Injection device, and machine and system for molding

Abstract

To improve the quality of a molded article.SOLUTION: An injection device 9 comprises a sleeve drive unit 19 and a plunger drive unit 21. The sleeve drive unit 19 moves an upper split sleeve 107d positioned above a lower part 107f of the injection sleeve 107 for vertical injection, the injection sleeve 107 communicating with a metal mold 101 from below, in a horizontal direction different from a mold opening / closing direction. This allows the sleeve drive unit 19 to unite and separate the upper split sleeve 107d with and from a main body 107e including the lower part 107f of the injection sleeve 107. The plunger drive unit 21 moves up the plunger 109 within the injection sleeve 107 configured by uniting the upper split sleeve 107d with the main body 107e to which molten metal is to be poured through a region opened by a separation of the upper split sleeve 107d.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an injection device that injects a molding material into a mold, a molding machine (e.g., a die-casting machine) including the injection device, and a molding system including the molding machine. The molding material is, for example, a metal material in a molten (liquid) state (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "molten metal"). [Background technology]

[0002] Vertical injection type injection devices are known that push molten metal in an injection sleeve that communicates with the mold from below upward to inject the molten metal into the mold (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 4). In Patent Documents 1 to 4, the mold is opened and closed in a horizontal direction. In Patent Documents 1, 2, and 4, the injection sleeve has a pair of split sleeves that separate and combine as the mold is opened and closed. In Patent Document 3, the injection sleeve has a pair of split sleeves as described above and a small sleeve that is detachably attached to the upper end of the pair of split sleeves. Patent Document 5 relates to horizontal injection, but discloses a pair of split sleeves.

[0003] The injection sleeve described above is supplied with molten metal after the split sleeves are combined. In Patent Documents 1 and 3 to 5, the molten metal is supplied through a feed pipe connected to one of the split sleeves. In Patent Document 2, the molten metal is poured into an opening above the injection sleeve while the injection sleeve is spaced downward from the mold. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-108806 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-99958 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-150254 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-15417 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-126414 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is anticipated that an injection device, a molding machine, and a molding system will be provided that will facilitate improvement in the quality of molded products. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An injection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure has a sleeve drive unit that moves an upper split sleeve located above the lower portion of an injection sleeve for vertical injection that leads into a mold from below, in a horizontal direction different from the mold opening / closing direction, thereby combining and separating the upper split sleeve with a main body portion that includes the lower portion of the injection sleeve, and a plunger drive unit that moves a plunger upward inside the injection sleeve formed by combining the upper split sleeve with the main body portion into which molding material is poured through the area created by the separation of the upper split sleeve.

[0007] A molding machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the injection device and a mold clamping device that opens, closes, and clamps the mold.

[0008] A molding system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the molding machine described above and a supply device that supplies the molding material to the injection sleeve. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the above configuration, it is easy to improve the quality of the molded product. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view showing the configuration of a main part of a die casting machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2(a), 2(b), and 2(c) are perspective views showing the configuration of an injection sleeve in the die casting machine of FIG. [Figure 3] 3(a), 3(b), and 3(c) are cross-sectional views of the die and its surrounding area in the die-casting machine of FIG. [Figure 4] 4(a) and 4(b) are views of the fixed die and its surrounding area in the die casting machine of FIG. 1 as viewed from the movable die. [Figure 5] 5(a), 5(b), and 5(c) are perspective views showing the configuration of an injection sleeve according to another example. [Figure 6] 2 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a molding process executed by the die-casting machine of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a hot water supply system according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] For aspects that are described relatively later among the multiple aspects, only differences from the previously described aspects will be described. Matters not specifically mentioned may be considered to be the same as or inferred from the previously described aspects. Furthermore, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals may be used to refer to corresponding configurations in multiple aspects, even if there are differences.

[0012] The drawings used in the following description are schematic. Therefore, for example, details may be omitted, or specific shapes and / or dimensions may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the detailed configurations may not match between drawings. However, the above does not deny that features such as shapes and / or dimensions may be extracted based on the drawings.

[0013] For convenience, the drawings are illustrated with a Cartesian coordinate system D1D2D3, and terms such as D1 direction, D2 direction, and D3 direction are sometimes used. The D1 direction and D2 direction are horizontal directions, and the D3 direction is vertical direction. In the description of the embodiments, unless a contradiction arises, the terms "D1 direction" and "D2 direction" may be replaced with "lateral direction" or "horizontal direction," respectively, and the term "D3 direction" may be replaced with "vertical direction," "up-down direction," or "vertical direction."

[0014] The "horizontal direction" used in describing the mold opening / closing direction, etc., includes not only the horizontal direction but also angles inclined at an angle of less than 45° to the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the "vertical direction" used in describing the injection direction, etc., includes not only the vertical direction (direction of gravity) but also angles inclined at an angle of less than 45° to the vertical direction. Note that the upper limit of the inclination angle in the "horizontal direction" and "vertical direction" may be 30°, 20°, or 10° instead of 45°.

[0015] The term "split" used in describing the injection sleeve is intended to describe the configuration of the injection sleeve itself, not the manufacturing process of the injection sleeve. For example, when the injection sleeve is said to be split into a first split sleeve and a second split sleeve, it does not mean that the injection sleeve is integrally formed during the manufacturing process and is split (although it may be manufactured that way). The first split sleeve and the second split sleeve may be manufactured separately from the beginning.

[0016] The term "separated" used to describe the multiple split sleeves that make up the injection sleeve refers to the multiple split sleeves moving relative to the cylindrical injection sleeve (the multiple split sleeves being "united"). Therefore, for example, when two split sleeves are said to be separated, they may be partially in contact with each other (they do not need to be completely separated).

[0017] (Outline of the embodiment) 1 is a side view (partially including a cross-sectional view) showing the configuration of a die-casting machine 1 (a molding machine in a broader sense) included in a molding system MS according to an embodiment. In addition to the die-casting machine 1, the molding system MS also includes, for example, a hot water supply system 51 shown in FIG. 7, which will be described later.

[0018] The die-casting machine 1 produces a die-cast product (a molded product in a general concept) by filling a mold 101 with molten metal ML (see FIG. 3(b) or, in a general concept, a molding material).

[0019] Figures 3(a) to 3(c) are enlarged views of the die 101 and its surrounding area in Figure 1, showing different states. As shown in Figures 3(b) and 3(c), the die-casting machine 1 is of a vertical injection type. That is, the molten metal ML in the injection sleeve 107 extending vertically is pushed upward by the plunger 109, thereby filling the die 101.

[0020] Figures 2(a) to 2(c) are perspective views showing the injection sleeve 107. Figures 2(a), 2(b), and 2(c) correspond to Figures 3(a), 3(b), and 3(c), respectively.

[0021] As shown in Figures 2(a) to 2(c), the injection sleeve 107 includes, for example, three members. Specifically, the injection sleeve 107 is divided in the mold opening / closing direction (direction D1), and includes a first divided sleeve 107a and a second divided sleeve 107b, as indicated by the reference numerals in Figures 2(a) and 2(c). Furthermore, the first divided sleeve 107a is divided in the vertical direction (the vertical direction from another perspective), and includes a lower divided sleeve 107c and an upper divided sleeve 107d.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2(b), when the upper split sleeve 107d is separated from the injection sleeve 107, the first split sleeve 107a and the lower split sleeve 107c form a main body 107e that has a cylindrical shape with a portion of the top cut out. The portion of the main body 107e below the area (hereinafter referred to as "sleeve void 107s") created by the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d is referred to as a lower portion 107f. As shown in Figure 3(b), the main body 107e can contain molten metal ML by having its lower end closed by a plunger 109.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2(b), the die-casting machine 1 moves the upper split sleeve 107d laterally (in the direction D2), which is different from the mold opening / closing direction, to separate it from the main body 107e. As shown in Figure 3(b), the molten metal supply system 51 pours molten metal into the main body 107e through the area (sleeve void 107s) created by the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d. Thereafter, as shown in Figures 2(c) and 3(c), the die-casting machine 1 combines the upper split sleeve 107d with the main body 107e, and then raises the plunger 109 to perform injection.

[0024] Therefore, for example, molten metal can be poured into main body portion 107e through sleeve cavity 107s. From another perspective, after pouring the molten metal, by closing sleeve cavity 107s with upper divided sleeve 107d, the space from injection sleeve 107 to mold 101 can be sealed. As a result, for example, it is not necessary to connect the molten metal supply system 51 to the injection sleeve 107 so that the space from the molten metal supply system 51 to the injection sleeve 107 is sealed.

[0025] More specifically, the hot water supply pipe 65 (FIG. 7) of the hot water supply system 51 does not have to be connected to the injection sleeve 107. This reduces the likelihood that the impact of the injection will be transmitted to the hot water supply pipe 65, compared to a connected configuration. As a result, for example, a material with low impact resistance, such as ceramic, can be selected for the hot water supply pipe 65, increasing the degree of freedom in design. From another perspective, the injection speed can be increased. Increasing the injection speed improves quality and / or shortens the cycle time.

[0026] Because the direction of movement of the upper split sleeve 107d intersects with the mold opening / closing direction, for example, when combining the upper split sleeve 107d with the main body 107e into which molten metal has been poured, the upper split sleeve 107d can be moved between the closed fixed mold 103 and the movable mold 105 (or, from another perspective, the second split sleeve 107b). As a result, for example, mold clamping can be performed immediately after supplying molten metal. Furthermore, during mold clamping, the fixed mold 103 can press the upper split sleeve 107d against the second split sleeve 107b, improving airtightness.

[0027] The above is an overview of the molding system MS according to the embodiment. The following will explain the embodiment in the following order: 1. Die casting machine 1.1. Die-casting machines in general (Fig. 1) 1.2.Injection unit in general 1.3. Injection sleeve and sleeve drive unit (Figs. 2(a) to 4(b)) 1.4. Other Examples of Injection Sleeves (Figs. 5(a) to 5(c)) 1.5. Gutter and gutter drive unit (Fig. 1 and Fig. 3(a) to Fig. 3(c)) 1.6. Operation of the die casting machine (Fig. 6) 2. Hot water supply system (Figure 7) 3. Summary of embodiments

[0028] (1. Die-casting machine) (1.1. Die casting machines in general) The die-casting machine 1 may have various configurations, for example, it may be similar to a known configuration. Note that the description of configurations and operations that may be known will be omitted as appropriate. The die-casting machine 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is of a horizontal clamping, vertical injection type. That is, the mold opening / closing direction and mold clamping direction are horizontal, and the injection direction is vertical. The type of metal molded by the die-casting machine 1 is arbitrary, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0029] The mold 101 is basically made of metal, for example, and has a fixed mold 103 and a movable mold 105 that moves in the mold opening / closing direction relative to the fixed mold 103. A cavity is formed between the two and is filled with molten metal ML. In FIG. 1 and other figures, for convenience, the cross section of the fixed mold 103 or the movable mold 105 is shown with a single type of hatching. However, these molds may be of a direct engraving type or a nesting type. Furthermore, a core or the like may be combined with the fixed mold 103 and the movable mold 105. Note that the mold 101 is replaceable by the user, and therefore may be considered either as being separate from or as being part of the die-casting machine 1.

[0030] The die-casting machine 1 has, for example, a machine main body 3 that performs mechanical operations for molding, a controller 5 that controls the operation of the machine main body 3, and an interface 13 that acts as an intermediary between the controller 5 and an operator. The machine main body 3 has, for example, a mold clamping device 7 that opens, closes, and clamps a mold 101, an injection device 9 that injects molten metal into the clamped mold 101, and an extrusion device 11 that extrudes the die-cast product from a fixed mold 103 or a movable mold 105 (movable mold 105 in FIG. 1).

[0031] In a molding cycle, the mold clamping unit 7 moves the movable mold 105 toward the fixed mold 103 to close the mold. Furthermore, the mold clamping unit 7 applies a clamping force to the mold 101 according to the extension amount of the tie bars (reference numerals omitted) to clamp the mold. The injection unit 9 injects and fills the cavity of the clamped mold 101 with molten metal. The filled molten metal loses heat to the mold 101, is cooled, and solidifies. In other words, the molten metal becomes a molded product. Thereafter, the mold clamping unit 7 moves the movable mold 105 in a direction away from the fixed mold 103 to open the mold. At this time, or thereafter, the extrusion unit 11 extrudes the molded product from the movable mold 105.

[0032] The mold clamping device 7 may have any configuration. For example, the mold clamping device 7 may be one that performs mold opening / closing and mold clamping using a toggle mechanism (as shown in the example), or may have separate drive mechanisms for mold opening / closing and mold clamping. The drive unit that generates the drive force for mold opening / closing and / or mold clamping may be electric, hydraulic, or a hybrid type that combines both. However, if at least mold opening and closing is achieved by an electric drive unit, the high positioning accuracy facilitates the sliding of the split sleeve in the mold closed state, as described below. The mold clamping device 7 has a fixed die plate 15 that holds a fixed die 103 and a movable die plate 17 that holds a movable die 105.

[0033] The controller 5 may be configured to include, for example, a computer (not shown). The computer may be configured to include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and an auxiliary storage device (not shown). The CPU executes programs stored in the ROM and / or the auxiliary storage device to configure various functional units that perform various calculations (including control). The controller 5 may also include a logic circuit that executes certain operations, a power supply circuit, or a driver. The controller 5 may be provided in, for example, a control panel (not shown). Part of the controller 5 may also be configured as part of the interface 13. The controller 5 may be integrated into one hardware location or distributed across multiple locations.

[0034] In the above, the controller 5 has been described as a part of the die-casting machine 1. However, the controller 5 may be regarded as a conceptual entity that includes all of the various controllers that control the molding system MS. Furthermore, when focusing on each device included in the molding system MS, the controller 5 may be regarded as a controller for that device. For example, the controller 5 may be regarded as a controller for the injection device 9, the hot water supply system 51, or the hot water supply device 55. The same applies to the interface 13; for example, the interface 13 may be regarded as a component of the molding system MS, the injection device 9, the hot water supply system 51, or the hot water supply device 55.

[0035] The interface 13 may be provided at an appropriate position, and in the illustrated example, is provided on a fixed die plate 15 that holds the fixed die 103 in the mold clamping unit 7. The interface 13 has, for example, an input device (reference number omitted) that accepts input operations from an operator, and a display device (reference number omitted) that displays images.

[0036] (1.2. Injection unit in general) The injection device 9 has, for example, the following components: Sleeve driving unit 19 (FIG. 4(a)): drives the injection sleeve 107. Plunger driving unit 21 (FIG. 1): drives the plunger 109. Gutter driving unit 23 (FIG. 1): drives the gutter 111, which will be described later.

[0037] As will be described later, gutter 111 and gutter drive unit 23 contribute to supplying hot water to injection sleeve 107. Therefore, unlike the description of the embodiment, gutter 111 and gutter drive unit 23 may be regarded as part of hot water supply system 51. In this case, gutter 111 and gutter drive unit 23 may be regarded as a device separate from hot water supply device 55 (described later) included in hot water supply system 51, or may be regarded as part of hot water supply device 55.

[0038] The injection sleeve 107 and the plunger 109 may (but do not have to) be replaced when the mold 101 is replaced, and are consumables. Therefore, they may be considered as being either not part of the molding system MS or as being part of the molding system MS.

[0039] The gutter 111 can (but does not have to) be replaced when the mold 101 is replaced. Therefore, the gutter 111 may be considered not to be part of the molding system MS, or may be considered to be part of the molding system MS.

[0040] Depending on the specific aspect (described later), the sleeve drive unit 19 and the gutter drive unit 23 may (but do not have to) be replaced along with replacement of the mold 101. Therefore, unlike the description of the embodiment, they may not be considered as part of the molding system MS.

[0041] The injection unit 9 may have other appropriate components in addition to the above components. For example, although not shown, the injection unit 9 may have a mechanism for raising and lowering the plunger driving unit 21 and a tie rod connected to the plunger driving unit 21 and engaging with the mold 101.

[0042] The plunger 109 and the plunger driver 21 may have the same configuration as known in the art. For example, as shown in Fig. 3(a), the plunger 109 has a tip 109a that slides inside the injection sleeve 107 and a rod 109b whose front end is fixed to the tip 109a.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, plunger driving unit 21 is connected to the rear end of rod 109b and moves rod 109b forward and backward. Plunger driving unit 21 may be a hydraulic type (for example, a hydraulic cylinder), an electric type, or a hybrid type that combines both.

[0044] (1.3. Injection sleeve and sleeve drive unit) As shown in Figure 3(a), the first split sleeve 107a is supported by one of the fixed die 103 and the movable die 105 (the former in the illustrated example), and the second split sleeve 107b is supported by the other of the fixed die 103 and the movable die 105 (the latter in the illustrated example). Therefore, after the molten metal in the mold 101 has solidified, the first split sleeve 107a and the second split sleeve 107b are separated when the mold is opened. As a result, when the die-cast product is released from the fixed die 103 and the movable die 105, the biscuit (the solidified portion in the injection sleeve 107) can be released from the first split sleeve 107a and the second split sleeve 107b.

[0045] Either the first split sleeve 107a or the second split sleeve 107b may be provided on the fixed mold 103 or the movable mold 105. For convenience, the explanation of the embodiment will be based on the example shown in the drawings. The first split sleeve 107a is accompanied by a sleeve drive unit 19 and the like. Therefore, in an embodiment in which the first split sleeve 107a is provided on the fixed mold 103 as in the example shown in the drawings, for example, there is no need to move the sleeve drive unit 19 together with the movable mold 105. As a result, the energy required to drive the movable mold plate 17 can be reduced.

[0046] The direction of movement of the upper split sleeve 107d relative to the lower split sleeve 107c (main body portion 107e) is, for example, a lateral direction (e.g., horizontal direction, D2 direction) that intersects (e.g., is perpendicular to) the mold opening / closing direction (D1 direction). From another perspective, the lateral direction is a direction that intersects (e.g., is perpendicular to) the injection direction. It is clear that the direction of movement of the upper split sleeve 107d when it separates may be either the -D2 side (illustrated example) or the +D2 side. However, for convenience, the illustrated example will be used in the description of the embodiment.

[0047] The amount of movement of the upper divided sleeve 107d is arbitrary as long as a space is formed that allows hot water to be supplied to the main body 107e. In the illustrated example, the amount of movement is set so that the entire upper end opening of the lower portion 107f is exposed upward. Furthermore, the amount of movement is set so that the upper divided sleeve 107d does not completely retract from above the lower divided sleeve 107c (so that the overlap between the two is maintained).

[0048] The injection sleeve 107 and the divided sleeves (107a to 107d) may have any specific shape and dimensions.

[0049] For example, the internal shape of the injection sleeve 107 is approximately a right circular cylinder. The external shape of the injection sleeve 107 is approximately a rectangular parallelepiped. The first divided sleeve 107a and the second divided sleeve 107b have approximately the shape obtained by dividing the injection sleeve 107 into two equal parts in the mold opening / closing direction (D1 direction) by a plane parallel to the D2D3 plane.

[0050] Unlike the above description, the first and second split sleeves 107a and 107b do not have to be divided by a plane parallel to the D2D3 plane. For example, the contacting surfaces of the two sleeves may be shaped to engage with each other in the D3 and / or D2 directions. Furthermore, the first and second split sleeves 107a and 107b may be divided not into two equal parts, but at a position offset to one side, or into three or more equal parts.

[0051] Furthermore, for example, the lower split sleeve 107c and the upper split sleeve 107d have a shape obtained by dividing the first split sleeve 107a in the vertical direction (D3 direction) by a plane parallel to the D1D2 plane. The division ratio is arbitrary, and for example, the vertical length of the upper split sleeve 107d may be less than 1 / 2 or 1 / 3 or less of the vertical length of the injection sleeve 107 (based on the inner side).

[0052] Unlike the above description, the lower split sleeve 107c and the upper split sleeve 107d do not have to be divided by a plane parallel to the D1D2 plane. For example, the surfaces of the two sleeves that abut against each other may have rail-like shapes that engage with each other in the D1 and / or D3 directions (guiding each other in the D2 direction). Stoppers that engage with each other in the D2 direction may be provided to define the range of movement of the lower split sleeve 107c and the upper split sleeve 107d in the D2 direction. Although this reduces the rate at which molten metal can be filled into the injection sleeve 107, the vertical length of the upper split sleeve 107d may be more than half the vertical length of the injection sleeve 107.

[0053] In the illustrated example, the upper split sleeve 107d is assumed to move parallel to the D2 direction. The dividing plane between the upper split sleeve 107d and the lower split sleeve 107c is a plane that is roughly parallel to the D1-D2 plane. However, it is also possible to divide the dividing plane by a plane that is inclined so that the -D2 side is closer to the -D3 side, and separate the sleeves by moving the upper split sleeve 107d toward the -D2 and -D3 sides.

[0054] The injection sleeve 107 is essentially made of, for example, metal. Each split sleeve may be integrally formed, or may be formed by combining two or more members. For example, the engaging and / or guiding shapes described above may be formed by fixing other members to the members that form the main parts of the split sleeves.

[0055] 4(a) and 4(b) are views of the fixed mold 103 as seen from the movable mold 105 side. In these figures, for convenience, the dividing surfaces (i.e., surfaces that are not cross-sectional surfaces) of the fixed mold 103 that come into contact with the movable mold 105 are hatched. FIG. 4(a) corresponds to FIG. 2(a) or FIG. 2(b). FIG. 4(b) corresponds to FIG. 2(c).

[0056] The mold 101 may be modified as appropriate from a conventional mold 101 so as to enable the above-described operations related to the injection sleeve 107. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c) and 4(a), the fixed mold 103 has a pouring cavity 103a for pouring molten metal into the main body 107e. Also, as shown in FIG. 4(b), the fixed mold 103 has a separation cavity 103b for accommodating the upper split sleeve 107d separated from the lower split sleeve 107c, and a connection cavity 103c for connecting the upper split sleeve 107d to the sleeve drive unit 19. Portions of the separation cavity 103b and the connection cavity 103c may be formed in the movable mold 105.

[0057] The shape and dimensions of the pouring cavity 103a are arbitrary as long as they do not lead to the upper end opening of the combined injection sleeve 107. In the example shown, the pouring cavity 103a is a linear through-hole extending in the direction in which the gutter 111 extends. This allows the gutter 111 to move the pouring cavity 103a in the direction in which it extends. In this case, the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole is, for example, approximately the same as the cross-sectional shape of the gutter 111 (described below). The cross-sectional dimensions of the through-hole are, for example, larger than the cross-sectional dimensions of the gutter 111 so that the gutter 111 and the fixed mold 103 are not in contact with each other. This reduces the likelihood that an impact caused by injection will be transmitted to the gutter 111.

[0058] However, unlike the illustrated example, the pouring cavity 103a may be indirectly or directly in contact with the gutter 111 via an appropriate buffer material. The pouring cavity 103a may have a lower surface parallel to the direction D1, a slit-like shape extending toward the bottom of the fixed mold 103 (a notch-like shape formed by cutting out the bottom of the fixed mold 103), or a width in the direction D2 greater than the diameter of the injection sleeve 107. In such cases, the gutter 111 may (or may not) move parallel to the direction D1 or rotate around a rotation axis parallel to the direction D2 (or around another rotation axis). In an aspect different from the embodiment, the pouring cavity 103a may be sized to allow at least a portion of a ladle to be inserted and removed in place of the gutter 111.

[0059] The shape and dimensions of the separation cavity 103b are arbitrary. In the illustrated example, the separation cavity 103b has a shape and dimensions that allow the upper split sleeve 107d separated from the main body 107e to generally fit therein. In addition, the combination cavity 103d (FIG. 4(a)), in which the upper split sleeve 107d combined with the main body 107e is located, also has a shape and dimensions that allow the upper split sleeve 107d to generally fit therein.

[0060] Therefore, for example, the upper split sleeve 107d basically abuts against the fixed mold 103 on the +D3 side, -D3 side, and +D1 side (sliding during movement). In addition, in the combined state, the upper split sleeve 107d abuts against the fixed mold 103 on the above three sides and the +D2 side, and in the separated state, it abuts against the fixed mold 103 on the above three sides and the -D2 side. On the -D1 side, the upper split sleeve 107d slides or abuts against the movable mold 105 and / or the second split sleeve 107b.

[0061] However, the separation cavity 103b may be larger than such a shape and dimensions. For example, the separation cavity 103b may extend to the side surface on the -D2 side of the fixed mold 103. From another perspective, the separation cavity 103b and the connection cavity 103c do not need to be clearly distinguishable. Furthermore, in the above case, the upper split sleeve 107d may protrude from the side surface on the -D2 side of the fixed mold 103 after separation (or always).

[0062] Although not specifically shown, at least one of the upper surface and +D1 side surface of the combining cavity 103d and the upper surface, lower surface, and +D1 side surface of the separation cavity 103b may have a rail-like shape to guide the upper split sleeve 107d. The cross-sectional shape may be a simple convex or concave shape, or may be T-shaped (the same applies to other rail-like shapes). The outer surface of the upper split sleeve 107d may protrude further toward the +D1 side than the outer surface of the lower split sleeve 107c, and the combining cavity 103d may have a lower surface that supports the upper split sleeve 107d. In this case, the lower surface may have a rail-like shape to guide the upper split sleeve 107d.

[0063] Regarding the mold 101, matters not specifically mentioned may be the same as, for example, the conventional configuration. For example, the method of fixing the lower split sleeve 107c to the fixed mold 103 and the method of fixing the second split sleeve 107b to the movable mold 105 may be the same as the conventional fixing methods. Also, for example, the positional relationship in the D1 direction between the dividing surfaces of the first split sleeve 107a and the second split sleeve 107b and the dividing surfaces of the fixed mold 103 and the movable mold 105 may or may not match (as in the illustrated example).

[0064] The sleeve drive unit 19 may have any configuration. For example, the drive system of the sleeve drive unit 19 may be hydraulic (e.g., oil pressure), gas pressure (including systems using air; the same applies below), or electric. More specifically, the sleeve drive unit 19 may be, for example, a hydraulic or gas pressure cylinder, or a linear motor. The sleeve drive unit 19 may also include a rotary motor and a mechanism for appropriately converting rotary motion into linear motion.

[0065] The member to which the sleeve drive unit 19 is fixed is arbitrary. Such members include the fixed mold 103, the fixed die plate 15, and / or other fixed members. Furthermore, when the sleeve drive unit 19 is fixed to the fixed mold 103, the fixed portion of the sleeve drive unit 19 may be located partly or entirely inside the fixed mold 103, or may be located entirely outside the fixed mold 103.

[0066] As a more detailed example, the sleeve drive unit 19 may be, for example, an application of a drive unit for a movable core (a so-called extraction device), or may have a configuration completely different from such a configuration. Figures 4(a) and 4(b) show an example of a hydraulic cylinder in which the main body (cylindrical member) is fixed to the fixed mold 103 and the rod is fixed to the upper split sleeve 107d.

[0067] (1.4. Other examples of injection sleeves) FIGS. 5(a) to 5(c) are diagrams showing an injection sleeve 107A according to another example, and correspond to FIGS. 2(a) to 2(c).

[0068] In the injection sleeve 107, the area (sleeve void 107s) created by the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d is not blocked by another member. On the other hand, an injection sleeve 107A according to another example has a replacement sleeve 107h that blocks the sleeve void 107s.

[0069] The shape and dimensions of the replacement sleeve 107h are, for example, approximately the same as those of the upper divided sleeve 107d, with a passage space 107k formed therein for allowing the molten metal to pass through. By supplying the molten metal to the main body 107e through the passage space 107k, which has an area smaller than that of the sleeve space 107s, the likelihood of the molten metal splashing onto the fixed mold 103 (for example, the inner surface of the combining space 103d) is reduced.

[0070] The replacement sleeve 107h is fixed to the upper split sleeve 107d and moves together with the upper split sleeve 107d. The two may be integrally formed and fixed to each other, or may be fabricated separately and then fixed. In the latter case, the fixing may be removable, such as with bolts, or may be non-removable, such as with welding.

[0071] The shape and dimensions of the passage space 107k are arbitrary. For example, the passage space 107k is formed by cutting out the upper end of the replacement sleeve 107h. The horizontal inner diameter of the passage space 107k is smaller than the diameter of the injection sleeve 107A. More specific shape and dimensions are, for example, such that the gutter 111 contacts the passage space 107k from below and on the left and right, and the passage space 107k is slidable directly or indirectly in the direction in which the gutter 111 extends.

[0072] Unlike the illustrated example, the passage space 107k may be, for example, a through-hole or a notch formed by cutting out the lower end of the replacement sleeve 107h. The passage space 107k may have a size such that it does not come into contact with the gutter 111. The horizontal diameter of the passage space 107k may be equal to the inner diameter of the injection sleeve 107A.

[0073] As mentioned above, the shape of the replacement sleeve 107h is based on the shape of the upper split sleeve 107d. Therefore, for example, the replacement sleeve 107h has a semi-cylindrical recess on the side of the second split sleeve 107b. This allows the entire upper end opening of the lower portion 107f to be open upward, facilitating pouring of molten metal. However, such a recess does not have to be formed, or conversely, the recess may be larger than the recess of the upper split sleeve 107d.

[0074] Furthermore, for example, the upper and lower surfaces and the -D1 and +D1 side surfaces of the replacement sleeve 107h are continuous with (flush with) the upper split sleeve 107d, and like the upper split sleeve 107d, can come into contact with (slide in another sense) other components (the lower split sleeve 107c and the fixed mold 103). Note that, like the upper split sleeve 107d, an appropriate shape such as a rail may be formed.

[0075] Although not particularly shown, the mold 101 may be modified as appropriate to accommodate the provision of the replacement sleeve 107h. Specifically, for example, when the upper divided sleeve 107d is combined with the main body portion 107e, a void for accommodating the replacement sleeve 107h may be formed in the fixed mold 103. Also, for example, rails for guiding the replacement sleeve 107h may be provided.

[0076] In the description of the embodiment, the former of the injection sleeves 107 and 107A will be basically taken as an example. Unless a contradiction occurs, the term injection sleeve 107 may be replaced with the term injection sleeve 107A.

[0077] (1.5. Gutter and gutter drive unit) 1 and 3(a) to 3(c), a gutter 111 is inserted and removed into the area (sleeve void 107s) left vacant by the retraction of the upper split sleeve 107d. The molten metal is poured into the main body 107e through the gutter 111, which is inclined relative to the horizontal direction. From another perspective, the molten metal flowing through the molten metal supply pipe 65 is supplied to the gutter 111, rather than directly to the main body 107e.

[0078] Therefore, for example, as shown in Figure 3(b), the position of the gutter 111 during pouring can be made closer to the inside of the main body 107e than to the inner surface on the +D1 side of the combining space 103d of the fixed mold 103, thereby reducing the likelihood of the molten metal splashing outside the main body 107e. On the other hand, by retracting the gutter 111 from the combining space 103d after pouring, the likelihood of the gutter 111 obstructing the movement of the upper split sleeve 107d can be reduced (see Figure 3(c) for the view after movement).

[0079] From another perspective, the above-mentioned effect can be obtained even if hot water supply pipe 65 is fixed. Just to be clear, unlike the embodiment, a mode in which hot water is directly poured into main body portion 107e by hot water supply pipe 65 may be adopted, and in this case, hot water supply pipe 65 may or may not be inserted into and removed from combination space 103d.

[0080] Unlike the embodiment, a mode in which molten metal is poured into the trough 111 by a ladle may be applied to the die casting machine 1. In this case, compared to a mode in which molten metal is poured directly into the main body 107e by a ladle without using the trough 111, for example, there is less need to enlarge the pouring cavity 103a of the fixed mold 103.

[0081] The specific shape, size and arrangement of the gutter 111 are arbitrary.

[0082] For example, gutter 111 may be cylindrical or semi-cylindrical with an open top. When gutter 111 is cylindrical, the portion (upper end portion) into which molten metal is poured from molten metal supply system 51 may be semi-cylindrical with an open top, or may remain cylindrical and extend vertically upward. In addition, in cylindrical or semi-cylindrical gutter 111, the portion into which molten metal is poured from molten metal supply system 51 may or may not have a specific shape (for example, a funnel shape). The end of gutter 111 on the injection sleeve 107 side may or may not have a specific shape.

[0083] Furthermore, for example, the cross-sectional shape of the gutter 111 may be circular (if cylindrical) or semicircular (if semi-cylindrical). The shape and dimensions of the cross-section are constant, for example, over the entire length (or over 80% or more). The width of the outer or inner surface of the gutter 111 may be equal to or less than the inner diameter of the injection sleeve 107. In this case, the ratio between the two is arbitrary. Note that, unlike the above description, other shapes may be adopted for the cross-sectional shape, or the shape and dimensions of the cross-section may be changed. There may be a portion with a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the injection sleeve 107.

[0084] Also, for example, the entire gutter 111 (or the majority of 80% or more) may extend linearly. However, it may also be partially or entirely curved. Also, for example, the gutter 111 may extend parallel to the direction D1 in top view (as in the illustrated example), or may extend at an angle to the direction D1. In the former case, it is easy to shorten the length of the gutter 111.

[0085] The gutter 111 is inclined so that the entire gutter is positioned lower toward the injection sleeve 107. The specific angle of inclination is arbitrary. The lower end of the cylindrical gutter 111 on the injection sleeve 107 side may extend vertically downward. In this case, the inner surface on the +D1 side of the combining space 103d may have a void that accommodates the lower end of the gutter 111 when it is retracted from the combining space 103d.

[0086] Unlike the embodiment, the injection sleeve 107 having the upper divided sleeve 107d can be combined with an embodiment in which the molten metal is transferred to the main body 107e by an electromagnetic pump. In this case, the pipe for transferring the molten metal in place of the trough 111 does not have to be partially or mostly located as low as the injection sleeve 107.

[0087] When the gutter 111 is inserted into the combination cavity 103d (when pouring molten metal) (FIG. 3(b)), the position of the end (lower end) of the gutter 111 on the injection sleeve 107 side is arbitrary. For example, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the position of the lower end of the gutter 111 (more specifically, the lower edge of the opening at the lower end) may be located closer to the interior of the combination cavity 103d (-D1 side) than the inner surface on the +D1 side of the combination cavity 103d, or may be located closer to the interior of the main body portion 107e (-D1 side) than the inner surface of the lower split sleeve 107c. However, the lower end of the gutter 111 may be located closer to the +D1 side than the above, so that the molten metal flows through part of the -D1 side of the pouring cavity 103a of the fixed mold 103.

[0088] The above description may be applied to the case where the injection sleeve 107A is used. In addition, when the injection sleeve 107A is used, the lower end of the gutter 111 may be located within the passage space 107k of the replacement sleeve 107h, and the molten metal may flow through a portion of the -D1 side of the passage space 107k.

[0089] When the gutter 111 is retracted from the combination cavity 103d (during injection) (FIG. 3(c)), it is clear that the position of the gutter 111 is arbitrary as long as the gutter 111 does not hinder the movement of the upper split sleeve 107d. The lower end of the gutter 111 may be located in the pouring cavity 103a during retraction (as shown in the example), or may be pulled out of the pouring cavity 103a. In the former case, for example, the retracted position may be set so that the gutter 111 is out of contact with the upper split sleeve 107d with a predetermined amount of clearance, and so that the amount of movement of the gutter 111 is minimized. As already mentioned, the direction of movement of the gutter 111 is arbitrary.

[0090] The gutter drive unit 23 (FIG. 1) may have any configuration. For example, the drive system of the gutter drive unit 23 may be hydraulic (e.g., oil pressure), gas pressure, or electric. More specifically, for example, in a mode in which the gutter 111 moves in parallel, the gutter drive unit 23 may be a hydraulic or gas pressure cylinder, or a linear motor. The gutter drive unit 23 may also include a rotary motor and a mechanism that appropriately converts rotary motion into linear motion.

[0091] The member to which the gutter driver 23 is fixed is arbitrary. For example, the gutter driver 23 may be installed on the floor of a factory or the like. That is, the gutter driver 23 may not be fixed to a member supporting the mold 101 and injection sleeve 107 (for example, the fixed die plate 15 and the base (reference numeral omitted) supporting the fixed die plate 15). In this case, for example, the likelihood that an impact due to injection or the like will be transmitted to the gutter 111 via the gutter driver 23 is reduced. However, unlike the above description, the gutter driver 23 may be fixed to such a supporting member (for example, the fixed die plate 15) or the fixed mold 103.

[0092] (1.6. Operation of the die casting machine) 6 is a flowchart illustrating a molding cycle executed by the molding system MS (die-casting machine 1). From another perspective, it is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of molding processing executed by the controller 5. The molding cycle (in other words, the illustrated processing) is started in response to an operation on the interface 13, for example.

[0093] In step ST1, the controller 5 controls the mold clamping unit 7 to close the mold. Then, when the mold closing is completed, the first divided sleeve 107a and the lower divided sleeve 107c are combined together to form the main body 107e (FIG. 2(b)).

[0094] In step ST2, controller 5 controls water supply system 51 to supply hot water. At this time, upper split sleeve 107d is separated from main body 107e (FIGS. 2(b) and 3(b)). Then, molten metal is poured into main body 107e through the area (sleeve void 107s) created by the separation of upper split sleeve 107d and through trough 111 inserted into sleeve void 107s.

[0095] The separation of the upper divided sleeve 107d and the insertion of the groove 111 may be performed before, during, or after the mold is closed. However, as will be understood from the description below, in the illustrated example, the separation and insertion are performed before the mold is closed.

[0096] In step ST3, the controller 5 controls the sleeve driving unit 19 to retract the gutter 111 from the sleeve void 107s.

[0097] In step ST4, the controller 5 controls the sleeve driving unit 19 to combine the upper divided sleeve 107d with the main body 107e, thereby forming the injection sleeve 107 (FIG. 2(c)).

[0098] In step ST5, the controller 5 controls the mold clamping device 7 to perform mold clamping. This reduces the gap between the fixed mold 103 and the movable mold 105, and also reduces the gap between the first split sleeve 107a and the second split sleeve 107b. From another perspective, since mold clamping is not performed in the stage of step ST4, movement of the upper split sleeve 107d is facilitated.

[0099] In step ST6, the controller 5 controls the plunger driving unit 21 to perform injection (FIG. 3(c)). Then, the molten metal filled in the mold 101 solidifies to become a die-cast product.

[0100] In step ST7, the controller 5 controls the mold clamping unit 7 to open the mold. As the mold opens, the first split sleeve 107a and the second split sleeve 107b are also separated. Then, the die-cast product is removed.

[0101] In step ST8, the controller 5 determines whether or not a termination condition for terminating the repetition of the molding cycle has been satisfied. The termination condition is, for example, that the number of repetitions of the molding cycle has reached a preset number via the interface 13. If the determination is affirmative, the controller 5 terminates the illustrated process, and if the determination is negative, the controller 5 proceeds to step ST9.

[0102] In step ST9, the controller 5 controls the sleeve driving unit 19 to separate the upper split sleeve 107d from the lower split sleeve 107c. Unlike the illustrated example, this separation may be performed simultaneously with mold opening.

[0103] In step ST10, the controller 5 controls the gutter driver 23 to insert the gutter 111 into the sleeve cavity 107s. Note that, unlike the illustrated example, the insertion may be performed after the start of step ST7 and before step ST8, as long as it is performed after step ST9.

[0104] The above process may be modified as appropriate. For example, in FIG. 6, multiple steps are performed sequentially for convenience, but some of the steps may overlap. For example, the combining operation of the upper divided sleeve 107d in step ST4 may be started during the retreating operation of the trough 111 in step ST3. Although not specifically shown, the trough 111 and the like may be cleaned at an appropriate time using an air blower or the like.

[0105] (2. Hot Water System) The configuration of molten metal supply system 51 (FIG. 7) is arbitrary. For example, as already mentioned, molten metal supply system 51 may be one that supplies molten metal from molten metal supply pipe 65 to trough 111 (as in the illustrated example), one that pours molten metal directly from molten metal supply pipe 65 into main body 107e without using trough 111, one that pours molten metal into trough 111 using a ladle, or one that pours molten metal directly from a ladle into main body 107e without using trough 111. Furthermore, the configuration may be known or may be a new configuration.

[0106] 7 supplies molten metal for one shot from molten metal supply pipe 65 to trough 111, and has a novel configuration. The outline of the system is as follows.

[0107] The molten metal supply system 51 includes a furnace 53 that holds the molten metal ML, and a molten metal supply device 55 that supplies the molten metal ML held in the furnace 53 to the injection sleeve 107. The molten metal supply device 55 includes a measuring chamber R1 that contains one shot of the molten metal ML, and a valve body 63 that controls the inflow and outflow of the molten metal ML in the measuring chamber R1. In the illustrated example, the valve body 63 is formed by the bottom of a container 61 that constitutes the measuring chamber R1.

[0108] Valve element 63 (or, from another perspective, container 61) moves between an inflow position and an outflow position. The inflow position is the position where valve element 63 is located in Figure 7, and allows flow from furnace 53 to measuring chamber R1 while prohibiting flow from measuring chamber R1 to molten metal pipe 65 (or, from another perspective, injection sleeve 107). The outflow position is the position where valve element 63 moves to the left side of the figure from the position in Figure 7, and prohibits flow from furnace 53 to measuring chamber R1 while allowing flow from measuring chamber R1 to molten metal pipe 65.

[0109] In this configuration, the molten metal ML is supplied from the furnace 53 to the injection sleeve 107 via the measuring chamber R1, which reduces the likelihood of the molten metal ML being oxidized or cooled compared to, for example, a mode in which the molten metal is supplied to the injection sleeve 107 by a ladle. In other words, high-quality molten metal ML can be supplied to the injection sleeve 107. Furthermore, since the supply amount of the molten metal ML can be adjusted by the operation of the valve element 63, the supply amount can be adjusted with higher precision compared to, for example, a mode in which the supply amount of the molten metal is adjusted by controlling an electromagnetic pump.

[0110] On the other hand, the injection sleeve 107 is for vertical injection, and the ratio of the volume of the molten metal to the volume of the injection sleeve 107 (sleeve filling rate) is high. Therefore, for example, the probability that the molten metal ML will entrain gas (e.g., air) is low. Because high-quality molten metal ML is supplied in a highly accurate amount to this injection sleeve 107 for vertical injection, the molding system MS as a whole can produce high-quality die-cast products.

[0111] In addition to furnace 53 and melting device 55, melting system 51 has, for example, a connecting pipe 57 connecting the two. Melting system 51 may also have a material supply unit 59 that supplies ingots to furnace 53. Note that connecting pipe 57 may be considered to be part of melting device 55 or furnace 53.

[0112] Any means may be used to transfer the molten metal from the furnace 53 to the measuring chamber R1. In the illustrated example, the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 is reduced to below atmospheric pressure by a gas pressure circuit 71, thereby transferring the molten metal to the measuring chamber R1, which is located higher than the molten metal surface in the furnace 53. Alternatively, for example, an electromagnetic pump may be used, or the molten metal surface in the furnace 53 may be raised higher than the measuring chamber R1 to utilize the weight of the molten metal.

[0113] (3. Summary of the embodiment) The injection device 9 according to the embodiment includes a sleeve driver 19 and a plunger driver 21. The sleeve driver 19 moves an upper split sleeve 107d, which is located above a lower portion 107f of an injection sleeve 107 for vertical injection that connects to a mold (metal mold 101) from below, in a horizontal direction (direction D2) different from the mold opening / closing direction. The upper split sleeve 107d is positioned above a lower portion 107f of the injection sleeve 107. The sleeve driver 19 thereby couples and separates the upper split sleeve 107d with a main body portion 107e including the lower portion 107f of the injection sleeve 107. The plunger driver 21 moves a plunger 109 upward inside the injection sleeve 107, which is formed by combining the upper split sleeve 107d with the main body portion 107e, into which molten metal is poured via a region (sleeve void 107s) that is vacant due to the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d.

[0114] From another perspective, the molding machine (die-casting machine 1) according to the embodiment includes the injection device 9 according to the embodiment as described above, and a mold clamping device 7 that opens and closes the mold 101 and clamps the mold.

[0115] From another perspective, the molding system MS of the embodiment includes the die-casting machine 1 of the embodiment described above and a supply device (water heater 55) that supplies molten metal to the injection sleeve 107 (directly or indirectly via the trough 111).

[0116] Therefore, for example, as already mentioned, since there is no need to connect the molten metal supply pipe 65 to the injection sleeve 107, the likelihood of the impact of injection being transmitted to the molten metal supply pipe 65 is reduced. In turn, by increasing the injection speed, quality is improved and / or cycle time is shortened. Also, for example, since molten metal can be supplied in a mold closed state, cycle time is shortened. Also, for example, mold clamping can improve the sealing between the upper split sleeve 107d and the second split sleeve 107b.

[0117] The mold opening and closing direction may be a lateral direction.

[0118] In this case, for example, in an embodiment in which pouring cavity 103a through which gutter 111 is inserted is formed so as to extend in a direction inclined toward the horizontal, even if the angle of inclination of pouring cavity 103a is large, pouring cavity 103a can be formed only in fixed mold 103. In other words, in a vertical clamping embodiment (which may also be included in the present disclosure), depending on the angle of inclination of pouring cavity 103a, pouring cavity 103a may be formed in both fixed mold 103 and movable mold 105, but this configuration is not required, and the configuration of pouring cavity 103a is simple.

[0119] In a mode in which the mold opening / closing direction is the horizontal direction, the upper divided sleeve 107d may be one of the portions obtained by dividing the portion of the injection sleeve 107 above the lower portion 107f in the mold opening / closing direction.

[0120] In this case, for example, the upper split sleeve 107d can be separated from the main body 107e when the mold is opened. As a result, for example, in an embodiment in which a portion (biscuit) formed by solidifying molten metal exists within the upper split sleeve 107d, the biscuit can be easily separated from the upper split sleeve 107d. Also, the upper split sleeve 107d can be pressed against the main body 107e when the mold is closed. As a result, for example, the sealing performance of the injection sleeve 107 can be easily improved.

[0121] In an embodiment in which the mold opening / closing direction is the horizontal direction, the injection sleeve 107 may be divided in the mold opening / closing direction and have a first divided sleeve 107a and a second divided sleeve 107b that are separated and combined as the mold 101 is opened and closed. The first divided sleeve 107a may be divided into upper and lower parts and have a lower divided sleeve 107c and the above-mentioned upper divided sleeve 107d. The above-mentioned main body 107e may be the second divided sleeve 107b and the lower divided sleeve 107c in a combined state.

[0122] In this case, for example, in an embodiment in which biscuits are present not only within upper split sleeve 107d but also below it, the biscuits can be easily separated from upper split sleeve 107d.

[0123] The die casting machine 1 may have a gutter drive unit 23 that moves the gutter 111, which pours the molten metal ML into the lower portion 107f, in and out of the area (sleeve void 107s) that is vacated by the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d.

[0124] In this case, the likelihood of the molten metal splashing outside the main body portion 107e can be reduced compared to, for example, a mode in which the molten metal is poured from outside the sleeve cavity 107s into the main body portion 107e through the sleeve cavity 107s (this mode may also be included in the technology according to the present disclosure). On the other hand, by retracting the gutter 111 from the sleeve cavity 107s after pouring, the likelihood that the gutter 111 will obstruct the movement of the upper divided sleeve 107d can be reduced.

[0125] The area (sleeve void 107s) that is vacant due to the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d may be configured not to be blocked by other members (examples of FIGS. 2(a) to 4(b)).

[0126] In this case, the configuration is simpler than, for example, an embodiment in which the other components (e.g., the replacement sleeve 107h) are provided. Furthermore, the load on the sleeve drive unit 19 is reduced compared to an embodiment in which the sleeve drive unit 19 drives the other components. As a result, for example, costs can be reduced. Furthermore, since the entire sleeve cavity 107s can be used for the passage of molten metal, it is easy to accommodate various molten metal supply methods. For example, unlike the embodiment, it is easy to accommodate a molten metal supply device that pours molten metal into the main body 107e using a ladle.

[0127] The injection sleeve 107 may further include a replacement sleeve 107h that closes the area (sleeve void 107s) that is vacant due to the separation of the upper split sleeve 107d (examples of FIGS. 5(a) to 5(c)). The replacement sleeve 107h may include a void (passage void 107k) that allows the molten metal ML to pass from the outside to the inside.

[0128] In this case, for example, the likelihood of the molten metal splashing outside the main body portion 107e can be reduced compared to an embodiment in which the sleeve void 107s is not blocked. Also, the passage void 107k can be used to guide the gutter 111, or the passage void 107k itself can be used as a flow path in which the molten metal comes into contact and flows.

[0129] The molding system MS (injection device 9) may further include a controller 5 that controls the sleeve driving unit 19 so that, after the mold is closed, the molten metal ML is poured into the main body portion 107e from which the upper split sleeve 107d is separated.

[0130] In this case, the time from supplying the molten metal to the start of injection can be shortened compared to a mode in which the mold is closed after supplying the molten metal to the injection sleeve, thereby reducing the possibility of the temperature of the molten metal decreasing and improving the quality of the die-cast product.

[0131] The controller 5 may control the sleeve driving unit 19 so that the upper split sleeve 107d is combined with the main body portion 107e after the molten metal ML has been poured into the main body portion 107e and before the mold is closed.

[0132] In this case, for example, since the upper split sleeve 107d is moved before mold clamping, the sliding resistance of the upper split sleeve 107d is small. As a result, for example, the upper split sleeve 107d can be moved quickly and the load on the sleeve drive unit 19 can be reduced. Also, the strength against sliding of the injection sleeve 107 and / or the mold 101 can be reduced, improving the degree of freedom in design. On the other hand, for example, the upper split sleeve 107d can be pressed against the main body portion 107e by mold clamping, improving the sealing performance of the injection sleeve 107.

[0133] In the above embodiment, the die-casting machine 1 is an example of a molding machine. The metal mold 101 is an example of a mold. The melt supply device 55 is an example of a supply device. The molten metal is an example of a molding material.

[0134] The present invention is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, and may be embodied in various other embodiments. For example, the molding machine is not limited to a die-casting machine, and may be another metal molding machine. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1...die-casting machine (molding machine), 9...injection device, 19...sleeve drive unit, 21...plunger drive unit, 101...mold (die), 107...injection sleeve, 107a...first split sleeve, 107b...second split sleeve, 107c...lower split sleeve, 107d...upper split sleeve, 107e...main body (of injection sleeve), 107f...lower part (of injection sleeve), 109...plunger, MS...molding system.

Claims

1. a sleeve drive unit that moves an upper divided sleeve located above a lower portion of an injection sleeve for vertical injection that leads into the mold from below, in a lateral direction different from the mold opening / closing direction, thereby combining and separating the upper divided sleeve with a main body unit including the lower portion of the injection sleeve; a plunger drive unit that moves a plunger upward inside the injection sleeve formed by combining the upper divided sleeve with the main body portion into which molding material is poured through a region vacated by the separation of the upper divided sleeve; An injection device having:

2. The mold opening and closing direction is a lateral direction. The injection device according to claim 1 .

3. The injection sleeve is divided in the mold opening / closing direction above the lower portion, and thus has the main body portion and the upper divided sleeve. The injection device according to claim 2 .

4. the injection sleeve is divided in the mold opening / closing direction, and has a first divided sleeve and a second divided sleeve that are separated and combined as the mold is opened and closed, The first divided sleeve is divided into upper and lower parts, and has a lower divided sleeve and the upper divided sleeve, The main body portion is the second divided sleeve and the lower divided sleeve in a combined state. The injection device according to claim 3 .

5. The molding material is poured into the lower portion of the molding machine by a gutter drive unit that moves the gutter into and out of the area vacated by the separation of the upper divided sleeve. The injection device according to claim 1 .

6. The area vacated by the separation of the upper split sleeve is not blocked by other members. The injection device according to claim 1 .

7. the injection sleeve further includes a replacement sleeve for filling a region vacated by separation of the upper split sleeve; The alternative sleeve has a void that allows the molding material to pass from the outside to the inside. The injection device according to claim 1 .

8. The mold further includes a controller that controls the sleeve drive unit so that the molding material is poured into the main body portion from which the upper split sleeve is separated after the mold is closed. The injection device according to claim 1 .

9. The controller controls the sleeve drive unit so that the upper divided sleeve is combined with the main body portion after the molding material is poured into the main body portion and before the mold is closed.

9. The injection device according to claim 8.

10. The injection device according to claim 1 ; a mold clamping device that opens, closes, and clamps the mold; The molding machine has:

11. The molding machine according to claim 10; a supply device for supplying the molding material to the injection sleeve; A molding system having:

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