MODULAR BEDDING PRESS SYSTEM

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to an embedding press with an extraction device, an extraction device for embedding presses and a modular embedding press system. Background of the invention

[0002] Mounting presses, especially for the hot mounting of samples, are well-known and widely used in metallographic or materialographic analysis for preparing workpieces for describing the microstructure of, for example, metallic materials using microscopic methods. Mounting presses are also used to prepare samples or workpieces for analysis of composite or ceramic materials, enabling, for example, the preparation of a polished section for examination using reflected light or electron microscopy.

[0003] Embedding serves primarily to improve sample handling and to support the edge zone or the infiltration of cracks, pores, or corrosion deposits. Embedding aids can be used to fix samples, for example, in an upright position.

[0004] Such embedding presses of the applicant under the name "Opal" are described in the ATM "Device Catalogue - Cutting | Mounting | Grinding, Polishing | Etching | Analyse".

[0005] Due to the steadily growing interest in metallographic analyses of materials, for example for investigating material failure or for general quality control, as well as the expansion of the application range of embedding presses from pure metallography to metallography and the associated increase in sample volume and more intensive use of embedding presses, there is a constant need to improve the technical aspects of embedding presses, such as operator ergonomics. Furthermore, workplace safety in connection with the use of an embedding press is constantly being improved to prevent hazardous or harmful effects on health.

[0006] EP 3 072 660 A1 describes a resin sealing apparatus and a resin sealing method for sealing an electronic component onto a substrate. One embodiment of the resin sealing apparatus comprises a material-receiving module and four forming modules. General description of the invention

[0007] Against this background, the present invention, which is not part of the claimed subject matter, aims to provide an embedding press for embedding a sample, particularly for heat embedding, which offers more convenient use of the embedding press and eliminates troublesome or even harmful dust and / or fumes from the embedding press. This simplifies the user's work and increases occupational safety. It is cost-effective, reliable, and durable.

[0008] Another aspect of the object of the invention, which is not part of the claimed subject matter, is to provide an integrated or integrable extraction device which may, for example, also be suitable for retrofitting to existing embedding presses.

[0009] The object of the invention is to provide a modular embedding press system for the parallel embedding of samples, particularly for heat embedding, which offers more convenient operation of the embedding press. In particular, the invention aims to simplify the user's work and increase occupational safety. It is also cost-effective, reliable, and durable due to the consolidation and streamlining of expensive components.

[0010] The object of the invention is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0011] The invention relates to an embedding press for embedding a sample in embedding material, typically granules. One or more samples can be processed simultaneously in the embedding press.

[0012] The embedding press according to the invention comprises an embedding cylinder or press cylinder for receiving the sample. The embedding cylinder has a main cylinder axis and a cylinder opening, wherein the main cylinder axis runs inside the embedding cylinder and passes through the cylinder opening.

[0013] The mounting press further comprises a cover extending around the cylinder opening. The cover can be a flat or planar surface, which in particular has a horizontal main extension direction. The cylinder opening can be recessed into the cover. Particularly preferably, the cover is a slide carrier with laterally arranged slide receptacles, e.g., a sliding guide, for receiving a sliding closure.

[0014] The embedding press according to the invention comprises an extraction device for extracting, for example, granule dust, granules, or vapors, particularly from the area around the cylinder opening. For example, the extraction device is completely installed or integrated into the embedding press. The extraction device has a vacuum generator to provide an extraction effect and is at least partially attached to, embedded in, or connected to the cover.

[0015] The cover is preferably a cover plate into which the cylinder opening is recessed. The cover may also include a slide guide for a sliding carriage.

[0016] The extraction device can then be at least partially integrated into the sliding carriage. In such a preferred embodiment, the extracted granular dust and / or extracted vapors can preferably be guided through the sliding carriage.

[0017] In another embodiment, the extraction device can have extraction openings arranged around the cylinder opening embedded in the cover plate.

[0018] A vacuum generator to provide the suction effect can be arranged on the embedding press.

[0019] In another embodiment, a front-mounted granule compartment can be provided for receiving granules. Excess granules, for example, which have been introduced into the embedding cylinder beyond the desired or maximum fill level, can be placed here. These granule residues can be those that cannot be removed via the suction opening. Preferably, the granule residues are moved into the granule compartment by the sliding carriage, which is pushed onto the cylinder opening before commissioning or use of the embedding press. During this sliding process, the granule residues are gripped by the front of the sliding carriage and pushed over the cover into the granule compartment.

[0020] In one embodiment of an extraction device for an embedding press, wherein the embedding press has an embedding cylinder or a press cylinder, a cylinder opening, and a main cylinder axis extending through the embedding cylinder, a cover extending around the cylinder opening and a vacuum generator can be provided to create an extraction effect. The vacuum generator is, in particular, a blower device.

[0021] Furthermore, the extraction system has at least one extraction air duct connected to the vacuum generator. The extracted air, along with the extracted dust, granules, or vapors, is conveyed through this extraction air duct to the vacuum generator.

[0022] The extraction device has at least one extraction opening connected to the extraction air duct, which can be positioned so close to the cylinder opening that an extraction effect can be achieved in the area of ​​the cylinder opening. The extraction device can also be at least partially attached to or integrated into the cover.

[0023] In another example, the extraction device can be configured to exert its suction effect directly in the area of ​​the cylinder opening of the embedding cylinder. For this purpose, at least one extraction opening can be recessed into the cover at a laterally spaced distance from the cylinder opening. Alternatively, the at least one extraction opening can be recessed into or attached to the cover concentrically around the cylinder opening.

[0024] The cover is preferably a cover plate and has a slide guide for a sliding carriage.

[0025] In an extraction device with a sliding carriage, which can be moved transversely to the cylinder axis, particularly in a carriage guide of the cover plate, at least one or more extraction openings can be arranged on the sliding carriage. For example, the extraction opening is arranged on a front side of the sliding carriage, so that the extraction device achieves an effect directed directly at the area of ​​the cylinder opening when the sliding carriage is in an extraction position in which the cylinder opening is not covered by the sliding carriage.

[0026] The at least one extraction opening can be connected to the extraction air duct through the sliding carriage. For example, the sliding carriage then includes at least one sliding carriage channel that connects the at least one extraction opening to the extraction air duct through the sliding carriage. It is also possible, if necessary, for the sliding carriage to have an extraction position in which the at least one extraction air opening can be subjected to suction by the vacuum device through the sliding carriage.

[0027] The sliding carriage can have an operating position in which the sliding carriage covers the cylinder opening, that is preferably completely concealed in alignment with the cylinder opening.

[0028] The extraction system can provide steam extraction to remove fumes generated during the pressing process of the mounting press. For this purpose, the sliding carriage can be configured so that the extraction effect is applied in the area of ​​the cylinder opening when the sliding carriage is in its operating position. To achieve this, the sliding carriage can have sliding carriage channels that, when the sliding carriage is in its operating position, are interconnected with the extraction air duct of the extraction device.

[0029] At least part of the extraction air duct can be embedded in the cover plate, so that the extraction air duct passes through the cover plate and / or at least a section of it passes through the cover plate.

[0030] In another example, the extraction system can further include a filter element, preferably arranged near the vacuum generator. Such a filter element can filter granular dust, granules, or, if applicable, vapors from the extraction air. Depending on the design of the extraction system, the filter element can be selected with regard to its filtration efficiency and mesh size.

[0031] In one example, the extraction device can further comprise at least one additional mounting press with another cylinder opening, wherein the vacuum generator is a common vacuum generator. In this example, the extraction device is configured to exert its extraction effect directly in the area of ​​the cylinder opening of the mounting cylinder and simultaneously at the other cylinder opening of the at least one additional mounting press.

[0032] In an extended embodiment, the embedding press with extraction system can also have a sliding closure.

[0033] The embedding press includes an embedding cylinder or press cylinder for holding the sample. The embedding cylinder has a main cylinder axis and a cylinder opening, with the main cylinder axis running inside the embedding cylinder and passing through the cylinder opening.

[0034] The mounting press preferably further comprises a sliding closure with a sliding carriage, an upper piston, and a locking lever operatively connected to the upper piston. The sliding carriage is designed to be displaceable in a direction transverse, particularly perpendicular, to the main cylinder axis; it is preferably displaced by means of the locking lever. In other words, the locking lever is designed to be manually operated, so that the sliding carriage of the sliding closure can be easily moved in a direction transverse to the main cylinder axis by grasping the locking lever. The sliding carriage can thereby be guided into an operating position in which the upper piston can be guided to or into the cylinder opening of the mounting cylinder.

[0035] The locking lever can have at least one open position and one closed position and can be moved from the open position to the closed position, for example, manually. In a preferred embodiment, the movement of the locking lever from the open position to the closed position and back is only possible when the slide is in its operating position. A detent or locking lever lock can be provided to block the locking lever when the sliding slide is in a position other than its operating position. The sliding slide can then be moved freely by means of the locking lever, for example, along a slide carrier; however, the movement of the locking lever from the open position to the closed position is preferably blocked or only released when the sliding slide is in its operating position.The locking lever can also be designed to detent in such a way that the detent is overcome by the pulling force of the hand on the locking lever of the sliding slide in order to move it from the open position to the closed position.

[0036] The locking lever interacts with the upper piston in such a way that, when the sliding carriage is in the operating position, the upper piston closes the cylinder opening by moving the locking lever from the open to the closed position. The upper piston closes the cylinder opening, particularly by absorbing force and providing support, while allowing any gases and vapors generated in the specimen or during specimen production to escape. In other words, the mounting press can be easily put into operation using the locking lever by moving the sliding carriage into the operating position and moving the locking lever into the closed position.

[0037] The main cylinder axis of the cylinder is preferably the cylinder center axis, i.e., the axis running centrally through the cylinder along the mathematical vertical direction. In the operating position of the sliding carriage, the main cylinder axis then preferably passes centrally through the upper piston. In other words, in the operating position, the upper piston is aligned with the cylinder opening of the mounting cylinder or can be aligned with it using the sliding carriage.

[0038] The mounting press preferably comprises a slide carrier. In a first embodiment, the slide carrier is a flat or planar surface along or on which the sliding carriage is displaceable. The cylinder opening is preferably recessed into the slide carrier. That is, the slide carrier surrounds the cylinder opening on all sides, preferably in a plane in which an exit surface of the cylinder opening also lies. In other words, the exit surface of the cylinder opening and the slide carrier form a common plane. The slide carrier is thus preferably arranged transversely to the cylinder axis in its main direction of extension, and in particular, it is arranged perpendicular to it.

[0039] Furthermore, the sliding lock is preferably movable along the slide carrier and positionable above the cylinder opening.

[0040] The invention further relates to a sliding closure for an embedding press with an embedding cylinder having a cylinder opening and a main cylinder axis extending through the embedding cylinder. The sliding closure comprises an upper piston arranged in the sliding closure, a locking lever operatively connected with the upper piston, and a sliding carriage displaceable in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the main cylinder axis, by which the upper piston can be guided to or into the cylinder opening of the embedding cylinder in an operating position of the sliding carriage.

[0041] The upper piston has at least one open position and one closed position and can be moved from the open position to the closed position. Preferably, the upper piston can be moved from the open position to the closed position while the slide is in its operating position.

[0042] The locking lever interacts with the upper piston in such a way that, by guiding the locking lever, the upper piston is moved from the open position to the closed position, thus sealing the cylinder opening when the sliding slide is in the operating position. In other words, the locking lever is in an open position when the upper piston is in the open position and in a closed position when the upper piston is in the closed position.

[0043] The locking lever preferably has a locking shaft. The locking shaft forms the bearing or pivot point of the locking lever, whereby force can be applied, for example by manually operating the locking lever, via the locking shaft, in particular to the upper piston for closing the mounting press.

[0044] The upper piston is moved from the open position to the closed position by means of a rotational movement of the locking lever around the locking shaft.

[0045] The locking shaft preferably includes an eccentric component. This eccentric component is, for example, mounted on the same axis as the locking shaft and rotates with it when the locking shaft rotates. Alternatively, the locking shaft is an eccentric shaft, meaning it has a cam and is therefore a camshaft, or it generally has a variable cross-section along its length. The locking shaft is thus configured to move the upper piston directly or indirectly from the open position to the closed position.

[0046] The locking shaft is preferably arranged adjacent to the upper piston such that, when the upper piston moves from the open to the closed position, the locking shaft acts directly on the upper piston and moves it to close the cylinder opening. For example, the locking shaft is arranged directly above the upper piston, with the cam or eccentric component resting on the upper piston. In this example, rotation of the locking shaft, and thus rotation of the cam or eccentric component, exerts a downward force on the upper piston, which moves the upper piston into the insertion cylinder when the sliding carriage is in the insertion position.

[0047] The sliding closure preferably comprises at least one compressible element, in particular a spring element, for providing a holding force to at least temporarily hold the upper piston in either the open or closed position. In other words, the upper piston is held, for example, in the open position by means of the spring element(s) and pressed against the cam or the eccentric component. If the downward force exerted by the eccentric component or the cam on the upper piston, for example by actuating the locking lever, exceeds the holding force of the compressible element, the upper piston is moved by the eccentric component, the cam, or the locking lever into the closed position, i.e., into the embedding cylinder.

[0048] Particularly preferably, the upper piston can now assume a dead center position in both the open and closed positions, and the upper piston can be securely held in the respective open or closed position by transferring the piston's position beyond the dead center position using the locking lever.

[0049] The sliding carriage preferably has a service position in which the cylinder opening is fully released, and in particular, the sliding carriage can be tilted about a service axis in the service position. It is further preferably possible to lock the sliding carriage in the tilted position.

[0050] In another embodiment, the sliding carriage includes a sensor device for detecting its position. For example, the sensor device can detect whether the operating position or the service position has been reached. Furthermore, the position information of the sliding carriage can be output to a controller of the mounting press, and the operation of the mounting press can be controlled based on this position information, for example, only when the sliding carriage and / or the locking lever have reached the closed position or the operating position.

[0051] In another embodiment, the sliding lock comprises a slide carrier along which the sliding slide is movable and which has a slide receptacle or a sliding guide for receiving or guiding the sliding slide. In one example, the slide carrier is a flat or planar surface with laterally arranged slide receptacles, e.g., a sliding guide.

[0052] The sliding closure can also be equipped with a front-mounted granule compartment, whereby excess granules are transported into the granule compartment by moving the sliding carriage towards the operating position.

[0053] The granule compartment can be designed to be removable, in particular having a magnetic holder for attaching it to the carriage carrier for easy emptying of the excess granules collected in the granule compartment.

[0054] The invention further relates to an embedding press with a sliding closure as previously described.

[0055] The invention relates to a modular embedding press system for embedding samples. In a

[0056] An embedding press is used to embed a sample in embedding material, typically granules. One or more samples can be processed simultaneously in the press. The embedding press includes an embedding cylinder to hold the sample. The embedding cylinder may have a main cylinder axis and a cylinder opening, with the main cylinder axis running inside the cylinder and passing through the cylinder opening.

[0057] In the invention, the modular embedding press system comprises a basic module for controlling at least one external embedding press and a first external embedding press, separate from and controllable by the basic module, with a first embedding cylinder for receiving samples.

[0058] The basic module includes a central input device for entering control data for at least one external embedding press, a central power supply connection for connecting the modular embedding press system to an external power supply, and a power distributor for providing electrical power to the at least one external embedding press.

[0059] The modular embedding press system can also include a hydraulic distributor for supplying cooling water to at least one external embedding press.

[0060] The basic module can further include at least one mounting press connector for electrically connecting the at least one external mounting press to the basic module for transmitting both the electrical power required by the at least one external mounting press and control data for controlling the at least one external mounting press.

[0061] In another embodiment, the base module can include a base module embedding press, which is housed in a common base module casing. In other words, it is an internal embedding press within the base module casing, integrated with the control unit of the base module.

[0062] The power distributor can be designed to distribute electrical power to the basic module embedding press and at least one external embedding press in such a way that a prioritization sequence defined by the central control system is observed. In other words, the central control system can, for example, determine the order in which electrical power is allocated to the respective internal or external embedding press, either through user input or by programmatic definition. This makes it possible, for example, to operate the modular embedding press system on a smaller-capacity electrical power supply while ensuring that all embedding presses are started up in such a way as to minimize downtime. In other words, the entire modular embedding press system can thus be advantageously operated on a generally available or standardized electrical power supply.For example, embedding presses typically only require full electrical power during the heating process, while they require significantly less electrical power during the cooling process.

[0063] The power distributor of the modular embedding press system can further be designed to distribute the electrical power to the base module embedding press and at least one external embedding press in a pulsed manner when a predefined electrical power level is reached or exceeded. In other words, the power distributor can be configured to distribute the electrical power to the embedding presses in such a way that the total amount of electrical power required from the external power grid is not exceeded. If, for example, the power distributor detects, based on data provided by the central control system, that a heating process of an external embedding press is still ongoing but nearing completion, this heating process can be assigned priority A (process A). The desired start of process B, for example, another heating process, can then be delayed by the central control system.A desired heating process for process B is only started when process A requires less electrical power and sufficient energy is available to start process B. In other words, the prioritized process B is only started when process A begins to cycle, thus freeing up a cycle time for process B. Alternatively, process B can be started immediately, and the electrical power can be distributed between processes A and B using the power distributor, allowing both processes to operate at reduced power or with mixed cycle times. This can be achieved through the timed distribution of electrical power.

[0064] The at least one mounting press connector, the central power supply connection and the hydraulic distributor can, for example, be arranged together on one rear side of the base module.

[0065] It is also preferable to connect two or three external embedding presses to the base module. All external embedding presses can be controlled and powered by the base module. A particularly advantageous feature is that the external embedding presses no longer require a complete process control unit, as all process control components are integrated into the base module. This results in a significant reduction in system costs. At the same time, user ergonomics are improved because all processes can be started and managed from a central system. This is particularly useful, for example, when multiple embedding presses are to execute the same process in parallel. The user only needs to manually enter the process parameters once for the first process and can then use the parameters already entered in the central control system to program subsequent identical processes.The user can also be relieved of some of the burden by only needing to consider one control and operating unit, where the operating parameters of all embedding presses of the modular embedding press system are displayed in one central location.

[0066] In a further preferred embodiment, at least one external embedding press can have a display device for showing the operating status, in particular a color-changing display device. Such a display device can be implemented, for example, by providing a luminous color, such as a four-color light or four LEDs of different color values. For example, the operating states of an external embedding press that could be displayed would be: first, heating operation (e.g., red); second, ready or finished (e.g., green); third, cooling operation (e.g., blue); and fourth, not ready or lid open (white). However, the display device can also be used to show other and / or additional operating states.The decentralized display unit arranged on the respective embedding press can thus provide the user with a quick initial overview of the basic status of one of the embedding presses of the modular embedding press system, while the exact status data and further information continue to be displayed or made available at the central input unit on the basic module.

[0067] The at least one external embedding press can preferably include a decentralized control knob. Such a decentralized control knob can be used, for example, to select the embedding press to be displayed, adjusted, or programmed for the central input device. This represents a particularly advantageous and user-friendly embodiment with a combination of central control of the process parameters and decentralized selection of the parameters to be set at the central input device.

[0068] The decentralized control knob can preferably also include the display device from the preceding claim. For example, this can be achieved by arranging an illuminated control knob on the respective mounting press, with the color of the control knob representing the operating status of that particular mounting press. Alternatively, this can be achieved by having the control knob have a light ring or color ring around it, with the color displayed in the ring indicating the operating status of the respective mounting press. Thus, the user can see the basic operating status of all mounting presses in the modular mounting press system at a glance.If the user requires information about an embedding press or changes to the operating procedure of an embedding press, the respective embedding press can be selected using the control button and the respective process parameters can be entered in the central input device.

[0069] The basic module embedding press and / or at least one external embedding press may include a sliding closure.

[0070] The modular embedding press system can also be equipped with a central extraction unit with an extraction distributor for connecting the basic module embedding press and at least one external embedding press to the central extraction unit.

[0071] It is evident to those skilled in the art that while the invention is particularly advantageous for use with embedding presses, it can in principle also be used for other machines. These are not to be excluded.

[0072] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments and the figures, whereby identical and similar elements are partially provided with the same reference numerals and the features of the different exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another. Brief description of the characters

[0073] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of an embedding press with closed locking lever, Fig. 2 a schematic front view of an embedding press, Fig. 3 a side sectional view of an embedding press with closed locking lever, Fig. 4 a perspective top view of an embedding press with closed locking lever, Fig. 5 another perspective view of an embedding press with closed locking lever, Fig. 6 another sectional view of an embedding press with closed locking lever, Fig. 7 yet another sectional view of an embedding press with closed locking lever, Fig. 8 a sectional view of an embedding press with locking lever in the apex position, Fig. 9 a schematic side view of an embedding press with locking lever in the apex position, Fig. 10 a side sectional view of an embedding press according to the invention, Fig. 11 a front sectional view of an embedding press according to the invention.Fig. 12 a view of an embedding press, Fig. 13 a schematic side view of an embedding press with open locking lever, Fig. 14 a schematic front view of an embedding press with open locking lever, Fig. 15 a side sectional view of an embedding press with open locking lever, Fig. 16 a perspective view of an embedding press with open locking lever, Fig. 17 another perspective view of an embedding press with open locking lever, Fig. 18 a side sectional view of an embedding press with open locking lever, Fig. 19 a schematic side view of an embedding press with sliding carriage in service position, Fig. 20 a side sectional view of an embedding press with sliding carriage in service position, Fig. 21 a schematic front view of an embedding press with sliding carriage in service position, Fig. 22 a perspective view of an embedding press with sliding carriage in service position23 Another perspective view of an embedding press with sliding carriage in service position, Fig. 24 A side sectional view of an embedding press with extraction device, Fig. 25 Another side sectional view of an embedding press with extraction device, Fig. 26 A perspective view of an embedding press with extraction device, Fig. 27 A perspective view of an embedding press with extraction device and filling hopper, Fig. 28 A side sectional view of another embodiment of an embedding press with extraction device and filling hopper, Fig. 29 A schematic rear view of a modular embedding press system, Fig. 30 An external embedding press of a modular embedding press system, Fig. 31 A base module of a modular embedding press system, Fig. 32 A modular embedding press system with base module and external embedding press, Fig. 33 Another arrangement of a modular embedding press system with base module and external embedding press, Fig.34 a modular embedding press system with a base module and three external embedding presses, Fig. 35 a schematic flowchart for the power control of several embedding presses, Fig. 36 a further flowchart of a filling assistant. Detailed description of the invention

[0074] Referring to Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a first side view of a sliding locking device 120 according to the invention for an embedding press 100 with the locking lever 130 closed. The locking lever 130 is mounted in a locking shaft 132, which is arranged on the upper side of the sliding carriage 134. In this example, the locking shaft 132 is covered on the outside by a turned part 72. The sliding carriage 134 can be moved along the carriage carrier 136 and is in the operating position, so that the embedding cylinder 10 is closed by the sliding lock 120.

[0075] Fig. 2 shows a front view of the in Fig. 1The sliding locking device 120 shown with the locking lever 130 closed. The section markings BB and AA indicate the cutting planes of the Fig. 3 or 7. On the front side of the sliding carriage 134 are extraction openings 152 of the extraction device 150, in this example 5 extraction openings arranged next to each other.

[0076] Fig. 3 The section plane BB is shown. Fig. 2 with locking device 120 in the operating position and the locking lever 130 in the closed position. The upper piston 27 is engaged in the cylinder 10 such that the cylinder opening 12 (see e.g. Fig. 15 ) is closed. The locking shaft 132 runs transversely through the sliding carriage 134.

[0077] A granule compartment 1 for collecting excess granules is located on the front of the carriage carrier 136. When the sliding carriage 134 is moved into the operating position, it automatically pushes excess granules into this compartment.

[0078] On the front side of the sliding carriage 134, an extraction opening 152 is shown, which transitions into a sliding carriage channel 154 inside the sliding carriage 134.

[0079] Fig. 4 Figure 1 shows a perspective schematic view of the locking device 120 in the closed position of the locking lever 130, as before. In the closed position, the upper piston cover 128 is flush with the top of the sliding carriage 134. Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows a further perspective schematic view of the locking device 120, which keeps the cylinder 10 closed.

[0080] Fig. 6 shows another sectional view, where the section is made along a plane that is in Fig. 3centrally through the upper piston cover 128, the locking shaft 132, and the cylinder 10. The locking shaft 132 has a variable cross-section along its length. The locking shaft 132 has notches 142 into which spring elements 144 engage. The spring elements 144 generate a restoring force that acts like a kind of "kneeling" on the upper piston 27 and thus on the locking lever 130, holding it either in the closed or open position. Furthermore, in Fig. 6 A slide guide 122 is shown, which guides the sliding slide 134 along its displacement direction (out of the plane of the sheet) on both sides of the cylinder 10.

[0081] Fig. 7 Finally, a cross-sectional view along the in Fig. 2Section AA is shown. The locking shaft 132 has two flattened areas 132a and 132b along this section. Between these areas, the locking shaft 132 has a protrusion, i.e., a cam 132c. The flexible element 144 presses against the flattened area 132a, thus generating a holding force so that the locking shaft 132 remains in the closed position. By adjusting the spring force or the contact force of the flexible element 144 against the locking shaft 132, the release force required to disengage the locking lever 130 from the closed position can be influenced or adjusted.

[0082] Referring to Fig. 8The locking device 120 remains in the apex position, in which the disengagement force for disengaging the locking lever 130 from the closed position has just been applied, or the locking lever 130 is pulled into the closed position by the now increasing retaining force of the flexible element 144 when being guided into the closed position. The movement of the locking lever into the two end positions, "open" and "closed," is thus "pulling and detenting." By rotating the locking shaft 132 beyond the dead center, the locking device 120, and consequently also the upper piston 27, which is directly related to the locking device, becomes wedged.When the embedding cylinder 10 is subjected to cylinder pressure in the closed position of the sliding closure 120, this cylinder pressure generates an additional retaining force on the wedging of the flexible element 144 with the flattened area 132a, so that the sliding closure 120 can no longer be opened manually during operation of the embedding press 100. Fig. 9 Furthermore, a side view of the locking device 120 in the vertex position is given.

[0083] Referring to Fig. 10Figure 1 is a side sectional view of an embedding press 100 with a sliding locking device 120 in the operating position of the sliding carriage 134 and the closed position of the locking lever 130, in this example lever 60. The cylinder 10 is divided into a sample cylinder 10a and a pressure cylinder 10b and has a cylinder tube 53. The granule compartment 1 is located at the front for receiving excess granules. The eccentric guide 4, together with the eccentric lock 5, defines a movement range 124 for the locking shaft 132, in this example realized by the eccentric bolt 66.

[0084] A heating and cooling unit 14 is arranged laterally to the side of the pressing area for heating and cooling a sample (not shown) inserted into the cylinder 10. The heating and cooling unit 14 surrounds the cylinder 10 in an annular shape. The heating and cooling unit 14 is connected by means of hose lines 34 (see, e.g., [reference]). Fig. 11The sample cylinder is supplied with water. A press mold 63, which has a specific diameter, is inserted into the sample cylinder. The press mold 63 is interchangeable to accommodate different sample diameters. In this example, a 50 mm press mold 63 is used.

[0085] The lower pressure cylinder 10b has a cylinder head 16 and a cylinder base 17. A piston 18 is movably arranged in the pressure cylinder 10b. The piston 18 is connected to the upper / lower piston 23 by means of a piston rod 19, so that a change in position of the piston 18 induces a change in position of the upper / lower piston 23. The upper piston 27, in this case a compression piston 27, is positioned by the sliding closure 120 and blocked by the pressure built up in the sample cylinder 10a. Hydraulic fluid is supplied to and from the pressure cylinder 10b via the high-pressure hose 55, for example, through the hydraulic port 70.

[0086] The locking lever 130, in this case a lever 60, can have a grip surface 46 to improve the feel.

[0087] A first position sensor 56, for example a proximity switch 56, can be installed in the slide carrier 136. In this example, the proximity switch 56 is designed to detect whether the support plate 74 is retracted or extended, which means that the sliding carriage 134 may have assumed a service position (see, e.g., Figs. 18 to 23 To assume the service position, the sliding carriage 134 is moved completely on the carriage carrier 136 in the direction of the swivel plate 59 and rotated about the axis 73 on the swivel plate 59. Here, the position sensor 56 is implemented as an inductive proximity switch 56, e.g., in a normally open configuration.

[0088] In this example, a cover plate 61 is inserted into the slide carrier 136, which covers the extraction port 156 embedded in the slide carrier. An extraction cover 68 is attached to the sliding carriage 134 in this example.

[0089] The operating position of the sliding carriage 134 is detected by a front position sensor 30, in particular an inductive position sensor 30.

[0090] Referring to Fig. 11 is the embodiment of the Fig. 10 Shown in a front sectional view, identical reference numerals represent identical objects. The sliding carriage 134 is in the operating position and the lever 60 is in the closed position. In this embodiment, the carriage guide 122 is implemented by a sliding guide 64, which engages around the guide pins 123 of the sliding carriage 134, thus ensuring secure guidance of the sliding carriage 134 on the carriage carrier 136.

[0091] In the closed position, the closure shaft 132 has a notch 142 on both sides of the sample cylinder 10a on its underside, into which a spring element 144, here a spring tensioner 71, engages.

[0092] The heating / cooling unit 14 is supplied with cooling water via the hose lines 34.

[0093] Fig. 12 shows a schematic view of an embedding press 100 with sliding closure 120 in operating position, in which the cylinder opening 11 (cf. e.g. Fig. 15 ) is completely closed. The wedging of the upper piston 27 in the sample cylinder 10a, as well as the pressure built up in the sample cylinder 10a, holds the sliding closure 120 in the closed position. The sliding carriage 134 may, if necessary, build up pressure on the carriage guide 122 via the guide pins 123 and is thus held by the carriage carrier 136.

[0094] In the open position of the sliding lock 120, the sliding carriage 134 can be moved along the carriage carrier 136 to a rear end position, in which the guide pins 123 no longer engage in the carriage guide 122, since the carriage guide 122 only extends over a part of the carriage carrier 136.

[0095] In the rear end position, the sliding carriage 134 can then be pivoted about the pivot axis, resting on the pivot plate 59. A locking mechanism in the service position can be achieved by means of the support plate 74.

[0096] Fig. 13 shows a side view of the embedding press 100, with the sliding lock shifted towards the rear end position, so that the cylinder opening (cf. e.g. Fig. 15 ) is released. In Fig. 13The locking lever 130 incorporates a locking lever sensor 80, which, together with the second locking lever sensor 82, enables position detection of the locking lever 130. In particular, the locking lever sensor 80 can be used to query the closed position of the locking lever. Fig. 14 shows a front view of the same position of the sliding carriage 134.

[0097] Referring to Fig. 15 The figure shows a side sectional view of a section of the 100 embedding press with the sliding carriage in the... Fig. 13 explained position. The embedding press 100 of the in Fig. 15The form shown has an extraction device 150, which is operational in the extraction position of the sliding carriage 134 shown in the figure. The extraction opening 152 is connected via the sliding carriage channel to the extraction connection channel 156 embedded in the cover 136 or carriage carrier 136. The extraction air channel 158 connects directly to the extraction connection channel 156.

[0098] Furthermore, in Fig. 15 the cylinder axis 12 is shown. In addition, the in Fig. 15 The illustrated granule compartment 1 contains granule residue 180 that was filled with the sliding carriage 134.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 16 The extraction position of the sliding carriage 134 is further illustrated by another perspective view. In this example, five extraction openings 152 are incorporated into the front of the sliding carriage 134. Also, the Fig. 17The extraction position of the sliding carriage 134 is illustrated with yet another perspective view.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 18 The locking lever 130 with locking shaft 132 is shown in the open position. The flexible element 144 engages in the flattened area 132b of the locking shaft and thus exerts a holding force on the locking lever 130. In order to move the locking lever 130 from the open position to the closed position, the flexible element 144 must be positioned in the plane of the drawing. Fig. 18 by applying force downwards, whereby the force applied to the locking lever 130 may be amplified via the cam 132c of the locking shaft 132 and transferred to the flexible element 144.

[0101] With Fig. 19The service position of the sliding carriage 134 is illustrated, wherein the sliding carriage 134 is supported in the service position by means of the support plate 74 hinged in the carriage carrier 136.

[0102] Fig. 20 Figure 1 shows another embodiment of the mounting press 100 with a sliding carriage 134 in a service position, wherein in this embodiment the support plate 74 is articulated to the sliding carriage 134 and is supported in the recess in the carriage carrier 136. In this position, the locking shaft 132 is fully retracted to one side in the movement space 124.

[0103] Referring to the Figures 21 to 23The mounting press 100 with the locking device 120 in the service position is shown from the front, illustrating the easy accessibility of the upper piston 27 from below. An embodiment of the extraction device 150 is also shown. The extraction openings 152 open into the sliding carriage channel 154. When the sliding carriage 134 is in the extraction position, the lower opening of the sliding carriage channel 154 rests flush with the recess of the extraction connection channel 156, so that a negative pressure generated below, passing through the extraction connection channel 156 and the sliding carriage channel 154, can create suction at the extraction openings 152. Fig. 22 shows a perspective view of the embodiment. Fig. 23 The figure also shows the embedding press 100 with the locking device 120 in service position in another perspective view. In the Figure 22 and 23The front position sensor 30 is clearly shown, which detects the position of the sliding carriage 134 in the operating position.

[0104] Referring to the Fig. 24The mounting press 100 is shown in a side sectional view with the sliding carriage 134 in the extraction position. The extraction opening 152 leads into the sliding carriage channel 154, which in turn, in the extraction position, leads into the extraction connection channel 156 embedded in the carriage carrier 136. An extraction air duct 158 ​​is arranged below the extraction connection channel 156, which conveys the exhaust air, possibly containing vapors and / or dust, to a vacuum generator 160. An extraction filter 162 is arranged downstream of the vacuum generator 160 in the direction of exhaust air flow. This arrangement is advantageous, for example, if vapors are to be extracted using the extraction device 150. The extraction filter 162 can also be arranged at a suitable location, for example in the extraction air duct 158 ​​and in front of the negative pressure generator 160, for example if larger particles are to be expected in the extraction air in addition to dust, and damage to the negative pressure generator can thus be avoided.

[0105] Referring to the Fig. 25 Figure 100 shows a further embodiment of the embedding press 100 with a sliding closure 120 in the closed position, wherein an extraction device 150 is implemented that ensures extraction even in the closed position and, in particular, during operation and heating of the embedding press. The intake opening 152 is arranged around the upper piston 27. Optionally, the front intake opening, which was used in the extraction position of the sliding carriage 134, is closed by an intake cover 155, which is advantageously arranged or attached to the locking lever 130. Thus, the locking lever 130 not only closes the embedding press 100 for operation but also the front intake openings 152, so that the suction effect for the operation of the embedding press 100 can be concentrated by the vacuum generator 160 on the area of ​​the cylinder opening 11.

[0106] If, for example, vapors escape from the sample cylinder 10a during heating operation and thus during the melting process of the granules, which may be harmful to the environment or to health, the extraction device 150 in the present design is also able to absorb these influences and thus improve the application of the embedding press.

[0107] Referring to Fig. 26 Another embodiment of the embedding press 100 with sliding closure 120 is shown, wherein extraction openings 152 are provided in the cover 136' or in the slide carrier 136. In this example, the extraction openings are arranged concentrically around the cylinder opening 11. The suction effect at the extraction openings 152 can be generated from below the cover 136' by means of an extraction air duct 158 ​​located there.

[0108] Fig. 27Figure 1 shows another embodiment of the embedding press 100, in which a filling funnel 170 is used for filling granules 180 into the cylinder opening 11. The filling funnel can be connected to the vacuum device 160 via the extraction air duct 158 ​​in order to remove dust directly during filling using a funnel.

[0109] Referring to Fig. 28Figure 1 shows a further embodiment of the embedding press 100 with an inserted filling hopper 170 for filling granules 180 into the cylinder opening 11, wherein the filling hopper is connected to the extraction device 150. The extraction opening 152' attached to the filling hopper, which extends annularly around the lower opening of the filling hopper 170, is connected to a hopper extraction air duct 158'. The filling hopper 170 can preferably be positioned such that the hopper extraction air duct 158' can be aligned with the extraction opening 152 in the sliding carriage 134. The vacuum generation device 160 can thus advantageously also supply the filling hopper 170 with suction vacuum.

[0110] Referring to Fig. 29Figure 1 shows a rear view of an embodiment of the modular embedding press system 106, comprising an internal embedding press 102 arranged in the base module 101 and three external embedding presses 104. All embedding presses 102, 104 have a sliding closure 120 and are arranged directly adjacent to one another.

[0111] The basic module 101 has three mounting press connectors 108 on its rear side for transmitting both the electrical power required by the external mounting presses 104 and control data for controlling the external mounting presses 104. Furthermore, the basic module 101 has a central power supply connection 110 for supplying all mounting presses 100, 102, and 104 with electrical power from the external power supply, for example, the public power grid. The basic module 101 also includes a cooling water inlet 112 and a cooling water return 114, which are supplied, for example, either by an external water supply or a circulation loop with a heat exchanger. The modular mounting press system 106 has a water manifold 116, 118 for connecting the mounting presses 102 and 104. A central extraction system 164 is also provided, which can be controlled and regulated from the basic module 101.

[0112] The Figs. 30 to 34show different variants of the operation of the modular embedding press system. Fig. 30 Figure 1 shows a single external embedding press 104 for connection to a base module 101 according to the invention. The external embedding press 104 has the sliding lock 120. Furthermore, the external embedding press 104 is equipped with an operating knob 96 and a display device 98.

[0113] Fig. 31Figure 1 shows a basic module 101 with an internal mounting press 102. The basic module 101 has a central input device 94, which allows the programming and control of the internal and external mounting presses 102, 104. Furthermore, the basic module has an operating knob 96 and a display device 98. The display device is implemented as an illuminated ring 98, which is arranged around the operating knob 96. The central control device 92, which generates and outputs control parameters for the internal and external mounting presses 102, 104, is also located in the basic module 101. Finally, a power distributor 91 is arranged in the basic module 101, by means of which the electrical power supplied to the basic module 101 is distributed to the internal and external mounting presses 102, 104.

[0114] Fig. 32Figure 1 shows a modular embedding press system 106 with an internal embedding press 102 and an external embedding press 104. Both embedding presses 102 and 104 are equipped with the sliding lock 120, a control knob 96, and a display unit 98. The base module 101 also has a central input unit 94 for programming and controlling all embedding presses 102 and 104 connected to the base module. Fig. 33 shows another alternative arrangement of the modular embedding press system 106 with an internal embedding press 102 and an external embedding press 104.

[0115] Fig. 34Finally, a modular embedding press system 106 is shown, comprising an internal embedding press 102 and three external embedding presses 104, each controlled and programmed by the base module 101 and supplied with electrical power by the base module 101. The individual embedding presses 102 and 104 can be identical to one another. However, the individual embedding presses 102 and 104 can also differ with regard to the closure system 120 or the extraction device 150. With this system, it is also easily possible, for example, to provide different press dies 63 in the embedding presses 102 and 104, so that different embedding presses 102 and 104 can be used for different sample diameters without having to change the press die 63.

[0116] Fig. 35Figure 2 shows a simple flowchart for the modular embedding press system 106. In the first step, 202, a process is initiated. For example, process start could mean that one or more embedding presses 102, 104 of the modular embedding press system 106 are already in operation and the user has activated another embedding press 102, 104 via the central input unit 94. The base module 101 has the central control unit 92, which controls the embedding presses 102, 104. In step 204, the control unit 92 checks, for example, based on the data provided by the power distributor 91, how many embedding presses 102, 104 are to be supplied with electrical power by the base module 101. In this example, prioritization with regard to power distribution is only performed if four or more embedding units 102, 104 are in operation.If fewer than four embeddable units 102 and 104 are connected or in operation, no prioritization of power distribution is necessary in this example, and the flowchart skips to step 220, the end. The flowchart is based on the idea that with three or fewer embeddable units operating in parallel, sufficient power is available for the simultaneous full operation of all embeddable units 102 and 104.

[0117] If the query regarding 4 or more embedding units 102, 104 is answered positively, the next query in step 206 asks whether all at least 4 heating / cooling components 14 of the at least 4 embedding units 102, 104 are being supplied with energy. If not all heating / cooling components 14 are operated in parallel, the process flow returns to a loop in which the status of the embedding units is regularly checked in step 206.

[0118] However, if at least four heating / cooling units 14 are requested in parallel, step 208 determines the prioritization order based on the mode of the embedding units (heating or holding) and the temperature deviation. Step 210 determines the power distribution; in this example, blocking the heating element of the embedding unit 102, 104 with the lowest priority. This query is also performed cyclically as long as the conflicting parallel operation of more than three embedding units 102, 104 is occurring.

[0119] Referring to Fig. 36 The diagram shows a flowchart for a data entry wizard. Step 230 starts the program flow, and step 232 checks whether the wizard is activated. If not, the flowchart terminates at step 260.

[0120] If the assistant is activated, step 234 queries whether button 96 on an embedding unit 102, 104 has been pressed and a shutter 120 has been opened. In other words, in step 234, the assistant expects an embedding unit 102, 104 to be selected, specifically by means of the control button 96 on the embedding unit 102, 104, in order to proceed with the further process.

[0121] Upon request or selection of an embedding unit 102, 104, the piston 23 of the selected embedding unit 102, 104 is lowered in the next step 236 (momentary / switching operation). In step 238, the extraction system at the selected embedding unit 102, 104, or the central extraction system 164, is automatically activated for a predefined period of time.

[0122] Step 240 checks whether the corresponding button for an inverted piston movement is activated in the visualization. If an inverted piston movement is desired, step 242 reverses the piston movement.

[0123] Step 244 checks whether an extraction switch has been configured in the visualization. If so, step 246 switches the extraction system.

[0124] Finally, in step 248, the position sensors (or orientation sensors) 30, 56, 80, 82 are queried regarding the closed position of the sliding closure 120 of the selected embedding unit 102, 104. If it is determined that the closure 120 is completely closed, the embedding process can be started in step 250.

[0125] After completion of the embedding process with the selected embedding unit 102, 104, step 252 checks whether the closure can be opened. If so, in step 254 the piston 23 is raised and the filling assistant is terminated in step 260.

[0126] The present invention enables convenient, rapid, and safe operation of an embedding press 100, 102, 104 with an extraction device and improves occupational safety through the integrated extraction of dust and / or fumes from an embedding press 100, 102, 104. Thus, with the present invention, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 with the extraction device 150 according to the invention can be operated more conveniently and quickly while maintaining the same level of safety. Breaks during processing for ventilation and the dissipation of dust clouds are no longer necessary. The invention can also be combined with a sliding closure and / or integrated into a modular embedding press system. The sliding closure 120 provides convenient access to the upper piston 27 located in the sliding closure 120, which can, for example, be easily cleaned or replaced.

[0127] According to one aspect of the embodiment of the invention, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 for embedding a sample is further disclosed comprising: an embedding cylinder 10, 10a for receiving the sample with a main cylinder axis 12 and with a cylinder opening 11, wherein the main cylinder axis runs inside the embedding cylinder and passes through the cylinder opening, a cover 136, 136' extending around the cylinder opening, an extraction device 150 for extraction of, for example, granular dust, granules 180 or vapors, wherein the extraction device comprises a vacuum generator 160 for providing an extraction effect, wherein the extraction device is at least partially attached to or embedded in the cover.

[0128] According to another aspect, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 is disclosed according to the preceding aspect, wherein the cover 136, 136' is a cover plate into which the cylinder opening 11 is recessed, and / or wherein the cover has a slide guide 122 for a sliding slide 134.

[0129] According to a further aspect, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 is disclosed according to the above aspect, wherein the extraction device 150 is at least partially installed in the sliding carriage 134 or wherein the extracted granular dust 180 and / or vapors are passed through the sliding carriage.

[0130] According to another aspect, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the extraction device 150 has extraction openings 152 in the cover plate arranged around the cylinder opening 11 embedded in the cover plate 136, 136'.

[0131] According to another aspect, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, furthermore with a vacuum generator 160 arranged on the embedding press to provide the suction effect.

[0132] According to a further aspect, an embedding press 100, 102, 104 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a front-side granule compartment 1 for receiving granule residues 180 that cannot be extracted via the suction opening, wherein in particular the granule residues can be moved from the sliding carriage 134 into the granule compartment by pushing the sliding carriage onto the cylinder opening 11 before using the embedding press.

[0133] According to a further aspect of the embodiment of the invention, a suction device 150 for an embedding press 100, 102, 104 is further disclosed, wherein the embedding press has an embedding cylinder 10, a cylinder opening 11 and a main cylinder axis 12 extending through the embedding cylinder, comprising: a cover 136, 136' extending around the cylinder opening, a vacuum generator 160 for providing a suction effect, in particular a blower device, at least one suction air duct 158 ​​connected to the vacuum generator, at least one suction opening 152 connected to the suction air duct, which can be arranged so close to the cylinder opening that a suction effect can be achieved in the area of ​​the cylinder opening, wherein the suction device is at least partially attached to the cover or incorporated into the cover.

[0134] According to a further aspect, a suction device 150 is disclosed according to the preceding aspect, wherein the suction device is arranged to exert the suction effect directly in the area of ​​the cylinder opening 11 of the embedding cylinder 10.

[0135] According to another aspect, a suction device 150 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the at least one extraction opening 152 is laterally spaced from the cylinder opening in 11 the cover 136, 136', wherein the at least one extraction opening is concentrically recessed around the cylinder opening in the cover or attached to the cover.

[0136] According to another aspect, an extraction device 150 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover 136, 136' is a cover plate and has a slide guide 122 for a sliding carriage 134.

[0137] According to another aspect, a suction device 150 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a sliding carriage 134, wherein the at least one or one further extraction opening 152 is arranged on the sliding carriage and is connected to the extraction air duct through the sliding carriage.

[0138] According to a further aspect, a suction device 150 is disclosed according to the preceding aspect, wherein the sliding carriage 134 has at least one sliding carriage channel 154 which connects the at least one extraction opening 152 through the sliding carriage to the extraction air channel 158, and / or wherein the sliding carriage has an extraction position in which the at least one extraction opening is supplied with suction vacuum by the vacuum device 160 in a communicating manner through the sliding carriage.

[0139] According to another aspect, a suction device 150 is disclosed according to one of the two preceding aspects, wherein the sliding carriage 134 has an operating position in which the sliding carriage covers the cylinder opening 11 and wherein the extraction device provides a steam extraction system to extract vapors generated during the pressing process of the mounting press 100, 102, 104.

[0140] According to another aspect, an extraction device 150 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein at least a part of the extraction air duct 158 ​​is embedded in the cover plate 136, 136', so that the extraction air duct passes through the cover plate and / or at least a portion of it passes through the cover plate.

[0141] According to another aspect, an extraction device 150 according to one of the preceding aspects is disclosed, further comprising a filter element 162 arranged at the vacuum generator 160.

[0142] According to another aspect, a suction device 150 is disclosed according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising at least one further embedding press 100, 102, 104 with a further cylinder opening 11, wherein the vacuum generator 160 is a common vacuum generator, wherein the extraction device is arranged to exert the extraction effect directly in the area of ​​the cylinder opening 11 of the embedding cylinder 20 and at the same time at the further cylinder opening of the at least one further embedding press.

[0143] This application is a divisional application of EP 18 710 861.8 (WO2018202342 A1).

[0144] It is evident to those skilled in the art that the embodiments described above are to be understood as examples and that the invention is not limited to these, but can be varied in many ways without departing from the scope of the claims. In all figures, the same reference numerals represent the same objects, so that descriptions of objects that may only be mentioned in one figure, or at least not with respect to all figures, can also be applied to those figures for which the object is not explicitly described. Reference symbol list

[0145] 1 Granule compartment 5 Eccentric lock 10 Cylinder or embedding cylinder or press cylinder 10a Sample cylinder 10b Pressure cylinder 11 Cylinder opening 12 Cylinder axis 14 Heating / cooling unit 16 Cylinder head 17 Cylinder base 18 Piston 19 Piston rod 23 Upper / lower piston 27 Upper piston or press piston 34 Cooling water hose 53 Cylinder tube 55 Hose or high-pressure hose 56 First position sensor orProximity device 59 Swivel plate 60 Lever 61 Cover plate 63 Press mold 64 Sliding guide 65 Sliding lock 66 Eccentric bolt 68 Extraction cover 70 Hydraulic opening 72 Rotating part 73 Swivel axis 74 Support plate 80 Locking lever sensor 82 Second locking lever sensor 91 Power distributor 92 Central control unit 94 Central input unit 96 Control knob 98 Display unit 100 Beding press 101 Base module 102 Internal beding press 104 External beding press 106 Modular beding press system 108 Beding press connector 110 Central power supply connection 112 Cooling water inlet 114 Cooling water return 116 Cooling water inlet manifold 118 Cooling water outlet manifold 120 Sliding lock 122 Slide guide 123 Guide pin 124 Movement space 128 Upper piston cover 130 Locking lever 132 Locking shaft 132a Flattened area of ​​the locking shaft 132ab Flattened area of ​​the locking shaft 132c Cam 134 Sliding slide 136 Slide carrier 136' Cover 142 Notches 144 Flexible element orSpring element 150 Extraction device 152 Extraction opening 152' Funnel extraction opening 154 Sliding carriage channel 156 Extraction connection channel 158 Extraction air channel 158' Funnel extraction air channel 160 Vacuum generator 162 Extraction filter 164 Central extraction 170 Filling funnel 180 Granules 202 to 260 Process steps.

Claims

1. A modular mounting press system for hot mounting samples in metallographic or materialographic analysis for the preparation of workpieces for characterizing microstructures, comprising: a basic module (101) for controlling at least one external mounting press (104) ; a first external mounting press separate from and controllable by the basic module, and having a first mounting cylinder (20) for receiving samples; the basic module comprising: a central input device (94) for entering control data for the at least one external mounting press; a central power supply port (110) for connecting the modular mounting press system to an external power supply; and a power distributor (91) for providing the electrical power to the at least one external mounting press; the first external mounting press (104) comprising: a sliding closure (120); and a heating / cooling unit (14); wherein said first external mounting press (104) is controlled and supplied with electrical power by the basic module (101) and does not comprise a complete process control unit, and wherein all process control components are accommodated in the basic module (101).

2. The modular mounting press system according to claim 1, further comprising a hydraulic distributor (116) for supplying cooling water to the at least one external mounting press (104).

3. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the basic module (101) further comprises: at least one mounting press connector (108) for electrically connecting the at least one external mounting press (104) to the basic module for transferring the electrical power required by the at least one external mounting press as well as control data for controlling the at least one external mounting press.

4. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the basic module (101) accommodates a basic module mounting press (102) in a shared basic module housing.

5. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power distributor (91) distributes the electrical power to the basic module mounting press (102) and to the at least one external mounting press (104) while taking into account a prioritization order that can be predetermined by the central controller; and / or wherein the power distributor distributes the electrical power to the basic module mounting press and to the at least one external mounting press in a clocked manner when reaching or exceeding a predetermined amount of electrical power.

6. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one mounting press connector (108), the central power supply port (110) and the hydraulic distributor (116, 118) are arranged on a rear side of the basic module (101).

7. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein two or three external mounting presses (104) are connectable to the basic module (101), and wherein all the external mounting presses are controlled and supplied with electrical power by the basic module.

8. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one external mounting press (104) comprises an indicator device (98) for indicating the operating state, in particular a colour-changing indicator device.

9. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one external mounting press (104) comprises a decentralized control button (96), and wherein in particular the decentralized control button also comprises the indicator device (98) of the preceding claim.

10. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the basic module mounting press (102) comprises a sliding closure (120).

11. The modular mounting press system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a central suction device (150) including a suction manifold (164) for connecting the basic module mounting press (102) and the at least one external mounting press (104) to the central suction device (150).