Mold and method for shaping objects with moldable material

Abstract

This invention relates to a mold and method for molding an object using a moldable material. The mold includes a housing, an inner molding element at least partially housed within the housing, and an intermediate element surrounding the inner molding element, wherein a hollow space is defined between the inner molding element and the housing, the intermediate element is positionable in the hollow space at a rear position, in which the moldable material is received in the hollow space, and the intermediate element is slidable relative to the inner molding element from the rear position toward a molding position to reduce the volume of the hollow space and the side walls of the molded object.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Invention Application No. 202280026563.0, filed on February 1, 2022, entitled "Apparatus and Method for Filling Molds". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an apparatus and method for filling a mold with a moldable material.

[0003] Moldable materials may include materials derived from natural fibers, such as cellulose, to which synthetic polymer materials or various other types of additives may be optionally added.

[0004] In particular, materials derived from natural fibers can be in the form of powder, granules, or flakes. These various forms of materials can have different degrees of agglomeration, that is, more or less agglomeration, depending on the characteristics of the materials derived from natural fibers and / or the amount of moisture / water or any other additives present in the natural fiber-based materials.

[0005] In addition, other moldable materials not derived from natural fibers can also be in these forms and can be processed using the equipment and methods according to the invention.

[0006] The apparatus and method according to the invention are particularly (but not exclusively) suitable for filling molds intended to manufacture objects having concave shapes (e.g., containers or lids for containers). Background Technology

[0007] Typically, moldable materials derived from natural fibers (such as cellulose-based materials) have very low initial density and require high compaction to obtain objects of good quality. This means that when the mold is filled with a material derived from natural fibers, an initial volume needs to be filled, which is relatively large compared to the final volume of the molded object.

[0008] This operation is not easy, also because sometimes moldable materials based on natural fibers are difficult to flow inside the mold, and they may accumulate in some areas of the mold in a non-uniform manner, leaving other areas of the mold almost empty.

[0009] Therefore, it is difficult to fill the mold in a uniform manner, which is an important requirement for obtaining molded objects of good quality.

[0010] Furthermore, when materials derived from natural fibers are introduced into the mold, a significant amount of air may be contained within the material itself, and this air must be removed from the mold before the final object is obtained. It is desirable to remove as much air as possible from the mold during filling to reduce the amount of air that must be expelled during molding. Summary of the Invention

[0011] One object of the present invention is to improve the apparatus and method for filling molds with moldable materials, particularly materials derived from natural fibers, such as cellulose.

[0012] Another objective is to provide an apparatus and method for filling a mold with a moldable material, such as a material containing natural fibers, which allows the mold to be filled in a uniform manner.

[0013] Another objective is to provide an apparatus and method for filling a mold with a moldable material (e.g., a material containing natural fibers), which has reduced construction complexity and simple operation.

[0014] Another objective is to provide an apparatus and method for filling a mold with a moldable material (e.g., a material containing natural fibers) that can vent air from the mold during filling.

[0015] In a first aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided comprising a mold portion having a molding chamber and a filling device for filling the molding chamber with a moldable material, the filling device comprising an inlet conduit for a flow of the moldable material and air and a preparatory chamber communicating with the molding chamber, wherein the inlet conduit extends to the preparatory chamber at a location such that the flow of the moldable material and air is conveyed toward the molding chamber in a helical motion, thereby separating the moldable material from the air.

[0016] In a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for filling a molding chamber of a mold with a moldable material, the method comprising the step of conveying a flow of moldable material and air to a preparatory chamber communicating with the molding chamber, wherein the flow of moldable material and air moves in a helical motion in the preparatory chamber to separate the moldable material from the air, and wherein the moldable material separated from the air accumulates in the molding chamber.

[0017] Due to the first and second aspects of the invention, and particularly due to the helical motion of the flow of moldable material and air in the preparatory chamber, a cyclone separator is defined in the preparatory chamber. This allows air to be effectively separated from the moldable material, such that the amount of air entering the molding chamber is much smaller than the amount of air present in the flow entering the preparatory chamber.

[0018] More specifically, during the spiral motion inside the preparatory chamber, particles of the moldable material impact the surface defining the preparatory chamber, which helps to separate the particles from the air. The particles then accumulate in the molding chamber, which may be below or above the preparatory chamber.

[0019] At the outlet of the pre-molding chamber, the moldable material (containing very little or no air) can be uniformly compressed to produce the desired object relatively easily. In other words, the moldable material arriving from the pre-molding chamber has undergone a kind of "pre-compaction," meaning that it has lost a significant amount of the air it initially contained. This means that when the moldable material is compressed in the molding chamber, the desired compaction can be achieved more quickly and easily.

[0020] The apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention and the method provided by the second aspect of the invention also allow for the filling of molding chambers with moldable materials in a simple manner, since they do not require movement of mechanical parts to separate air from the moldable material.

[0021] In a third aspect of the invention, a mold for molding an object using a moldable material is provided, the mold comprising a housing, an inner molding element at least partially housed within the housing, and an intermediate element surrounding the inner molding element, wherein a hollow space may be defined between the inner molding element and the housing, the intermediate element being positioned in the hollow space at a rear position in which the moldable material is received, and the intermediate element being slidable relative to the inner molding element from the rear position toward a molding position to reduce the volume of the hollow space and the side walls of the molded object.

[0022] In a fourth aspect of the invention, a method for molding an object from a moldable material is provided, the method comprising the following steps: - A moldable material is introduced into the housing, and the inner molding element is at least partially housed in the housing, surrounded by an intermediate element; - Move the intermediate element rearward relative to the inner molding element, thereby allowing the moldable material to flow into the hollow space defined between the inner molding element and the housing; - Move the intermediate element forward relative to the inner forming element to reduce the volume of the hollow space and the side walls of the formed object.

[0023] By moving the intermediate element rearward relative to the inner forming element—that is, positioning the intermediate element in a rearward position—a negative pressure can be generated in the hollow space, which draws the moldable material into the hollow space. This allows the hollow space to be effectively filled, even if the hollow space has a considerable axial dimension or a relatively small radial thickness, and even if the moldable material does not flow easily in the mold.

[0024] Thus, an object can be obtained in which the moldable material has been compacted in a substantially uniform manner in almost all parts of the object.

[0025] The mold according to the third aspect of the invention and the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention do not require complex construction because they can be operated using only the forward and backward movements (i.e., movements in the axial direction) of the components of the mold involved. That is, no lateral or radial movements are required, which could complicate the structure of the mold and its operation.

[0026] In one embodiment, the inner molding element is a convex molding element. The convex molding element may define a portion of a molding chamber disposed inside the housing.

[0027] Intermediate elements can be tubular elements surrounding convex forming elements.

[0028] The hollow space can be an annular space defined between the convex forming element and the housing.

[0029] In a fifth aspect of the invention, a mold for molding an object using a moldable material is provided, the mold including a molding chamber having a lateral portion at least partially surrounding an axis, the mold also including a filling device having a peripheral channel at least partially surrounding the axis and capable of selectively opening to supply moldable material to the lateral portion.

[0030] In a sixth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for molding an object in a molding chamber using a moldable material, the molding chamber having a lateral portion at least partially surrounding an axis, the method comprising the step of selectively opening a peripheral conduit at least partially surrounding the axis to supply the moldable material to the lateral portion.

[0031] Due to the fifth and sixth aspects of the invention, the molding chamber can be filled with substantially uniform compaction to obtain a high-quality object, particularly but not exclusively, that the object is a concave object, such as a lid, container, or preform for a container.

[0032] In one embodiment, the lateral portion of the molding chamber is a tubular portion surrounding an axis.

[0033] In one embodiment, the molding chamber has a transverse portion that is transverse to the axial closed tubular portion.

[0034] The filling device may include a central conduit that can be selectively opened to supply moldable material into the transverse portion. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The invention can be better understood and practiced with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several examples and non-limiting embodiments of the invention. Figure 1It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a device used to mold objects from moldable materials; Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross section taken from plane II-II; Figures 3 to 5 It is similar to Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional views, each of which illustrates an apparatus for molding objects using moldable materials according to a corresponding alternative embodiment; Figure 6 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mold used to shape an object in its initial construction. Figure 7 It is similar to Figure 6 The view shows the mold in the middle of the structure; Figure 8 It is similar to Figure 6 The view shows the mold in its final formed structure; Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a mold for forming an object in its initial configuration; Figure 10 It is similar to Figure 9 The view shows the mold in the middle of the structure; Figure 11 It is similar to Figure 9 The view shows the mold in its final formed structure; Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a mold for forming an object in its initial configuration; Figure 13 It is similar to Figure 12 The view shows the mold in the middle of the structure; Figure 14 It is similar to Figure 12 The view shows the mold in its final formed structure; Figure 15 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mold used to form an object during the step of filling the lateral portion of the forming chamber of the mold; Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A schematic cross-sectional view of the mold during the step of filling the transverse portion of the molding chamber; Figure 17 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mold according to an alternative embodiment, the mold being in a spaced-out configuration with a first molding element and a second molding element spaced apart; Figure 18 It is similar to Figure 17 A view during the step of filling the molding cavity of the mold; Figure 19 It is similar to Figure 17 A view during the step of filling the transverse portion of the mold; Figure 20 It is similar to Figure 17 A view during the molding process. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A device 1 is shown for filling a molding cavity of a mold with a moldable material (e.g., but not exclusively, a moldable material comprising materials derived from natural fibers, especially cellulose). The moldable material may be in the form of powder, granules, or flakes. The moldable material may optionally include additives, such as binders.

[0037] Device 1 allows moldable material to be introduced into the molding chamber 2 of the mold (e.g., Figure 1 (Illustrated schematically) In this molding chamber, moldable material can be shaped to obtain a desired object. In the example shown, molding chamber 2 is configured to be molded into an object with a concave shape, such as a container, a lid for a container, a preform for a container, etc.

[0038] The mold defining the molding chamber 2 can be included in a compression molding apparatus for obtaining a desired object by compression molding.

[0039] The forming chamber 2 may specifically include a tubular portion or lateral portion 3 extending around the axis Z as a side wall intended to form an object. The lateral portion 3 may have a cross-section taken in a plane perpendicular to the axis Z, which is defined by an outer perimeter of a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon with any number of sides.

[0040] The lateral portion 3 can extend 360° around the axis Z, in which case the lateral portion 3 has a closed cross-section around the axis Z (that is, a cross-section taken in a plane perpendicular to the axis Z). Alternatively, the lateral portion 3 can extend less than 360° around the axis Z, in which case the lateral portion 3 has an open cross-section (that is, a cross-section taken in a plane perpendicular to the axis Z), for example, in a "C" or "U" shape.

[0041] A molding chamber 2 is defined in a mold portion 14, which is adapted to operate in conjunction with another mold portion (not shown) to form an object. The mold portion 14 includes an inner molding element 4 and an outer molding member 5. The inner molding element 4 defines the lateral portion 3 from the inside, and the outer molding member surrounds the lateral portion 3, that is, defines the lateral portion from the outside. Therefore, the lateral portion 3 is defined between the inner molding element 4 and the outer molding member 5. The inner molding element 4 may be a convex molding element.

[0042] The mold portion 14 also includes an intermediate molding element (not shown) that can slide inside the lateral portion 3 to form an edge region of the object. In the example shown, the intermediate molding element is an annular molding element designed to form an annular edge region of the object.

[0043] The intermediate forming element is positioned on the opposite side of the filling device 1, that is, in Figure 1 The lower end of the molding chamber 2 is shown. Therefore, the intermediate molding element closes the molding chamber 2 on the side opposite to the side where the moldable material is introduced.

[0044] More specifically, the dimension of the lateral portion 3 along axis Z is larger than the dimension of the object to be obtained along axis Z. This occurs because the moldable material filling the molding chamber 2 is designed to be compressed in the axial direction due to the aforementioned intermediate molding element, which slides between the inner molding element 4 and the outer molding component 5 after the molding chamber 2 has been filled. Thus, the dimension of the sidewalls of the object in the direction parallel to axis Z is reduced during molding.

[0045] The molding chamber 2 may also include an end portion 6, which is designed to form the transverse walls of the object, that is, walls extending transversely (particularly perpendicular to) axis Z when the object has been molded and is still in the molding chamber 2.

[0046] In the example shown, the end portion 6 of the molding chamber 2 is positioned above the lateral portion 3, such that the formed object is a concave object in an inverted position, that is, with a downward-facing concave surface. However, this is not necessary, and other arrangements of the object to be molded are possible. For example, the lateral portion 3 can be positioned above the end portion 6 to form a concave object with an upward-facing concave surface.

[0047] The filling device 1 is located above the mold portion 14 for filling the molding chamber 2 with moldable material flowing from top to bottom. This is not necessary, and in alternative embodiments not shown, the filling device 1 may also be positioned in a different manner relative to the molding chamber 2, for example, below the mold portion 14.

[0048] The filling device 1 includes a housing 7, the interior of which defines a preparation chamber 8, which is adapted to receive moldable material before it reaches the molding chamber 2.

[0049] The outer casing 7 is defined by an inner surface 9, which corresponds to or is more specifically equal to the outer periphery of the cross-section of the lateral portion 3 at the periphery of a section taken perpendicular to the axis Z. This avoids discontinuity between the inner surface 9 of the outer casing 7 and the surface that defines the outer molded part 5 from the inside.

[0050] In the example shown, the inner surface 9 has the shape of a cylinder with a circular base, but other shapes are also possible, such as a cylinder with an elliptical base, or a prism with a polygonal base, or other shapes, depending on the shape of the object to be obtained.

[0051] The filling device 1 also has an inlet conduit 10 through which the flow of moldable material and air F enters the preparation chamber 8. The inlet conduit 10 is positioned such that the flow of moldable material and air within the preparation chamber 8 flows toward the molding chamber 2 in a helical motion about axis Z. For this purpose, the inlet conduit 10 can extend tangentially into the preparation chamber 8, for example, such that the generatrix of the inlet conduit 10 (in the case where the inlet conduit has a cylindrical shape) is tangential to the inner surface 9 of the preparation chamber 8, as... Figure 2 As shown in the example.

[0052] More generally, the inlet pipe 10 may extend at least at its end portion along a longitudinal axis A that is not radial relative to axis Z, that is, the longitudinal axis A does not intersect axis Z.

[0053] The inlet pipe 10 may also extend along the bending axis. In this case, the straight line tangent to the bending axis in the end section of the inlet pipe 10 does not intersect the axis Z.

[0054] In other words, the inlet pipe 10 is configured to deliver a flow F of moldable material and air into the preparatory chamber 8 in a direction not radial relative to the axis Z, such that the flow F impacts the inner surface 9 of the preparatory chamber 8 and is guided toward the molding chamber 2 along a spiral trajectory around the axis Z.

[0055] The inlet pipe 10 can lead to the preparatory chamber 8 at one end near the preparatory chamber 8, particularly at the other end of the preparatory chamber 8 opposite the adjacent molding chamber 2.

[0056] In the example shown, the inlet conduit 10 leads to the upper region of the preparation chamber 8, and the flow F of moldable material and air moves downward from the top to reach the molding chamber 2. In an alternative embodiment, the inlet conduit 10 may be located in a different position, and the flow F of moldable material and air may, for example, move upward from the bottom.

[0057] The flow F intended to flow in the inlet conduit 10 can be a flow of moldable material and compressed air. In this case, the filling device 1 includes a compressed air source (not shown) positioned upstream of the inlet conduit 10 for supplying compressed air intended to mix with the moldable material. The compressed air pushes the moldable material toward and from the preparatory chamber 8 toward the molding chamber 2, and can also help to cause the moldable material to flow along a spiral path inside the preparatory chamber 8.

[0058] In an alternative embodiment, a compressed air source may not be present. In this case, flow F is a flow of moldable material together with air at ambient pressure, with the air positioned between the particles of the moldable material before the material is compacted in the mold.

[0059] The main function of the air mixed with the moldable material particles in the flow F is to transport the particles into the interior of the preparation chamber 8.

[0060] By causing the flow to move in a spiral motion within the preparation chamber 8, particles of the moldable material present in the flow F impact the inner surface 9 and separate from the air initially present in the flow F. This allows the air to separate from the moldable material.

[0061] The filling device 1 also includes a discharge pipe 11 for allowing air separated from the moldable material to flow out of the preparation chamber 8. In the example shown, the discharge pipe 11 is axial, that is, it extends along the axis Z of the preparation chamber 8.

[0062] The discharge pipe 11 can be located in the area of ​​the housing 7 opposite to the molding chamber 2. In the example shown, the discharge pipe 11 leads to the upper area of ​​the preparation chamber 8, although this is not necessary.

[0063] In the example shown, the discharge pipe 11 passes through the end wall 12 of the housing 7, which is positioned transversely to, and in particular perpendicularly to, axis Z.

[0064] The discharge pipe 11 is also confined inside the tubular protrusion 13, which protrudes from the end wall 12 inside the preparation chamber 8, that is, protrudes toward the forming chamber 2.

[0065] The tubular protrusion 13 can be defined by the cylindrical inner surface.

[0066] The size of the tubular protrusion 13 along axis Z can be smaller than the size of the preparatory chamber 8 along axis Z.

[0067] During operation, the filling device 1 and the mold section 14 are initially in the filling position, such as Figure 1As shown, in this filling position, the filling device 1 and the mold portion 14 are aligned along axis Z. In the illustrated embodiment, in the filling position, the filling device 1 is positioned above the mold portion 14.

[0068] The flow F of moldable material and air is delivered into the preparation chamber 8 through inlet pipe 10. As previously mentioned, the air mixed with the moldable material can be at a pressure greater than ambient pressure (compressed air) or at ambient pressure. The flow F moves in a helical motion around axis Z inside the preparation chamber 8, that is, following a helical trajectory (in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The symbol in the diagram is T1. Helical motion is motion along a spiral, which in the example shown is a cylindrical spiral. In an embodiment not shown, the helical motion of the flow F may be along a conical spiral.

[0069] The spiral motion of flow F occurs in the peripheral region of the preparatory chamber 8, which can be axially aligned with the lateral portion 3 of the forming chamber 2.

[0070] As the flow F moves in a spiral motion, particles of the moldable material impact the inner surface 9 of the molding chamber 8 and separate from the air present in the flow F. The moldable material separated from the air decelerates and accumulates at the end of the preparatory chamber 8 opposite to the inlet pipe 10, thereby filling the adjacent molding chamber 2.

[0071] In the example shown, Figure 1 The moldable material indicated by the letter M descends into the lateral portion 3 of the molding chamber 2 under the influence of gravity. This lateral portion is filled in a particularly efficient manner, even though the lateral portion 3 is quite large along the axis Z and / or relatively small in the radial direction.

[0072] The moldable material also reaches the end portion 6 of the molding chamber 2.

[0073] Because a significant amount of air is separated from the moldable material during the path of flow F in the preparatory chamber 8, the moldable material accumulated in the molding chamber 2 has a much higher density than the moldable material flowing through the inlet pipe 8. Consequently, the moldable material is easier to press during the subsequent molding step, as the amount of air that must be expelled from the moldable material during pressing is limited. In other words, the moldable material entering the molding chamber 2 can be considered "pre-compacted" due to the air separation that occurs in the preparatory chamber 8, which facilitates subsequent molding.

[0074] Therefore, the filling device 1 is used as a cyclone separator, which is associated with the mold to separate the air present in the flow F from the moldable material subsequently filled into the mold.

[0075] Air separated from the moldable material flows out of the preparation chamber 8 through the discharge pipe 11. More specifically, the air flows out of the preparation chamber 8 in a spiral motion around the axis Z. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the air specifically follows a spiral trajectory T2, which is coaxial with the spiral defining trajectory T1, but has a smaller radius. This means that the trajectory T2 along which the outflowing air moves is inside the trajectory T1 of the inflowing moldable material and airflow. Furthermore, the outflowing air moves in the opposite direction to the inflowing moldable material and airflow F; in a sense, in the example shown, the outflowing air travels upward from the bottom, while the inflowing moldable material and airflow F travels downward from the top.

[0076] A suction device, not shown, can be associated with the discharge pipe 11 to draw out air present in the preparation chamber 8 and promote air flow out along trajectory T2, as... Figure 1 The arrow F1 indicates this.

[0077] Furthermore, the mold portion 14, including the molding chamber 2, is provided with a vent to allow air remaining in the moldable material to escape during molding. The vent may be axial, such as... Figure 1 The arrow F2 indicates this. Alternatively or supplementing to the above, the vent opening may be radial.

[0078] The vent opening can be connected to a suction source to facilitate airflow from the mold. The suction source allows for optimized filling of the molding chamber 2 with moldable material, especially when the molding chamber 2 is positioned above the preparatory chamber 8 and therefore cannot be filled by gravity.

[0079] After the molding chamber 2 has been filled with moldable material, a drive device (not shown) moves the filling device 1 and the mold portion 14 relative to each other, so that the filling device 1 and the mold portion 14 are no longer aligned with each other along the axis Z. In other words, the drive device is configured to disengage the filling device 1 from the molding chamber 2. As a result, the mold portion 14 can engage with another mold portion (not shown), which is arranged to close the molding chamber 2 at an end portion 6 transverse to the axis Z.

[0080] The compression molding step can now begin, in which mold portion 14, including molding chamber 2, and another mold portion (not shown) are moved toward each other to compact the moldable material and form an object.

[0081] An intermediate molding element (not shown) associated with the lateral portion 3 of the molding chamber 2 slides toward the end portion 6 on the inner side of the lateral portion 3 to form an edge region of the object extending laterally to the axis Z on the opposite side of the end portion 6.

[0082] After the object has been formed in the mold, the mold can be opened, and the mold part 14 can be engaged with the filling device 1 so that the mold part can be filled again.

[0083] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the discharge conduit 11 may be formed in the inner molding element 4 instead of in the end wall 12 of the housing 7. The discharge conduit 11 may extend particularly in the central region of the inner molding element 4, for example, along axis Z. In this case, air separated from the moldable material flows out of the preparation chamber 8 by passing through the inner molding element 4 in a spiral motion. The spiral along which the outflowing air travels has a smaller radius than the spiral along which the flow F of the inflowing moldable material and air travels has a trajectory T1. In this case, the inflowing air moves in the same direction as the flow F, that is, from top to bottom in the example shown. A suction device may be associated with the discharge conduit to suction out the air separated from the moldable material and to facilitate air flow from the mold portion 14. Alternative embodiments may facilitate more efficient filling of the end portion 6 of the molding chamber 2.

[0084] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the described embodiment, the helical motion of the flow of moldable material and air mainly occurs in the preparatory chamber 8 and ends substantially near the end portion 6. Figure 3 A filling device 21 according to an alternative embodiment is shown, which is related to Figure 1 and Figure 2The difference in this embodiment is that the helical motion of the flow F of moldable material and air occurs not only in the preparatory chamber 8 but also continues in the lateral portion 3 of the molding chamber 2. That is, the flow F of moldable material and air entering from the inlet pipe 10 moves along a helical trajectory T10, which passes from the area led to by the inlet pipe 10 of the preparatory chamber 8 to the end of the preparatory chamber 8 adjacent to the molding chamber 2, and continues from that end to the lateral portion 3 defined between the inner molding element 4 and the outer molding component 5. This allows the accompanying moldable material to enter the lateral portion 3, thereby helping the moldable material to fill the lateral portion 3, even if the lateral portion 3 has a considerable axial dimension and / or the moldable material is not easily flowable and tends to clump. The helical trajectory T10 can extend far into the lateral portion 3 opposite to the preparatory chamber 8. Air separated from the moldable material returns to the external environment by following a helical trajectory T20 extending in a transport pipe 15 made in the inner molding element 4. In the example shown, the inner forming element has a tubular shape, such that the transport conduit 15 extends from one end of the inner forming element 4 to the other. Air then flows from the inner forming element 4 into the preparation chamber 8 until it reaches the discharge conduit 11, similar to... Figure 1 As shown. The air is eventually discharged into the external environment from the discharge pipe 11, as indicated by arrow F1.

[0085] The spiral trajectory T20 along which the outflowing airflow moves has a smaller radius than the spiral trajectory T10 followed by the flow of moldable material and air, and is located inside the spiral trajectory T10. The spiral trajectory T20 extends along the axis Z in the central region of the mold section 14 and the filling device 21.

[0086] In order for the spiral trajectory T10 to continue in the lateral section 3, measures can be taken on the geometry and size characteristics and location of the inlet pipe 10, as well as the characteristics (pressure, flow rate, etc.) of the flow of moldable material and air F, and if necessary, a suction source can be provided at the end of the lateral section 3 opposite to the filling device 21.

[0087] Figure 4 A filling device 31 according to an alternative embodiment is shown, which is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The difference in the embodiment shown is that the filling device 31 includes a dispensing plate 16 to allow for improved distribution of the moldable material in the end portion 6 of the molding chamber 2.

[0088] A distribution plate 16 (which may, for example, be circular in a plan view) is fixed to one end of a rod 17 positioned along axis Z. The distribution plate 16 extends primarily in a plane perpendicular to axis Z. The rod 17 may extend to the end of the preparatory chamber 8 opposite to the forming chamber 2, passing through the discharge pipe 11.

[0089] In the filling device 31, the flow of air, separated from the moldable material and moving toward the discharge pipe 11, begins above the distribution plate 16. The moldable material between the distribution plate 16 and the protruding molding element 2 is not disturbed by the outflowing airflow and can better fill the end portion 6.

[0090] In this case, the outflowing air again travels towards the external environment following a spiral trajectory T2, which is inside the spiral trajectory T1 followed by the flow of moldable material and air F and extends around axis Z. In the example shown, trajectory T2 is located between rod 17 and the tubular protrusion 13 in the region where the tubular protrusion 13 is provided.

[0091] Figure 5 A filling device 41 according to another alternative embodiment is shown, which is... Figure 4 The difference in the illustrated embodiment is that, in addition to the distribution plate 16, another distribution plate 18 is provided. The distribution plate 16 is located between the molding chamber 2 and the other distribution plate 18. Both the distribution plate 16 and the other distribution plate 18 are fixed relative to the rod 17.

[0092] Alternatively, another distribution plate 18 may have a circular shape in the plan view and extend in a plane arranged transversely to, and in particular perpendicular to, axis Z. Distribution plate 16 and the other distribution plate 18 are parallel to each other.

[0093] After separating from the moldable material, the airflow exiting the preparation chamber 8 begins directly above another distribution plate 18 and spirals along trajectory T2. This improves the filling of the end portion 6 with the moldable material. In one embodiment, not shown, plate 16 and / or another plate 18 and / or rod 17 may be perforated.

[0094] More than two allocation boards can also be provided. (Previous reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The content mentioned regarding alternative embodiments also applies. Figures 3 to 5 Examples of this embodiment. In particular, in all the examples shown, the mold portion 14 may be positioned above the filling device.

[0095] The discharge pipe 11 can pass through the inner forming element 4, instead of opening on the wall of the outer casing 7 opposite to the mold section 14.

[0096] In the first mold section 14, there may be axial and / or radial venting channels for expelling air still mixed with the moldable material, which may optionally be equipped with a suction device. The suction source may also be associated with the discharge channel 11.

[0097] Figures 6 to 8A mold 51 is shown for forming objects from moldable materials, particularly materials containing materials derived from natural fibers such as cellulose. Mold 51 is particularly suitable for processing moldable materials in the form of powder, granules, or flakes. Mold 51 can be used, for example, to form concave objects such as lids, containers, and preforms for containers. More generally, as Figure 8 As shown, the object formed in mold 51 may include a side wall 65 and a transverse wall 64, the side wall surrounding the mold. Figures 6 to 8 The transverse wall extends transversely to, for example, perpendicularly to, the axis indicated by Z1. The lateral wall 65 can have various shapes, such as cylindrical, truncated conical, prismatic with polygonal or elliptical cross-sections, or other shapes. The transverse wall 64 can be flat or have other shapes.

[0098] The mold 51 may be included in the compression molding equipment.

[0099] The mold 51 includes an internal forming element 54 adapted to form an object from within. The internal forming element 54 may be a convex forming element.

[0100] Intermediate element 60 surrounds inner molded element 54. Intermediate element 60 can be molded into a tubular shape.

[0101] Intermediate element 60 can directly contact inner forming element 54, such as Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in this case, the intermediate element 60 directly surrounds the inner molding element 54. In an embodiment not shown, other components may be located between the inner molding element 54 and the intermediate element 60, in which case the intermediate element 60 surrounds the inner molding element 54, and these components are inserted between them.

[0102] The mold 51 also includes a concave forming element 58 suitable for forming an object from the outside.

[0103] The inner forming element 54 and the concave forming element 58 are aligned along the molding axis Z1. In the example shown, the molding axis Z1 is vertical, but this is not necessary, and in embodiments not shown, the molding axis Z1 may be horizontal or inclined.

[0104] Due to a motion mechanism (not shown), the inner forming element 54 and the concave forming element 58 can move relative to each other along the molding axis Z1 between the spaced-out structure and the forming structure. In the spaced-out structure (not shown), the inner forming element 54 and the concave forming element 58 are spaced apart from each other, allowing the molded object to be removed from the mold 51 and new moldable material to be molded to be introduced into the mold 51. Figure 8 In the molding structure shown, the moldable material has been molded between the inner molding element 54 and the concave molding element 58 to obtain an object.

[0105] In the example shown, the recessed molding element 58 is positioned above the inner molding element 54. This is not necessary, and in embodiments not shown, the inner molding element 54 may be positioned below the recessed molding element 58.

[0106] The concave molding element 58 may include a housing 57 extending around the molding axis Z1, the housing having, for example, a tubular shape. The housing 57 at least partially surrounds the intermediate element 60. The housing 57 may be in direct contact with the intermediate element 60, such as... Figures 6 to 8 As shown, or in an alternative embodiment not shown, one or more components may be located between the housing 57 and the intermediate element 60. The intermediate element 60 extends about the molding axis Z1.

[0107] The concave molding element 58 also includes a transverse molding surface 61 for forming a transverse wall 64 of the object from the outside, that is, a wall of the object positioned transversely to the molding axis Z1. The housing 57 protrudes from the transverse molding surface 61 toward the inner molding element 54.

[0108] The transversely formed surface 61 can be formed on a component separate from the housing 57, which is fixed relative to the housing 57 in all cases. Alternatively, the transversely formed surface 61 and the housing 57 can be included in a single mechanical part.

[0109] A hollow space 53 is defined between the inner molded element 54 and the housing 57, and the hollow space 53 extends about the molding axis Z1. The hollow space 53 can be annular, for example, having a cylindrical shape.

[0110] A molding chamber 52 is defined inside the mold 51 and is adapted to receive moldable material. Within the molding chamber 52, the moldable material can be compressed to form a desired object. More specifically, the molding chamber 52 is defined inside the housing 57. The molding chamber 52 is particularly defined between the concave molding element 58, the inner molding element 54, and the intermediate element 60. The molding chamber 52 has a shape and size that can vary depending on the steps of the molding process in the mold 51. A hollow space 53 is included within the molding chamber 52.

[0111] The intermediate element 60 is defined in a direction transverse to the molding axis Z1 by an annular surface 62 facing the transverse molding surface 61. The annular surface 62 is adapted to form the annular edge 66 of the object, such as... Figure 8 As shown. The inner forming element 54 is defined by the front surface 63 facing the transverse forming surface 61 in the direction transverse to the molding axis Z1.

[0112] A motion device (not shown) is also provided for moving the intermediate element 60 and the hollow space 53 relative to each other. The motion device may, for example, be associated with the intermediate element 60. Thus, the intermediate element 60 can move within the hollow space 53 in a linear motion parallel to the molding axis Z1. This linear motion occurs alternately toward and away from the transverse molding surface 61.

[0113] More specifically, intermediate element 60 can be Figure 7 The rear position P1 shown is located in the hollow space 53, in which a significant portion of the inner molding element 54 protrudes from the intermediate element 60 into the interior of the molding chamber 52. At the rear position P1 of the intermediate element 60, the volume of the hollow space 53 is at its maximum. Therefore, moldable material can be received between the housing 57 and the inner molding element 54.

[0114] The intermediate element 60 can be moved relative to the inner forming element 54 from the rear position P1 toward the forming position P2, such as... Figure 8 As shown, in the molding position, the molding chamber 52 has the shape of the object to be obtained, and the annular edge 66 of the object is molded to contact the intermediate element 60. In the molding position P2, the inner molding element 54 protrudes less from the intermediate element 60 than it does in the rear position P1. To move from the rear position P1 to the molding position P2, the intermediate element 60 can be moved toward the transverse molding surface 61 in a direction parallel to the molding axis Z1. In addition to the rear position P1 and the molding position P2, the intermediate element 60 can also be positioned relative to the inner molding element 54 in other positions. For example, the intermediate element 60 can be positioned in any intermediate position between the rear position P1 and the molding position P2, or even in a position where the inner molding element 54 protrudes less from the intermediate element 60 than it does in the molding position P2.

[0115] Intermediate element 60 can be positioned at the forward position P0, such as Figure 6 As shown, in the forward position, the annular surface 62 is substantially aligned with the front surface 63, that is, the annular surface 62 and the front surface 63 are positioned substantially at the same level along the molding axis Z1.

[0116] The hollow space 53 corresponds to the region of the molding chamber 52 that is intended to form the side wall 65 of the object. Conversely, a portion of the molding chamber 52 located between the transverse molding surface 61 and the front surface 63 is intended to form the transverse wall 64.

[0117] During operation, the inner forming element 54 and the concave forming element 58 are initially in a spaced-out configuration (not shown), in which the forming chamber 52 is open and accessible from the outside, allowing the newly formed object to be removed from the mold 51. Subsequently, the inner forming element 54 and the concave forming element 58 are brought closer together and... Figure 6 In the initial configuration shown, the molding chamber 52 is closed and filled with moldable material. The moldable material is introduced into the molding chamber 52 via a filling device (not shown).

[0118] exist Figure 6 In the initial configuration shown, the molding chamber 52 has a volume much larger than the object to be molded, and has a shape different from the shape of the object to be molded. In the example shown, in Figure 6 In the initial configuration shown, the annular surface 62 of the intermediate element 60 is substantially aligned with the front surface 63 of the inner molding element 54 along the molding axis Z1. Therefore, the molding chamber 52 has a substantially cylindrical shape. In this configuration, no hollow space 53 is defined between the inner molding element 54 and the intermediate element 60.

[0119] Subsequently, as Figure 7 As shown, in the example illustrated, the motion mechanism associated with the intermediate element 60 moves the intermediate element 60 away from the transverse forming surface 61. Like the concave forming element 58, the inner forming elements 54 remain in their preceding positions. The intermediate element 60 reaches a rear position P1, in which the volume of the hollow space 53 is at its maximum. This generates a pulling force, that is, a suction or aspiration that draws the moldable material previously positioned between the transverse forming surface 61 and the front surface 63 into the hollow space 53. This pulling force is similar to the pulling force that occurs in a syringe when the plunger is pulled back to draw in liquid. Due to the aforementioned pulling force, the moldable material can relatively easily fill the hollow space 53, even if the hollow space 53 has a relatively large dimension along the molding axis Z1 or a finite radial thickness.

[0120] In other words, the backward movement of the intermediate element 60 (that is, the movement of the intermediate element 60 away from the transverse forming surface 61) creates a negative pressure in the hollow space 53, which allows the moldable material to flow into and fill the hollow space 53.

[0121] In the example shown, the moldable material flows into the hollow space 53 with gravity assistance.

[0122] However, if the inner forming element 54 is not positioned below the concave forming element 58, the moldable material will in any case fill the hollow space 53 due to the pulling force exerted by the intermediate element 60 moving away from the transverse forming surface 61 along the molding axis Z1.

[0123] exist Figure 7 In the construction, the moldable material filling the molding chamber 52 (including the hollow space 53) has a relatively low density, which is much lower than the density of the moldable material in the formed object.

[0124] Having already reached Figure 7 After the hollow space 53 has been filled with moldable material, the drive mechanism moves the inner molding element 54 and the concave molding element 58 toward each other along the molding axis Z1. The inner molding element 54 thus penetrates the interior of the housing 57 to form the transverse wall 64 of the object. Simultaneously, the motion mechanism associated with the intermediate element 60 moves the intermediate element parallel to the molding axis Z1 toward the transverse molding surface 61 until it reaches... Figure 8 The forming position P2 is shown, where the distance between the annular surface 62 and the transverse forming surface 63 is substantially equal to the height of the object to be obtained. The side walls 65 of the object are formed in this manner.

[0125] The molding chamber 52 reaches its defined shape, and the moldable material is compressed until it reaches the desired density, resulting in the object to be molded. The mold 51 is now ready to return to the spaced-out structure and begin a new molding cycle.

[0126] The mold 51 may have a vent opening (not shown) to allow air initially mixed with the moldable material to flow out from the molding chamber 52 as the object is being molded.

[0127] Figures 6 to 8 The mold 51 shown allows for the production of concave objects of good quality, wherein the moldable material has a substantially uniform compaction, that is, a virtually constant density.

[0128] In terms of construction and operation, mold 51 is very simple because it does not require radial movement of its components, but is operated only by moving the elements constituting the mold in the axial direction (i.e., parallel to the molding axis Z1).

[0129] By moving the intermediate element 60 away from the lateral molding surface 61 after the molding chamber 52 has been filled and closed, a negative pressure is generated in the hollow space 53, which allows the moldable material to flow between the inner molding element 54 and the housing 57 to form the side walls 65 of the object.

[0130] Figures 9 to 11 A mold 151 according to an alternative embodiment is shown, which is consistent with... Figures 6 to 8 The main difference of the mold 51 shown is that it includes a concave molding element 158, which has a different structure from the concave molding element 58 of the mold 51.

[0131] The part of mold 151 that is common to mold 51 will be used with Figures 6 to 8 The same reference numerals used in the figures indicate the references and will not be described in detail again.

[0132] More specifically, the concave molding element 158 ​​includes a pusher component 67 facing the intermediate element 60 for pushing moldable material into the hollow space 53. The pusher component 67 extends about the molding axis Z1 and may have a tubular shape.

[0133] The actuator component 67 is axially aligned with the intermediate element 60. In particular, the actuator component 67 may have an inner lateral dimension and an outer lateral dimension that are substantially equal to the corresponding lateral dimension of the intermediate element 60, even if such a condition is not required.

[0134] The concave molding element 158 ​​also includes an inner core 68 defined by a transverse molding surface 161 arranged transversely to, and particularly perpendicular to, the molding axis Z1. The transverse molding surface 161 faces the front surface 63 of the inner molding element 54.

[0135] The concave molding element 158 ​​also includes a housing 157, which may have a tubular shape and extend about the molding axis Z1. The housing 157 is similar to... Figures 6 to 8 The housing 57 of the mold 51 shown.

[0136] The actuator component 67 is located between the inner core 68 and the housing 157.

[0137] A displacement device (not shown) is provided for moving the pusher component 67 relative to the inner core 68 and the housing 157 in a linear back-and-forth motion in a direction parallel to the molding axis Z1. Therefore, the pusher component 67 can slide between the inner core 68 and the housing 157.

[0138] Specifically, the shifting device is configured to move the actuator component 67 such that the actuator component substantially follows the intermediate element 60.

[0139] During operation, mold 151 is placed in Figure 9 In the initial construction shown, similar to Figure 6 The initial configuration of the mold 51 shown. In the initial configuration, a molding chamber 52 is defined between the convex mold element 54 and the concave mold element 158. The molding chamber 52 is filled with moldable material and has a volume much larger than the object to be obtained, and has a shape different from the object to be obtained. Figure 9In the initial configuration shown, the end surface 69 of the pusher component 67 is substantially aligned with the transverse forming surface 161 along the molding axis Z1, that is, the end surface 69 and the transverse forming surface 161 are substantially at the same level. Similarly, the annular surface 62 of the intermediate element 60 is substantially aligned with the front surface 63 of the inner forming element 54 along the molding axis Z1. Therefore, the forming chamber 52 can be substantially cylindrical.

[0140] Subsequently, the intermediate element 60 moves rearward relative to the inner molding element 54, that is, moves away from the transverse molding surface 161, thereby defining a hollow space 53 between the inner molding element 54 and the housing 157. The intermediate element 60 moves to the rear position P1, as... Figure 10 As shown, in this rear position, the volume of the hollow space 53 is at its maximum. The movement of the intermediate element 60 toward the rear position P1 creates a negative pressure inside the hollow space 53, thereby drawing the moldable material present in the molding chamber 52 into the hollow space 53.

[0141] To facilitate the flow of moldable material into the hollow space 53, the hollow space may be connected to a suction source (not shown), as indicated by arrow K, which draws the moldable material into the hollow space 53.

[0142] As the intermediate element 60 moves backward away from the transverse forming surface 161, the pusher component 67 moves forward, bringing it closer to the inner forming element 54. In one embodiment, the amount of forward movement of the pusher component 67 may be the same as the amount of backward movement of the intermediate element 60, thereby keeping the distance between the pusher component 67 and the intermediate element 60 constant.

[0143] By moving the pusher component 67 toward the intermediate element 60, the pusher component 67 pushes the moldable material between the end surface 69 and the annular surface 62 toward the hollow space 53. The thrust applied by the pusher component 67 helps the moldable material fill the hollow space 53, even if the hollow space is long and / or narrow, or even if the moldable material does not flow easily.

[0144] After the hollow space 63 has been filled, the inner forming element 54 is moved toward the inner core 68 to form the transverse wall 64 of the object. The intermediate element 60 also moves forward toward the transverse forming surface 161, and simultaneously the pusher component 67 moves backward toward the inner core 68 until the end surface 69 is flush with the transverse forming surface 161. The end surface 69 and the transverse forming surface 161 thus form the outer surface of the transverse wall 64 of the object. In the hollow space 53, whose height has been reduced, the side wall 65 of the object is formed, the annular edge 66 of which is formed by the intermediate element 60.

[0145] Figures 12 to 14A mold 251 according to an alternative embodiment is shown. Mold 251 is structurally similar to the previously described mold 51, but operates differently from the previously described mold.

[0146] The mold 251 includes a concave molding element 258, which includes a housing 257 extending about a molding axis Z1, within which an inner core 268 is housed. The inner core 268 is slidable back and forth within the housing 257 in a direction parallel to the molding axis Z1. For this purpose, a displacement device (not shown) is associated with the inner core 268. The inner core 268 is defined by a transverse molding surface 261 facing the inner molding element 54.

[0147] The remaining parts of mold 251 are substantially the same as those of mold 51. Figures 6 to 8 The same reference numerals used in the figures indicate the reference numerals and will not be described in detail again.

[0148] During operation, such as Figure 12 As shown, mold 251 in its initial configuration is similar to... Figure 6 The initial structure of the mold 51 shown is essentially the same. The annular surface 62 of the intermediate element 60 is flush with the front surface 63 of the inner forming element 54. The forming chamber 52 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0149] Subsequently, while the inner forming element 54 remains in a fixed position, the intermediate element 60 moves rearward, that is, away from the front surface 63, to create a hollow space 53. This creates a negative pressure in the hollow space 53, which draws the moldable material into the hollow space 53.

[0150] The flow of moldable material into the hollow space 53 can be assisted by a suction source (not shown), as indicated by arrow K, which draws the moldable material between the housing 257 and the inner molding element 54.

[0151] At the same time, such as Figure 13 As shown, the inner core 258 is brought closer to the inner molding element 54, thereby reducing the volume of the molding chamber 52. This has the following dual effects: compressing the moldable material present in the molding chamber 52 to reduce its density; and assisting the moldable material to flow toward the hollow space 53, so that the moldable material can more easily fill the hollow space 53.

[0152] Intermediate element 60 has arrived. Figure 13 After the rear position P1 shown and after the hollow space 53 has been filled with moldable material, the intermediate element 60 moves forward in a direction parallel to the molding axis Z1 to compress the moldable material present in the hollow space 53 and reduce the axial dimension of the hollow space 53.

[0153] Simultaneously, when the housing 257 is held in the fixed position, the inner core 258 moves backward to return to its original position, in which the inner core is located Figure 12 The initial configuration is shown. The inner forming element 54 is shifted toward the inner core 268 in a direction parallel to the axis Z1. The inner forming element 54 follows the inner core 258 in this manner and is positioned at a distance from the inner core equal to the thickness of the transverse wall 64 of the object, such as... Figure 14 As shown.

[0154] This is how you obtain the desired object.

[0155] In all embodiments of the molds 51, 151, and 251 described previously, vent openings or vent holes may be present in the molding chamber 52, particularly in the hollow space 53, to allow air mixed with the moldable material to gradually flow out as the moldable material is compressed.

[0156] In all embodiments of the previously described molds 51, 151, 251, the hollow space 53 may be connected to a suction source (not shown) to facilitate the filling of the hollow space 53 with moldable material.

[0157] Figure 15 and Figure 16 A mold 351 is shown for forming a concave object (i.e., an object having lateral walls extending about an axis and transverse walls extending transversely to the axis). Examples of concave objects that can be formed in mold 351 include lids, containers, and preforms for containers. The object is formed in mold 351 by compressing a moldable material, which may include materials derived from natural fibers and may be fed into mold 351 in the form of granules, flakes, or powder.

[0158] The mold 351 includes a molding chamber 352 adapted to receive moldable material that must be pressed to obtain an object. Figure 16 As shown, the molding chamber 352 includes a lateral portion 353 that extends about an axis Z2 and is intended to form a lateral wall of the object. The lateral portion 353 may be a tubular portion. The molding chamber 352 may also include a transverse portion 356 in which a transverse wall of the object may be formed.

[0159] The mold 351 includes an inner forming element 354 adapted to form the inner surface of an object. The inner forming element 354 may be a convex forming element.

[0160] The inner forming element 354 has a transverse surface 363 arranged transversely to the axis Z2 to define the transverse portion 356.

[0161] The inner molding element 354 is housed in a housing 357, which may have a tubular shape and extend about an axis Z2. A lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352 is identified between the housing 357 and the inner molding element 354.

[0162] The mold 351 also includes a filling device 301 for filling the molding cavity 352 with moldable material.

[0163] In the example shown, the filling device 301 is positioned above the inner molding element 354, which facilitates the filling of the molding chamber 352 by allowing the moldable material to be introduced into the molding chamber 352 using gravity. The mold 351 is configured to form an inverted object, that is, having a downward-facing concave surface. However, this is not necessary. In an embodiment not shown, the filling device may be positioned below the molding chamber 352, in which case the molding chamber 352 may be filled by means of suction and / or pressurized air.

[0164] The filling device 301 includes a receiving body 364 that can be positioned to contact the housing 357.

[0165] The filling device 301 has a first conduit or central conduit 365 for supplying moldable material into a transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352. The central conduit 365 may extend along axis Z2.

[0166] More specifically, the filling device includes an intermediate body 367, with a central conduit 365 formed inside the intermediate body 367. The intermediate body 367 may have a primary dimension, i.e., a length, extending along an axis Z2. The intermediate body 367 may have a tubular shape and may, for example, have lateral walls extending around the axis Z2.

[0167] Movable inside the central conduit 365 is a closing member 366, which is specifically shaped like a rod, extending along axis Z2 and coaxial with the central conduit 365. Since the central portion of the central conduit 365 is occupied by the closing member 366, the shape of the cross section of the central conduit 365 for transporting moldable material is similar to that of a ring.

[0168] The closing member 366 can be linearly displaced back and forth along axis Z2 to connect the central conduit 365 with the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352, or alternatively to isolate the central conduit 365 from the transverse portion 356.

[0169] Specifically, the closing member 366 can be Figure 15 The closed position shown is the same as Figure 16The movement between the shown open and closed positions is such that, in the closed position, the moldable material cannot flow out of the central conduit 365, while in the open position, the moldable material can flow from the central conduit 365 toward the molding cavity 352, particularly toward the transverse portion 356 of the molding cavity. Due to a drive element (not shown), the closing member 366 can be displaced between the closed and open positions.

[0170] In the closed position, one end 369 of the closing member 366 engages with, or contacts, the inner sealing surface 368 of the intermediate body 367. End 369 may optionally be a tapered end of the closing member 366, such as a beveled or rounded end. In the open position, end 369 is spaced apart from the inner sealing surface 368 to allow moldable material to pass from the central conduit 365 toward the transverse portion 356, particularly through the annular channel defined between end 369 and the inner sealing surface 368. End 369 is defined transversely to axis Z2 by a front surface 375, which may be flat. Front surface 375 faces the inner molded element 354.

[0171] The central conduit 365 is configured to receive a central flow or first flow H1 of moldable material and air (particularly compressed air) flowing into it. The first flow H1 enters the central conduit 365 through the other end of the central conduit 365 opposite to the end 369 (in the example shown, that is, through the upper end).

[0172] The mold also includes a second conduit or peripheral conduit 370 for supplying moldable material to a lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352. In the example shown, the peripheral conduit 370 has an annular shape and is defined in a hollow space between the receiving body 364 and the intermediate body 367. The peripheral conduit extends about an axis Z2. An inlet conduit 310 extending transversely to the axis Z2 leads to the peripheral conduit 370, for example, in a region of the peripheral conduit 370 remote from the molding chamber 352. The inlet conduit 310 is designed to deliver a second flow or peripheral flow H2 of moldable material and air (e.g., moldable material and compressed air) into the peripheral conduit 370.

[0173] The peripheral conduit 370 may selectively communicate with or be isolated from the lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352 due to the baffle 371. In the example shown, the baffle 371 is formed on the widened end portion of the intermediate member 367. The widened end portion is defined by an outer sealing surface 372 extending about axis Z2 and which may have a frustoconical shape. The outer sealing surface 372 is adapted to engage in a form-fitting manner with an abutment surface 373 that may be formed on the receiving body 364. The abutment surface 373 may have the shape of a frustoconical ramp formed in the receiving body 364, at which the outer diameter of the peripheral conduit 370 increases when it is displaced from the filling device 301 toward the molding chamber 352.

[0174] The outer sealing surface 372 and the inner sealing surface 368 are made at the same height of the intermediate body 367 and on the side surface of the intermediate body 367 facing the receiving body 364 and on the other side surface of the intermediate body 367 pointing to the axis Z2, respectively.

[0175] The intermediate body 367 further has a front sealing surface 374, which can be positioned laterally, and particularly perpendicularly, to the axis Z2. The front sealing surface 374 faces the convex forming element 35. The front sealing surface 374 can be substantially flat and can optionally be formed into a similar annular shape. The front sealing surface 374 is adapted to be adjacent to the inner forming element 354 to isolate the central conduit 365 from the lateral portion 353 of the forming chamber 352.

[0176] The motion device is associated with the intermediate body 367 and is used to make the intermediate body 367 move back and forth in a linear motion parallel to the axis Z2.

[0177] More specifically, the intermediate main body 367 can be Figure 15 The forward position shown is Figure 16 The movement occurs between the rear positions shown. In the forward position, the front sealing surface 374 contacts the lateral surface 363 of the inner molding element 354, while the outer sealing surface 372 is spaced apart from the adjacent surface 373 of the receiving body 364. This opens the peripheral conduit 370 and connects it to the lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352. In the rear position, the front sealing surface 374 is spaced apart from the inner molding element 354, while the outer sealing surface 372 contacts the receiving body 364. This closes the peripheral conduit 370.

[0178] Mold 351 also includes an intermediate molding element (not shown), which can be shaped like a ring-shaped molding element for use on the opposite side of filling device 301 (i.e., at...). Figure 15 and Figure 16The lower side of the closed molding chamber 352 has a lateral portion 353. The intermediate molding element can also move within the lateral portion 353 to compact the moldable material.

[0179] During operation, in order to fill mold 351, a motion device acting on intermediate body 367 displaces the intermediate body to... Figure 15 In the forward position shown, the front sealing surface 374 contacts the inner forming element 354, particularly the transverse surface 363. Simultaneously, a drive element acting on the closing member 366 displaces the closing member to a closed position, in which the end 369 engages with the inner sealing surface 368 of the intermediate body 367. In the closed position, the end 369 also contacts the transverse surface 363 of the inner forming element 354. Thus, the central conduit 365 is closed.

[0180] Since the outer sealing surface 372 of the intermediate body 367 is disengaged from the receiving body 364 in the forward position, the peripheral conduit 370 is open. A flow H2 of moldable material and air is supplied to the peripheral conduit 370 and from there enters the lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352. The lateral portion 353 is thus filled. A plurality of vents (not shown) associated with the lateral portion 353 are present; these vents are, for example, formed in the housing 357, through which excess air initially mixed with the moldable material can flow out of the molding chamber 352, particularly from the annular portion 353, as indicated by arrow K.

[0181] It should be noted that when the intermediate main body 367 is in the forward position and the closing member 366 is in the closed position, that is, when an event occurs... Figure 15 In the situation shown, the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352 is not yet defined, meaning that the volume of the transverse portion is practically zero. In fact, both the closing member 366 and the intermediate body 367 are in contact with the transverse surface 363 of the inner molding element 354, and the moldable material cannot reach the transverse surface 363.

[0182] It should also be noted that, Figure 15 In the forward position of the intermediate body 364 shown, the outwardly extending outer sealing surface 372 serves as a ramp to facilitate the flow of moldable material from the peripheral conduit 370 toward the lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352. This is particularly useful, as in the example shown, if the average diameter of the peripheral conduit 370 is smaller than the average diameter of the annular portion 353.

[0183] The maximum outer diameter of the baffle 371 can be substantially equal to the diameter of the transverse surface 363 that the baffle 371 contacts in the forward position. This prevents the presence of steps that could impede the flow of moldable material between the baffle 371 and the inner forming element 354.

[0184] Furthermore, the geometry of the adjacent surface 373 (which can be shaped like a ramp) allows for the avoidance of sharp edges that could make it less easy for moldable material to enter the lateral portion 353 from the peripheral conduit 370.

[0185] The intermediate body 364 and the closing member 366 are kept in place Figure 15 The position shown is maintained until the lateral portion 353 of the molding chamber 352 has been filled. At this point, the intermediate body 364, on which the baffle 371 is formed, moves rearward, that is, moves away from the inner molding element 354 along the axis Z2, until it reaches... Figure 16 The rear position is shown. Thus, the outer sealing surface 372 contacts the adjacent surface 373 of the receiving body 364, thereby closing the peripheral conduit 370, which is no longer connected to the molding chamber 352.

[0186] Furthermore, the closing member 366 moves rearward, that is, it moves parallel to axis Z2 away from the inner molding element 354. The amount of rearward movement of the closing member 366 is greater than the amount of rearward movement of the intermediate body 364, thereby causing the closing member to disengage from the inner sealing surface 368 and move to the open position. Therefore, the central conduit 365 opens, leading to the central region of the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352.

[0187] The transverse portion 356 is connected to the lateral portion 353, which has been substantially filled.

[0188] When the intermediate body 367 moves to the rear position, it not only closes the peripheral conduit 370 but also defines the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352. This occurs because when the baffle 371 and the closing member 366 move away from the inner molding element 354, an empty space is created in the position adjacent to the transverse surface 363, which corresponds to the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352.

[0189] The flow H1 of moldable material and air is now supplied to the central conduit 365 and from there enters the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352. Thus, the transverse portion 356 of the molding chamber 352 is also filled. The transverse portion 356 has one or more vent holes (not shown), for example, formed in the housing 357. Excess air initially mixed with the moldable material can be discharged from the molding chamber 352 through the vent holes, as indicated by arrow J.

[0190] The closure member 366 is now moved toward the inner forming element 354 to enter the closed position, while the intermediate body 364 remains in the rear position. In this configuration, the front sealing surface 374 of the baffle 371 and the front surface 375 of the closure member 366 define the surfaces of the lateral portion 356 opposite to the lateral surface 363 of the inner forming element 354. When the closure member 366 is in the closed position and the intermediate body 364 is in the rear position, the front sealing surface 374 and the front surface 375 may optionally be located in the same plane.

[0191] The inner forming element 354 and the housing 357 can now be moved relative to each other to reduce the volume of the forming chamber 352 and obtain the desired object.

[0192] Figures 17 to 20 It shows the relationship with Figure 15 and Figure 16 The mold 351 shown has many similarities to the mold 451. The common parts of mold 451 with similar parts to mold 351 will have the first number "4" instead of "3" and the last two numbers will be used in accordance with the designation. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The last two numbers of the same mold parts in the figure are used for indication, and will not be described in detail again. It should be understood that, unless otherwise expressly stated, previous references Figure 15 and Figure 16 The description also applies to Figures 17 to 20 .

[0193] Mold 451 includes a first mold portion 421 and a second mold portion 422 aligned with each other along axis Z2. For example... Figure 17 As shown, the first mold portion 421 includes an inner forming element (or convex forming element) 454, a housing 457, and an intermediate forming element 460, which is located between the inner forming element 454 and the housing 457 and is used to form the edge region of the object. The intermediate forming element 460 may be an annular forming element, for example, arranged to form the annular edge region of the object.

[0194] The second mold portion 422 includes a filling device 401, which, in the example shown, is housed in a receiving member 423 having a shoulder 424 defined by a stop surface 425 in a direction transverse to axis Z2. The stop surface is intended to contact an adjacent end 426 of the first mold portion 421, which is formed, for example, on a housing 457.

[0195] The receiving member 423 includes a protrusion 427 projecting from the stop surface 425 toward the first mold portion 421. The protrusion 427 may be adapted to engage with the housing 457 by means of a form connection. For this purpose, the outer diameter of the protrusion 427 may be equal to the inner diameter of the housing 457.

[0196] The receiving body 464 and the intermediate body 467 are positioned inside the receiving member 423, and the baffle 471 is formed on the intermediate body 467. The closing member 466, the receiving body 464, and the intermediate body 467 are included in the filling device 401, which is linearly movable back and forth relative to the receiving member 423 in a direction parallel to the axis Z2 to penetrate into the interior of the housing 457 or alternatively withdraw from the housing 457.

[0197] During operation, mold 451 was initially in Figure 17 The spaced-out configuration shown separates the first mold portion 421 and the second mold portion 422 from each other, allowing the freshly formed object to be removed from the mold. In the spaced-out configuration, the stop surface 425 is located away from the adjacent end 424.

[0198] Subsequently, the first mold portion 421 and the second mold portion 422 move toward each other until they reach... Figure 18 The closed mold configuration shown has a stop surface 424 of the receiving member 423 adjacent to the adjacent end 425 of the housing 457. The protruding portion 427 is now received within the housing 457.

[0199] In the example shown, a closed mold configuration is achieved by moving the second mold portion 422 toward the first mold portion 421, while the first mold portion remains fixed along axis Z2; however, this is not necessary.

[0200] The filling device 401 is now moved toward the inner molding element 454. Thus, the filling device 401 exits from the receiving member 423. More specifically, as Figure 18 As shown, the closing member 466 and the baffle 471 manufactured on the intermediate body 467 are in contact with the transverse surface 463 of the inner molding element 454. The closing member 466 is in the closed position, in which the central conduit 465 is isolated from the molding chamber 452.

[0201] Although the receiving body 464 remains in a rear position relative to the intermediate body 467, it also protrudes from the protrusion 427 of the receiving member 423 to move toward the inner forming element 454.

[0202] More specifically, the receiving body 464 is positioned such that the adjacent surface 473 is spaced apart from the baffle 471. This opens the peripheral conduit 470, allowing the flow of moldable material and air H2 to enter the molding chamber 452.

[0203] With reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 The situation differs in the embodiment described, where the peripheral conduit 470 is configured to supply moldable material only to the tubular portion located below the filling device in the molding chamber. Figures 17 to 20 In one embodiment, the peripheral conduit 470 allows for the supply of moldable material to the molding chamber 452, depending on the arrangement.

[0204] More specifically, such as Figure 18 As shown, when the baffle 471 contacts the inner molding element 454, the molding chamber 452, in addition to having a lateral portion 453 surrounding the inner molding element 454, also has a tubular attachment 428 surrounding the filling device 401. The tubular attachment 428 is located between the housing 457 and the receiving body 464. The tubular attachment 428 and the lateral portion 453 are positioned on two opposite sides of the area where the peripheral conduit 470 leads to the molding chamber 452.

[0205] The lateral portion 453 can be tubular.

[0206] When the flow of moldable material H2 reaches the molding chamber 452, the flow is split into two secondary flows: an upward flow H21 and a downward flow H22. In the example shown, the upward flow H21 flows upward into the tubular attachment 428, while the downward flow H22 flows downward into the lateral portion 453 of the molding chamber 452.

[0207] The peripheral conduit 470 leads to the molding chamber 452 in a region roughly centered along axis Z1 (that is, in the roughly central region along the height of the molding chamber 452). This allows for faster filling of the molding chamber 452 compared to filling the molding chamber by allowing the moldable material to flow axially from one end of the molding chamber to the other. This is particularly noticeable if the molding chamber 452 has a considerable height, that is, a considerable dimension along axis Z2.

[0208] The moldable material continues to flow along the peripheral conduit 470 until the lateral portion 453 of the molding chamber 452 and the attachment 428 have been filled. During filling, excess air mixed with the moldable material can escape from the molding chamber through a suitable venting channel. This venting channel can, for example, be defined in the joint between the intermediate molding element 460 and the housing 457 to allow air to escape from the lateral portion 453 of the molding chamber 452, as indicated by arrow A1. Another venting channel can be defined between the stop surface 425 and the adjacent end 426, allowing air to escape from the tubular attachment 428 of the molding chamber 452, such as... Figure 18 As shown by arrow A2 in the diagram.

[0209] When the lateral portion 453 and the tubular attachment 428 are filled with moldable material, the baffle 470 switches to the rear position, contacting the receiving body 464 to close the peripheral channel 470. The entire filling device 401 moves away from the inner molding element 454. Figure 19 As shown, the filling device 401 is specifically positioned such that the front sealing surface 474 of the baffle 471 is coplanar with the end of the receiving body 464 and the other end of the protrusion 427, the latter and the other end facing the inward forming element 454.

[0210] This allows for alteration of the shape of the molding chamber 452, thereby significantly increasing its volume. Specifically, a lateral portion 456 defines the molding chamber 452, extending between the filling device 401 and the lateral surface 463 of the inner molding element 454. The lateral portion 456 occupies the entire space defined within the tubular attachment 428, and optionally the entire height of the tubular attachment 428. Therefore, the tubular attachment 428 is no longer distinguishable within the molding chamber 452.

[0211] By moving the closing member 466 parallel to the axis Z2 away from the inner forming element 454, the closing member enters... Figure 19 The open position is shown. As a result, the closing member 466 moves away from the central body 467, particularly away from the baffle 471, and the central conduit 465 communicates with the forming cavity 452, as shown. Figure 19 As shown. Therefore, the flow of moldable material and air entering the central conduit 465 (as indicated by arrow H1) can fill the molding chamber 452.

[0212] In this step, excess air mixed with the moldable material can also drain out through suitable venting channels, such as... Figure 19 The arrows A1 and A2 indicate the points mentioned earlier, as referenced previously. Figure 18 Described.

[0213] At the end of the previously described steps, both the lateral portion 453 and the transverse portion 456 of the molding chamber 452 are filled with moldable material. At this point, the closing member 466 enters the closed position to close the central conduit 465.

[0214] like Figure 20 As shown, the first mold portion 421 and the second mold portion 422 move toward each other to reduce the volume of the molding chamber 452, thereby compressing the moldable material and obtaining the desired object. More specifically, the moldable material contained in the transverse portion 456 is compressed to form the transverse wall 429 of the object, while the moldable material contained in the annular portion 453 is compressed to form the side wall 430 of the object.

[0215] In the example shown, the moldable material is compressed by moving the second mold portion 422 toward the first mold portion 421 in a molding direction parallel to axis Z2. More specifically, the second mold portion 422 moves downwards, as... Figure 20 As shown.

[0216] The front surface 475 of the closing element 466, the front sealing surface 474 of the baffle 471, the end of the receiving body 464, and the other end of the protrusion 427 are aligned, for example, in a common plane, to define the outer surface of the transverse wall 429 of the object.

[0217] In the example shown, the housing 457 and the inner forming element 454 also move parallel to the axis Z2 to compress the moldable material. Specifically, the housing 457 and the inner forming element 454 move in the same direction as the movement of the second mold portion 422, that is, in Figure 20 It moves downwards.

[0218] In other words, the housing 457 and the inner molding element 454 move toward the intermediate molding element 460, and the intermediate molding element is held in a fixed position along the axis Z2.

[0219] In other words, such as Figure 20 As shown, the position of the annular molding surface 431 defining the intermediate molding element 460 is kept fixed along the axis Z2. An object is formed by moving the transverse surface 463 of the inner molding element 454 and the second mold portion 422 toward the annular molding surface 431. Thus, the moldable material is compressed both in the lateral portion 453 of the lateral wall 430 forming the object and in the transverse portion 456 of the transverse wall 429 forming the object.

[0220] As the moldable material is compressed, the air contained in the moldable material continues to be discharged from the mold 451 through the previously described ventilation channels, as indicated by arrows A1 and A2.

[0221] Thus, an object with uniform compaction is formed in a mold with a relatively simple geometry, the components of which are driven only in an axial manner. That is, radial movements, which would complicate the design and operation of the mold, are avoided. In all embodiments described so far, vents or openings or channels may be associated with a suction device to facilitate the flow of the moldable material.

[0222] Although all the embodiments described so far refer only to moldable materials in dry form, such as moldable materials in powder, granule, or flake form, it is also possible to operate with moldable materials in slurry form (especially moldable materials in which liquids are present, such as adhesives or water). Similarly, in this case, air and a flow of moldable material can be supplied to the mold; that is, air is used to transport the moldable material.

[0223] In previous reference Figures 1 to 20 In all the embodiments described, the formed object, in addition to having a concave shape as in the case of a container, a lid for a container, or a preform, may also have a substantially tubular shape open at both ends. That is, the formed object may have side walls extending about the axis of the mold during molding, while there may be no transverse walls positioned transversely to the axis. The side walls may extend 360° about the axis, that is, have a tubular shape closed about the axis, or may extend less than 360° about the axis. In the latter case, the side walls may, for example, have a "C"-shaped or "U"-shaped cross-section.

[0224] The cross-section of the lateral wall can have any desired shape. In particular, the cross-section of the lateral wall does not necessarily have to be annular; it can also be elliptical, prismatic, oval, or other shapes.

[0225] In summary, in a third aspect of the invention, a mold for molding an object using a moldable material is provided, the mold comprising housings 57, 157, 257, an inner molding element 54 at least partially housed within the housings 57, 157, 257, and an intermediate element 60 surrounding the inner molding element 54, wherein a hollow space 53 may be defined between the inner molding element 54 and the housings 57, 157, 257, the intermediate element 60 being positioned in the hollow space 53 at a rear position P1, in which the moldable material is received, and the intermediate element 60 being slidable relative to the inner molding element 54 from the rear position P1 toward a molding position P2 to reduce the volume of the hollow space 53 and the side walls 65 of the molded object.

[0226] In one embodiment, housings 57, 157, 257 are included in concave molding elements 58, 158, 258, which, along with inner molding element 54, are movable relative to each other along molding axis Z1 to compress moldable material and form an object.

[0227] In one embodiment, the concave molding element 58 includes a transverse molding surface 61 that extends transversely to the molding axis Z1 to form a transverse wall 64 of an object, and a housing 57 protrudes from and is fixed relative to the transverse molding surface 61.

[0228] In one embodiment, the concave molding element 158 ​​includes an inner core 68 defined by a transverse molding surface 161 that extends transversely to the molding axis Z1 to form a transverse wall 64 of the object. The concave molding element 158 ​​also includes a pusher component 67 between the inner core 68 and the housing 157, the pusher component 67 being displaceable to a position protruding from the transverse molding surface 161 for pushing moldable material into the hollow space 53.

[0229] In one embodiment, the actuator component 67 can be displaced to a protruding position by a displacement device configured to move the actuator component 67, thereby causing the actuator component 67 to follow the intermediate element 60.

[0230] In one embodiment, the concave molding element 258 includes an inner core 268 defined by a transverse molding surface 261 that extends transversely to the molding axis Z1 to form the transverse wall 64 of the object. The inner core 268 is displaceable within the housing 257 in a direction parallel to the molding axis Z1 to approach the inner molding element 54 and push moldable material into the hollow space 53 before the intermediate element 60 reaches the molding position P2.

[0231] In one embodiment, the mold further includes a suction source that can be connected to the hollow space 53 for suctioning moldable material into the hollow space 53.

[0232] In one embodiment, the hollow space 53 is shaped like a ring, and the intermediate element 60 is a tubular element.

[0233] In a fourth aspect of the invention, a method for molding an object from a moldable material is provided, the method comprising the following steps: - A moldable material is introduced into the housings 57, 157, 257, and the inner molding element 54 is at least partially housed in the housings 57, 157, 257, and the inner molding element 54 is surrounded by the intermediate element 60. - Move the intermediate element 60 rearward relative to the inner molding element 54 so that the moldable material flows into the hollow space 53 defined between the inner molding element 54 and the housings 57, 157, 257; - Move the intermediate element 60 forward relative to the inner forming element 54 to reduce the volume of the hollow space 53 and the side wall 65 of the formed object.

[0234] In one embodiment, the step of moving the intermediate element 60 backward includes generating a negative pressure in the hollow space 53, which draws the moldable material into the hollow space 53.

[0235] In one embodiment, housings 57, 157, 257 are included in concave molding elements 58, 158, 258, and furthermore, inner molding element 54 and concave molding elements 58, 158, 258 move toward each other along molding axis Z1 to compress moldable material and form a transverse wall 64 of the object, the transverse wall 64 extending transversely to molding axis Z1.

[0236] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of applying a mechanical thrust to allow moldable material to flow into the hollow space 53.

[0237] In one embodiment, mechanical thrust is applied by moving a pusher component 67, which is included in the concave molding element 158, toward the hollow space 53 while the intermediate element 60 moves backward. The pusher component 67 is located between the housing 157 and the inner core 68 of the concave molding element 158.

[0238] In one embodiment, a mechanical thrust is applied by moving an inner core 268, which is included in a concave molding element 258 and is surrounded by a housing 257, toward an inner molding element 54 while the intermediate element 60 moves backward.

[0239] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of drawing moldable material into the hollow space 53 by means of a suction source while the intermediate element 60 moves backward.

[0240] In a fifth aspect of the invention, a mold is provided for molding an object using a moldable material, the mold comprising molding chambers 352, 452 having lateral portions 353, 453 at least partially surrounding an axis Z2, the molds 351, 451 further comprising filling devices 301, 401 having peripheral channels 370, 470, the peripheral channels being selectively openable to supply moldable material into the lateral portions 353, 453.

[0241] In one embodiment, the molding chambers 352, 452 further have transverse portions 356, 456 that are transverse to the axis Z2 to close the lateral portions 353, 453, and the filling devices 301, 401 include central conduits 365, 465 that can be selectively opened to supply moldable material to the transverse portions 356, 456.

[0242] In one embodiment, the central conduits 365 and 465 extend along axis Z2, and the peripheral conduits 370 and 470 at least partially surround the central conduits 365 and 465, and the peripheral conduits 370 and 470 optionally have an annular shape.

[0243] In one embodiment, the mold further includes inner forming elements 354, 454, defined by transverse surfaces 363, 463 extending transversely to axis Z2, with lateral portions 353, 453 surrounding the inner forming elements 354, 454, and wherein filling devices 401, 501 face the transverse surfaces 363, 463.

[0244] In one embodiment, the internal molding elements 354, 454 are positioned below the filling devices 301, 401.

[0245] In one embodiment, filling devices 401, 501 include closing members 366, 466 that are movable inside central conduits 365, 465 to open or alternatively close the central conduits 365, 465. Filling devices 401, 501 also include baffles 371, 471 that are movable relative to peripheral conduits 370, 470 to open or alternatively close the peripheral conduits 370, 470.

[0246] In one embodiment, the closing members 366, 466 and the baffles 371, 471 can be positioned to contact the lateral surfaces 363, 463 of the inner molding elements 354, 454 to introduce moldable material into the lateral portions 353, 453. The closing members 366, 466 and the baffles 371, 471 can further move away from the inner molding elements 354, 454 to define lateral portions 356, 456 of the molding chambers 352, 452 between the inner molding elements 354, 454 and the filling devices 301, 401.

[0247] In one embodiment, the filling devices 301 and 401 include intermediate bodies 367 and 467, central conduits 365 and 465 formed inside the intermediate bodies, and the filling devices 301 and 401 also include receiving bodies 364 and 464 surrounding the intermediate bodies 367 and 467, and baffles 371 and 471 formed in the end portions of the intermediate bodies 367 and 467.

[0248] In one embodiment, the end portions of the intermediate bodies 367, 467 are defined by an inner sealing surface 368 pointing toward axis Z2 and capable of engaging with closing members 366, 466 to close the central conduits 365, 465. The end portions of the intermediate bodies 367, 467 are further defined by an outer sealing surface 372 capable of engaging with an adjacent surface 373 defining receiving bodies 364, 464 to close the peripheral conduits 370, 470.

[0249] In one embodiment, the end portions of the intermediate bodies 367, 467 are further defined by a front surface 374, which is intended to be adjacent to the lateral surfaces 363, 463 of the inner forming elements 354, 454 when the lateral portions 353, 453 are filled.

[0250] In one embodiment, the inner sealing surface 368 converges toward axis Z2 to transport moldable material from the central conduits 365, 465 toward the central area of ​​the lateral portions 356, 456, and the outer sealing surface 372 diverges from axis Z2 to transport moldable material from the peripheral conduits 370, 470 toward the lateral portions 353, 453.

[0251] In one embodiment, the molding chambers 352, 452 further include a tubular attachment 428 surrounding the filling device 301, 401 and adjacent to the lateral portions 353, 453.

[0252] In a sixth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for molding an object in a molding chamber 352, 452 using a moldable material, the molding chamber having a lateral portion 353, 453 at least partially surrounding an axis Z2, the method comprising the step of supplying the moldable material to the lateral portions 353, 453 via peripheral conduits 370, 470.

[0253] In one embodiment, the molding chambers 352, 452 have transverse portions 356, 456 that are transverse to the axis Z2 and close the lateral portions 353, 453. The method further includes the step of supplying moldable material to the transverse portions 356, 456 through central conduits 365, 465.

[0254] In one embodiment, the step of feeding moldable material into the transverse portions 356, 456 occurs after the step of feeding moldable material into the lateral portions 353, 453.

[0255] In one embodiment, the lateral portions 353, 453 are positioned around the inner forming elements 354, 454 included in the molds 351, 451.

[0256] In one embodiment, the central pipes 365 and 465 can be opened or closed by the closing members 366 and 466, and the peripheral pipes 370 and 470 can be opened or closed by the baffles 371 and 471.

[0257] In one embodiment, when the closing members 366, 466 and the baffles 371, 471 contact the inner forming elements 354, 454, moldable material is fed into the lateral portions 353, 453, and then the inner forming elements 354, 454 and the assembly including the closing members 366, 466 and the baffles 371, 471 move away from each other to define a lateral portion 356, 456 between the inner forming elements 354, 454 and the assembly including the closing members 366, 466 and the baffles 371, 471.

[0258] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of compressing the moldable material in the molding chambers 352, 452 to form an object, the compression step including the steps of reducing the longitudinal dimension of the lateral portions 353, 453 along the axis Z2 and the steps of reducing the thickness of the transverse portions 356, 456 along the axis Z2.

[0259] In one embodiment, the step of reducing the thickness of the lateral portions 356, 456 includes moving one of the inner forming elements 354, 454 and the mold portion 422 including the closing members 366, 466 and the baffles 371, 471 toward the other, and the step of reducing the longitudinal dimension of the lateral portions 353, 453 includes moving one of the inner forming elements 354, 454 and the intermediate forming element 460 surrounding the inner forming elements 354, 454 toward the other to form the edge region of the object.

[0260] In one embodiment, when the flow H2 of moldable material and air flowing in the peripheral conduits 370, 470 reaches the molding chambers 352, 452, the flow H2 is split into two secondary flows H22, H21, which flow in opposite directions to fill the lateral portions 353, 453 and the tubular attachments 428, 453 adjacent to the lateral portions 353, 453, respectively. The tubular attachments 428 are opposite to the lateral portions 353, 453 relative to the inner molding elements 354, 454.

Claims

1. A mold for molding an object using a moldable material, comprising a housing (57; 157; 257), an inner molding element (54) at least partially housed within the housing (57; 157; 257), and an intermediate element (60) surrounding the inner molding element (54), wherein, A hollow space (53) is defined between the inner forming element (54) and the housing (57; 157; 257), the intermediate element (60) is positioned in the hollow space (53) at a rear position (P1), in which the moldable material is received, and the intermediate element (60) is slidable relative to the inner forming element (54) from the rear position (P1) toward the forming position (P2) to reduce the volume of the hollow space (53) and form the side wall (65) of the object.

2. The mold according to claim 1, wherein, The housing (57; 157; 257) is included in a concave molding element (58; 158; 258), the concave molding element (58; 158; 258) and the inner forming element (54) can move relative to each other along the molding axis (Z1) to compress the moldable material and form the object.

3. The mold according to claim 2, wherein, The concave molding element (58) includes a transverse molding surface (61) that extends transversely to the molding axis (Z1) to form the transverse wall (64) of the object, and the housing (57) protrudes from the transverse molding surface (61) and is fixed relative to the transverse molding surface (61).

4. The mold according to claim 2, wherein, The concave molding element (158) includes an inner core (68) defined by a transverse molding surface (161) that extends transversely to the molding axis (Z1) to form a transverse wall (64) of the object. The concave molding element (158) also includes a pusher component (67) between the inner core (68) and the housing (157), the pusher component (67) being displaceable to a position protruding from the transverse molding surface (161) for pushing the moldable material into the hollow space (53).

5. The mold according to claim 4, wherein, The actuator component (67) can be moved to the protruding position by a displacement device configured to move the actuator component (67), such that the actuator component (67) follows the intermediate element (60).

6. The mold according to claim 2, wherein, The concave molding element (258) includes an inner core (268) defined by a transverse molding surface (261) that extends transversely to the molding axis (Z1) to form the transverse wall (64) of the object. The inner core (268) is displaceable within the housing (257) in a direction parallel to the molding axis (Z1) to approach the inner molding element (54) and push the moldable material into the hollow space (53) before the intermediate element (60) reaches the molding position (P2).

7. The mold according to claim 1, wherein, The mold also includes a suction source that can be connected to the hollow space (53) for sucking the moldable material into the hollow space (53).

8. The mold according to claim 1, wherein, The hollow space (53) is shaped like a ring space, and the intermediate element (60) is a tubular element.

9. A method for molding an object using a moldable material, comprising the following steps: A moldable material is introduced into the housing (57; 157; 257), and an inner molding element (54) is at least partially housed in the housing (57; 157; 257), the inner molding element (54) being surrounded by an intermediate element (60); The intermediate element (60) is moved rearward relative to the inner molding element (54), thereby allowing the moldable material to flow into the hollow space (53) defined between the inner molding element (54) and the housing (57; 157; 257); The intermediate element (60) is moved forward relative to the inner forming element (54) to reduce the volume of the hollow space (53) and form the side wall (65) of the object.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The moldable materials include materials derived from natural fibers.

11. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The step of moving the intermediate element (60) backward includes generating a negative pressure in the hollow space (53) that draws the moldable material into the hollow space (53).

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The housing (57; 157; 257) is included in the concave molding element (58; 158; 258), and furthermore, the inner molding element (54) and the concave molding element (58; 158; 258) move toward each other along the molding axis (Z1) to compress the moldable material and form a transverse wall (64) of the object, the transverse wall (64) extending transversely to the molding axis (Z1).

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The method further includes the step of applying mechanical thrust to cause the moldable material to flow into the hollow space (53).

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The mechanical thrust is applied by moving a pusher component (67) included in the concave molding element (158) toward the hollow space (53) while the intermediate element (60) moves backward, the pusher component (67) being located between the housing (157) and the inner core (68) of the concave molding element (158).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The mechanical thrust is applied by moving the inner core (268) included in the concave molding element (258) toward the inner molding element (54) while the intermediate element (60) moves backward, the inner core (268) being surrounded by the housing (257).

16. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The method further includes the step of drawing the moldable material into the hollow space (53) by means of a suction source while the intermediate element (60) moves backward.

17. A mold for molding an object using a moldable material, comprising a molding chamber (352; 452) having a lateral portion (353; 453) at least partially surrounding an axis (Z2), the mold (351; 451) further comprising a filling device (301; 401) having a peripheral conduit (370; 470) selectively openable to supply the moldable material into the lateral portion (353; 453).

18. The mold according to claim 17, wherein, The molding chamber (352; 452) also has a transverse portion (356; 456) that closes the lateral portion (353; 453) transverse to the axis (Z2), and the filling device (301; 401) includes a central conduit (365; 465) that can be selectively opened to supply the moldable material into the transverse portion (356; 456).

19. The mold according to claim 18, wherein, The central conduit (365; 465) extends along the axis (Z2), and the peripheral conduit (370; 470) at least partially surrounds the central conduit (365; 465), the peripheral conduit (370; 470) optionally having an annular shape.

20. The mold according to claim 17, wherein, The mold further includes an inner forming element (354; 454) defined by a lateral surface (363; 463) extending transversely to the axis (Z2), the lateral portion (353; 453) surrounding the inner forming element (354; 454), and wherein the filling device (401; 501) faces the lateral surface (363; 463).

21. The mold according to claim 20, wherein, The internal forming element (354; 454) is positioned below the filling device (301; 401).

22. The mold according to claim 17, wherein, The filling device (401; 501) includes a closing member (366; 466) movable inside the central conduit (365; 465) to open or alternatively close the central conduit (365; 465), and the filling device (401; 501) also includes a baffle (371; 471) movable relative to the peripheral conduit (370; 470) to open or alternatively close the peripheral conduit (370; 470).

23. The mold according to claim 22, wherein, The closing member (366; 466) and the baffle (371; 471) can be positioned to contact the lateral surface (363; 463) of the inner molding element (354; 454) to introduce the moldable material into the lateral portion (353; 453). The closing member (366; 466) and the baffle (371; 471) can also move away from the inner molding element (354; 454) to define the lateral portion (356; 456) of the molding chamber (352; 452) between the inner molding element (354; 454) and the filling device (301; 401).

24. The mold according to claim 22, wherein, The filling device (301; 401) includes an intermediate body (367; 467), the central conduit (365; 465) is formed inside the intermediate body, the filling device (301; 401) also includes a receiving body (364; 464) surrounding the intermediate body (367; 467), and the baffle (371; 471) is formed in the end portion of the intermediate body (367; 467).

25. The mold according to claim 24, wherein, The end portion of the intermediate body (367; 467) is defined by an inner sealing surface (368) pointing toward the axis (Z2) and capable of engaging with the closing member (366; 466) to close the central conduit (365; 465). The end portion of the intermediate body (367; 467) is also defined by an outer sealing surface (372) capable of engaging with an adjacent surface (373) defining the receiving body (364; 464) to close the peripheral conduit (370; 470).

26. The mold according to claim 24, wherein, The end portion of the intermediate body (367; 467) is further defined by a front surface (374) that is intended to be adjacent to the transverse surface (363; 463) of the inner forming element (354; 454) when the lateral portion (353; 453) is filled.

27. The mold according to claim 25, wherein, The inner sealing surface (368) converges toward the axis (Z2) to transport the moldable material from the central conduit (365; 465) toward the central area of ​​the lateral portion (356; 456), and the outer sealing surface (372) diverges from the axis (Z2) to transport the moldable material from the peripheral conduit (370; 470) toward the lateral portion (353; 453).

28. The mold according to claim 17, wherein, The molding chamber (352; 452) also includes a tubular attachment (428) surrounding the filling device (301; 401) and adjacent to the lateral portion (353; 453).

29. A method for molding an object using a moldable material, comprising the following steps: A molding chamber (352; 452) is provided having a lateral portion (353; 453) at least partially surrounding an axis (Z2); Moldable material is supplied to the lateral portions (353; 453) via peripheral conduits (370; 470).

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The moldable materials include materials derived from natural fibers.

31. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The molding chamber (352; 452) has a transverse portion (356; 456) that closes the lateral portion (353; 453) transverse to the axis (Z2), and the method further includes the step of supplying the moldable material into the transverse portion (356; 456) through a central conduit (365; 465).

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The step of feeding the moldable material into the transverse portion (356; 456) occurs after the step of feeding the moldable material into the lateral portion (353; 453).

33. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The lateral portions (353; 453) are positioned around the inner forming element (354; 454) included in the mold (351; 451).

34. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The central conduit (365; 465) can be opened or closed by a closing member (366; 466), and the peripheral conduit (370; 470) can be opened or closed by a baffle (371; 471).

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein, When the closing member (366; 466) and the baffle (371; 471) come into contact with the inner forming element (354; 454), the moldable material is fed into the lateral portion (353; 453), and then the inner forming element (354; 454) and the assembly including the closing member (366; 466) and the baffle (371; 471) move away from each other to define a lateral portion (356; 456) between the inner forming element (354; 454) and the assembly including the closing member (366; 466) and the baffle (371; 471).

36. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The method further includes a compression step of compressing the moldable material in the molding chamber (352; 452) to form the object, the compression step including a step of reducing the longitudinal dimension of the lateral portion (353; 453) along the axis (Z2) and a step of reducing the thickness of the transverse portion (356; 456) along the axis (Z2).

37. The method according to claim 36, wherein, The step of reducing the thickness of the lateral portion (356; 456) includes moving one of the inner forming element (354; 454) and the mold portion (422) including the closing member (366; 466) and the baffle (371; 471) toward the other, and the step of reducing the longitudinal dimension of the lateral portion (353; 453) includes moving one of the inner forming element (354; 454) and the intermediate forming element (460) surrounding the inner forming element (354; 454) toward the other to form the edge region of the object.

38. The method according to claim 33, wherein, When the flow (H2) of moldable material and air flowing in the peripheral conduits (370; 470) reaches the molding chamber (352; 452), the flow (H2) is split into two secondary flows (H22, H21) that flow in opposite directions to fill the lateral portion (353; 453) and the tubular fitting (428; 453) adjacent to the lateral portion (353; 453), respectively, the tubular fitting (428) being opposite to the lateral portion (353; 453) relative to the inner molding element (354; 454).

Images