efficiency and yield.

[0010] In some embodiments, the movable element includes a molding end facing the molding cavity and a drive end located within the air cavity, wherein the end face shape of the molding end matches the edge shape of the opening to be molded.

[0011] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, since the end face shape of the molding end matches the shape of the opening edge, after the product is die-cast, the opening part is directly the final required shape, which can be directly adapted to the installation of internal camera components such as buttons, microphones, and cameras without subsequent grinding or correction, thus reducing processing costs. The precise matching between the molding end and the opening shape ensures uniform extrusion force on the molten molding material, preventing defects such as material shortages, depressions, and burrs at the opening edge. The opening edge is full and smooth, meeting the high requirements for appearance and texture of optical electronic camera housings, further improving the product yield.

[0012] In some embodiments, the slider is further provided with a heat-conducting element that extends from the forming surface of the slider to the air cavity to accelerate heat transfer.

[0013] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, for products with thin walls, small volume, or low molding temperature, the total heat from the molten metal is limited. Without a heat-conducting component, heat may take a long time to be conducted through the slider body to the gas cavity, potentially causing the gas cavity pressure to reach the driving threshold only after the material has completely solidified, resulting in the movable part being unable to extend or extending insufficiently. The presence of a heat-conducting component shortens the heat transfer path and time, ensuring that the movable part can extend in time during the plastic window period when the material is still in a semi-solid state. Because the heat-conducting component allows the gas cavity to heat up faster and the pressure to build up more quickly, the time of the entire die-casting cycle can be shortened accordingly, improving production efficiency. The heat-conducting component provides a stable and efficient heat transfer channel, making the temperature change in the gas cavity more synchronized with the temperature change of the melt in the cavity, reducing process fluctuations caused by heat conduction lag, and making the opening quality of each molding more consistent.

[0014] In some embodiments, an elastic element is provided in the telescopic groove, and the two ends of the elastic element abut against the inner wall of the telescopic groove and the movable element, respectively; when the surface of the movable element facing the molding cavity is flush with the molding surface of the slider, the elastic element is not subjected to force; the movable element is configured such that when the surface of the movable element facing the molding cavity is flush with the molding surface of the slider, the elastic element is in a free state; after die casting is completed, the product cools down, causing the temperature of the air cavity to drop and the air pressure to decrease, and the elastic element pulls the movable element toward the air cavity to reset through its own elasticity.

[0015] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the movable part actively separates from the product before mold opening, eliminating the contact and clamping forces between them, making the slider withdrawal exceptionally smooth and significantly reducing the demolding force. Since the separation is achieved statically (before mold opening), rather than being forcibly pulled apart during dynamic core pulling, the product opening edge is not scratched or stretched, the edge contour is completely preserved, the surface finish is higher, and defects caused by demolding are avoided. The active separation between the movable part and the product avoids frictional demolding under high pressure and high temperature, reducing wear on the movable part and the inner wall of the expansion joint, and extending the service life of the mold's core components. After mold opening, the elastic element continues to push the movable part back to its initial position flush with the molding surface, preparing for the next cycle. This reset action is precise and gentle, requiring no external mechanism intervention.

[0016] In some embodiments, the slider is further provided with an ejector groove and an ejector slidably disposed in the ejector groove. One end of the ejector groove is connected to the air cavity, and the other end extends to the molding surface of the slider. A vent valve is provided at the connection between the ejector groove and the air cavity. The vent valve is configured to open when the product is cooled, and when the movable part is reset, it pushes the gas in the air cavity through the vent valve into the ejector groove, driving the ejector to move toward the molding cavity to apply an auxiliary ejection force to the product.

[0017] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the auxiliary ejection force provided by the ejector is equivalent to pushing the product at a critical part, ensuring that the product can smoothly detach from the slider and preventing sticking or ejection deformation. This embodiment utilizes the energy of the gas expelled when the moving part resets to drive the ejector. This energy, which might otherwise be wasted or simply released, is now converted into a useful ejection force, realizing energy recovery and reuse within the system without the need for an additional power source. Since the ejection force comes from the gas in the air chamber, there is no need to set up additional ejection cylinders, air cylinders, or complex ejection mechanisms outside the mold, making the mold structure more compact and simple, reducing manufacturing costs and maintenance difficulty. The ejection force of the ejector is gas-driven, and compared to mechanical hard ejection, its force is gentler and more controllable, avoiding ejection damage to the product surface.

[0018] In some embodiments, the elastic element is a high-temperature resistant spring or a wave spring, and the telescopic groove is provided with a clearance space for accommodating the elastic element. When the movable element is fully reset, the elastic element is completely housed in the clearance space.

[0019] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, a high-temperature resistant spring or a wave spring is used to ensure that the elastic element maintains stable elasticity and fatigue life under harsh working conditions of repeated high-temperature thermal shock, thereby ensuring the reliability of the pre-separation and reset functions of the moving part. Wave springs are characterized by their small axial height, occupying less space than ordinary coil springs for the same stroke. For small, precision products such as camera housings, the internal space of the slider is extremely limited, and wave springs allow for a more compact design. The design of the clearance space further optimizes space utilization, ensuring that after the moving part is reset, the elastic element does not interfere with other areas within the telescopic groove. When the moving part is fully reset and the elastic element is completely housed in the clearance space, there are no other protrusions in the telescopic groove except for the moving part itself. This avoids the elastic element being accidentally jammed or interfering with the moving part during subsequent movements, ensuring the smoothness of each movement of the moving part.

[0020] In some embodiments, a temperature control cavity is provided on the side of the air cavity away from the forming surface of the slider. The temperature control cavity is used to introduce a heat exchange medium to regulate the temperature of the air cavity.

[0021] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the introduction of a temperature-controlled cavity allows for active adjustment and control of the cavity temperature, thereby stabilizing the pressure build-up and release process of the cavity and ensuring high consistency in the timing and force of the moving parts' movements in each die-casting cycle, thus improving the stability of the product's opening quality. After die-casting, by introducing a cooling medium into the temperature-controlled cavity, the cavity temperature can be actively and quickly reduced, accelerating the pressure drop and allowing the moving parts to reset more quickly, thereby shortening the entire die-casting cycle time and improving production efficiency. Before each die-casting cycle begins, preheating the cavity through the temperature-controlled cavity ensures that the initial temperature and initial pressure of the cavity are the same at the start of each cycle, eliminating state differences after cold mold start-up or production interruption, and further improving process consistency. For die-casting molds in continuous high-speed production, the cavity may overheat due to heat accumulation, leading to abnormally high pressure, excessive movement of moving parts, or even damage. The temperature-controlled cavity can remove excess heat in a timely manner by introducing a cooling medium, preventing the cavity from overheating, protecting the mold, and ensuring molding quality. The presence of the temperature-controlled cavity allows the mold to adapt to a wider range of molding materials and product wall thicknesses. For thin-walled parts (low heat), less cooling or even heating is needed; for thick-walled parts (high heat), cooling can be enhanced. This expands the range of processes applicable to the same set of molds.

[0022] In some embodiments, the slider is provided with a plurality of telescopic grooves and corresponding movable parts at intervals along its sliding direction perpendicular to the slider, for forming a plurality of openings on the product at the same time.

[0023] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, by setting multiple telescopic grooves and movable parts inside the slider, multiple openings can be formed on the product simultaneously in one die-casting cycle, improving production efficiency and avoiding multiple processing steps or complex core-pulling mechanisms. Since all movable parts are integrated on the same slider, and the position of the telescopic grooves is determined in one step during slider processing, the relative positional accuracy between the multiple openings is high, ensuring the dimensional tolerance requirements between the functional holes on the camera housing. When multiple movable parts share a single air chamber, they are driven by the same pressure and extend substantially synchronously. This allows the forming process of multiple openings to proceed synchronously, avoiding localized product deformation or uneven material flow caused by sequential actions.

[0024] In some embodiments, a sealing ring is provided between the moving part and the telescopic groove.

[0025] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, the presence of the sealing ring makes the air cavity a truly sealed space, and the pressure build-up and release process is not affected by gap leakage. This ensures that the timing, speed, and force of the extension of the moving part are highly consistent in each die-casting cycle, improving the stability of the product opening quality. During the die-casting process, tiny droplets of molten metal or mold release agent residue may enter the gap between the moving part and the expansion joint. Once intruded, it may jam the moving part, or even weld it shut after solidification. The sealing ring acts as a barrier, preventing external impurities from entering the mating gap, protecting the smooth movement of the moving part, and extending the mold life.

[0026] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 A partial structural schematic diagram of an optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of an optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold provided for other embodiments of this application; Figure 4A cross-sectional view of an optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold provided for some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the slider structure provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold with the movable part inserted into the molding cavity, as provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of an optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold provided in some embodiments of this application before the movable part extends into the molding cavity.

[0029] Icons: 1-Mold body; 10-Guide groove; 11-Molding cavity; 2-Slider; 20-Air cavity; 21-Air inlet; 22-Expansion groove; 23-Elastic component; 24-Ejection groove; 240-Ventilation valve; 25-Ejector; 26-Temperature control cavity; 27-Sealing ring; 3-Moving component; 4-Limiting structure; 5-Product. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0031] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0032] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0033] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0034] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0035] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0036] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 1-7 As shown, this application provides a die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing. The die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing includes a mold body 1, a slider 2, and a movable part 3. The mold body 1 is provided with a guide groove 10. The slider 2 is slidably disposed in the guide groove 10 and together with the inner wall of the mold body 1 forms a molding cavity 11 for molding the product 5. The slider 2 is provided with an air cavity 20, an air inlet 21, and a telescopic groove 22. One end of the air inlet 21 and the telescopic groove 22 are connected to the air cavity 20, and the other end of both extend to the molding surface of the slider 2. The air inlet 21 is configured to allow only gas to enter. The movable part 3 is slidably disposed in the telescopic groove 22 and closes the telescopic groove 22. During die casting, the air cavity 20 absorbs heat from the molding material and heats up. The internal air pressure increases under the combined action of the gas entering through the air inlet 21 and the temperature increase, thereby pushing the movable part 3 toward the molding cavity 11 to form an opening on the product 5.

[0037] Die casting is a process that uses high pressure to inject molding fluid into the forming cavity 11 of a mold to quickly form complex parts. The specific process is divided into four steps: mold closing, injection, pressure holding and solidification, and mold opening and part removal.

[0038] The molding cavity 11 is the core space in the die-casting mold that directly shapes the final part. The molding liquid fills this space under high pressure and solidifies, ultimately forming a part that is completely identical to the molding cavity 11.

[0039] Multi-directional core pulling is a core demolding technology used in die casting, injection molding and other mold forming processes for parts with complex lateral concave and convex structures, holes and undercuts. Its core purpose is to use multiple independently movable sliders 2 to first pull away the mold components with lateral structures of the molded casting during the demolding stage, eliminate the interference between the casting and the mold, and then eject the casting.

[0040] Product 5 (i.e., camera housing) mentioned in this application uses a multi-faceted core-pulling structure to precisely avoid the main parting lines in the rounded transition areas at the four corners, thereby ensuring the integrity of the cylindrical appearance of Product 5.

[0041] In practical applications, the die-casting mold is in standby mode before the die-casting operation begins. The slider 2 is initially positioned within the guide groove 10, and the moving part 3 has not yet been ejected. After die-casting begins, the mold body 1 closes under the drive of the die-casting machine, and the slider 2 slides to a predetermined position. Its forming surface and the inner wall of the mold body 1 together form a forming cavity 11 for forming the product 5. High-temperature molten metal (forming material) is injected into the forming cavity 11 at high pressure and high speed. At the instant the molten metal is about to cover the opening of the air inlet 21, the existing air in the molten metal air inlet 21 and part of the air chamber 20 is pushed forward and compressed, forcing some air to enter the depths of the air chamber 20 through the air inlet 21. Immediately afterwards, the molten metal covers and seals the opening of the air inlet 21 on the forming surface. After the opening of the air inlet 21 is sealed, the air chamber 20 becomes a closed space. The heat of the molten metal is continuously conducted to the air in the air chamber 20 through the slider 2. The air expands rapidly due to the heat, and the pressure soars quickly. Since the only outlet (air inlet 21) is blocked by solidified or semi-solidified metal, the pressure has nowhere to be released and acts entirely on the moving part 3. When the pressure inside the air chamber 20 accumulates to a sufficient level, it pushes the moving part 3 out, squeezing an opening into the filled but not yet fully solidified product 5. Upon mold opening, the slider 2 is withdrawn. As the slider 2 moves, the solidified metal shell that was originally blocking the air inlet 21 may be broken off, detached, or cleaned by the subsequent ejection mechanism. The opening of the air inlet 21 is then exposed again, reconnecting with the atmosphere and preparing for the next cycle.

[0042] In the initial stage of die casting, the moving part 3 does not protrude or only protrudes slightly, unlike the fixed protrusions which strongly obstruct the melt. This allows the melt to fill the molding cavity 11 more smoothly, reducing flow shadow areas. Because there is no localized flow around or confluence caused by the fixed protrusions, gas is more easily discharged with the melt flow, preventing trapped gas in the opening area and thus avoiding problems such as scorching and bubbling in the product 5. The melt filling is more continuous and complete, resulting in fuller opening edges with clear contours. It avoids shrinkage cavities and obvious weld lines caused by insufficient filling or poor welding, improving the appearance quality of the optical electronic camera housing.

[0043] In practice, if a slider 2 needs to form multiple openings of different depths or shapes, multiple independent, non-communicating air chambers 20 and air inlets 21 can be set within the slider 2. Since the openings of each air inlet 21 are located at different positions on the forming surface, the timing of their sealing by the melt will vary slightly. This results in different pre-compression amounts and heating times for different air chambers 20, thereby pushing their respective moving parts 3 to extend at different times and with different forces, achieving complex multi-step, multi-depth forming.

[0044] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 6-7 As shown, a limiting structure 4 is provided between the movable part 3 and the inner wall of the telescopic groove 22 to restrict the movement of the movable part 3 toward the molding cavity 11.

[0045] The limiting structure 4 mentioned in this application can specifically be a step limiting structure 4, a pin limiting structure 4, a snap ring limiting structure 4, an end cap limiting structure 4, or a conical self-locking limiting structure 4.

[0046] This embodiment limits the travel of the movable part 3 by using a limiting structure 4, controlling the depth of the movable part 3 into the molding cavity 11. This prevents the movable part 3 from extending too far due to excessive air pressure (resulting in an excessively deep opening and uneven wall thickness of the product 5) or extending too short (resulting in an excessively shallow opening and failure to meet camera housing assembly requirements). This ensures uniform opening dimensions for camera housings produced in batches, improving the consistency of the product 5. It also prevents the movable part 3 from extending excessively due to a lack of travel limitation, which could lead to collisions and wear between the front end of the movable part 3 and the inner wall of the mold body 1 (or other sliders 2), or jamming due to excessive friction between the movable part 3 and the inner wall of the telescopic groove 22. This reduces mold failures, extends the service life of the mold and the movable part 3, and lowers production and maintenance costs. Under the action of the limiting structure 4, the movable part 3 maintains a fixed extended position, ensuring uniform extrusion force on the molding material. This optimizes the flatness and contour clarity of the opening edge, preventing skewing and roughness of the opening edge due to the movement of the movable part 3, thus meeting the precision appearance requirements of optical electronic camera housings. The limiting structure 4 requires no manual adjustment and can automatically limit the stroke according to the air pressure change of the air chamber 20. The operation is stable and reliable, does not affect the die-casting efficiency, and is suitable for the automation needs of mass production of camera housings, improving production efficiency and yield.

[0047] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the movable part 3 includes a molding end facing the molding cavity 11 and a driving end located in the air cavity 20, wherein the end face shape of the molding end matches the edge shape of the opening to be molded.

[0048] In practical applications, the pressure in the air chamber 20 pushes the movable part 3 towards the forming chamber 11. When the forming end of the movable part 3 contacts the side wall of the product 5, which has not yet fully solidified, it begins to extrude material. Since the end face shape of the forming end perfectly matches the shape of the opening edge, it precisely replicates its own contour onto the product 5 while penetrating the material, forming the required opening and its edge features.

[0049] Because the end face shape of the molding end matches the shape of the opening edge, after die casting, the opening of Product 5 is directly the desired shape, allowing it to be directly fitted to internal camera components such as buttons, microphones, and cameras without subsequent grinding or correction, thus reducing processing costs. The precise match between the molding end and the opening shape ensures uniform extrusion pressure on the molten material, preventing defects such as material shortages, depressions, or burrs at the opening edge. The opening edge is full and smooth, meeting the high aesthetic requirements of optical electronic camera housings and further improving the yield rate of Product 5.

[0050] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the slider 2 is further provided with a heat-conducting element that extends from the forming surface of the slider 2 to the air cavity 20 to accelerate heat transfer.

[0051] The heat-conducting component is very close to or in direct contact with the forming surface of the slider 2, which is in contact with the high-temperature molten metal, and the tail of the heat-conducting component extends into the air in the air cavity 20.

[0052] The heat-conducting component can be a rod or sheet made of a metal with excellent thermal conductivity (such as copper or beryllium copper), or it can be a thermally conductive ceramic or other composite material.

[0053] In practical applications, the heat of the molten material is continuously transferred. Due to the presence of the heat-conducting component, the heat is no longer slowly conducted by the slider 2 itself, but is quickly transferred from the forming surface to the interior of the air cavity 20 through the heat-conducting component, accelerating the heating of the air cavity 20. At the same time, external gas enters the air cavity 20 through the air inlet 21. Under the combined effect of rapid heating and gas entry, the air pressure in the air cavity 20 rises rapidly, reaching the pressure required to push the moving part 3 more quickly.

[0054] For product 5, which has a thinner wall, smaller volume, or lower molding temperature, the total heat from the molten metal is limited. Without a heat conductor, heat may take a long time to be conducted through the slider 2 body to the gas cavity 20, potentially causing the pressure in the gas cavity 20 to reach the driving threshold only after the material has completely solidified, resulting in the movable part 3 being unable to extend or extending insufficiently. The presence of a heat conductor shortens the heat transfer path and time, ensuring that the movable part 3 can extend in time while the material is still in a semi-solid, plastic window. Because the heat conductor allows the gas cavity 20 to heat up faster and the pressure to build up more quickly, the time of the entire die-casting cycle can be shortened accordingly, improving production efficiency. The heat conductor provides a stable and efficient heat transfer channel, making the temperature changes in the gas cavity 20 more synchronized with the temperature changes of the melt in the cavity, reducing process fluctuations caused by heat conduction lag, and making the opening quality of each molding more consistent.

[0055] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 6-7 As shown, an elastic element 23 is provided in the telescopic groove 22. The two ends of the elastic element 23 abut against the inner wall of the telescopic groove 22 and the movable element 3, respectively. When the surface of the movable element 3 facing the forming cavity 11 is flush with the forming surface of the slider 2, the elastic element 23 is not subjected to force. The movable element 3 is configured such that when the surface of the movable element 3 facing the forming cavity 11 is flush with the forming surface of the slider 2, the elastic element 23 is in a free state. After the die casting is completed, the product 5 cools down, causing the temperature of the air cavity 20 to drop and the air pressure to decrease. The elastic element 23 pulls the movable element 3 toward the air cavity 20 to move and reset through its own elasticity.

[0056] In practical application, in the initial state, the mold is closed and the slider 2 is in place. At this time, the surface of the moving part 3 is flush with the forming surface of the slider 2, and the elastic part 23 is not under force and is in a free state. The air inlet 21 is connected to the forming cavity 11. High-temperature molten metal is injected into the forming cavity 11, sweeps across the forming surface of the slider 2, and covers and seals the opening of the air inlet 21. The air cavity 20 becomes a closed space. The air in the air cavity 20 expands due to heat, the pressure increases, and it pushes the moving part 3 towards the forming cavity 11. During the movement, the moving part 3 stretches the elastic part 23, allowing the elastic part 23 to store elastic potential energy. When the moving part 3 stops moving, the elastic part 23 is in the maximum deformation state. The moving part 3 remains in the extended state, and the product 5 cools and solidifies in the forming cavity 11, and the opening contour is finally shaped. In the in-mold pressure holding and cooling stage, the moving part 3 remains in the extended state, and the product 5 in the forming cavity 11 is fully cooled and solidified inside the mold under pressure holding. As cooling proceeds, the temperature of product 5 decreases, and the temperature of slider 2 also decreases accordingly. The air in air cavity 20 cools and contracts, and the air pressure gradually decreases. The air pressure driving force pushing the movable part 3 out begins to weaken. When the air pressure decreases to a level insufficient to overcome the elastic force of elastic element 23, elastic element 23 begins to release its stored elastic potential energy, pulling the movable part 3 back a short distance towards air cavity 20. At this time, a tiny gap is created between the forming end of movable part 3 and the opening of the solidified product 5, and the two separate first. After movable part 3 separates from product 5, the mold opens. Since movable part 3 no longer holds product 5 tightly, the resistance encountered by slider 2 when it is pulled out decreases. As the mold fully opens, slider 2 continues to move, and elastic element 23 continues to push movable part 3 back until the surface of movable part 3 returns to a position flush with the forming surface of slider 2. At this time, elastic element 23 just returns to a free state without force, the reset is completed, and it is ready for the next die-casting cycle.

[0057] If the movable part 3 holds the product 5 tightly until the mold opens, it will face enormous friction and clamping forces during core pulling, which can easily damage the surface of the product 5 or cause wear to the movable part 3. In this embodiment, the movable part 3 actively separates from the product 5 before the mold opens, eliminating the contact and clamping forces between them, making the slider 2 pull out exceptionally smoothly and significantly reducing the demolding force. Since the separation is achieved statically (before the mold opens) rather than being forcibly pulled out during dynamic core pulling, the opening edge of the product 5 will not be scratched or stretched, the edge contour is completely preserved, the surface finish is higher, and defects caused by demolding are avoided. The active separation between the movable part 3 and the product 5 avoids frictional demolding under high pressure and high temperature, reduces wear on the movable part 3 and the inner wall of the expansion groove 22, and extends the service life of the core components of the mold. After the mold opens, the elastic element 23 continues to push the movable part 3 back to the initial position flush with the molding surface, preparing for the next cycle. This reset action is precise and gentle, requiring no external mechanism intervention.

[0058] In the specific implementation process, if the opening of product 5 is deep or the clamping force is large, a small demolding slope or venting groove can be designed on the molding end surface of the movable part 3. When pre-separation occurs, air is allowed to enter the small gap between the movable part 3 and product 5 to further eliminate vacuum adsorption and ensure thorough separation.

[0059] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 5-7 As shown, the slider 2 is also provided with an ejector groove 24 and an ejector 25 slidably disposed in the ejector groove 24. One end of the ejector groove 24 is connected to the air chamber 20, and the other end extends to the forming surface of the slider 2. A vent valve 240 is provided at the connection between the ejector groove 24 and the air chamber 20. The vent valve 240 is configured to open when the product 5 is cooled. When the movable part 3 is reset, it pushes the gas in the air chamber 20 into the ejector groove 24 through the vent valve 240, driving the ejector 25 to move toward the forming cavity 11 to apply an auxiliary ejection force to the product 5.

[0060] In practical application, product 5 cools and solidifies inside the mold. As the temperature decreases, the air pressure inside the air cavity 20 gradually decreases. When the air pressure drops to a level insufficient to overcome the elastic force of the elastic element 23, the elastic element 23 begins to push the movable element 3 back towards the air cavity 20, achieving pre-separation of the movable element 3 from product 5. During the retraction of the movable element 3, it pushes the gas inside the air cavity 20, increasing its pressure (compression effect). At this time, the vent valve 240 opens, allowing this pushed gas to enter the ejector groove 24 from the air cavity 20. The high-pressure gas entering the ejector groove 24 pushes the ejector 25 towards the molding cavity 11. The end of the ejector 25 abuts against the surface of the cooled and solidified product 5, applying an auxiliary ejection force to help product 5 detach from the slider 2.

[0061] For camera housing product 5, which has a complex structure and high clamping force, the pre-separation of the movable part 3 alone is sometimes insufficient to completely detach product 5 from the slider 2. The auxiliary ejection force provided by the ejector 25 is equivalent to giving product 5 a push at a critical point, ensuring that product 5 can smoothly detach from the slider 2 and preventing sticking or ejection deformation. In this embodiment, the energy of the gas expelled when the movable part 3 resets is used to drive the ejector 25. This energy, which might otherwise be wasted or simply released, is now converted into a useful ejection force, realizing energy recovery and reuse within the system without the need for an additional power source. Since the ejection force comes from the gas in the air chamber 20, there is no need to set up additional ejection cylinders, air cylinders, or complex ejection mechanisms outside the mold, making the mold structure more compact and simple, reducing manufacturing costs and maintenance difficulty. The ejection force of the ejector 25 is gas-driven, and compared to mechanical hard ejection, its force is gentler and more controllable, avoiding damage to the surface of product 5.

[0062] In practice, the vent valve 240 can be designed with an adjustable opening pressure (e.g., by adjusting the spring preload). The timing and magnitude of the auxiliary ejection force can be flexibly adjusted according to the demolding difficulty of different products 5, thereby improving the mold's adaptability to different products 5.

[0063] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 6-7 As shown, the elastic element 23 is a high-temperature resistant spring or a wave spring, and the telescopic groove 22 is provided with a clearance space for accommodating the elastic element 23. When the movable element 3 is fully reset, the elastic element 23 is completely stored in the clearance space.

[0064] Die-casting molds operate at high temperatures, and ordinary springs are prone to annealing, elasticity attenuation, or even failure under these conditions. Using high-temperature resistant springs or wave springs ensures that the elastic element 23 maintains stable elasticity and fatigue life even under harsh conditions of repeated high-temperature thermal shock, thus guaranteeing the reliability of the pre-separation and reset functions of the moving part 3. Wave springs are characterized by their small axial height, occupying less space than ordinary coil springs for the same stroke. For small, precision products like camera housings, where the internal space of the slider 2 is extremely limited, wave springs allow for a more compact design. The clearance space design further optimizes space utilization, ensuring that after the moving part 3 is reset, the elastic element 23 does not interfere with other areas within the telescopic groove 22. When the moving part 3 is fully reset and the elastic element 23 is completely retracted into the clearance space, there are no other protrusions within the telescopic groove 22 except for the moving part 3 itself. This prevents the elastic element 23 from being accidentally jammed or interfering with the moving part 3 during subsequent movements, ensuring the smoothness of each movement of the moving part 3.

[0065] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 6-7 As shown, a temperature control chamber 26 is also provided on the side of the air cavity 20 away from the forming surface of the slider 2. The temperature control chamber 26 is used to introduce a heat exchange medium to regulate the temperature of the air cavity 20.

[0066] The heat exchange medium mentioned in this application can be a cooling medium (water, cooling oil, compressed air, etc.) or a heating medium (hot oil, hot water, steam, etc.).

[0067] In practical applications, the mold closes and the slider 2 is positioned. At this time, heat exchange medium can be introduced into the temperature control cavity 26 as needed. For example, during the preheating stage before production starts, hot oil or hot water can be introduced to preheat the air cavity 20, allowing it to reach a certain initial temperature. High-temperature molten metal is injected into the molding cavity 11, sealing the air inlet 21, making the air cavity 20 a sealed space. The heat of the melt is conducted to the air cavity 20 through the slider 2 body. At this time, the heat exchange medium in the temperature control cavity 26 can play a role according to process requirements. If it is desired that the air cavity 20 heats up quickly, the cooling medium can be stopped, or a heat-insulating medium can be introduced to reduce heat loss and accelerate the pressure build-up in the air cavity 20. If it is desired to control the heating rate, an appropriate amount of cooling medium can be introduced to remove some heat and prevent the air cavity 20 from overheating, resulting in excessive pressure or excessive movement of the moving part 3. The product 5 cools and solidifies in the mold. As the temperature decreases, the air pressure in the air cavity 20 gradually decreases. At this time, cooling medium can be introduced into the temperature control cavity 26 to actively accelerate the cooling of the air cavity 20, so that the pressure of the air cavity 20 drops faster, causing the moving part 3 to pre-separate from the product 5 in advance under the action of the elastic part 23, reducing the difficulty of demolding.

[0068] The introduction of the temperature control cavity 26 in this embodiment allows for active adjustment and control of the temperature of the gas cavity 20, thereby stabilizing the pressure build-up and release process of the gas cavity 20. This ensures that the timing and force of the movement of the moving part 3 are highly consistent in each die-casting cycle, improving the stability of the opening quality of the product 5. After die-casting is completed, by introducing a cooling medium into the temperature control cavity 26, the temperature of the gas cavity 20 can be actively and quickly reduced, accelerating the pressure drop and allowing the moving part 3 to reset more quickly, thus shortening the entire die-casting cycle time and improving production efficiency. Before each die-casting cycle begins, preheating the gas cavity 20 through the temperature control cavity 26 ensures that the initial temperature and initial pressure of the gas cavity 20 are the same at the start of each cycle, eliminating the state differences after cold mold start-up or production interruption, and further improving process consistency. For die-casting molds produced continuously at high speeds, the gas cavity 20 may overheat due to heat accumulation, leading to abnormally high gas pressure, excessive movement of the moving part 3, or even damage. The temperature control cavity 26 can remove excess heat in time by introducing a cooling medium, preventing the gas cavity 20 from overheating, protecting the mold, and ensuring molding quality. The presence of the temperature control chamber 26 allows the mold to adapt to a wider range of molding materials and product wall thicknesses. For thin-walled parts (low heat), less cooling or even heating is required; for thick-walled parts (high heat), cooling can be enhanced. This expands the process applicability of the same mold set.

[0069] In practice, heat exchange media of different temperatures or flow rates can be introduced into the temperature control chamber 26 at different stages of the die-casting cycle. For example, in the initial filling stage: a heating medium is introduced to promote rapid heating of the gas chamber 20; after the moving part 3 extends: heat exchange is stopped to maintain pressure; in the cooling stage: a cooling medium is introduced to accelerate the pressure drop and pre-separation. This variable temperature control can further optimize the molding process and shorten the cycle time.

[0070] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the slider 2 is provided with a plurality of telescopic grooves 22 and corresponding movable parts 3 at intervals along its sliding direction perpendicular to it, for forming a plurality of openings on the product 5 at the same time.

[0071] This embodiment, by setting multiple telescopic grooves 22 and movable parts 3 within the slider 2, allows multiple openings to be formed simultaneously on the product 5 in a single die-casting cycle, improving production efficiency and avoiding multiple processing steps or complex core-pulling mechanisms. Since all movable parts 3 are integrated on the same slider 2, and the positions of the telescopic grooves 22 are determined in a single step during slider 2 processing, the relative positional accuracy between the multiple openings is high, ensuring the dimensional tolerance requirements between the functional holes on the camera housing. When multiple movable parts 3 share a single air chamber 20, they are driven by the same pressure and extend substantially synchronously. This allows the forming process of multiple openings to proceed synchronously, avoiding localized deformation of the product 5 or uneven material flow caused by sequential actions.

[0072] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figures 6-7 As shown, a sealing ring 27 is provided between the movable part 3 and the telescopic groove 22.

[0073] In practice, the sealing ring 27 is installed in the annular groove on the outer circumference of the movable part 3, or in the annular groove on the inner wall of the expansion groove 22, forming a sliding seal between the movable part 3 and the expansion groove 22. The sealing ring 27 is made of a high-temperature resistant and wear-resistant sealing material (such as fluororubber, polytetrafluoroethylene, or metal-graphite composite sealing ring 27).

[0074] The presence of sealing ring 27 makes the air chamber 20 a truly sealed space, ensuring that the pressure build-up and release process is not affected by gap leakage. This guarantees that the timing, speed, and force of the extension of moving part 3 are highly consistent in each die-casting cycle, improving the stability of the opening quality of product 5. During the die-casting process, tiny droplets of molten metal or mold release agent residue may enter the gap between moving part 3 and expansion groove 22. Once intruded, they may jam moving part 3, or even weld it shut after solidification. Sealing ring 27 acts as a barrier, preventing external impurities from entering the mating gap, protecting the smooth movement of moving part 3, and extending mold life.

[0075] Although this application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of this application. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner, provided there is no structural conflict. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing, characterized in that, include: The mold body is equipped with guide grooves; The slider is slidably disposed in the guide groove and together with the inner wall of the mold body forms a molding cavity for molding products; The slider has an air chamber, an air inlet, and a telescopic groove inside. One end of the air inlet and the telescopic groove are connected to the air chamber, and the other end of both extend to the forming surface of the slider. The air inlet is configured to allow only gas to enter. The movable component is slidably disposed within the telescopic groove and closes the telescopic groove; During die casting, the air cavity absorbs heat from the molding material and heats up. The internal air pressure increases under the combined effect of the gas entering through the air inlet and the increased temperature, thereby pushing the moving part toward the molding cavity to form an opening on the product.

2. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, A limiting structure is provided between the movable part and the inner wall of the telescopic groove to restrict the movement of the movable part toward the molding cavity.

3. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable component includes a forming end facing the forming cavity and a driving end located within the air cavity, wherein the end face shape of the forming end matches the edge shape of the opening to be formed.

4. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, The slider is also provided with a heat-conducting component, which extends from the forming surface of the slider to the air cavity to accelerate heat transfer.

5. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, The telescopic groove is provided with an elastic element, and the two ends of the elastic element abut against the inner wall of the telescopic groove and the movable element, respectively. When the surface of the movable component facing the molding cavity is flush with the molding surface of the slider, the elastic component is not subjected to force. The movable member is configured such that when the surface of the movable member facing the molding cavity is flush with the molding surface of the slider, the elastic member is in a free state. After die casting is completed, the product cools down, causing the temperature and pressure of the air cavity to drop. The elastic element pulls the movable element toward the air cavity to reset itself through its own elasticity.

6. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 5, characterized in that, The slider is also provided with an ejector groove and an ejector slidably disposed in the ejector groove. One end of the ejector groove is connected to the air cavity, and the other end extends to the forming surface of the slider. A vent valve is provided at the connection between the top outlet groove and the air chamber; The vent valve is configured to open when the product is cooled, and when the movable part is reset, it pushes the gas in the air chamber through the vent valve into the ejector slot, driving the ejector to move toward the molding cavity to apply an auxiliary ejection force to the product.

7. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic element is a high-temperature resistant spring or a wave spring, and the telescopic groove is provided with a clearance space for accommodating the elastic element. When the movable element is fully reset, the elastic element is completely housed in the clearance space.

8. The optical electronic camera housing die-casting mold according to claim 1, characterized in that, A temperature control chamber is also provided on the side of the air cavity away from the forming surface of the slider. The temperature control chamber is used to introduce a heat exchange medium to regulate the temperature of the air cavity.

9. The die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The slider has multiple telescopic grooves and corresponding movable parts spaced apart along its sliding direction perpendicular to the slider, which are used to simultaneously form multiple openings on the product.

10. The die-casting mold for an optical electronic camera housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, A sealing ring is provided between the movable part and the telescopic groove.

Images