Molding machine

Abstract

To provide a molding machine which is low in manufacturing device cost, is short in a manufacturing cycle time, improves manufacturing environment, and saves energy.SOLUTION: A molding machine includes: a fixed die plate for holding a fixed mold; a link housing; a movable die plate which is provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate, is provided so as to be movable in a mold opening / closing direction, and holds a movable mold so as to face the fixed mold; a toggle mechanism which is provided between the link housing and the movable die plate, has a cross head and a plurality of links, and enables mold closing of the fixed mold and the movable mold; an electric cylinder which is fixed to the link housing, moves the cross head in the mold opening / closing direction, and drives the toggle mechanism; a liquid pressure cylinder which is fixed to the cross head, moves the cross head in the mold opening / closing direction, and drives the toggle mechanism; a tie bar; and an injection device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a molding machine equipped with a combined electric and hydraulic clamping device. [Background technology]

[0002] In a die-casting machine, which is an example of a molding machine, a molded product (die-cast product) is manufactured by, for example, filling a cavity in a mold clamped by a mold clamping device with molten metal by an injection device.

[0003] For example, when an electric device such as an electric cylinder is used for the mold clamping device, there are problems such as high manufacturing equipment costs due to expensive high-output motors.

[0004] Furthermore, for example, when a hydraulic device such as a hydraulic cylinder is used as a mold clamping device, there are problems such as a long production cycle time, deterioration of the production environment due to contamination of the hydraulic fluid, and large energy consumption.

[0005] Patent Document 1 describes a hybrid drive unit that combines a hydraulic drive unit and an electric drive unit. However, the hybrid drive unit of Patent Document 1 does not have an optimal structure for application to mold clamping of a molding machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5813100 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a molding machine which can realize low manufacturing equipment costs, short manufacturing cycle times, improved manufacturing environment, and energy savings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A molding machine according to one aspect of the present invention includes a base, a fixed die plate fixed onto the base and capable of holding a fixed die, a link housing fixed onto the base, and a movable die plate provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate, movable on the base in a die opening / closing direction, and capable of holding a movable die opposite the fixed die. the toggle mechanism is provided between the link housing and the movable die plate and has a crosshead and a plurality of links, some of which have one end fixed to the link housing, and is capable of clamping the fixed die and the movable die; an electric cylinder is fixed to the link housing and moves the crosshead in the die opening and closing direction to drive the toggle mechanism; a hydraulic cylinder is fixed to the crosshead and moves the crosshead in the die opening and closing direction to drive the toggle mechanism; a tie bar that can be fixed to the link housing and the fixed die plate and extends in the die opening and closing direction; and an injection device that fills molten metal into a cavity formed by the fixed die and the movable die.

[0009] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable that the electric cylinder includes a rod extending in the mold opening / closing direction and movable in the mold opening / closing direction, a nut fixed to the rod, a screw shaft passing through the nut and insertable into the rod, and a motor for rotating the screw shaft, and the hydraulic cylinder includes a cylinder tube fixed to the crosshead, and a piston provided in the cylinder tube, connected to the end of the rod on the crosshead side, and movable in the mold opening / closing direction.

[0010] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable to further include a stopper mechanism capable of controlling the suppression and permission of movement of the rod in the mold opening direction.

[0011] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable that the stopper mechanism is provided on the opposite side of the link housing to the movable die plate.

[0012] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable that the rod has a flange provided on the outer periphery of the rod, and the stopper mechanism includes a stopper member that can be inserted into the flange in the mold opening direction, an actuator that moves the stopper member in a direction perpendicular to the mold opening and closing direction, and a support member provided on the stopper member in the mold opening direction.

[0013] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable that the support member is fixed to the link housing.

[0014] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable that the distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the electric cylinder is greater than the distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the hydraulic cylinder.

[0015] In the molding machine of the above aspect, the distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening and closing direction by the electric cylinder is preferably at least five times the distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening and closing direction by the hydraulic cylinder.

[0016] In the molding machine of the above aspect, the hydraulic cylinder is preferably a hydraulic cylinder.

[0017] In the molding machine of the above aspect, it is preferable that the molding machine further comprises an extrusion device that is provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate and extrudes a molded product produced by solidifying the molten metal from the movable die. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a molding machine equipped with a mold clamping device that can realize low manufacturing equipment costs, short manufacturing cycle times, an improved manufacturing environment, and energy savings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a molding machine according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a mold clamping device of the molding machine according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a mold clamping device of the molding machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mold clamping device of the molding machine according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mold clamping device of the molding machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a molding operation of the molding machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0021] In this specification, hydraulic pressure will be used as an example of hydraulic pressure. For example, a hydraulic circuit will be used as an example of a hydraulic circuit. Instead of hydraulic pressure, for example, water pressure can be used. In addition, in this specification, hydraulic oil will be used as an example of a hydraulic fluid.

[0022] The molding machine of the embodiment is a die-casting machine. The die-casting machine 100 of the embodiment is a cold chamber type die-casting machine. The die-casting machine 100 of the embodiment is equipped with a combined electric and hydraulic clamping device.

[0023] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a molding machine of an embodiment. Fig. 1 is a side view including a cross-sectional view in part. Fig. 1 shows an initial state before the start of operation of a die-casting machine 100. In this case, the initial state is a state in which the die is fully opened, that is, a so-called die open limit state.

[0024] 2 and 3 are schematic side views of a mold clamping device of a molding machine according to an embodiment, in which Fig. 2 is a side view seen from a direction perpendicular to the mold opening / closing direction, and Fig. 3 is a side view seen from the mold opening / closing direction.

[0025] 4 and 5 are schematic cross-sectional views of the mold clamping device of the molding machine of the embodiment. Fig. 4 shows the rod of the mold clamping device in a forward limit state. Fig. 5 shows the rod of the mold clamping device in a backward limit state.

[0026] The die-casting machine 100 is a machine that manufactures die-cast products by injecting liquid metal (molten metal) into the interior of a die (cavity Ca in FIG. 1) and solidifying the liquid metal inside the die. The metal is, for example, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, a zinc alloy, or a magnesium alloy.

[0027] The die casting machine 100 comprises a base 10, guide rails 11, a fixed die plate 12, a link housing 14, a movable die plate 16, tie bars 18, tie bar nuts 19, a fixed mold 20, a movable mold 22, a mold clamping device 24, an extrusion device 26, an injection device 28, and an input display device 30.

[0028] The extrusion device 26 includes a extrusion plate 26a, an extrusion cylinder 26b, an extrusion shaft 26c, an extrusion pin support plate 26d, and an extrusion pin 26e.

[0029] The injection device 28 includes a sleeve 42, a plunger 44, an injection drive unit 46, and a position sensor 48. The plunger 44 includes a plunger tip 44a and a plunger rod 44b. The sleeve 42 is provided with an opening 42a.

[0030] The fixed die plate 12 is fixed on the base 10. A fixed die 20 can be attached to the fixed die plate 12. The fixed die plate 12 can hold the fixed die 20.

[0031] The link housing 14 is fixed onto the base 10. One end of some of the multiple links 32b included in the toggle mechanism 32 is fixed to the link housing 14.

[0032] The movable die plate 16 is provided between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The movable die plate 16 is provided on the base 10 so as to be movable in the mold opening and closing direction. The mold opening and closing direction means both the mold opening direction and the mold closing direction shown in Fig. 1 etc.

[0033] The movable die plate 16 moves in the mold opening and closing direction on a guide rail 11 provided on the base 10. A movable die 22 can be attached to the movable die plate 16. The movable die plate 16 can hold the movable die 22.

[0034] The tie bars 18 extend in the mold opening / closing direction. For example, four tie bars 18 are provided.

[0035] The tie bars 18 can be secured to the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The tie bars 18 are secured to the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12 by, for example, tie bar nuts 19. The tie bars 18 pass through the movable die plate 16.

[0036] The tie bars 18 support the clamping force while the clamping force is applied to the fixed mold 20 and the movable mold 22 .

[0037] The mold clamping device 24 includes a toggle mechanism 32, an electric cylinder 34, a hydraulic cylinder 36 (hydraulic cylinder), and a stopper mechanism 38. The mold clamping device 24 is a combined electric and hydraulic mold clamping device. The mold clamping device 24 is a hybrid mold clamping device in which the toggle mechanism 32 is driven by two types of cylinders, the electric cylinder 34 and the hydraulic cylinder 36. The hydraulic cylinder 36 is an example of a hydraulic cylinder.

[0038] The toggle mechanism 32 is provided between the link housing 14 and the movable die plate 16. The toggle mechanism 32 moves the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening and closing direction. The toggle mechanism 32 enables the fixed die 20 and the movable die 22 to be clamped together.

[0039] The toggle mechanism 32 includes a crosshead 32a, a plurality of links 32b, and a plurality of link pins 32c. One end of some of the plurality of link pins 32c is fixed to the link housing 14. The link pin 32c connects, for example, two links 32b. The link pin 32c also connects the links 32b and the crosshead 32a.

[0040] The electric cylinder 34 is fixed to the link housing 14. The electric cylinder 34 is fixed, for example, to the side of the link housing 14 opposite to the movable die plate 16.

[0041] The electric cylinder 34 moves the crosshead 32a in the mold opening / closing direction. The electric cylinder 34 drives the toggle mechanism 32. The electric cylinder 34 drives the toggle mechanism 32 by moving the crosshead 32a in the mold opening / closing direction.

[0042] 2, 3, or 4, the electric cylinder 34 includes an electric cylinder tube 34a, a rod 34b, a nut 34c, a screw shaft 34d, a motor 34e, a motor shaft 34f, a first pulley 34g, a second pulley 34h, and a belt 34i. The rod 34b has a flange 34bx.

[0043] Rotating the motor 34e rotates the second pulley 34h connected to the motor 34e by the motor shaft 34f. Rotating the second pulley 34h rotates the first pulley 34g connected to the second pulley 34h by the belt 34i.

[0044] When the first pulley 34g rotates, the threaded shaft 34d connected to the first pulley 34g rotates. The threaded shaft 34d is provided inside the electric cylinder tube 34a. The threaded shaft 34d is provided so as to be insertable into the rod 34b.

[0045] The rod 34b extends in the mold opening / closing direction. The rod 34b passes through the link housing 14. At least a portion of the rod 34b is cylindrical.

[0046] A nut 34c is fixed to the rod 34b. A screw shaft 34d passes through the nut 34c. The threads of the screw shaft 34d mesh with the threads of the nut 34c. The rotation of the screw shaft 34d moves the rod 34b in the mold opening / closing direction.

[0047] The hydraulic cylinder 36 is fixed to the crosshead 32a. The hydraulic cylinder 36 is provided, for example, on the opposite side of the crosshead 32a to the fixed die plate 12.

[0048] The hydraulic cylinder 36 drives the toggle mechanism 32. The hydraulic cylinder 36 drives the toggle mechanism 32 by moving the crosshead 32a in the mold opening and closing direction.

[0049] 2, 4, or 5, the hydraulic cylinder 36 includes a hydraulic cylinder tube 36a, a piston 36b, a head side hydraulic oil hole 36c, and a rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d. The hydraulic cylinder tube 36a is an example of a cylinder tube.

[0050] The hydraulic cylinder tube 36a is fixed to the crosshead 32a. At least a portion of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a has a cylindrical shape.

[0051] The piston 36b is provided in the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a. The piston 36b is connected to the end of the rod 34b on the crosshead 32a side. The piston 36b can move in the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a in the mold opening and closing direction by using a hydraulic circuit (not shown).

[0052] The head side hydraulic oil hole 36c communicates between the inside and outside of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a. The head side hydraulic oil hole 36c communicates between the head side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a and the outside.

[0053] The rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d communicates between the inside and outside of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a. The rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d communicates between the rod side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a and the outside.

[0054] The area inside the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a on the crosshead 32a side of the piston 36b is referred to as a head side chamber, and the area inside the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a on the rod 34b side of the piston 36b is referred to as a rod side chamber.

[0055] Hydraulic oil can be supplied to the head side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a from a hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the head side hydraulic oil hole 36c. Hydraulic oil can also be discharged from the head side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a to the hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the head side hydraulic oil hole 36c.

[0056] Hydraulic oil can be supplied to the rod side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a from a hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d. Hydraulic oil can also be discharged from the rod side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a to a hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d.

[0057] In the die casting machine 100 of the embodiment, the distance over which the crosshead 32a can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the electric cylinder 34 is greater than the distance over which the crosshead 32a can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the hydraulic cylinder 36. The distance over which the crosshead 32a can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the electric cylinder 34 is, for example, five times or more the distance over which the crosshead 32a can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the hydraulic cylinder 36.

[0058] The stopper mechanism 38 is fixed to the link housing 14. The stopper mechanism 38 is provided on the link housing 14 on the opposite side to the movable die plate 16. The stopper mechanism 38 is provided on the link housing 14 on the opposite side to the crosshead 32a.

[0059] The stopper mechanism 38 can control the restraint and permission of the movement of the rod 34b in the mold opening direction. The stopper mechanism 38 has a function of controlling the restraint and permission of the movement of the rod 34b in the mold opening direction.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, or FIG. 4, the stopper mechanism 38 includes a stopper member 38a, an actuator 38b, and a support member 38c.

[0061] The stopper member 38a can be inserted in the mold opening direction of the flange 34bx of the rod 34b. The stopper member 38a can move in a direction perpendicular to the mold opening / closing direction. The stopper member 38a is, for example, a plate-shaped member.

[0062] The actuator 38b moves the stopper member 38a in a direction perpendicular to the mold opening / closing direction. The actuator 38b is, for example, an air cylinder, an electric cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0063] The support member 38c is fixed to the link housing 14. A part of the support member 38c is provided in the mold opening direction of the stopper member 38a. The support member 38c suppresses the movement of the stopper member 38a in the mold opening direction, thereby suppressing the movement of the rod 34b in the mold opening direction.

[0064] The extrusion device 26 is provided between the link housing 14 and the fixed die plate 12. The extrusion device 26 is fixed to the movable die plate 12. The extrusion device 26 has a function of pushing out, from the movable die 22, a die-cast product produced by solidifying the molten metal.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 1, the extrusion device 26 includes a extrusion plate 26a, an extrusion cylinder 26b, an extrusion shaft 26c, an extrusion pin support plate 26d, and extrusion pins 26e.

[0066] The ejection plate 26a is moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the ejection cylinder 26b, which is, for example, an electric cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0067] The ejection shaft 26c has one end fixed to the ejection plate 26a and the other end fixed to the ejection pin support plate 26d. The ejection shaft 26c penetrates the movable die plate 16.

[0068] The ejection pin 26e has one end fixed to the ejection plate 26a. The ejection pin 26e pushes the die-cast product in the die closing direction, thereby ejecting the die-cast product from the movable die 22.

[0069] The injection device 28 has a function of injecting liquid metal (molten metal) into a cavity Ca inside the mold. The injection device 28 has a sleeve 42, a plunger 44, an injection drive unit 46, and a position sensor 48. The plunger 44 includes a plunger tip 44a and a plunger rod 44b. The sleeve 42 is provided with an opening 42a.

[0070] The sleeve 42 communicates with the inside of the fixed mold 20. The sleeve 42 is, for example, a tubular member connected to the fixed mold 20. The sleeve 42 is, for example, cylindrical in shape.

[0071] The plunger 44 slides inside the sleeve 42. A plunger tip 44a fixed to the tip of a plunger rod 44b slides in the front-rear direction inside the sleeve 42. As the plunger tip 44a slides forward inside the sleeve 42, the molten metal in the sleeve 42 is filled into a cavity Ca formed by the fixed die 20 and the movable die 22.

[0072] The injection drive unit 46 has a function of driving the plunger 44 in the forward and backward directions. The injection drive unit 46 is, for example, a hydraulic type, an electric type, or a hybrid type that combines the hydraulic type and the electric type.

[0073] The position sensor 48 has a function of detecting the position of the plunger 44. The position sensor 48 is, for example, an optical or magnetic linear encoder. By differentiating the position of the plunger 44 detected by the position sensor 48, it is possible to detect the speed of the plunger 44.

[0074] The input display device 30 is provided, for example, on the fixed die plate 12. The input display device 30 accepts, for example, an input operation from an operator. The operator can set molding conditions and the like of the die casting machine 100 using the input display device 30. In addition, the input display device 30 displays, for example, the molding conditions and operating status of the die casting machine 100 on a screen. The input display device 30 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

[0075] Next, a molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 to Fig. 18. Fig. 6 is a flow diagram of the molding operation of the molding machine of the embodiment. Fig. 7 to Fig. 18 are explanatory diagrams of the molding operation using the molding machine of the embodiment.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 6, the molding operation of the die-casting machine 100 of the embodiment includes an initial state step (S01), a movable die plate advance step (S02), a rod fixing step (S03), a mold clamping start step (S04), an injection operation step (S05), a mold clamping end step (S06), a rod release step (S07), a movable die plate retreat step (S08), and an extrusion step (S09).

[0077] In the initial state step (S01), the die casting machine 100 is in the initial state (FIGS. 7 and 8). The initial state is a so-called die open limit state. In the initial state, the crosshead 32a is in a position closest to the link housing 14.

[0078] In the initial state, the stopper member 38a is maintained at a position separated from the rod 34b by the actuator 38b as shown in Fig. 8. The stopper mechanism 38 is in a state that allows the movement of the rod 34b in the mold opening direction.

[0079] In the initial state, the piston 36b of the hydraulic cylinder 36 is, for example, located at a position closest to the crosshead 32a. In the initial state, the rod side chamber is filled with hydraulic oil.

[0080] Next, in a movable die plate advancement step (S02), the movable die plate 16 is advanced in the mold closing direction (FIGS. 9 and 10). By advancing the movable die plate 16 in the mold closing direction, the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20 come into contact with each other.

[0081] The movable die plate 16 is moved by using the mold clamping device 24. The movable die plate 16 is moved by using a toggle mechanism 32. The toggle mechanism 32 is driven by using an electric cylinder 34. The toggle mechanism 32 is driven by moving a crosshead 32a in the mold closing direction by using the electric cylinder 34.

[0082] 10, by rotating the motor 34e, the second pulley 34h connected to the motor 34e by the motor shaft 34f rotates. By rotating the second pulley 34h, the first pulley 34g connected to the second pulley 34h by the belt 34i rotates.

[0083] When the first pulley 34g rotates, the screw shaft 34d connected to the first pulley 34g rotates, and when the screw shaft 34d rotates, the rod 34b moves in the mold closing direction.

[0084] As the rod 34b moves in the mold closing direction, the crosshead 32a moves in the mold closing direction, and the toggle mechanism 32 extends in the mold closing direction. When the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20 come into contact with each other, the movement of the movable die plate 16 using the electric cylinder 34 stops.

[0085] Next, in the rod fixing step (S03), the movement of the rod 34b in the mold opening direction is suppressed using the stopper mechanism 38 (FIG. 11). In the rod fixing step (S03), the stopper mechanism 38 is used to fix the rod 34b so that it does not move in the mold opening direction.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 11, the actuator 38b is used to move the stopper member 38a in the direction toward the rod 34b. The stopper member 38a is inserted in the mold opening direction of the flange 34bx of the rod 34b. The rod 34b is fixed so as not to move in the mold opening direction by the stopper member 38a and the support member 38c provided in the mold opening direction of the stopper member 38a.

[0087] Next, in a mold clamping start step (S04), mold clamping is performed using the toggle mechanism 32 (FIG. 12). A mold clamping force is applied between the fixed mold 20 and the movable mold 22.

[0088] The movable die plate 16 is moved in the mold closing direction by using a toggle mechanism 32, and clamps the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20. The movable die plate 16 is moved in the mold closing direction by using a hydraulic cylinder 36. Clamping of the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20 is performed by using the hydraulic cylinder 36.

[0089] As shown in Fig. 12, hydraulic oil is supplied to the head side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a from a hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the head side hydraulic oil hole 36c. The hydraulic oil in the rod side chamber is discharged to the hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d.

[0090] When the crosshead 32a moves in the mold closing direction, the toggle mechanism 32 extends in the mold closing direction, and the movable mold 22 and the fixed mold 20 are clamped together. The reaction force applied to the rod 34b is supported by the stopper mechanism 38.

[0091] Next, in an injection operation step (S05), an injection operation is performed using the injection device 28 (FIG. 13). Specifically, for example, a ladle (not shown) or the like is used to supply molten metal into the sleeve 42 from the opening 42a. Then, the plunger tip 44a is advanced within the sleeve 42 to fill the molten metal into the cavity Ca in the die. The molten metal filled into the cavity Ca in the die solidifies to produce a die-cast product 90.

[0092] Next, in a mold clamping completion step (S06), mold clamping is completed using the toggle mechanism 32 (FIG. 14). A state is reached in which no mold clamping force is applied between the fixed mold 20 and the movable mold 22.

[0093] The movable die plate 16 is moved in the mold opening direction by using the toggle mechanism 32, and the clamping of the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20 is completed. The movable die plate 16 is moved in the mold opening direction by using a hydraulic cylinder 36. The clamping of the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20 is completed by using the hydraulic cylinder 36.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 14, hydraulic oil is supplied to the rod side chamber of the hydraulic cylinder tube 36a from a hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the rod side hydraulic oil hole 36d. The hydraulic oil in the head side chamber is discharged to the hydraulic circuit (not shown) through the head side hydraulic oil hole 36c.

[0095] As the crosshead 32a moves in the mold opening direction, the toggle mechanism 32 contracts in the mold opening direction, and the clamping of the movable mold 22 and the fixed mold 20 is completed.

[0096] Next, in a rod releasing step (S07), the stopper mechanism 38 is used to allow the rod 34b to move in the mold opening direction (FIG. 15). In the rod releasing step (S07), the stopper mechanism 38 is used to allow the rod 34b to move in the mold opening direction.

[0097] 15, the actuator 38b is used to move the stopper member 38a in a direction away from the rod 34b. The stopper member 38a, which has been inserted in the mold opening direction of the flange 34bx of the rod 34b, moves away from the flange 34bx.

[0098] Next, in a movable die plate retraction step (S08), the movable die plate 16 is retracted in the mold opening direction (FIGS. 16 and 17). By retracting the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening direction, the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20, which had been in contact with each other, are separated from each other.

[0099] The movable die plate 16 is moved by using the mold clamping device 24. The movable die plate 16 is moved by using a toggle mechanism 32. The toggle mechanism 32 is driven by using an electric cylinder 34. The toggle mechanism 32 is driven by moving a crosshead 32a in the mold opening direction by using the electric cylinder 34.

[0100] 17, by rotating the motor 34e, the second pulley 34h connected to the motor 34e by the motor shaft 34f rotates. By the rotation of the second pulley 34h, the first pulley 34g connected to the second pulley 34h by the belt 34i rotates.

[0101] When the first pulley 34g rotates, the screw shaft 34d connected to the first pulley 34g rotates. When the screw shaft 34d rotates, the rod 34b moves in the mold opening direction. At this time, the stopper mechanism 38 allows the rod 34b to move in the mold opening direction. Therefore, the flange 34bx does not come into contact with the stopper member 38a and can pass through the stopper mechanism 38.

[0102] When the rod 34b moves in the mold opening direction, the crosshead 32a moves in the mold opening direction and the toggle mechanism 32 contracts in the mold opening direction. For example, when the link housing 14 and the hydraulic cylinder 36 come into contact with each other, the movement of the movable die plate 16 in the mold opening direction using the electric cylinder 34 stops.

[0103] Next, in a push-out step (S09), the die-cast product 90 is pushed out using the push-out device 26 (FIG. 18). Specifically, the push-out plate 26a is moved in the mold closing direction using the push-out cylinder 26b. By moving the push-out plate 26a in the mold closing direction, the push-out shaft 26c, the push-out pin support plate 26d, and the push-out pin 26e move in the mold closing direction.

[0104] The ejector pin 26e ejects the die-cast product 90 from the movable die 22. The die-cast product 90 ejected from the movable die 22 is picked up by, for example, a robot arm (not shown).

[0105] The above molding operation produces the die-cast product 90. To produce the next die-cast product, the above molding operation can be repeated.

[0106] The movable die plate retraction step (S08) and the push-out step (S09) may be performed in parallel to shorten the cycle time of the molding operation. The movable die plate retraction step (S08) uses the mold clamping device 24, and the push-out step (S09) uses the push-out device 26, which is separate from the mold clamping device 24. Therefore, the movable die plate retraction step (S08) and the push-out step (S09) can be performed in parallel.

[0107] Next, the operation and effects of the molding machine of the embodiment will be described.

[0108] In a die-casting machine, for example, a cavity in a die clamped by a mold clamping device is filled with molten metal by an injection device to manufacture a molded product (die-cast product). It is desirable for the die-casting machine to achieve reduced manufacturing equipment costs, short manufacturing cycle times, improved manufacturing environments, and energy savings.

[0109] For example, when an electric device such as an electric cylinder is used for the mold clamping device, there are problems such as high manufacturing equipment costs and large energy consumption due to an expensive high-output motor.

[0110] Furthermore, when a hydraulic device such as a hydraulic cylinder is used as the mold clamping device, there are problems such as a long production cycle time, deterioration of the production environment due to contamination of the hydraulic fluid, and large energy consumption.

[0111] The mold clamping device 24 of the die casting machine 100 of the embodiment is a hybrid mold clamping device that combines an electric type and a hydraulic type. The mold clamping device 24 is a hybrid type mold clamping device that drives the toggle mechanism 32 using two types of cylinders, an electric cylinder 34 and a hydraulic cylinder 36.

[0112] The mold clamping device 24 of the die casting machine 100 uses an electric cylinder 34 to move the movable die plate 16 until the movable die 22 and the fixed die 20 come into contact with each other. That is, the electric cylinder 34 is used for operations in which the load on the mold clamping device 24 is small.

[0113] Since the load on the mold clamping device 24 is small, an expensive high-output motor is not required. Therefore, the manufacturing equipment cost can be reduced. Furthermore, the electric cylinder 34 has a higher responsiveness than a hydraulic cylinder. Therefore, the time required to move the movable die plate 16 is shortened, and a short manufacturing cycle time can be achieved. Furthermore, since a high-output motor that consumes a lot of power is not required, energy savings can be achieved.

[0114] The mold clamping device 24 of the die casting machine 100 uses a hydraulic cylinder 36 to clamp the movable mold 22 and the fixed mold 20. That is, the hydraulic cylinder 36 is used in operations in which the load on the mold clamping device 24 is large.

[0115] Since the distance over which the movable die plate 16 is moved by the hydraulic cylinder 36 is extremely short, the hydraulic cylinder 36 can be made smaller, and the amount of hydraulic oil can be significantly reduced. This reduces hydraulic fluid contamination, improving the manufacturing environment. In addition, the hydraulic circuit that drives the hydraulic cylinder 36 can be made smaller, which contributes to energy savings.

[0116] As described above, according to the embodiment, a molding machine can be provided that can realize low manufacturing equipment costs, short manufacturing cycle times, improved manufacturing environment, and energy savings.

[0117] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. In the embodiments, the description of the molding machine and other parts that are not directly necessary for the description of the present invention is omitted, but the necessary elements related to the molding machine and other parts can be appropriately selected and used.

[0118] In the embodiment, a die-casting machine has been described as an example of a molding machine, but the present invention can also be applied to an injection molding machine or the like.

[0119] In addition, all molding machines that are equipped with the elements of the present invention and that can be appropriately modified by a person skilled in the art are included in the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 10 Base 11 Guide rail 12 Fixed die plate 14 Link housing 16 Movable die plate 18 Tie bar 19 Tie bar nut 20 Fixed mold 22 Movable mold 24 Mold clamping device 26 Extrusion Equipment 26a Extrusion plate 26b Extrusion cylinder 26c Extrusion shaft 26d Ejector pin support plate 26e Extrusion pin 28 Injection device 30 Input display device 32 Toggle Mechanism 32a Crosshead 32b Link 32c multiple link pins 34 Electric Cylinder 34a Electric Cylinder Tube 34b Rod 34bx flange 34c Nut 34d Screw shaft 34e Motor 34f Motor shaft 34g 1st pulley 34h 2nd pulley 34i Belt 36 Hydraulic cylinder (hydraulic cylinder) 36a Hydraulic cylinder tube (cylinder tube) 36b Piston 36c Head side hydraulic oil hole 36d Rod side hydraulic oil hole 38 Stopper mechanism 38a Stopper member 38b Actuator 38c Support member 42 Sleeve 42a opening 44 Plunger 44a Plunger Tip 44b Plunger rod 46 Injection drive unit 48 Position Sensor 100 Die casting machine (molding machine) Ca cavity

Claims

1. With the base, a stationary die plate fixed on the base and capable of holding a stationary die; a link housing fixed onto the base; a movable die plate provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate, movable on the base in a die opening / closing direction, and capable of holding a movable die opposite to the fixed die; a toggle mechanism provided between the link housing and the movable die plate, the toggle mechanism having a crosshead and a plurality of links, some of which have one end fixed to the link housing, and capable of clamping the fixed die and the movable die; an electric cylinder fixed to the link housing, which moves the crosshead in the mold opening / closing direction and drives the toggle mechanism; a hydraulic cylinder fixed to the crosshead, for moving the crosshead in the mold opening / closing direction and for driving the toggle mechanism; a tie bar that can be fixed to the link housing and the fixed die plate and extends in the die opening / closing direction; an injection device that fills a molten metal into a cavity formed by the fixed die and the movable die; A molding machine comprising:

2. The electric cylinder is a rod extending in the mold opening / closing direction and movable in the mold opening / closing direction; A nut fixed to the rod; A screw shaft that passes through the nut and is insertable into the rod; A motor that rotates the screw shaft, The hydraulic cylinder is A cylinder tube fixed to the crosshead; a piston provided in the cylinder tube, connected to an end of the rod on the crosshead side, and movable in the mold opening / closing direction; 2. The molding machine according to claim 1.

3. 3. The molding machine according to claim 2, further comprising a stopper mechanism capable of controlling the suppression and permission of the movement of the rod in the mold opening direction.

4. 4. The molding machine according to claim 3, wherein the stopper mechanism is provided on a side of the link housing opposite to the movable die plate.

5. The rod has a flange provided on an outer periphery of the rod, 5. The molding machine according to claim 4, wherein the stopper mechanism includes a stopper member that can be inserted into the flange in the mold opening direction, an actuator that moves the stopper member in a direction perpendicular to the mold opening and closing direction, and a support member provided in the mold opening direction of the stopper member.

6. 6. The molding machine according to claim 5, wherein the support member is fixed to the link housing.

7. 2. The molding machine according to claim 1, wherein a distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the electric cylinder is greater than a distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the hydraulic cylinder.

8. 8. The molding machine according to claim 7, wherein the distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the electric cylinder is at least five times the distance over which the crosshead can be moved in the mold opening / closing direction by the hydraulic cylinder.

9. 2. The molding machine according to claim 1, wherein the hydraulic cylinder is a hydraulic cylinder.

10. 2. The molding machine according to claim 1, further comprising an extrusion device provided between the link housing and the fixed die plate for extruding a molded product produced by solidifying the molten metal from the movable die.

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