Device for processing wax-like semi-finished products

Abstract

A device for processing wax-like semi-finished products, for example for pressing candles from a wax semi-finished product (W), comprises: (a) a frame (2), (b) several pressing tools (13; 24) movable in and against a pressing direction (Z) with respect to the frame (2), which are designed for processing the semi-finished product (W), for example for pressing the candles, (c) an electric motor drive (4; 15) which is designed to drive the pressing tools (13; 24) for processing the semi-finished product, and (d) a gearbox (5; 16) which mechanically connects the drive (4) to the pressing tools (13; 24).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for processing wax-like semi-finished products. Preferably, the device is designed to press candles and / or candle blanks from a wax semi-finished product.

[0002] Devices are known for processing wax-like semi-finished products, comprising one or more hydraulic presses. For the production of wax candles, for example, devices in the form of linear stroke presses with press tools arranged side by side along a movable press beam are used to form several candle blanks per press stroke, corresponding to the number of press tools. The press beam is hydraulically driven.

[0003] The devices known from the prior art have a number of disadvantages. Due to their hydraulic drives, they are very noisy and consume a lot of energy to generate the required hydraulic pressures. Therefore, processing waxy semi-finished products with these devices is costly, and special noise reduction measures must be implemented. Furthermore, hydraulic circuits are prone to maintenance issues and pose the risk that even the smallest leaks can lead to significant contamination, particularly of the semi-finished products being processed, and consequently to production downtime. Production changeovers are complex or even impossible.

[0004] It is therefore a task to eliminate one or more of the disadvantages associated with the state of the art.

[0005] One task, in particular, can be the provision of a device that presses the waxy semi-finished product with high efficiency and reduced noise emission.

[0006] Another task may be to facilitate adaptation to different wax materials or wax-like materials and / or the changeover to a different shape or size of the pressing, thereby increasing flexibility with regard to production changes.

[0007] To solve this problem, the invention proposes a device comprising a frame, several pressing tools, an electric motor drive, and a gearbox, designed to process wax-like semi-finished products, in particular to press candles and / or candle blanks from wax semi-finished products. Pressing barbecue lighters is another application example. The semi-finished product can be supplied to the pressing process, for example, in the form of wax powder or wax granules, or a mixture of granules and powder.

[0008] The multiple pressing tools are movable relative to the frame in and against a pressing direction. The pressing tools are designed to press the semi-finished product into a compact, preferably a wax compact, of a desired shape, for example, to press candles from a semi-finished wax product. The respective pressing tool can be, in particular, a press punch or a press die.

[0009] In the context of the invention, the "pressing direction" is a direction of movement of the pressing tools, in which the pressing tools cause the semi-finished product to be pressed due to the movement.

[0010] The electric motor drive is designed to drive the pressing tools. Preferably, the electric motor drive can move or drive the pressing tools via the gearbox in and / or against the pressing direction. The electric motor drive can comprise one or more electric linear motors or, in particular, one or more electric rotary motors. In other words, the drive can drive the pressing tools when it is supplied with electrical energy. Advantageously, the drive is arranged on the frame, and in particular, attached to the frame.

[0011] The electric motor drive is mechanically connected to the press tools via the gearbox. This means that a drive movement and / or torque, for example, a rotary movement of an output shaft of the drive, is mechanically transmitted to the press tools via the gearbox. Preferably, the drive is connected to the press tools exclusively mechanically via the gearbox. The gearbox can be configured to transmit and / or redirect and / or reduce or, if necessary, increase the drive movement and / or convert the motion type, in particular from a rotary movement of a motor shaft into a translational movement of the press tools.

[0012] Advantageously, hydraulic actuators can be dispensed with, at least for generating the movement and pressing force required for pressing. This enables quiet and energy-efficient operation of the pressing device. At the same time, the device according to the invention requires less maintenance. Contamination due to defective hydraulic lines is no longer a concern. If the device comprises several electric motor drives, for example, a first electric motor drive for several first pressing tools, such as several upper punches, and a second electric motor drive for several secondary pressing tools, such as several lower punches or dies, these drives can be precisely, yet simply and flexibly, adapted to one another during production changeovers by means of a control and / or regulation device.In advantageous embodiments, the device includes a programmable control and / or regulation device for one or more electric motor drives.

[0013] In advantageous embodiments, the gearbox is designed to convert a drive torque from the drive unit into a pressing force for the press tools. For example, a torque from the drive shaft can be converted by the gearbox into a pressing force, which is then exerted on the semi-finished product by the press tools. In other words, the gearbox can be designed to convert a torque resulting from a rotation of the drive unit into a force that causes a translational movement of the press tools.

[0014] The transmission can be a rack and pinion drive or, in particular, a spindle drive with a lifting spindle, preferably with an external or internal thread. The lifting spindle can be driven rotaryally by the drive unit. Preferably, the lifting spindle is rotatably supported and / or mounted on the frame. The axis of rotation or spindle axis of the lifting spindle can be aligned parallel to the pressing direction. The lifting spindle is operatively connected to the pressing tools via its engagement structure, preferably an external thread, so that a rotary movement of the lifting spindle causes a movement of the pressing tools, in particular a translational movement of the pressing tools, in and / or against the pressing direction. A spindle drive with a rotatably driven lifting spindle and an output element engaged in the thread of the lifting spindle enables a short or very direct, purely mechanical coupling between the electric motor drive and the pressing tools.The use of a spindle drive helps to reduce losses in the drive train and thus to increase efficiency, reduces wear and tear and susceptibility to damage, and therefore reduces the need for maintenance and repair.

[0015] Preferably, the pressing tools are arranged on a force application structure. The force application structure can be designed and / or arranged such that the pressing tools are moved synchronously by the force application structure. The force application structure is operatively connected to the transmission. Preferably, a rotary movement of the lifting spindle causes a translational lifting movement of the force application structure. The force application structure can have an engagement structure that engages with the transmission, particularly with the lifting spindle. If, as preferably, the lifting spindle has an external thread, the engagement structure can have a corresponding internal thread for threaded engagement with the lifting spindle.

[0016] In further developments, the gearbox includes an additional lifting spindle of the type described. The lifting spindles can be arranged at least substantially parallel to each other. The force transmission structure can span any remaining gap between the spindles. Advantageously, the force transmission structure extends from the thread engagement with one lifting spindle to the thread engagement with the other lifting spindle. In a view of the device, the press tools can be arranged side by side between the lifting spindles along the force transmission structure.

[0017] The force application structure is advantageously rigid and can be considered a single, rigid, non-deformable body under the forces acting upon it during operation. It can be designed as a press beam. Advantageously, an engagement structure, in particular an internal thread, is provided in each longitudinal end region of the force application structure. The respective engagement structure can engage with the associated lifting spindle. It is advantageous if, in the respective engagement, the rotary motion of the associated lifting spindle is directly converted into a translational lifting motion of the force application structure.

[0018] In principle, the respective engagement structure can be movably connected to the force application structure. Preferably, however, the respective engagement structure is immovable relative to the force application structure. Thus, the respective engagement structure can be formed separately from the force application structure and immovably joined to it, or formed directly on the force application structure.

[0019] The structural coupling of the drive via a spindle drive with one or more lifting spindles and a rigid force introduction structure directly engaged with it enables a compact design, a precisely controllable translational lifting movement of the force introduction structure and thus together with the press tools, and a uniform distribution of the force required for pressing onto the press tools arranged on the force introduction structure.

[0020] In advantageous embodiments, the gearbox comprises a first lifting spindle and a second lifting spindle. The first lifting spindle can be configured as the upper left lifting spindle. The second lifting spindle can be configured as the upper right lifting spindle. The first lifting spindle is preferably spaced from the second lifting spindle in a lateral direction, transverse to the pressing direction. Preferably, the first and second lifting spindles are aligned parallel to the pressing direction. The force application structure can be threaded with the first and second lifting spindles along their respective spindle axes and thus be movable in and against the pressing direction. As already mentioned, the force application structure can directly be the output element of the spindle drive formed with the respective lifting spindle. The pressing tools can be arranged side by side on the force application structure in a lateral direction or orthogonally to the pressing direction.The pressing tools can be supported on the force introduction structure in such a way that the force introduction structure and the pressing tools perform movements in and against the pressing direction together, especially as a unit of movement.

[0021] In an exemplary further development, the gearbox has one gearbox input and several gearbox outputs. It can be coupled to the electric motor drive at the gearbox input. At a first gearbox output, it can be coupled to the first lifting spindle, and at a second gearbox output, it can be coupled to the second lifting spindle. The respective coupling is preferably designed for torque transmission.

[0022] The transmission can have one or more transmission shafts. Preferably, the one or more transmission shafts are configured to transmit the drive torque to the one or more lifting spindles. For example, a transmission shaft can be coupled to the electric motor drive at its input end. At a first output end, the transmission shaft can be coupled to the first lifting spindle. At a second output end, the transmission shaft can be coupled to the second lifting spindle. The respective coupling(s) are preferably designed for torque transmission. For example, the transmission shaft is connected to a lifting spindle at each of its longitudinal ends via a reversing gear, thus transmitting torque. The coupling can be implemented, in particular, via a cardan shaft at the first output end and / or the second output end.

[0023] The transmission may include a main deflection gear. The main deflection gear is preferably designed to transmit the drive torque to one or more transmission shafts.

[0024] The respective transmission shaft can extend at least substantially orthogonally to the lifting spindle(s). Alternatively or additionally, the respective transmission shaft can be arranged at least substantially parallel to the press beam. However, an angled arrangement is not excluded.

[0025] The gearbox can have multiple transmission shafts. In versions with multiple lifting spindles, for example, each lifting spindle can be connected to the drive via one of the multiple transmission shafts.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment, the device comprises a first pressing unit and a second pressing unit. The first pressing unit includes the multiple pressing tools, the electric motor drive, and the gearbox, which are then referred to as the first pressing tools, the first electric motor drive, and the first gearbox, respectively. The second pressing unit comprises multiple second pressing tools. It may advantageously have its own second electric motor drive and / or its own second gearbox. Preferably, the first pressing unit and the second pressing unit are mechanically independent of each other with respect to the movement of the pressing tools. In such embodiments, the first electric motor drive can move the first pressing tools relative to the second pressing tools in and / or against the pressing direction.Advantageously, the second electric motor drive can move the second pressing tools relative to the first pressing tools in and / or against the pressing direction of the second pressing tools. Simultaneous movements, whether in the same direction, opposite directions, at the same speed, or at different speeds, can also be achieved. For this, an electronic control and / or regulation device for the drives simply needs to be equipped with the appropriate capabilities, for example, programmed accordingly.

[0027] If the device includes multiple pressing units, more semi-finished products can be processed per unit of time. If the first and second pressing tools are lower and upper dies, they can be moved towards each other simultaneously for pressing, which can accelerate and / or even out the pressing process. Ejection of the pressed parts can also be facilitated.

[0028] A division into first and second pressing units, each with its own electric motor drive and preferably its own gearbox, enables both sequential and simultaneous, appropriately coordinated movement of the first and second pressing tools. This reveals a further advantage over hydraulic presses, which only allow separate movements of, for example, upper and lower dies on the one hand, and simultaneous movements on the other, if considerable effort is invested in the hydraulic system. With a controlled and / or regulated electromechanical drive, the movement of the pressing tools can be smoother, in particular with minimal or no jerking. The movement sequence, i.e., starting, accelerating, and decelerating, can be designed more smoothly and adapted more precisely and flexibly to the respective production process.Mechanical decoupling of the pressing devices opens up possibilities for optimizing the movement sequence of the pressing devices, which can increase the quality of the product (structure of the pressings) and / or the economic efficiency of the device.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment, the first pressing device and the second pressing device are identical, in particular functionally and / or structurally identical. The first pressing device and the second pressing device can be arranged opposite each other. The first pressing device can act in a first pressing direction when processing the semi-finished product. The second pressing device can act in a second pressing direction when processing the semi-finished product. Preferably, the first pressing direction is opposite to the second pressing direction. It is further advantageous that the first pressing tools and the second pressing tools are positioned opposite each other with their end faces in the pressing direction.

[0030] The first and second electric motor drives can each be controlled and / or regulated independently of the other. The device can include a control and / or regulation unit configured to control and / or regulate the first and second drives. The control and / or regulation unit can be configured to control the first and second drives in a coordinated manner with respect to rotational speed and / or angular position. The control and / or regulation unit can be configured to control and / or regulate the drives in such a way that the first and second press tools can be moved sequentially or simultaneously during a press cycle, which includes filling a die with the wax-like semi-finished product, preferably a wax semi-finished product, pressing the semi-finished product, and ejecting the respective pressed product.The control and / or regulating device can be configured to move the first and second pressing tools sequentially towards or away from each other at the same or different speeds, and / or simultaneously towards or away from each other at the same or different speeds. As a result, devices can be realized in which the first and second pressing units are mechanically decoupled on the drive side and can therefore move independently of each other. The movements of the first and second pressing tools during die filling, pressing, and / or ejection of the product (the pressed pieces) can be freely coordinated within wide limits and improved compared to conventional hydraulic presses.

[0031] In further developments where the device comprises the first and second pressing units, the second gearbox can have a third lifting spindle and a fourth lifting spindle. The third lifting spindle can be configured as the lower left lifting spindle. The fourth lifting spindle can be configured as the lower right lifting spindle. The third lifting spindle is preferably spaced from the fourth lifting spindle in the lateral direction, i.e., transversely to the pressing direction. Preferably, the third and fourth lifting spindles are arranged such that the spindle axes or the axes of rotation of the third and fourth lifting spindles are aligned parallel to the pressing direction of the second pressing unit. A second force application structure can be part of the second gearbox and can be movable in a threaded engagement with the third and fourth lifting spindles along their respective spindle axes, and thus in and against the second pressing direction. The second pressing tools can be spaced in the lateral direction orThe second pressing tools are arranged side-by-side on the second force application structure, perpendicular to the second pressing direction. The second pressing tools can be supported on the second force application structure in such a way that the second force application structure and the second pressing tools perform movements in and against the second pressing direction together, in particular as a single unit.

[0032] The spindle axis or axis of rotation of the third lifting spindle can be arranged and / or aligned essentially coaxially with the spindle axis or axis of rotation of the first lifting spindle. Alternatively or additionally, the spindle axis or axis of rotation of the fourth lifting spindle can be arranged and / or aligned essentially coaxially with the spindle axis or axis of rotation of the second lifting spindle.

[0033] The second gearbox can be coupled to the second electric motor drive at one gearbox input. At a first gearbox output, the second gearbox can be coupled to the third lifting spindle. Independently of the foregoing, the second gearbox can be coupled to the fourth lifting spindle at a second gearbox output. The respective coupling is preferably designed for torque transmission. The second gearbox can, in particular, be configured to drive the third and fourth lifting spindles synchronously.

[0034] The second gearbox can have one or more transmission shafts. Preferably, the one or more transmission shafts of the second gearbox are designed to transmit the drive torque of the second electric motor to the third and / or fourth lifting spindle. In embodiments with a common transmission shaft for the lifting spindles of the second press unit, this shaft can be coupled at its input end to the second electric motor, at a first output end to the third lifting spindle, and at a second output end to the fourth lifting spindle. The respective coupling is preferably designed for torque transmission. For example, the common transmission shaft can be coupled at each of its longitudinal ends to one of the lifting spindles of the second press unit via a reversing gear, thus transmitting torque.The coupling can be formed at the first shaft output side and / or the second shaft output side, e.g., as in a cardan shaft. The first gearbox and the second gearbox can be mirror images of each other. Features disclosed for one gearbox can therefore also be realized in the other.

[0035] The device can have several dies, rigidly connected to the frame, which can be filled with the semi-finished product. Each die can be a shaped tube, in particular a smooth cylindrical tube. The dies can each be a circular, oval, polygonal hollow profile, or a hollow profile with one or more round segments and one or more edges. They can also have internal longitudinal grooves and / or longitudinal ribs.

[0036] Each pressing unit can be assigned a specific set of dies. In advantageous embodiments, a set of dies is assigned to both the first and second pressing units, i.e., to both pressing units jointly. Preferably, the pressing tools, for example, the first pressing tools and / or the second pressing tools, can each move in and out of the dies at least partially in order to process the semi-finished product.

[0037] The pressing tools and dies can be arranged in pairs, so that each pressing tool can only engage one of the dies to press the semi-finished product. In embodiments with first and second pressing tools, such an arrangement advantageously applies to both the first and second pressing tools. Each die is then assigned to one of the first pressing tools and one of the second pressing tools, whereby one of the first pressing tools can engage at one end face of the respective die and one of the second pressing tools at the other end face to press the semi-finished product.

[0038] Preferably, at least the first pressing tools can fully extend from the dies during operation of the device. This facilitates filling the dies with the semi-finished product and / or ejecting the pressed pieces.

[0039] The invention also relates to a method for processing wax-like semi-finished products using a device with first and second pressing tools and associated dies. In this method, the dies are filled with the semi-finished product. The second pressing tools each form one end of the dies. For pressing, the first pressing tools are moved in the dies in the pressing direction towards the second pressing tools and / or the second pressing tools are moved in the dies against this pressing direction towards the first pressing tools, thereby forming the compacts. If both the first and second pressing tools are moved towards each other in the dies during pressing, either sequentially or advantageously simultaneously, a more uniform compaction of the semi-finished product can be achieved.To eject the pressed pieces, the first pressing tools and the second pressing tools are moved in the same direction in an ejection direction, preferably against the pressing direction of the first pressing tools, until the pressed pieces in a transfer position partially or preferably completely protrude from the dies and can be picked up by a receiving device and moved out of the working area of ​​the pressing tools.

[0040] For carrying out the method, a device according to the invention is preferably used.

[0041] The first pressing tools can be fully extended from the dies to facilitate filling and only retracted for pressing. The second pressing tools can protrude into the dies before filling or be fully retracted to form the die bottoms. During ongoing production, including between successive pressing cycles, the second pressing tools can remain at least partially retracted into the dies. Advantageously, they can be extended from the dies by means of the drive associated with the respective pressing unit to facilitate cleaning, maintenance, repair, and / or tool changes.

[0042] During ejection, the first and second pressing tools can always move synchronously in the ejection direction. Alternatively, they can execute the ejection movement with a time offset. If, as is preferred, the pressed parts are moved into the transfer position against the pressing direction of the first pressing tools, the ejection movement of the first pressing tools can begin before the ejection movement of the second pressing tools.

[0043] In the first phase of the ejection process, the first pressing tools can be moved out of the dies against their pressing direction until they reach a position where they no longer obstruct the receiving device from picking up the pressed parts. The second pressing tools remain stationary during this first phase. In a subsequent second phase, the second pressing tools are moved in the same direction within the dies until they have pressed the pressed parts into the transfer position.

[0044] In an advantageous process variant, the first and second pressing tools are moved together in the ejection direction for a portion of the ejection stroke. For example, if the ejected parts are ejected against the pressing direction of the first pressing tools, the ejection stroke of the first pressing tools begins before that of the second. This prevents any subsequent compression of the ejected parts. In an initial phase of the ejection process, the first pressing tools are preferably moved slightly against their pressing direction, so that they are released from the ejected parts and no longer press against them or even have no contact with them at all. In this process variant, the second pressing tools can also remain stationary during the initial phase.In this process variant, the first and second pressing tools can be moved synchronously in the same direction during a subsequent second ejection phase until they have pressed the pressed parts into the transfer position. The ejection movement of the first pressing tools can be continuous throughout both phases, and the ejection movement of the second pressing tools can begin while the first pressing tools continue moving. Alternatively, the first pressing tools can be stopped at the end of the first phase and only then moved together with the second pressing tools.

[0045] In another advantageous variant of the process, the first and second pressing tools are moved synchronously in the ejection direction along the entire length of the ejection stroke. In both variants, the pressing tools can secure the pressed pieces located between them during the ejection stroke against tipping over, which is particularly advantageous when the pressed pieces are free from the dies after the ejection stroke is complete.

[0046] Features of the invention are also described in the aspects formulated below. These aspects are formulated in the manner of claims and can replace them. Features disclosed in the aspects can supplement and / or qualify the claims, show alternatives to individual features, and / or extend claim features. Reference numerals in parentheses refer to an embodiment illustrated in the figures below. They do not restrict the features described in the aspects in the literal sense, but rather indicate preferred ways of implementing the respective feature. 1. Device for processing wax-like semi-finished products, preferably for pressing candles from a semi-finished product made of wax (W), the device (1) comprising: (a) a frame (2), (b) several pressing tools (13; 24) movable in and against a pressing direction (Z) with respect to the frame (2), which are designed for processing the semi-finished product (W), preferably for pressing the candles from the semi-finished product, (c) an electric motor drive (4; 15) which is designed to drive the pressing tools (13; 24) for processing the semi-finished product, and (d) a transmission (5; 16) which connects the drive (4) mechanically, preferably purely mechanically, to the pressing tools (13; 24). 2. Device according to aspect 1, wherein the transmission (5; 16) is designed to convert a drive torque of the drive (4; 15) into a pressing force for the pressing tools (13; 24). 3. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, wherein the transmission (5; 16) includes at least one lifting spindle (10,11; 21, 22) comprising a lifting spindle thread, preferably an external thread. 4. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the pressing tools (13; 24) are arranged on a force introduction structure (12; 23) and the force introduction structure (12; 23) has an engagement structure, wherein the engagement structure is coupled to the lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) such that a rotary movement of the lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) causes a translational movement of the force introduction structure (12; 23) and thus jointly of the pressing tools (13; 24) in or against the pressing direction (Z). 5. Device according to aspect 3 or aspect 4, wherein the press tools (13; 24) are arranged side by side on a force introduction structure (12; 23) and the force introduction structure (12; 23) has an engagement structure which engages with the lifting spindle thread, so that a rotary movement of the lifting spindle (10, 11; 21,22) causes a translational movement of the force application structure (12; 23) and thus jointly of the press tools (13; 24) in or against the pressing direction (Z). 6. Device according to at least one of aspects 3 to 5, wherein the press tools (13; 24) are arranged side by side on a force application structure (12; 23) and the force application structure (12; 23) has an engagement structure in the form of an internal thread, wherein the engagement structure is in thread engagement with the lifting spindle thread formed as an external thread, such that a rotational movement of the lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) in thread engagement causes a lifting movement of the force application structure (12; 23) and thus jointly of the press tools (13; 24) in or against the pressing direction (Z). 7. Device according to at least one of aspects 3 to 6, wherein (a) the transmission (5; 16) has several lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22), (b) the force introduction structure (12; 23) is designed as a press beam (12; 23),and the press beam (12; 23) has an engagement structure, preferably an internal thread, in each of its longitudinal end regions, (c) and the respective engagement structure of the press beam (12; 23) engages in a threaded connection with a lifting spindle thread of one of the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22). 8. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22) are arranged and configured such that the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22) drive the press beam (12; 23) symmetrically when a drive torque is introduced into the gearbox (5; 16) via the drive (4; 15). 9. Device according to aspect 7 or aspect 8, wherein the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22) are arranged parallel to each other. 10. Device according to at least one of aspects 7 to 9, wherein the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22) are rotatably mounted on the frame (2) such that the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21,22) are designed to guide the press beam (12; 23). 11. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, the transmission (5) comprising: (a) a first (upper left) lifting spindle (10) and a second (upper right) lifting spindle (11), which are spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction (X) transverse to the pressing direction (Z) and are each rotatably supported on the frame (2) about a spindle axis preferably parallel to the pressing direction (Z), and (b) a force application structure (12), which is movable with the first lifting spindle (10) and the second lifting spindle (10) in a threaded engagement along the respective spindle axis and thereby in and against the pressing direction (Z), (c) wherein the pressing tools (13) are arranged side by side in the lateral direction (X) on the force application structure (12) and thus supported,that the force introduction structure (12) and the press tools (13) perform movements in and against the pressing direction (Z) together (as a unit of motion). 12. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the transmission (5) is configured to drive the first lifting spindle (10) and the second lifting spindle (11) synchronously. 13. Device according to at least one of the two immediately preceding aspects, wherein the transmission (5) comprises one or more transmission shafts (7) which are coupled at a shaft input side to the electric motor drive (4) and at a first shaft output side to the first lifting spindle (10) and at a second shaft output side to the second lifting spindle (11) for the transmission of torque. 14. Device according to at least one of aspects 3 to 13, wherein the transmission (5; 16) has one or more transmission shafts (7; 18) which are configured toto transmit the drive torque of the drive (4; 15) to at least one lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) or to several lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22). 15. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the respective transmission shaft (7; 18) extends in a direction (X) transverse to the pressing direction (Z), preferably orthogonal to the pressing direction (Z). 16. Device according to at least one of aspects 13 to 15, wherein the transmission (5; 16) comprises a main deflection gear (6; 17), and the main deflection gear (6; 17) is configured to transmit the drive torque of the drive (4; 15) to the respective transmission shaft (7; 18). 17. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, wherein the transmission (5; 16) comprises a main deflection gear (6; 17), a further deflection gear (8; 19) and a transmission shaft (7; 18),which is torque-transmitting coupled at one shaft input side via the main deflection gear (6; 17) to the drive (4; 15) and at one shaft output side via the further deflection gear (8; 19) to the at least one lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22). 18. Device according to the preceding aspect in combination with aspect 11, wherein the transmission shaft (7; 18) is torque-transmitting coupled at the shaft output side to the first lifting spindle (10; 21) and at a further, second shaft output side via a further deflection gear (9; 20) to the second lifting spindle (11; 22). 19. Device according to one of aspects 1 to 17, each in combination with aspect 11, wherein the gear (5; 16) is a first transmission shaft (7),a second transmission shaft (7) and a main deflection gear (6; 17), and the main deflection gear (6; 17) is coupled to the first lifting spindle (10) by means of the first transmission shaft (7) and to the second lifting spindle (11) by means of the second transmission shaft (7) for transmitting a drive torque, wherein the first transmission shaft (7) and the second transmission shaft (7) are preferably arranged on opposite sides of the main deflection gear (6). 20. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, wherein the drive (4; 15) is attached to the frame (2). 21. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, wherein the multiple press tools (13), the drive (4) and the gear (5) are multiple first press tools (13), a first drive (4) and a first gear (5) of a first press assembly (3), preferably an upper press assembly (3),are and the device (1) comprises a second pressing unit (14), preferably a lower pressing unit (14), with several second pressing tools (24), a second drive (15), and a second gearbox (16), each according to one of the preceding aspects. 22. Device according to one of the preceding aspects, comprising a first pressing unit (3) with several first pressing tools (13), a first drive (4), and a first gearbox (5), each according to one of the preceding claims; and a second pressing unit (14) with several second pressing tools (24), a second drive (15), and a second gearbox (16), each according to one of the preceding claims. 23. Device according to one of the two immediately preceding aspects, wherein the first pressing unit (3) and the second pressing unit (14) are configured to press the semi-finished product independently of the other pressing unit (3,14) and / or by means of a coordinated sequence of movements. 24. Device according to one of the three immediately preceding aspects, wherein the first pressing device (3) and the second pressing device (14) are functionally identical. 25. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 24, wherein the first pressing device (3) and the second pressing device (14) are arranged opposite each other in the pressing direction (Z). 26. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 25, wherein the first pressing device (3) and the second pressing device (14) are configured by means of separate control of the respective drive (4; 15) to process the semi-finished product independently of the other pressing device (3, 14) and / or by means of a coordinated sequence of movements. 27. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects in each case in combination with aspect 21 or 22 and further with one of aspects 7 and 11,the second gearbox (16) comprising: (a) a third (lower left) lifting spindle (21) and a fourth (lower right) lifting spindle (22), which are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction (X) and are each rotatably supported on the frame (2) about a spindle axis preferably parallel to the pressing direction (Z), and (b) a further force application structure (23), which is movable in a threaded engagement with the third lifting spindle (21) and the fourth lifting spindle (22) along the respective spindle axis and thereby in and against the pressing direction (Z), (c) wherein the second pressing tools (24) are arranged side by side in the lateral direction (X) on the further force application structure (23) and are supported in such a way that the further force application structure (23) and the second pressing tools (24) perform movements in and against the pressing direction (Z) together (as a unit of motion). 28. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the second gear (16) is configured toto drive the third lifting spindle (21) and the fourth lifting spindle (22) synchronously. 29. Device according to at least one of the two immediately preceding aspects, wherein the second transmission (16) comprises one or more transmission shafts (18) which are coupled at a shaft input side to the second electromechanical drive (15) and at a first shaft output side to the third lifting spindle (21) and at a second shaft output side to the fourth lifting spindle (22) for the transmission of torque. 30. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 29, wherein the transmission (16) comprises a main deflection transmission (17) which is coupled by means of a transmission shaft (18) to the third lifting spindle (21) and by means of a further transmission shaft (18) to the fourth lifting spindle (22) for the transmission of the drive torque.wherein one of these two transmission shafts (18) is preferably arranged on opposite sides of the main deflection gear (17). 31. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 30, wherein the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) are configured to move the first pressing tools (13) and the second pressing tools (24) sequentially one after the other in and / or against the respective pressing direction (Z; -Z). 32. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 31, wherein the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) are configured to move the first pressing tools (13) and the second pressing tools (24) simultaneously in and / or against the respective pressing direction (Z; -Z). 33. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 32, comprising a control unit configured to34. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the control is configured to control and / or regulate the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) in a coordinated manner with respect to rotational speed and / or angular position. 35. Device according to at least one of aspects 21 to 34, comprising a control configured to control and / or regulate the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) such that the first press tools (13) and the second press tools (24) move sequentially one after the other in one phase of the press cycle and simultaneously in another phase of the press cycle in and / or against the respective pressing direction (Z; -Z). 36. Device according to at least one of the three immediately preceding aspects, wherein the control is configured toto control, and optionally regulate, the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) such that the first pressing tools (13) and the second pressing tools (24) are moved simultaneously and / or sequentially in the same direction (-Z) or in opposite directions (Z, -Z). 37. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, wherein the device has a receiving device (25) configured to receive the products manufactured from the processed semi-finished product, preferably the candles pressed from the semi-finished product, and to feed them to a conveying device, for example, a conveyor belt. 38. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the receiving device (25) is movable translationally, preferably vertically, with respect to the frame (2). 39. Device according to aspect 37 or aspect 38, wherein the receiving device (25) has an electric motor conveying drive (26).which engages with a rack (27) attached to the frame (2), such that a conveying drive torque generated by the conveying drive (26) causes a translational, preferably vertical, movement of the receiving device (25). 40. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, comprising several dies (29) arranged on the frame (2), preferably fixed to the frame (2), wherein each of the pressing tools (13; 24) is assigned exactly one of the dies (29), so that the pressing tools (13; 24) can be inserted into and / or moved within the respective assigned die (29) for pressing the semi-finished product in the pressing direction (Z). 41. Device according to the preceding aspect, wherein the dies (29) are at least partially designed as shaped tubes (29). 42. Device according to aspect 40 or aspect 41, each in combination with aspect 21 or 22,wherein the dies (29) are shaped tubes and each of the first pressing tools (13) is assigned exactly one of the dies (29), so that the first pressing tools (13) can be inserted into the respective assigned die (29) for pressing the semi-finished product in the pressing direction (Z). 43. Device according to at least one of aspects 40 to 42, each in combination with aspect 21 or 22, wherein the dies (29) are shaped tubes and each of the second pressing tools (24) is assigned exactly one of the dies (29), so that the second pressing tools (24) can be inserted into the respective assigned die (29) for pressing the semi-finished product against the pressing direction (Z) of the first pressing tools (13). 44. Device according to at least one of aspects 40 to 42, each in combination with aspect 21 or 22, wherein the dies (29) are shaped tubes and the first pressing tools (13) and the second pressing tools (24) can be inserted into one of the dies (29) in pairwise arrangement,to press the semi-finished product. 45. Device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, each in combination with aspect 40, wherein the device (1) has a hopper device (28) through which the semi-finished product in the form of bulk material (granules, powder, lentils, pastilles, and the like) can be introduced into the dies (29), and the pressing tools (13; 24) are designed to press the semi-finished product in the dies (29). 46. Method for processing a wax-like semi-finished product by means of a device with first pressing tools (13) and second pressing tools (24) and associated dies (29), preferably by means of a device according to at least one of the preceding aspects, comprising the following steps: the dies (29) are filled with the semi-finished product (W),wherein the first pressing tools (13) are extended from the dies (29) and the second pressing tools (24) each form a base of the dies (29) during filling; the first pressing tools (13) are inserted into the filled dies (29) in a pressing direction (Z); the first pressing tools (13) are moved towards the second pressing tools (24) and / or the second pressing tools (24) are moved towards the first pressing tools (24) to press the semi-finished product (W) into compacts (K) of a shape defined by the dies (29) and the pressing tools (13, 24); the first pressing tools (13) and the second pressing tools (24) are moved in an ejection direction (-Z), preferably against the pressing direction (Z) of the first pressing tools (13), to eject the compacts (K).The press parts (K) are moved until they are partially or preferably completely protruding from the dies (29) in a transfer position; and the press parts (K) in the respective transfer position are picked up by a receiving device (25) and moved out of the working area of ​​the press tools (13, 24). 47. Method according to the preceding aspect, wherein the first press tools (13) are driven in and against the pressing direction (Z) by a first electric motor drive (4) and the second press tools (24) are driven in and against the pressing direction (Z) by another, second electric motor drive (15). 48. Method according to the preceding aspect, wherein the first press tools (13) and the second press tools (24) are mechanically decoupled with respect to movement in and against the pressing direction (Z) and are controlled by an electronic control and / or regulation of the drives (4,15) are moved in and against the pressing direction (Z) in a coordinated manner. 49. Method according to at least one of the three immediately preceding aspects, wherein the device corresponds to at least one of aspects 1 to 45 in combination with aspect 21 or 22. 50. Method according to at least one of the four immediately preceding aspects, wherein, for pressing the press pieces (K), the first press tools (13) are moved towards the second press tools (24) and the second press tools (24) are moved towards the first press tools (24). 51. Method according to the preceding aspect, wherein the first press tools (13) and the second press tools (24) are moved towards each other simultaneously when pressing the semi-finished product (W). 52. Method according to at least one of the six immediately preceding aspects,wherein the first pressing tools (13) are moved against the pressing direction (Z) to eject the pressings, and the second pressing tools (24) are moved simultaneously or with a time offset against the pressing direction (Z) to press the pressings (K) into the transfer position.

[0047] An embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the figures. Features that become apparent in the embodiment, both individually and in each combination of features, advantageously further define the subject matter of the claims and the aspects described above, as well as the further embodiments described above. The figures show: Figure 1 shows a front view of a device for processing waxy semi-finished products; Figure 2 shows a side view of the device according to Figure 1 Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the device according to Figure 1Figure 4 shows a press assembly with a first press tool, a second press tool and a die that is still open on one side after being filled with a wax-like semi-finished product; Figure 5 shows the press assembly after the die has been closed; Figure 6 shows the press assembly after a pressing operation of a first variant; Figure 7 shows the press assembly after a pressing operation of a second variant; and Figure 8 shows the press assembly after an ejection stroke has been performed.

[0048] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a device 1 for processing wax-like semi-finished products, in particular for pressing candles and / or candle blanks from the respective wax semi-finished product. The device 1 comprises a frame 2, a first pressing unit 3, and a second pressing unit 14.

[0049] The first pressing device 3 has a first electric motor drive 4, several first pressing tools 13 and a first gearbox 5.

[0050] The first pressing tools 13 are movable relative to the frame 2 in a pressing direction Z and against the pressing direction Z. Preferably, they are movable purely translationally linearly back and forth in the Z direction. When the pressing tools 13 move in the pressing direction Z, they are designed to press wax-like semi-finished products, in particular wax semi-finished products, into a predetermined shape, for example, to press candles from wax semi-finished products.

[0051] The first electromechanical drive 4 is designed to drive the press tools 13. The drive 4 can be operated by a Figure 1The electronic control device (not shown) is used to control and / or regulate the movement of the press tools 13 in and / or against the pressing direction Z. When a control device or simply a "control" is mentioned, this includes both a control device and a control and regulation device. To drive the press tools 13, the electric motor drive 4 is mechanically connected to the press tools 13 via the gearbox 5, transmitting force and / or torque.

[0052] The first gearbox 5 comprises a main deflection gearbox 6. The main deflection gearbox 6 is connected at one gearbox input to the first electric motor drive 4 for power and / or torque transmission. At one gearbox output, the main deflection gearbox 6 is connected for power and / or torque transmission to a transmission shaft 7 that is rotatable relative to the frame 2. The transmission shaft 7 can extend at least substantially orthogonally to the pressing direction Z.

[0053] The transmission shaft 7 is connected on a first output side to a lateral deflection gear 8 (left in the front view) and on a second output side to a lateral deflection gear 9 (right in the front view) for power and / or torque transmission. Accordingly, the rotary motion or torque introduced into the transmission shaft 7 by the main deflection gear 6 is transmitted from the transmission shaft 7 to the left deflection gear 8 and the right deflection gear 9.

[0054] The device 1 comprises a left-hand lifting spindle 10 and a right-hand lifting spindle 11, which are each rotatable about a spindle axis relative to the frame 2. The lifting spindles 10 and 11 are preferably rigidly connected to the frame 2. Preferably, they are rotatable relative to the frame 2 only about their respective spindle axes. The left-hand reversing gear 8 couples the transmission shaft 7 to the left-hand lifting spindle 10, and the right-hand reversing gear 9 couples the transmission shaft 7 to the right-hand lifting spindle 11.

[0055] The reversing gears 8 and 9 are designed to transmit the torque of the transmission shaft 7 to the lifting spindles 10 and 11 in order to drive them in rotation. The reversing gears 8 and 9 can each, for example, comprise a bevel gear or a worm gear to transmit the torque of the transmission shaft 7 to the lifting spindles 10 and 11, which are extended at an angle to it.

[0056] The transmission shaft 7 is a continuous transmission shaft 7, extending axially from the left deflection gear 8 across the main gear 6 to the right deflection gear 9 as a single shaft. It can extend at least substantially orthogonally to the pressing direction Z.

[0057] In alternative embodiments, the device 1, in particular the first pressing unit 3, can also have several transmission shafts 7. For example, the main reversing gear 6 can have a first transmission output and a second transmission output, wherein the first transmission output is connected to a left transmission shaft and the second transmission output is connected to a right transmission shaft. The transmission shaft 7 would be divided into a left and a right transmission shaft. The left transmission shaft would be coupled to the left lifting spindle 10 via the left reversing gear 8, and the right transmission shaft would be coupled to the right lifting spindle 11 via the right reversing gear 9.

[0058] The lifting spindles 10 and 11 can be arranged at least substantially parallel to the pressing direction Z. In particular, the spindle or rotary axes of the lifting spindles 10 and 11 can extend at least substantially parallel to the pressing direction Z.

[0059] The pressing tools 13 are arranged side by side in a lateral direction X perpendicular to the pressing direction Z on a force application structure 12, which can in particular be designed as a rigid press beam 12. The force application structure 12 is movable relative to the frame 2 in and against the pressing direction Z. Preferably, it has only the translational degree of freedom relative to the frame 2 in and against the pressing direction Z. A left and a right engagement structure are provided at the respective longitudinal end regions of the force application structure 12. The left engagement structure of the force application structure 12 engages in a threaded connection with a spindle thread of the left lifting spindle 10. The right engagement structure of the force application structure 12 engages in a threaded connection with a spindle thread of the right lifting spindle 11. The spindle threads can advantageously be external threads.The engagement structures of the force application structure 12 can have corresponding internal threads. Rotary movements of the lifting spindles 10 and 11 cause, via the respective thread engagement of the direction of rotation of the lifting spindles 10 and 11, corresponding lifting movements of the force application structure 12 in or against the pressing direction Z.

[0060] The second press unit 14 has a second electric motor drive 15, additional second press tools 24 and a second gearbox 16.

[0061] The second pressing tools 24 are movable relative to the frame 2 in and against the pressing direction Z of the first pressing tools 23. When the pressing tools 24 move against the pressing direction Z of the first pressing tools 23, i.e., in the "-Z" direction, the pressing tools 24 are designed to press the semi-finished product into a predetermined shape, in particular to press candles from the semi-finished product.

[0062] The second electric motor drive 15 is designed to drive the second press tools 24. The first electric motor drive 4 and the second electric motor drive 15 can be controlled and / or regulated by the same common control unit. The control unit can be configured, in particular, to control and optionally regulate the two electric motor drives 4 and 15 in a coordinated manner.

[0063] It is advantageous if the first pressing tools 23 and the second pressing tools 24 are mechanically independent of each other with respect to the pressing direction Z, i.e., there is no mechanical coupling with respect to translation in and / or against the pressing direction Z. In such designs, coupling of the movements occurs only via the control of the drives 4 and 15. The control acts as an "electronic shaft" that ensures coordinated movements of the first and second pressing tools 13 and 24. This makes it possible to optimize the movement sequences during the pressing of the semi-finished product.Thus, the press tools 13 and 24 can be moved together in the same direction or in opposite directions and / or at the same speed or different speeds and / or, in particular, optionally simultaneously or sequentially at different times during a press cycle - from filling dies to the actual pressing and ejection of the pressed pieces.

[0064] To drive the second press tools 24, the second electromechanical drive 15 is mechanically connected to the second press tools 24 via the second gearbox 16, in particular to transmit force and / or torque.

[0065] The second transmission 16 comprises a main deflection gear 17, a transmission shaft 18, and deflection gears 19 and 20. The main deflection gear 17 is connected to the second electric motor drive 15 at one transmission input, transmitting power and / or torque. At one transmission output, the main deflection gear 17 is connected to the transmission shaft 18, also transmitting power and / or torque.

[0066] The transmission shaft 18 is connected on a first output side to a lateral deflection gear 19 (left in the front view) and on a second output side to a lateral deflection gear 20 (right in the front view) for power and / or torque transmission. Accordingly, the rotary motion or torque introduced into the transmission shaft 18 by the main deflection gear 17 is transmitted from the transmission shaft 18 to the left deflection gear 19 and the right deflection gear 20.

[0067] The second press assembly 14 comprises a left-hand lifting spindle 21 and a right-hand lifting spindle 22, which are each rotatable about a spindle axis relative to the frame 2. The lifting spindles 21 and 22 are preferably rigidly connected to the frame 2. Preferably, they are rotatable relative to the frame 2 only about their respective spindle axes. The left-hand deflection gear 19 couples the transmission shaft 18 to the left-hand lifting spindle 21, and the right-hand deflection gear 20 couples the transmission shaft 18 to the right-hand lifting spindle 22.

[0068] The redirection gears 19 and 20 are designed to transmit the torque of the transmission shaft 18 to the lifting spindles 21 and 22 in order to drive them rotationally. The redirection gears 19 and 20 can each, for example, comprise a bevel gear or a worm gear to transmit the torque of the transmission shaft 18 to the lifting spindles 21 and 22, which are extended at an angle to it.

[0069] In the exemplary embodiment, the transmission shaft 18 is a continuous transmission shaft 18, thus extending axially from the left deflection gear 19 across the main gear 17 to the right deflection gear 20 as a single shaft. It can extend at least substantially orthogonally to the pressing direction Z.

[0070] In alternative embodiments, the second press assembly 14 can also have multiple transmission shafts 18. For example, the main reversing gear 17 can have a first transmission output and a second transmission output, with the first transmission output being connected to a left transmission shaft and the second transmission output being connected to a right transmission shaft. The transmission shaft 18 would be divided into a left and a right transmission shaft. The left transmission shaft would be coupled to the left lifting spindle 21 via the left reversing gear 19, and the right transmission shaft would be coupled to the right lifting spindle 22 via the right reversing gear 20.

[0071] The lifting spindles 21 and 22 can be arranged at least substantially parallel to the pressing direction Z. In particular, the spindle or rotary axes of the lifting spindles 21 and 12 can extend at least substantially parallel to the pressing direction Z.

[0072] The second pressing tools 24 are arranged side by side in the lateral direction X on a second force application structure 23, which can be designed, in particular, as a rigid press beam 23. The force application structure 23 is movable relative to the frame 2 in and against the pressing direction Z. Preferably, it has only the translational degree of freedom relative to the frame 2 in and against the pressing direction Z. A left and a right engagement structure are provided at the respective longitudinal end regions of the second force application structure 23. The left engagement structure of the force application structure 23 engages in a threaded connection with a spindle thread of the left lifting spindle 21. The right engagement structure of the force application structure 23 engages in a threaded connection with a spindle thread of the right lifting spindle 22. The spindle threads can advantageously be external threads.The engagement structures of the force application structure 23 can have corresponding internal threads. Rotary movements of the lifting spindles 21 and 22 cause corresponding lifting movements of the force application structure 23 in or against the pressing direction Z in the respective thread engagement of the direction of rotation of the lifting spindles 21 and 22.

[0073] The device 1 comprises two storage units 31 for the semi-finished product arranged on the frame 2. In alternative embodiments, the device 1 may also have only one storage unit 31 for the semi-finished product. In principle, the device 1 does not need to be equipped with a storage unit for the semi-finished product; it can, for example, be supplied from a storage unit external to the device 1.

[0074] The device 1 comprises a receiving unit 25, which is configured to receive the pressed pieces, preferably pressed candles or candle blanks, formed by means of the pressing tools 13 and 24 and to transfer them to a conveying device. The conveying device can, for example, be a conveyor belt (not shown in the figures) that transports the pressed pieces for further processing and / or packaging.

[0075] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows the device 1 in a side view, in which the receiving device 25 is also visible.

[0076] The receiving device 25 has a drive 26, for example an electric motor drive 26, shown in the front view of the Figure 1The frame 2 consists of a left-hand rack 27, a right-hand rack 27 (as seen from the front), and several receivers for holding the pressed pieces. The receivers can be grippers for grasping the pressed pieces. The racks 27 can be rigidly connected to the frame 2.

[0077] The drive 26 of the receiving device 25, together with the receivers, is movable back and forth relative to the frame 2 parallel to the pressing direction Z, in the exemplary embodiment vertically. For this purpose, the drive 26 is connected via a drive output shaft to a left gear 30 and a right gear 30 in a torque-transmitting manner. The gears 30 are in mesh with the racks 27, so that the drive 26 and, together with it, the receivers are movable back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the racks 30 and thus parallel to the pressing direction Z.

[0078] The semi-finished product is pressed into dies 29. The dies 29 can each be formed, in particular, as a shaped tube 29. They are open at a first end, which in the exemplary embodiment is the upper end, and at a second end, which in the exemplary embodiment is the upper end, thus extending continuously in the pressing direction Z.

[0079] In Figure 3 The dies 29 are clearly visible. Each of the dies 29 is assigned exactly one pressing tool 13 of the first pressing device 3 and one pressing tool 24 of the second pressing device 14. The first pressing tools 13 are each designed to move into and out of the assigned die 29 from above. The second pressing tools 24 are each designed to move into and out of the assigned die 29 from below. The pressing tools 13 and 24 thus form the upper and lower punches of the device 1.

[0080] During ongoing production, the lower or second pressing tools 24 can always be retracted into the dies 21. The second pressing tools 24 are preferably moved only within the dies during ongoing production. They each form a base for the dies 29. The dies 29 can therefore be filled with the semi-finished product from above. The first pressing tools 13, on the other hand, move into the dies 29 from above for pressing and out of the dies 29 from above for filling.

[0081] After the dies 29 are filled, the first pressing tools 13 move into the dies 29 in the pressing direction Z and close the dies. For pressing, the first pressing tools 13 can remain stationary in a closed position, and the second pressing tools 24 can be moved towards the stationary first pressing tools 13 until the semi-finished product is pressed. Alternatively, the second pressing tools 24 can remain stationary, and the first pressing tools 13 can be moved towards the stationary second pressing tools 24 until the semi-finished product is pressed. In an advantageous third method, the first pressing tools 13 are moved in the pressing direction Z, and the second pressing tools 24 are moved against the pressing direction Z to achieve a particularly uniform microstructure for the pressed parts. In this process, the pressing tools 13 and the pressing tools 24 are moved towards each other sequentially or, preferably, simultaneously.

[0082] To fill the dies 29, the device 1 includes a hopper assembly 28. The hopper assembly 28 collects the semi-finished product falling from the semi-finished product storage containers 31 and feeds it to the dies 29. Optionally, the hopper assembly 28 can be configured to loosen the semi-finished product, which may be, for example, granular and / or powdery.

[0083] To remove the pressed pieces from the dies 29, the first pressing tools 13 are fully extended from the dies 29 against the pressing direction Z. Simultaneously or subsequently, the second pressing tools 24 can be moved in the same direction, i.e., against the pressing direction Z of the first pressing tools 13. The pressed pieces are thereby ejected by the second pressing tools 24, i.e., pressed out of the dies 29, and can be picked up by the receiving device 25 and transferred to the conveying device.

[0084] The Figures 4 to 8Figure 1 shows a pressing cycle in two variants. A pressing arrangement is shown, consisting of one of the dies 29, the associated first pressing tool 13, and the associated second pressing tool 24. This pressing arrangement represents each of the multiple pressing arrangements of the device, each formed by one of the dies 29 and the pressing tools 13 and 24 interacting with the respective die 29.

[0085] Figure 4Figure 29 shows the die 29 and its associated pressing tools 13 and 24 immediately after the die 29 has been filled with a wax-like semi-finished product W, for example, a wax powder or granules. During production, which comprises a multitude of successive pressing cycles, the second pressing tool 24 is always engaged in the die 29. For filling, the second pressing tool 24 assumes a starting position in the die 29, which, in the exemplary embodiment with upright dies 29, is a lower or bottom position in which the pressing tool 24 forms a die bottom for filling the die 29. To fill the die 29, the first pressing tool 13 was moved to a release position in which it releases the die 29 so that it can be filled with the semi-finished product W. Figure 4 The die 29 is already filled with the semi-finished product W and the first pressing tool 13 is still taking its release position.

[0086] The second pressing tool 24 is designed as a head die. It has a passage extending in the Z-direction through which a wick guide 34 extends, through which a waxed wick D projects into the pressing chamber surrounded by the die 29 and filled with the semi-finished product W. The pressing tool 24 is movable back and forth relative to the wick guide 34 in the pressing direction. The wick guide 34 can also be movable back and forth in the pressing direction or, in preferably simpler embodiments, arranged to be fixed.

[0087] After filling, the first pressing tool 13 is moved into the die 29 until it reaches a closed position, in which it is opposite the pressing tool 24 in the pressing direction Z or -Z and closes the die 29. Figure 5 This state is depicted. In the closed position, the first pressing tool 13 can be in contact with the semi-finished product W located in the die. It can also already cause a compaction of the semi-finished product W during the initial engagement.

[0088] From the in Figure 5 In the illustrated state, in which the first pressing tool 13 assumes the closed position and the second pressing tool 24 the bottom position, the semi-finished product W is pressed and thereby a pressed piece K corresponding to the shape of the die 29 and the pressing tools 13 and 24, in the exemplary embodiment a candle, is formed.

[0089] Figure 6 Figure 1 shows the press tools 13 and 24 each in a final position they assume after pressing the semi-finished product W in the die 29. Figure 6This represents a first process variant in which the first pressing tool 13 remains stationary in the closed position, and only the second pressing tool 24 is moved towards the first pressing tool 13 until the pressing process is complete and the compact K has attained its final shape. If compaction has already occurred during the closing of the die 29, this is at least the main compaction stroke, during which the greatest forces occur. This compaction stroke is performed solely by the second pressing tool 24. The compaction stroke has a stroke length H. The stroke length H is the length by which the distance between the pressing tools 13 and 24, measured in the pressing direction Z or -Z, is reduced compared to the distance between the pressing tools 13 and 24 when they are in the closed and bottom positions.

[0090] Figure 7Figure 1 shows the press tools 13 and 24 after completion of a pressing operation according to an alternative second method variant. In the second method variant, after the die 29 is closed, both the second press tool 24 and the first press tool 13 are moved towards the second press tool 24 within the die 29. The press tools 13 and 24 are thus moved towards each other. In this process, one of the press tools 13 and 24 can be moved in a first phase and the other in a subsequent second phase in the corresponding pressing direction. Alternatively, both press tools 13 and 24 can advantageously be moved towards each other simultaneously, preferably at at least substantially the same speed. The compression stroke of the stroke length H of the first method variant is divided between the press tools 13 and 24.The division can advantageously be carried out in such a way that both press tools 13 and 24 are moved towards each other over the same stroke length, i.e. each over H / 2.

[0091] In the second method variant, the state of the Figure 5 manufactured, the first pressing tool 13 is moved into the closed position, stopped, and only then moved further in the pressing direction Z in coordination with the second pressing tool 24. Alternatively, it can also be moved from the release position ( Figure 4 The first pressing tool 13 is inserted into the die and continuously moved in the pressing direction Z into and beyond the closed position without pausing in the closed position. The movement of the second pressing tool 24 in its pressing direction -Z can begin as soon as the first pressing tool 13 has reached the closed position, so that it securely closes the die 29 at the upper end.

[0092] Figure 8Figure 1 shows the arrangement after an ejection stroke, by which the compact K formed from the semi-finished product W is ejected from the die 29. With the die 29 in an upright position, the ejection stroke can be directed upwards.

[0093] For ejection, in a first phase, the first pressing tool 13 can be moved out of the die to a position where it does not obstruct the takeover by the receiving device 25. This could, for example, be the release position. Subsequently, the second pressing tool 24 performs the ejection stroke. Alternatively, the pressing tools 13 and 24 can perform the ejection stroke together. An advantage of this alternative is that the pressed part K is secured against tilting movements between the pressing tools 13 and 24 during the ejection stroke, particularly towards the end of the stroke. This can be especially advantageous for long pressed parts.The alternative can be further modified by moving only the first pressing tool 13 a small distance against its pressing direction Z in a first phase of ejection, and in a subsequent second phase moving the second pressing tool 24 together with the still extending first pressing tool 13 against the pressing direction Z, whereby in this modification it is also ensured that the pressing piece K is secured against tilting movements between the pressing tools 13 during the ejection movement.

[0094] During the ejection stroke, the second pressing tool 24 pushes the compact K far enough out of the die 29 so that the receiving device 25 can take over the compact K and move it out of the working area of ​​the pressing assembly. After taking over, the second pressing tool 24 can be retracted back to its bottom position, the wick D can be cut to the desired length, and the compact K can be moved out of the working area of ​​the pressing tools 13 and 24. The next pressing cycle can then be carried out. Reference symbol:

[0095] 1 Device 2 Frame 3 First pressing device 4 First electric motor drive 5 First gearbox 6 Main deflection gearbox 7 Transmission shaft 8 Deflection gearbox 9 Deflection gearbox 10 First lifting spindle 11 Second lifting spindle 12 Force application structure / Press beam 13 Press tools 14 Second pressing device 15 Second electric motor drive 16 Second gearbox 17 Main deflection gearbox 18 Transmission shaft 19 Deflection gearbox 20 Deflection gearbox 21 Third lifting spindle 22 Fourth lifting spindle 23 Force application structure / Press beam 24 Press tools 25 Holding device 26 Drive 27 Rack and pinion 28 Hopper device 29 Die 30 Gear 31 Semi-finished product storage 32 Wick tube X-Latitude direction Y-Depth direction Z-Pressure direction DDocht HHublänge KPressling WHalbzeug

Claims

1. Device for processing wax-like semi-finished products, preferably for pressing candles from a wax semi-finished product (W), the device (1) comprising: (a) a frame (2), (b) several pressing tools (13; 24) movable in and against a pressing direction (Z) with respect to the frame (2), which are designed for processing the semi-finished product (W), preferably for pressing the candles from the semi-finished product, (c) an electric motor drive (4; 15) which is designed to drive the pressing tools (13; 24) for processing the semi-finished product, and (d) a gearbox (5; 16) which connects the drive (4) mechanically, preferably purely mechanically, to the pressing tools (13; 24).

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission (5; 16) comprises at least one lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) with a lifting spindle thread, preferably an external thread.

3. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the pressing tools (13; 24) are arranged on a force introduction structure (12; 23) and the force introduction structure (12; 23) has an engagement structure, wherein the engagement structure is coupled to the lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) in such a way that a rotary movement of the lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) causes a translational movement of the force introduction structure (12; 23) and thus together of the pressing tools (13; 24) in or against the pressing direction (Z).

4. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein (a) the transmission (5; 16) has several lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22), (b) the force application structure (12; 23) is designed as a press beam (12; 23), and the press beam (12; 23) has an engagement structure in each of its longitudinal end regions, (c) and the respective engagement structure is in a threaded engagement with a lifting spindle thread of one of the lifting spindles (10, 11; 21, 22).

5. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, the transmission (5) comprising: (a) a first lifting spindle (10) and a second lifting spindle (11) spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction (X) transverse to the pressing direction (Z) and each rotatably supported on the frame (2) about a spindle axis preferably parallel to the pressing direction (Z), and (b) a force application structure (12) which is movable with the first lifting spindle (10) and the second lifting spindle (10) in a threaded engagement along the respective spindle axis and thereby in and against the pressing direction (Z), (c) wherein the pressing tools (13) are arranged side by side in the lateral direction (X) on the force application structure (12) and are supported in such a way that the force application structure (12) and the pressing tools (13) jointly perform movements in and against the pressing direction (Z) as a unit of motion.

6. Device according to at least one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the transmission (5; 16) has one or more transmission shafts (7; 18) which are designed to transmit the drive torque of the drive (4; 15) to the respective lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22).

7. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmission (5; 16) comprises a main deflection gear (6; 17), a further deflection gear (8; 19) and a transmission shaft (7; 18) which is coupled to the drive (4; 15) via the main deflection gear (6; 17) at a shaft input side and to the at least one lifting spindle (10, 11; 21, 22) via the further deflection gear (8; 19) at a shaft output side.

8. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising - a first pressing device (3) with several first pressing tools (13), a first drive (4) and a first gearbox (5) according to one of the preceding claims; and - a second pressing device (14) with several second pressing tools (24), a second drive (15) and a second gearbox (16) according to one of the preceding claims.

9. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the first pressing device (3) and the second pressing device (14) are designed to process the semi-finished product independently of the other pressing device (3, 14) and / or by means of a coordinated sequence of movements.

10. Device according to at least one of the two immediately preceding claims, each in combination with one of claims 4 and 5, the second gearbox (16) comprising: (a) a third lifting spindle (21) and a fourth lifting spindle (22), which are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction (X) and are each rotatably supported on the frame (2) about a spindle axis preferably parallel to the pressing direction (Z), and (b) a further force application structure (23), which is movable in a threaded engagement with the third lifting spindle (21) and the fourth lifting spindle (22) along the respective spindle axis and thereby in and against the pressing direction (Z), (c) wherein the second pressing tools (24) are arranged side by side in the lateral direction (X) on the further force application structure (23) and are supported in such a way that the further force application structure (23) and the second pressing tools (24) jointly perform movements in and against the pressing direction (Z) as a unit of motion.

11. Device according to at least one of claims 8 to 10, comprising a control system configured to control and / or regulate the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) in a coordinated manner.

12. Device according to at least one of claims 8 to 11, comprising a control system configured to control and / or regulate the first drive (4) and the second drive (15) such that the first press tools (13) and the second press tools (24) move sequentially one after the other in one phase of the press cycle and simultaneously in another phase of the press cycle in and / or against the respective press direction (Z; -Z).

13. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising several dies (29) arranged on the frame (2), preferably immovably arranged on the frame (2), wherein each of the pressing tools (13; 24) is assigned exactly one of the dies (29), so that the pressing tools (13; 24) can be inserted into and / or moved in the respective assigned die (29) for pressing the semi-finished product in the pressing direction (Z).

14. Method for processing a wax-like semi-finished product using a device with first pressing tools (13) and second pressing tools (24) and associated dies (29), preferably using a device according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: - the dies (29) are filled with the semi-finished product (W), wherein the first pressing tools (13) are extended from the dies (29) and the second pressing tools (24) each form a bottom of the dies (29) during filling; - the first pressing tools (13) are inserted into the filled dies (29) in a pressing direction (Z); - the first pressing tools (13) are moved towards the second pressing tools (24) and / or the second pressing tools (24) are moved towards the first pressing tools (24) to press the semi-finished product (W) into pressables (K) of a shape specified by the dies (29) and the pressing tools (13, 24);- The first pressing tools (13) and the second pressing tools (24) are moved to eject the press pieces (K) in an ejection direction (-Z), preferably against the pressing direction (Z) of the first pressing tools (13), until the press pieces (K) are partially or preferably completely protruding from the dies (29) in a transfer position; and - the press pieces (K) located in the respective transfer position are picked up by a receiving device (25) and moved out of the working area of ​​the pressing tools (13, 24).

15. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein, for pressing the semi-finished product (W), the first pressing tools (13) are moved towards the second pressing tools (24) and the second pressing tools (24) are moved towards the first pressing tools (24), preferably simultaneously towards each other.

Images