Mold and method for manufacturing a cap for a container

Abstract

The mold (1) for producing the cap (2) comprises a lower mold half (11) including a body (111) and a plunger (112), the lower mold half (11) being movable relative to the body (111) between a retracted position and an advanced position, and an upper mold half (12), the lower mold half (11) and the upper mold half (12) being movable relative to each other along a longitudinal axis (A1) between an open position and a closed position in which they define a molding space, and a retracted position distal to the molding space. The mold assembly includes a drawer (13) movable along a radial direction (B) relative to a longitudinal axis (A1) between a closed position proximal to the molding space, the drawer (13) including a head surface (13A) that contributes to defining the extent of the molding space when the drawer (13) is in its closed position, and a movement system configured to move the drawer (13) along the radial direction (B) from the retracted position to the closed position as the upper mold half (12) and the lower mold half (11) approach each other.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a mold for manufacturing a cap for a container. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a cap for a container.

[0002] In particular, the technical field relates to molds used to manufacture caps for containers by compressing a quantity of material within a mold cavity. [Background technology]

[0003] Conventionally, the prior art has known caps that include a body and a tamper-evident ring, where the body is connected to the tamper-evident ring by a connecting tear strip. More specifically, when a user twists the cap for the first time, the body separates from the tamper-evident ring, and the tamper-evident ring remains attached to the neck of the container. In other types of caps, the permanently connected area of ​​the tear strip does not tear, keeping the cap body attached to the tamper-evident ring and thus preventing the cap body from being lost or scattered in the environment. These caps are known as "tethered" caps.

[0004] In both conventional and tethered caps, the connecting tear strip may comprise holes (or windows) and / or recesses (or films), i.e., in the narrow thickness of the cap. Both the holes and recesses may be formed in a mold, for example, using a movable drawer. An example of such a mold is described in patent document 102019000022992 in the name of the applicant, in which the dose is squeezed out by a barrel and the drawer forms a hole in the side wall of the cap. However, that document does not provide a detailed description of how the drawer movement is realized.

[0005] Another example is described in patent document 102021000006557 in the name of the applicant, in which a contoured portion of the drawer interacts with a contoured portion of the upper or lower mold half, and when the mold halves approach and compress the dose, the drawer approaches laterally to the side wall of the cap. However, this solution is not flexible (it is not possible to form the through-hole and the area of ​​reduced thickness using the same mold). Furthermore, the two contoured portions tend to rub against each other and therefore do not close properly. Disclosure of the Invention SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a mold and method for manufacturing a cap for a container that overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings of the prior art.

[0006] More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a mold and method for manufacturing caps for containers in which the movements between the mold components are performed in a mechanically robust manner.

[0007] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mold that allows for the production of caps with through holes or narrow films using the same mold.

[0008] Another object of the invention is to propose a mould which makes it possible to remove the cap without damage once moulding is complete.

[0009] This object is fully achieved by the presently disclosed mold and method for manufacturing a cap for a container, as characterized in the appended claims.

[0010] The present disclosure relates to caps for containers. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to plastic caps for containers such as bottles for water or other beverages, oil containers, or containers for non-food liquids (such as liquid soap or detergent). However, the disclosure may also be applicable to caps made from a variety of materials, such as metal.

[0011] The present disclosure relates to molds used to manufacture caps for containers by compressing a quantity of material within a mold cavity, although the present disclosure may also apply to molding a quantity of material within a mold cavity by injection molding or injection-compression molding.

[0012] In one example, the cap comprises a sidewall (or skirt) extending around the major axis between a first end and a second end, and a transverse wall oriented transversely to the major axis and connected to the sidewall at the second end of the sidewall.

[0013] More specifically, the mold comprises a lower mold half (i.e., female mold) and an upper mold half (i.e., male mold). The lower mold half and upper mold half are movable relative to one another along a longitudinal axis between an open position (i.e., a spaced apart position that defines the open position of the mold) and a closed position (i.e., a proximal position that defines the closed position of the mold). Preferably, in the closed position of the mold, the upper mold half and lower mold half define a molding space.

[0014] Preferably, the lower mold half (or upper mold half) includes a body. The lower mold half may include a plunger (also called a "syringe" or "barrel"). The body and plunger may be movable relative to each other. More specifically, the plunger is movable relative to the body between a retracted position in which the plunger cooperates with the body to form a recess configured to accommodate a dose, and an advanced position in which the plunger at least partially blocks the recess. Preferably, the recess faces the molding space. In one example, the plunger can be configured to move relative to the body, or more preferably, the body can be configured to move relative to the plunger, such that the plunger moves relative to the body between a retracted position in which the plunger cooperates with the body to form a recess, and an advanced position in which the plunger at least partially blocks the recess. The mold includes a drawer. The drawer is movable between a retracted position distal to the molding space and a closed position proximal to the molding space. The drawer may be movable along a direction of movement substantially parallel to or coincident with the longitudinal direction, or more preferably along a direction radial to the longitudinal axis (i.e., a direction incident on or transverse to the longitudinal axis). In other words, the drawer may be movable towards the longitudinal axis.

[0015] In one example, the drawer includes a head surface that contributes to defining the molding space, preferably when the drawer is in the closed position. The head surface may be configured to externally define a recess or a narrowed thickness area or a film area in the cap (or in the side or transverse wall of the cap). The head surface may be configured to be surrounded by plastic to create a through-hole formed in the side or transverse wall of the cap. In that case, the drawer (or head surface) defines a blocking area, i.e., a region of the molding space that interrupts the flow of plastic, when it is in the closed position adjacent to the molding space.

[0016] The mold includes a movement system configured to move the drawer, preferably along a radial direction. The movement system is preferably configured to move the drawer from a retracted position to a closed position as the upper and lower mold halves approach each other. In other words, the closing movement of the drawer toward the molding space is synchronized with the movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other. The closing movement of the drawer and the movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other can be synchronized, for example, by mechanical or electrical means. Preferably, the drawer reaches the closed position before the mold reaches the closed position.

[0017] It should be noted that the invention can also be implemented without a plunger. The advantage of the plunger is that it makes it possible to determine the moment when the compression of the cap inside the molding space must stop.

[0018] In one embodiment, the movement system includes a cam and preferably a wheel configured to interact with the cam to move the drawer. The movement system may include a drive structure. The drive structure and the drawer may be movable relative to one another along the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the drive structure is movable longitudinally. Alternatively, the drive structure is fixed longitudinally.

[0019] In one example, the cam is attached to the drawer and the wheel is connected to the drive structure. In another example, the wheel is connected to the drawer and the cam is attached to the drive structure.

[0020] In one embodiment, the movement system includes a first contoured surface and a second complementary contoured surface that matches the first contoured surface, which are configured to interact with each other to move the drawer, where the first contoured surface may be attached to the drawer and the second complementary contoured surface may be attached to the drive structure, or the first contoured surface may be attached to the drive structure and the second complementary contoured surface may be attached to the drawer.

[0021] The drawer can be located in (associated with) the lower or upper mold half. The drive structure can be located in the lower or upper mold half. If the drive structure is located in the lower mold half, it can be fixed (directly or indirectly) to the plunger, such that the body is configured to move longitudinally relative to the drive structure and plunger.

[0022] In one example, the lower mold half includes a base. Preferably, the base is fixed along the longitudinal axis. In particular, the plunger can be fixed to the base such that the plunger is fixed along the longitudinal axis together with the base, while the body is movable along the longitudinal axis. The lower mold half can include a first lock key for locking the angular position of the plunger about the longitudinal axis relative to the base. The lower mold half can include a second lock key for locking the angular position of the body about the longitudinal axis relative to the plunger. The second lock key is configured to angularly lock the body relative to the plunger while allowing the body to move along the longitudinal axis.

[0023] In one example, the lower mold half includes a hollow cylinder. When the drive structure is within (associated with) the lower mold half, the hollow cylinder can define the drive structure. The hollow cylinder extends cylindrically around the longitudinal axis. The hollow cylinder can be disposed outside (surround) the plunger and the body. In one example, the lower mold half includes a base. The base can be fixed along the longitudinal axis. The plunger can be fixed to the base. Preferably, the hollow cylinder is fixed to the plunger such that the hollow cylinder, together with the plunger (and base) and the body, translate relative to each other along the longitudinal axis. In particular, the hollow cylinder is connected to the plunger, and the hollow cylinder, together with the plunger (and base), is fixed along the longitudinal axis while the body moves along the longitudinal axis.

[0024] For example, the lower mold half can include a ring. The ring extends annularly around the longitudinal axis. The hollow cylinder can extend longitudinally from the lower end to the upper end. Preferably, the ring is fixed to the upper end of the hollow cylinder, for example, via one or more locking screws. In particular, the ring can include one or more eyeholes configured to be coupled to one or more corresponding holes in the upper end of the hollow cylinder via one or more corresponding locking screws. Preferably, the one or more eyeholes in the ring extend angularly around the longitudinal axis, thereby allowing the ring and the hollow cylinder to be fixed together in a predetermined angular position.

[0025] In one example, the lower mold half includes a wheel holder, which may be configured to run (or roll) on a cam to move the drawer radially, preferably in response to relative movement between the upper and lower mold halves.

[0026] In particular, the wheel holder is connected to the ring. The ring includes a wheel holder seat configured to accommodate the wheel holder. In particular, the wheel holder has one or more eye holes configured to engage with one or more holes in the ring via one or more corresponding fixing screws so as to fix the wheel holder to the ring (more specifically, the seat of the ring). Preferably, the one or more eye holes of the wheel holder extend in one or more corresponding radial directions. Therefore, it is possible to fix the wheel holder at a predetermined distance along the radial direction so as to change the distance of the wheel relative to the drawer.

[0027] In one example, the ring and the hollow cylinder constitute separate components, and in another example, the ring is integrated into the hollow cylinder, such that the wheel holder can be secured to the hollow cylinder when the ring is integrated into the hollow cylinder, or the wheel holder can be secured to the ring when the ring and the hollow cylinder constitute separate components.

[0028] The wheel holder is fixed at an angle to the ring (or hollow cylinder) to align the wheel with the cam, so that the wheel runs or rolls on the cam and moves the drawer radially. Therefore, a seat for the wheel holder can be provided within the hollow cylinder.

[0029] In one example, the drawer is associated with the body of the lower mold half, and the cam is provided on the back surface of the drawer (in other words, the drawer has a back surface that defines the cam of the movement system). Preferably, the wheel rolls on the back surface of the drawer so that, upon relative longitudinal movement of the body and the plunger, the wheel and the drawer move radially relative to each other (particularly, the drawer moves radially). Particularly, the body moves longitudinally relative to the plunger, and the wheel (connected to a wheel holder that is directly or indirectly connected to the hollow cylinder) pushes the drawer toward the closed position.

[0030] In one example, the drawer has a head surface. The head surface is opposite the back surface. Preferably, the head surface extends symmetrically with respect to an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis. The head surface may extend symmetrically, particularly in a semicircular shape around the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the drawer, i.e., the head surface, has a width along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that is smaller than the diameter of the cap. The drawer is configured to move along a radial direction such that points on the head surface move along a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis (i.e., each point on the head surface moves along a radial direction) when moving between the retracted position and the closed position. In particular, the center of mass (or center of gravity) of the drawer is configured to move along an axis intersecting the longitudinal axis (i.e., radially) when moving between the retracted position and the closed position; in other words, the center of mass (or center of gravity) of the drawer is configured to move along a radial direction.

[0031] The lower mold half defines lateral portions of the molding space. The lateral portions are configured to form (the outer surfaces of) the side walls of the cap. The drawers, together with the lower mold half, can contribute to defining the extent of the molding space (in particular, to defining the extent of the lateral portions of the molding space configured to form the side walls of the cap). The lower mold half can be configured to define the outer surfaces of the side walls of the cap, and the drawers are configured to determine recesses or areas of narrow thickness in the side walls of the cap.

[0032] Preferably, the portion of the lower mold half configured to form the outer surface of the side wall of the cap is radially fixed (relative to the radially moving drawer).

[0033] In one example, the body of the lower mold half has longitudinal surfaces. The longitudinal surfaces contribute to defining the extent of the molding space. In particular, the longitudinal surfaces contribute to defining the extent of the lateral surfaces or lateral spaces (or longitudinal surfaces or longitudinal spaces) of the molding space. In particular, the longitudinal surfaces contribute to forming (the outer surfaces of) the side walls of the cap. The drawer (in particular, the head surface of the drawer) can contribute, together with the longitudinal surface of the body, to defining the extent of the molding space (in particular, defining the extent of the lateral surfaces of the lateral spaces of the molding space configured to form the side walls of the cap). The longitudinal surface of the body can be configured to define the outer surfaces of the side walls of the cap, and the drawer is configured to determine the recesses or areas of narrow thickness in the side walls of the cap.

[0034] Preferably, the longitudinal surfaces of the body are radially fixed (with respect to the radially moving drawer).

[0035] In one example, the body of the lower mold half includes a drawer seat configured to accommodate the drawer, and in particular, the drawer seat is provided on a longitudinal surface of the body, and the drawer is configured to move within the drawer seat on the longitudinal surface of the body during movement between the retracted position and the closed position.

[0036] Preferably, the drawer and drive structure are associated with the same one of the lower and upper mould halves, and more preferably they are associated with the lower mould half.

[0037] In one embodiment, the drawer, cam and wheel are associated with the same half of the lower and upper mold halves.

[0038] Preferably, when the drawer, cam, and wheel are associated with the lower mold half (or upper mold half), the drawer is configured to move radially only when the upper mold half (or lower mold half) has completed its longitudinal movement toward the closed configuration of the mold. For example, the drawer is configured to move radially when the extractor and core have completed their relative movements toward the closed configuration of the mold, thereby preventing the drawer and the upper mold half, specifically the drawer and the core of the upper mold half, from rubbing against each other.

[0039] In one example, the drawer is associated with the body of the lower mold half. The drive structure may be fixed to the plunger (i.e., the drive structure may be movable integrally with the plunger). In one example, the upper mold half comprises a core and an extractor. Preferably, the extractor is movable relative to the core between an advanced position and a retracted position. The drawer may be associated with the extractor of the upper mold half. The drive structure may be associated with (i.e., movable integrally with) the core of the upper mold half.

[0040] Preferably, when the drawer is in the closed position, the plunger is in a position between the retracted and advanced positions, so that compression of the dose is not completed until the drawer reaches the closed position. In another example, when the drawer is in the closed position, the extractor is in a position between the advanced and retracted positions.

[0041] In one embodiment, the mold comprises a plurality of spacers, each connectable to the plunger and interchangeable with other spacers to vary the longitudinal distance between the drive structure and the plunger when the mold is in the open position. In another example, each spacer connectable to the plunger and interchangeable with other spacers to vary the longitudinal distance between the drive structure and the core (preferably associated with the core of the upper mold half) when the mold is in the open position.

[0042] In one example, the plunger has a transverse surface communicating with the recess. The transverse surface contributes to defining the molding space when the plunger is in the advanced position. In this case, each spacer can be interchanged with another spacer to change the longitudinal distance between the drive structure and the transverse surface of the plunger when the mold is in the open position (or when the plunger is in the advanced position), or to change the height of the transverse surface of the plunger along the longitudinal axis. Thus, the movement of the plunger between the retracted and advanced positions is kinematically coupled to the radial movement of the drawer. The spacer can be used to determine the moment when the drawer reaches the closed position relative to the moment when the plunger reaches the advanced position and, therefore, the dose is compressed in the molding space.

[0043] In one embodiment, the wheels are associated with the drive structure and the drawer comprises a back surface that defines a cam for the movement system, hi another example, the drive structure defines a cam for the movement system and the wheels are associated with the drawer.

[0044] In one embodiment, the movement system is configured to keep the wheel engaged with the cam throughout the entire movement of the mold between the open and closed positions, where the wheel and cam are preferably associated with the same upper and lower mold halves, such that the wheel rides smoothly on the cam during movement from the open to the closed position.

[0045] In one example, the upper mold half includes a core and an extractor. The core and extractor may be movable relative to one another along a longitudinal axis. Preferably, the extractor is movable relative to the core between an advanced position and a retracted position. The upper mold half may include an upper resilient assembly. The upper resilient assembly may be configured to connect the extractor to the core. Preferably, the resilient assembly is configured to be compressed when the extractor is in the retracted position.

[0046] In one embodiment, the lower mold half includes a lower resilient assembly configured to connect the body to the plunger. Preferably, the lower resilient assembly is configured to be compressed when the plunger is in the advanced position.

[0047] The upper and / or lower resilient assemblies may comprise multiple resilient assemblies. Preferably, the lower resilient assembly is stiffer than the upper resilient assembly. In this case, during movement of the mold from the open position to the closed position, compression of the upper resilient assembly occurs first, followed by compression of the lower resilient assembly, so that movement of the plunger to the advanced position is the last movement.

[0048] In one embodiment, the mold comprises multiple drawers, each of which is interchangeable with another to vary the head surface.

[0049] In one example, the mold comprises a guide configured to guide the drawer as it travels radially, and a resilient element configured to maintain the drawer in a retracted position when no other force is applied to the drawer.

[0050] In one embodiment, the retracted and closed positions of the drawer define radial start and end positions, respectively, which may be radially variable to vary the distance between the head surface of the drawer and the forming space in the closed position.

[0051] In one embodiment, the mold comprises a duct system configured to allow a coolant to flow, for example, within the upper mold half and / or the lower mold half. The duct system comprises one or more ducts configured to allow the coolant to flow through. In particular, the duct system is configured to provide liquid circulation, whereby the coolant flows through the plurality of ducts according to a predetermined flow path.

[0052] In one example, a duct system is provided in the lower mold half. In particular, the duct system can extend into the interior of the body of the lower mold half, for example, via the body duct (or the first duct). Additionally or alternatively, the duct system can extend into the interior of the plunger of the lower mold half, for example, via the plunger duct (or the second duct). The duct system can be configured to fluidly connect the duct provided in the body (i.e., the body duct or the first duct) with the duct provided in the plunger (i.e., the plunger duct or the second duct). In another example, the duct provided in the plunger and the duct provided in the body are independent of each other.

[0053] The duct system can extend to the exterior of the upper mold half, for example, via an outer duct or ducts that can be configured to fluidly connect the ducts on the plunger and the ducts on the body.

[0054] For example, the duct system may include a first duct provided in the body of the lower mold half, allowing the cooling liquid to flow inside the body. The body may include a longitudinal portion defining a longitudinal surface that contributes to forming (the outer surface of) the side wall of the cap. The first duct may extend into the body corresponding to the longitudinal portion, allowing the cooling liquid to circulate around the molding space. In particular, the first duct surrounds (the longitudinally extending portion of) the molding space. Thus, the cooling liquid circulates inside the first duct around (the longitudinally extending portion of) the molding space.

[0055] For example, the duct system can include a second duct in the plunger of the lower mold half, allowing the coolant to flow inside the plunger. The plunger can have a longitudinal extension defining a transverse surface that contributes to delimiting the molding space (contributing to forming the transverse wall of the cap). The second duct can extend into the plunger corresponding to the longitudinal extension, thereby allowing the coolant to circulate inside the longitudinal extension of the body.

[0056] The second duct may extend into the interior of the base of the lower mold half, thereby allowing coolant to flow through the interior of the base of the lower mold half.

[0057] A plurality of (external) ducts may be configured to connect a first duct to a second duct (and vice versa).

[0058] In particular, the first duct can have a delivery duct and a return duct. Liquid can circulate in the delivery duct of the first duct toward the molding space. Liquid can circulate in the return duct of the first duct away from the molding space. In particular, liquid can circulate inside the delivery duct having a delivery direction and inside the return duct having a return direction opposite to the delivery direction. In other words, the first duct can have a delivery duct for circulating liquid toward the molding space and a return duct for circulating liquid returning from the molding space.

[0059] The second duct can have a delivery duct and a return duct. Liquid can circulate in the delivery duct towards the forming space. Liquid can circulate in the return duct away from the forming space.

[0060] In one embodiment, the plunger includes an inner portion (or stem). Preferably, the inner portion extends longitudinally. The plunger may include an outer portion configured to partially surround the inner portion. The outer portion of the plunger may extend cylindrically around the longitudinal axis (i.e., around the inner portion of the plunger), e.g., in a longitudinal extension portion. The outer portion of the plunger may extend transversely to the longitudinal axis, e.g., in a lateral extension portion. In one example, the lateral extension portion at least partially defines a transverse surface of the plunger. The outer portion of the plunger partially surrounds the inner portion of the plunger so as to form a slot between the outer and inner portions.

[0061] For example, the second duct (particularly, the delivery duct of the second duct) can be (partially) located inside the inner portion of the plunger. In other words, the second duct (particularly, the delivery duct of the second duct) can extend at least partially inside the inner portion of the plunger. The second duct (particularly, the delivery duct of the second duct) can be (partially) located inside a slot between the outer portion and the inner portion of the plunger, for example, corresponding to a lateral extension portion of the outer portion. The second duct (particularly, the delivery duct of the second duct) can be (partially) located inside a slot between the outer portion and the inner portion of the plunger, for example, corresponding to a longitudinal extension portion of the outer portion. In other words, the second duct (partially, the delivery duct of the second duct) can extend at least partially inside a slot between the outer portion and the inner portion of the plunger, for example, corresponding to a lateral extension portion and a longitudinal extension portion of the outer portion. The second duct (particularly the outlet duct of the second duct) can be (partially) mounted on the base. Preferably, the second duct (particularly the outlet duct of the second duct) extends into the interior of the inner part of the plunger through a slot between the inner and outer parts corresponding to the lateral and longitudinal extensions and the base.

[0062] In one embodiment, the second duct (in particular the return duct of the second duct) can be (partially) located inside the base.

[0063] In one example, the plurality of (outer) ducts comprises a delivery duct configured to connect a delivery duct of the first duct to a delivery duct of the second duct. In one example, the plurality of (outer) ducts comprises a return duct configured to connect a return duct of the first duct to a return duct of the second duct. Thus, the coolant is configured to pass through the delivery duct of the second duct, the delivery duct of the outer duct, and the delivery duct of the first duct. The coolant is configured to pass through the return duct of the first duct, the return duct of the outer duct, and the return duct of the second duct.

[0064] The duct system may have an input end configured to supply cooling liquid (i.e., liquid circulating in the lower mold half) to the duct system. The duct system may have an output end configured to discharge cooling liquid (i.e., liquid circulated in the lower mold half). In one example, the input end and / or the output end are provided in the lower mold half, particularly in the base of the lower mold half. The input end of the duct system may be connected to an outlet duct of the second duct. In other words, the second duct (particularly the outlet duct of the second duct) may be configured to receive cooling liquid from the input end. The output end of the duct system may be connected to a return duct of the second duct. In other words, the output end may be configured to receive cooling liquid from the second duct (particularly the return duct of the second duct).

[0065] The plurality of outer ducts (i.e., the delivery ducts and the return ducts of the plurality of outer ducts) are configured to allow relative movement between the plunger and the body along the longitudinal axis. For example, the outer ducts can be configured of a deformable material.

[0066] The present specification also provides a mold for manufacturing a cap, wherein the mold can include a duct system. The mold includes a lower mold half. The lower mold half can include a body and a plunger. The plunger can be movable relative to the body between a retracted position in which the plunger cooperates with the body to form a recess for accommodating a dose, and an advanced position in which the plunger at least partially blocks the recess (or vice versa). In one example, the body and plunger are fixed relative to each other. The mold includes an upper mold half, wherein the lower mold half and the upper mold half are reciprocally movable along a longitudinal axis between a mold open position and a mold closed position in which they define a molding space, the recess facing the molding space. The mold includes a duct system. The duct system can be fabricated according to one or more features of the present specification. The duct system can be configured to allow a coolant to flow, preferably through the lower mold half. In particular, the duct system is provided in the lower mold half. In one example, the duct system extends to the interior of the body of the lower mold half and the interior of the plunger, preferably via a duct that fluidly connects a duct provided inside the plunger with a duct provided inside the body.

[0067] The present invention also provides a compression molding machine for producing caps, the machine including a plurality of molds according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In one example, the molding machine is a rotary machine, i.e., a machine including a carousel configured to rotate an axis of rotation, the axis of rotation preferably being parallel to the longitudinal axis. The carousel may include a plurality of molds according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Preferably, the plurality of molds are mounted on the carousel at angular intervals about the axis of rotation.

[0068] The present disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a cap for a container by compressing a quantity of material within a mold cavity.

[0069] The method includes providing a lower mold half. The lower mold half may be manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Preferably, the lower mold half includes a body and a plunger, the plunger being movable relative to the body between a retracted position in which the plunger cooperates with the body to form a recess configured to receive a dose, and an advanced position in which the plunger at least partially occupies the recess. The method includes providing an upper mold half. The upper mold half may be manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Preferably, the lower mold half and the upper mold half are movable relative to each other along a longitudinal axis between a mold open position and a mold closed position in which they define a molding space, the recess facing the molding space.

[0070] In one example, the plunger moves relative to the body, or more preferably, the body moves relative to the plunger such that the plunger moves between a retracted position and an advanced position relative to the body.

[0071] The method may include providing a base, preferably fixed along a longitudinal axis, in the lower mold half, the plunger may be fixed to the base, and the body may be movable along the longitudinal direction. The method includes providing a drawer made in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Preferably, the drawer is movable along a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis between a retracted position distal to the molding space and a closed position proximal to the molding space, and includes a head surface that contributes to defining the molding space in the closed position of the drawer.

[0072] The method includes closing the mold by moving the upper and lower mold halves toward each other along a longitudinal axis. The method includes moving the drawer from a retracted position to a closed position by a movement system, preferably driven by the movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other. The method may include synchronizing the movement of the drawer between the retracted and closed positions with the movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other.

[0073] In one embodiment, the movement system includes a longitudinally movable drive structure. Alternatively, the drive structure is longitudinally fixed. In one example, the movement system includes a cam and a wheel, i.e., the method includes providing a longitudinally movable drive structure, preferably a cam and a wheel. Alternatively, the method may include providing a contoured surface and a complementary contoured surface configured to interact with each other.

[0074] In one example, the method includes moving the drive structure along a longitudinal axis. In one example, the method includes a wheel and a cam interacting to generate movement of the drawer, preferably in response to longitudinal movement of the drive structure. The cam may be attached to the drawer and the wheel may be connected to the drive structure, or the cam may be connected to the drive structure and the wheel may be attached to the drawer. If there is a contoured surface and a complementary contoured surface, the contoured surface may be attached to the drawer and the complementary contoured surface may be attached to the drive structure, or the contoured surface may be attached to the drive structure and the complementary contoured surface may be attached to the drawer.

[0075] In one example, the drawer, cam, and wheel are associated with the same half of the lower and upper mold halves. If the drive structure is provided in the lower mold half, the drive structure can be fixed (directly or indirectly) to the plunger so that the body moves longitudinally relative to the drive structure and plunger.

[0076] In one example, the method includes providing a plunger secured to a base via a first locking key to lock an angular position of the plunger about a longitudinal axis relative to the base. The method can include providing a body secured to the plunger via a second locking key to lock an angular position of the body relative to the plunger. The second locking key allows the body to move along the longitudinal axis while angularly locking the body relative to the plunger.

[0077] In one example, the method includes providing a hollow cylinder in a lower mold half. When the drive structure is within (associated with) the lower mold half, the hollow cylinder can define the drive structure. The hollow cylinder extends cylindrically around a longitudinal axis. The hollow cylinder can be disposed outside (surround) the plunger and the body. In one example, the lower mold half includes a base. The base can be fixed along the longitudinal axis. The plunger can be fixed to the base. Preferably, the hollow cylinder is fixed to the plunger such that the hollow cylinder and the body together with the plunger (and base) translate relative to each other along the longitudinal axis. In particular, the hollow cylinder is fixed to the plunger, the body moves along the longitudinal axis, and the hollow cylinder together with the plunger (and base) is fixed along the longitudinal axis.

[0078] In one example, the method includes providing a ring on the lower mold half. The ring extends annularly around the longitudinal axis. The hollow cylinder can extend longitudinally from the lower end to the upper end. Preferably, the ring is secured to the upper end of the hollow cylinder, for example, via one or more locking screws. The providing the ring includes coupling one or more eyeholes in the ring to one or more corresponding holes in the upper end of the hollow cylinder via one or more corresponding locking screws. Preferably, the one or more eyeholes in the ring extend at an angle around the longitudinal axis, thereby allowing the ring and hollow cylinder to be secured together in a predetermined angular position.

[0079] In one example, the method includes providing a wheel holder on the lower mold half. The wheel can run (or roll) on a cam, which causes the drawer to move radially, resulting in relative movement between the upper and lower mold halves. The wheel holder supports a wheel. The wheel is connected (coupled) to the wheel holder.

[0080] In particular, the wheel holder is connected to a ring. The ring includes a wheel holder seat for accommodating the wheel holder. In particular, the wheel holder has one or more eye holes that engage with one or more holes in the ring via one or more corresponding fixing screws, thereby fixing the wheel holder to the ring (more specifically, the seat in the ring). Preferably, the one or more eye holes in the wheel holder extend in one or more corresponding radial directions. Thus, the wheel holder can be fixed at a predetermined distance along the radial direction, thereby changing the distance between the wheel and the drawer.

[0081] In one example, the ring and the hollow cylinder constitute separate components, and in another example, the ring is integrated into the hollow cylinder. Thus, the wheel holder can be fixed to the hollow cylinder (if the ring is integrated into the hollow cylinder) or fixed to the ring (if the ring and the hollow cylinder constitute separate components). Thus, a seat for the wheel holder can be provided on the hollow cylinder.

[0082] The wheel holder is fixed at an angle to the ring (or hollow cylinder) to align the wheel with the cam, which causes the wheel to ride or roll on the cam and move the drawer radially.

[0083] In one example, the drawer is associated with the body of the lower mold half, and the cam is provided on a back surface of the drawer (in other words, the drawer has a back surface that defines the cam of the movement system). Preferably, during the relative movement of the body and the plunger along the longitudinal direction, the wheel rolls on the back surface of the drawer so that the wheel and the drawer move relative to each other in a radial direction (in particular, the drawer moves radially). In particular, the body moves along the longitudinal direction relative to the plunger, and the wheel (connected to a wheel holder directly or indirectly connected to the hollow cylinder) pushes the drawer toward the closed position.

[0084] In one example, the drawer has a head surface opposite the back surface. Preferably, the head surface extends symmetrically with respect to an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis. The head surface may extend symmetrically, in particular in a semicircular shape around the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the drawer, i.e., the head surface, has a width along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that is smaller than the diameter of the cap. In moving between the retracted position and the closed position, the drawer moves along a radial direction such that each point on the head surface moves along a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis (i.e., each point on the head surface moves along a radial direction). In particular, during movement between the retracted position and the closed position, the center of mass (or center of gravity) of the drawer moves along an axis intersecting the longitudinal axis (i.e., a radial direction). In other words, the center of mass (or center of gravity) of the drawer moves along a radial direction.

[0085] The lower mold half defines a lateral portion of the molding space that forms the (outer surface of) the side wall of the cap. The drawer, together with the lower mold half, can contribute to defining the extent of the molding space (in particular, can contribute to defining the extent of the lateral portion of the molding space that forms the side wall of the cap). The lower mold half defines the outer surface of the side wall of the cap, and the drawer forms a recess or an area of ​​narrow thickness in the side wall of the cap.

[0086] Preferably, the portion of the lower mold half that forms the outer surface of the side wall of the cap is radially fixed (relative to the radially moving drawer).

[0087] In one example, the body of the lower mold half has longitudinal surfaces. The longitudinal surfaces contribute to defining the extent of the molding space. In particular, the longitudinal surfaces contribute to defining the extent of the lateral surfaces or lateral spaces (or longitudinal surfaces or longitudinal spaces) of the molding space. In particular, the longitudinal surfaces contribute to forming the (outer surfaces of) the side walls of the cap.

[0088] The drawer (particularly the head surface of the drawer) together with the longitudinal surface of the body can contribute to delimiting the molding space (particularly to delimiting the lateral surfaces of the lateral spaces of the molding space that form the side walls of the cap). The longitudinal surface of the body can define the outer surfaces of the side walls of the cap, the drawer forming a recess or an area of ​​reduced thickness in the side walls of the cap.

[0089] Preferably, the longitudinal surfaces of the body are radially fixed (with respect to the radially moving drawer).

[0090] In one example, the method includes providing a puller seat on the body of the lower mold half, in particular, the puller seat being provided on a longitudinal surface of the body, and the drawer moving within the puller seat on the longitudinal surface of the body during movement between the retracted position and the closed position.

[0091] Preferably, the wheel engages the cam throughout the movement of the mold between the open and closed positions.

[0092] Preferably, the upper mold half includes a core and an extractor connected to the core by an upper resilient assembly and movable relative to the core between an advanced position and a retracted position. The method includes moving the core and the extractor relative to each other. The method may include compressing the upper resilient assembly, for example, in accordance with the relative movement between the core and the extractor.

[0093] In one example, in the lower mold half, the body is connected to the plunger by a lower resilient assembly.

[0094] In one embodiment, movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other causes the core and extraction device in the upper mold half to move relative to each other. In one embodiment, movement between the upper and lower mold halves causes the body and plunger in the lower mold half to move relative to each other.

[0095] In one example, the drawer is slidably coupled to the extractor and the drive structure is connected to the core, such that, for example, movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other moves the core and extractor relative to each other, creating relative movement between the drive structure and the drawer, which moves the drawer radially to the closed position.

[0096] In one example, the drawer is slidably coupled to the body and the drive structure is connected to the plunger, such that, for example, movement of the upper and lower mold halves toward each other moves the body and plunger relative to each other, creating relative movement between the drive structure and the drawer, which moves the drawer radially to the closed position.

[0097] In one embodiment, the relative movement between the extractor and core of the upper mold half is completed before the relative movement between the body and plunger of the lower mold half is completed. Preferably, the relative movement between the extractor and core of the upper mold half is completed before the relative movement between the body and plunger of the lower mold half is initiated.

[0098] In one embodiment, the forward movement of the drawer to the closed position is completed before the relative movement between the body of the lower mold half and the plunger is completed.

[0099] Thus, first, the upper resilient assembly is compressed in accordance with the relative movement between the extractor and the core, and then the lower resilient assembly is compressed in accordance with the relative movement between the body and the plunger. In one example, the lower resilient element is stiffer than the upper resilient element, so that the relative movement between the core and the extractor occurs before the relative movement between the body and the plunger is completed (or initiated).

[0100] In one embodiment, the method includes exchanging a plurality of spacers, each spacer connectable to the plunger and interchangeable with another spacer to vary the longitudinal distance between the drive structure and the plunger when the mold is in the open position. The method may include connecting the spacers to the plunger, whereby a drawer associated with the body completes forward movement to the closed position before the drive structure completes movement of the associated plunger to the advanced position.

[0101] Alternatively, the method includes exchanging a plurality of spacers, each spacer connectable to the core and interchangeable with another spacer to vary the longitudinal distance between the drive structure and the core when the mold is in the open position. The method may also include connecting the spacers to the core, whereby a drawer associated with the extractor completes forward movement to the closed position before a core associated with the drive structure completes movement to the advanced position (relative to the extractor).

[0102] In one embodiment, the method includes providing a duct system. The duct system can be fabricated according to one or more features of the present disclosure. Preferably, the duct system is provided within the lower mold half. In particular, the duct system extends to the interior of the body and the interior of the plunger via a duct that fluidly connects a duct provided within the plunger with a duct provided within the body.

[0103] The method may include providing a duct system including a first duct in the body and / or a second duct in the plunger. The method may include fluidly connecting the duct in the body (i.e., the first duct) with the duct in the plunger (i.e., the second duct). In another example, the duct in the plunger and the duct in the body are independent of each other. The method may include providing an outer duct or multiple (outer) ducts in the duct system. The method may include fluidly connecting the duct in the plunger with the duct in the body via the outer duct or multiple ducts.

[0104] The body may have a longitudinal portion defining a longitudinal surface. The longitudinal surface contributes to the formation of (the outer surface of) the side wall of the cap. The first duct may extend into the body corresponding to the longitudinal portion, thereby allowing the cooling liquid to circulate around the molding space. In particular, the first duct surrounds (the longitudinally extending portion of) the molding space. The cooling liquid therefore circulates inside the first duct around (the longitudinally extending portion of) the molding space. The method may comprise, for example, a step of cooling the body, in particular the longitudinal portion of the body, through a flow of liquid inside the first duct that corresponds to the longitudinal portion of the body and surrounds the molding space.

[0105] In one example, the plunger includes a longitudinal extension portion and a transverse extension portion defining a transverse surface that contributes to defining the extent of the molding space (contributes to forming the transverse wall of the cap). Second ducts can extend into the interior of the plunger corresponding to the longitudinal and transverse extension portions, thereby allowing a cooling liquid to circulate within the longitudinal and transverse extension portions of the plunger.

[0106] The second duct may extend into the interior of the base of the lower mold half, thereby allowing coolant to flow through the interior of the base of the lower mold half.

[0107] The method can include providing the first duct with a delivery duct and a return duct. The method can include flowing liquid toward the molding space through the delivery duct of the first duct (e.g., in a delivery direction). The method can include flowing liquid away from the molding space through the return duct of the first duct (e.g., in a return direction opposite the delivery direction).

[0108] The method can include providing the second duct with a delivery duct and a return duct, wherein liquid can circulate in the delivery duct of the second duct towards the forming space, and liquid can circulate in the return duct of the second duct away from the forming space.

[0109] In one embodiment, the method includes providing a plunger having a longitudinally extending inner portion and an outer portion partially surrounding the inner portion. The outer portion of the plunger can extend cylindrically around the longitudinal axis (i.e., around the inner portion of the plunger), e.g., in the longitudinal extension portion. The outer portion of the plunger can extend transversely to the longitudinal axis, e.g., in a transverse extension portion that at least partially defines a transverse surface of the plunger. The outer portion of the plunger partially surrounds the inner portion of the plunger so as to form a slot between the outer and inner portions.

[0110] The outlet duct of the second duct can extend at least partially into the inner portion of the plunger. The outlet duct of the second duct can extend at least partially into a slot between the outer and inner portions of the plunger, for example corresponding to a lateral extension of the outer portion and / or a longitudinal extension of the outer portion. The outlet duct of the second duct can extend into the base.

[0111] In one example, the method includes providing a plurality of (outer) ducts with delivery ducts, the delivery duct of a first duct being connected to a delivery duct of a second duct. In one example, the method includes providing a plurality of (outer) ducts with return ducts, the return duct of the first duct being connected to a return duct of the second duct. Thus, the method can include flowing a coolant through the delivery duct of the second duct, the delivery duct of the outer duct, and the delivery duct of the first duct, and flowing a coolant through the return duct of the first duct, the return duct of the outer duct, and the return duct of the second duct.

[0112] The method may include providing an input end to the duct system and supplying coolant to the duct system through the input end. The method may include providing an output end to the duct system and discharging coolant from the duct system through the output end. In one example, the input end and / or the output end are provided in the lower mold half. The input end of the duct system may be connected to an outlet duct of the second duct to receive coolant from the input end. The output end of the duct system may be connected to a return duct of the second duct to receive coolant from the return duct of the second duct.

[0113] The plurality of outer ducts (i.e., the delivery ducts and return ducts of the plurality of outer ducts) allow relative movement between the plunger and the body along the longitudinal axis. For example, the outer ducts can be constructed of a deformable material.

[0114] The present specification also provides a method for manufacturing a cap for a container by compressing a dose in a molding space, the method including providing a duct system. The method includes providing a lower mold half according to one or more features of the present specification. Preferably, the lower mold half includes a body and a plunger. The plunger can be movable relative to the body between a retracted position in which the plunger cooperates with the body to form a recess for accommodating the dose, and an advanced position in which the plunger at least partially occupies the recess (or vice versa). In one example, the body and plunger are fixed relative to each other.

[0115] The method can include providing an upper mold half according to one or more features herein, wherein the lower and upper mold halves are movable relative to one another along a longitudinal axis between a mold open position and a mold closed position in which they define a molding space, the recess facing the molding space.

[0116] A duct system can be fabricated according to one or more features of the present disclosure. The duct system allows a coolant to flow, preferably within the lower mold half. In particular, the duct system is provided within the lower mold half. In one example, the duct system extends to the interior of the plunger and the interior of the body of the lower mold half, preferably via a duct that fluidly connects the duct within the plunger with the duct within the body. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0117] These and other features will become more apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1A] 1 shows a cross section of a cap 2 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2-8] 1A-1C illustrate, in cross section, a sequence of operations of a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9-15] 1A-1C illustrate, in cross section, a sequence of operations of a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 16-23] 1A-1C illustrate, in cross section, a sequence of operations of a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 24A-24B] 1 illustrates a cross section of a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] 1 shows a schematic diagram of coolant flow paths within a mold 1 in cross section, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 26A] 1 illustrates a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 26B] 26B shows a cross section of the mold 1 of FIG. 26A. [Figure 27] 1 illustrates a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 28A-28C] 1A-1D illustrate wheel holders of a mold 1 in different positions, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] 1 shows an exploded view of a mold 1 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0118] With reference to the accompanying drawings, numeral 1 designates a mold for producing a cap 2 for a container by compressing a dose 20 in a molding cavity. More specifically, the cap 2 comprises a side wall 21 extending around a major axis P between a first end 21A and a second end 21B. The cap 2 comprises a transverse wall 22 oriented transversely to the major axis P and connected to the side wall 21 at the second end 21B of the side wall 21.

[0119] Mold 1 includes a lower mold half 11. Lower mold half 11 defines a molding cavity. The mold includes an upper mold half 12. Lower mold half 11 and upper mold half 12 are movable relative to one another along longitudinal axis A1 between an open position of mold 1, in which lower mold half 11 and upper mold half 12 are spaced apart, and a closed position of mold 1, in which lower mold half 11 and upper mold half 12 are in close proximity to define a molding space. In the closed position of mold 1, upper mold half 12 is at least partially contained within the cavity of lower mold half 11.

[0120] The lower mold half 11 includes a body 111 and a plunger 112. The plunger 112 is movable relative to the body 111 between a retracted position and an advanced position. More specifically, the plunger 112 is movable along a thrust axis A2. The thrust axis A2 is preferably parallel to or coincident with the longitudinal axis A1.

[0121] In the retracted position, the plunger 112 cooperates with the body 111 to form a recess R. The recess R is configured to accommodate the dose 20. In the advanced position, the plunger 112 at least partially occupies the recess R. More specifically, in the advanced position, the plunger 112 fills the recess R.

[0122] In one embodiment, the lower mold half 11 includes a base 116 that is fixed along a longitudinal axis A1. The plunger 112 is fixed to the base 116 such that the plunger 112 is fixed along the longitudinal axis A1 together with the base 116, while the body 111 is movable along the longitudinal direction. Thus, the body 111 moves relative to the plunger 112 such that the plunger 112 moves between a retracted position and an advanced position.

[0123] The lower mold half 11 includes a first lock key 119A for locking the angular position of the plunger 112 about the longitudinal axis A1 relative to the base 116. The first lock key 119A is installed between the base 116 and the plunger 112. The lower mold half 11 includes a second lock key 119B for locking the angular position of the body 111 about the longitudinal axis A1 relative to the plunger 112. The second lock key 119B is installed between the plunger 112 and the body 111.

[0124] Preferably, the plunger 112 comprises a transverse surface 112A configured to contribute to delimiting the molding space and to at least partially form the transverse wall 22 of the cap 2, particularly when the plunger is in the advanced position.

[0125] Preferably, the body 111 comprises a longitudinal surface 111 A configured to contribute to delimiting the molding space and to at least partially form the side wall 21 of the cap 2 .

[0126] The mold includes a drawer 13. The drawer 13 is movable between a retracted position and a closed position along a radial direction B relative to the longitudinal axis A1. In the retracted position, it is distal to the molding space, and in the closed position, it is proximal to the molding space. More specifically, the drawer 13 includes a head surface 13A that contributes to defining the molding space. When the drawer 13 is in the closed position adjacent to the molding space, the head surface 13A can be configured to be surrounded by plastic so as to form a through hole in the side wall 21 of the cap 2 or to form a region of narrow thickness in the side wall 21 of the cap 2. Thus, when the drawer 13 is in the closed position adjacent to the molding space, it can define a blocking region that interrupts the flow of plastic.

[0127] The body 111 includes a drawer seat provided on a longitudinal surface 111A and configured to receive the drawer 13. The drawer 13 moves within the drawer seat on the longitudinal surface 111A of the body 111 during movement of the drawer 13 between the retracted and closed positions.

[0128] The drawer 13 may be removed and replaced with another drawer 13 having a head surface 13A different from the head surface 13A of the previous drawer in order to change the shape of the narrow thickness area or hole formed in the side wall 21 of the cap 2.

[0129] The retracted and closed positions of the drawer 13 define respective stroke start and end positions along the radial direction B. More specifically, the stroke start position is variable along the radial direction B so as to vary the distance between the head surface 13A of the drawer 13 in the closed position and the molding space. More specifically, narrowing the distance between the head surface 13A and the molding space forms a hole in the cap 2, while widening the distance between the head surface 13A and the molding space forms a region of reduced thickness or a conventional side wall 21 of the cap 2, i.e., a wall 21 without a hole or region of reduced thickness.

[0130] The mold 1 comprises a movement system configured to move the drawer 13 from a retracted position to a closed position along the radial direction B. The movement system includes a longitudinally movable drive structure 141, a cam 142 and a wheel 143.

[0131] The mold 1 comprises a guide 144 configured to guide the drawer 13 as it travels radially, and an elastic element 145 configured to maintain the drawer 13 in the retracted position when no other force is applied to the drawer 13, preferably by moving the drawer 13 along the radial direction B from the closed position to the retracted position.

[0132] Preferably, the cam 142 is attached to the drawer 13, and the wheel 143 is connected to the drive structure 141. The cam 142 and the wheel 143 are configured to interact with each other. More specifically, as the drive structure 141 moves longitudinally, the wheel 143 runs (or rolls) on the cam 142, thereby moving the drawer along the radial direction B.

[0133] The upper mold half 12 includes a core 121 and an extractor 122. The core 121 and the extractor 122 are movable relative to one another along the longitudinal axis A1. More specifically, the extractor 122 is movable between a retracted position in which the extractor 122 and the lower mold half 11 are spaced apart (and the mold 1 is in a partially open position) and an advanced position in which the extractor 122 and the lower mold half 11 are close to one another (and the mold 1 is in a partially closed position).

[0134] In one embodiment, the drawer 13 is associated with the lower mold half 11, and the drive structure 141 is associated with the lower mold half 11. More specifically, the drawer 13 is associated with the body 111 of the lower mold half 11, and the drive structure 141 is fixed to (i.e., attached to) the plunger 112, such that longitudinal movement of the plunger 112 causes longitudinal movement of the drive structure 141. Thus, the drive structure 141 moves integrally with the plunger 112 as the plunger 112 moves between its retracted and advanced positions.

[0135] In one embodiment, the drawer 13 is associated with the lower mold half 11, and the drive structure 141 is associated with the lower mold half 11. The drawer 13 is associated with (connected to) the body 111, and the drive structure 141 is fixed to the plunger 112. The body 111 moves along a longitudinal direction relative to the drive structure 141 and the plunger 112. The lower mold half 11 includes a hollow cylinder that defines the drive structure 141. The hollow cylinder extends cylindrically around the longitudinal axis A1 and surrounds the plunger 112 and the body 111. The hollow cylinder is fixed to the plunger 112 such that the hollow cylinder is fixed along the longitudinal axis A1, while the body 111 moves along the longitudinal axis A1. The lower mold half 11 can include a ring 114 that extends annularly around the longitudinal axis A1 and is fixed to an upper end of the hollow cylinder. The ring 114 includes one or more eye holes 114A that are coupled to one or more corresponding holes in the upper end of the hollow cylinder via one or more corresponding locking screws 114B. Each of the one or more eye holes 114B in the ring 114 extends angularly about the longitudinal axis A1, thereby enabling the hollow cylinder and the ring 114 to be secured in a predetermined angular position relative to one another. The lower mold half 11 includes a wheel holder 115 configured to support a wheel 143. The wheel 143 is coupled and connected to the wheel holder 115.

[0136] The ring 114 includes a wheel holder seat 114C for receiving the wheel holder 115. The wheel holder 115 has one or more eyeholes 115C configured to engage with one or more holes in the ring 114 via one or more corresponding fixing screws 115D, thereby securing the wheel holder 115 to the seat 114C of the ring 114. The one or more eyeholes 115C of the wheel holder 115 expand in one or more corresponding radial directions so that the radial distance of the wheel holder 115 can be changed.

[0137] The ring 114 and the hollow cylinder can be separate components, or the ring 114 can be integrated into the hollow cylinder, whereby the wheel holder 115 is directly connected to the hollow cylinder. In particular, the wheel holder 115 is fixed at an angle to the ring 114 (or the hollow cylinder) to align the wheel 143 with the cam 142 provided on the back of the drawer 13. In one example (i.e., an example in which the ring 114 is integrated into the hollow cylinder), the hollow cylinder includes a wheel holder seat 114C for accommodating the wheel holder 115. The wheel holder 115 can have one or more eye holes 115C for engaging with one or more corresponding holes in the hollow cylinder via one or more corresponding fixing screws 115C. The one or more eye holes 115C of the wheel holder 115 expand in one or more corresponding radial directions so that the radial distance of the wheel holder 115 can be changed.

[0138] In another embodiment, the drawer 13 is associated with the lower mold half 11 and the drive structure 141 is associated with the upper mold half. More specifically, the drawer 13 is associated with the body 111 of the lower mold half 11 and the drive structure 141 is fixed (i.e., attached) to the core 121 of the upper mold half 12 such that longitudinal movement of the core 121 and the extractor 122 relative to one another causes longitudinal movement of the drive structure 141. Preferably, the core 121 is fixed and the extractor 122 moves between a retracted position and an advanced position.

[0139] In instances where the drawer 13 and drive structure 141 (and therefore the wheel 143) are associated with the same mold half (preferably the lower mold half 11), the wheel 143 remains engaged with the cam 142 of the drawer 13 throughout the entire time the mold is moved between the open and closed positions.

[0140] In another example, the drawer 13 is associated with the upper mold half 12 and the drive structure 141 is associated with the upper mold half 12. More specifically, the drawer 13 may be associated with the extractor 122 and the drive structure 141 may be associated with the core 121 of the upper mold half 12 such that relative movement between the extractor 122 and the core 121 causes movement of the drive structure 141 and therefore movement of the drawer in the radial direction B.

[0141] In yet another example, the drawer 13 is associated with the upper mold half 12 and the drive structure 141 is associated with the lower mold half. More specifically, the drawer 13 may be associated with the extractor 122 and the drive structure may be associated with the plunger 112.

[0142] The mold 1 includes a spacer 15 connected to the plunger 112. More specifically, the mold 1 may include multiple spacers 15, each removably connected to the plunger 112 and interchangeable with other spacers 15 to vary the longitudinal distance between the drive structure 141 and the plunger 112 when the mold is in the open position.

[0143] In one embodiment, the core 121 includes an inner core 121A, a central core 121B, and an outer core 121C. The outer core 121C surrounds the central core 121B, which surrounds the inner core 121A. Preferably, the central core 121B and the outer core 121C are connected to each other and are movable relative to the inner core 121A along the longitudinal axis A1. The outer core 121B includes a plurality of recesses configured to form internal threads in the sidewall 21 of the cap 2.

[0144] The dose 20 is inserted into the mould 1 when the mould 1 is in the open position, i.e. when the lower mould half 11 and the upper mould half 12 are spaced apart and the plunger 112 is in the retracted position. There is then a step of (partially) closing the mould 1, in which the lower mould half 11 and the upper mould half 12 are brought close to each other to define a moulding cavity, with the recess R facing the moulding cavity.

[0145] When the mold 1 is closed, the dose 20 may be partially compressed.

[0146] Preferably, while the mold 1 is moving towards the closed position, the lower mold half 11 moves closer to the upper mold half 12 until a portion of the body 111 of the lower mold half 11 abuts a corresponding portion of the extractor 122. Then, as the closing movement of the mold 1 continues, as a result of the thrust of the body 111 of the lower mold half 11, the extractor 122 moves from an advanced position to a retracted position relative to the core 121, which remains fixed relative to the extractor 122. More specifically, the upper mold half 12 includes an upper resilient assembly 123 configured to connect the extractor 122 to the core 121, such that the core 121 is compressed as the extractor 122 moves from the advanced position to the retracted position.

[0147] When the resilient assembly 123 is compressed (partially or fully), the plunger 112 is moved from the retracted position to the advanced position. This movement causes the recess R to be filled by the plunger, thereby reducing the molding space. Also, as the plunger 112 moves towards the advanced position, the doses 20 are transferred from the recess R into the molding space until the doses 20 fill the molding space. More specifically, the lower mold half 11 comprises a lower resilient assembly 113 configured to connect the body 111 to the plunger 112. As the plunger 112 moves from the retracted position to the advanced position, the lower resilient assembly 113 is compressed.

[0148] During the movement of the plunger 112, the drive structure 141 moves simultaneously with the plunger 112, and the wheel 143 moves along the cam 142 of the drawer 13, thereby moving the drawer 13 forward in the closing direction.

[0149] Preferably, the lower resilient assembly 113 is stiffer than the upper resilient assembly 123. This ensures that during the closing operation of the mold, the upper resilient assembly 123 compresses before the lower resilient assembly 113, i.e., the plunger 112 does not reach its advanced position until the relative movement of the extractor 112 and core 121 is complete.

[0150] Furthermore, the movement of the drawer 13 towards the closed position and the movement of the plunger 112 towards the advanced position are performed in sequence such that the drawer 13 reaches the closed position before the plunger 112 reaches the advanced position, so that the plunger 112 fully compresses the dose 20 inside the molding space only after the drawer 13 reaches the closed position.

[0151] When the drive structure 141 is associated with the core 121, the drive structure 141 moves simultaneously with the core 121 and extractor 122 moving relative to one another such that the relative movement of the core 121 and extractor 122 moves the drawer 13 to the closed position as the wheel 143 rolls along the contoured surface of the drawer 13. Again, the drawer 13 reaches the closed position before the plunger 112 reaches its advanced position.

[0152] In one example, during movement of the plunger 112, the drive structure 141 moves simultaneously with the plunger 112, and the wheel 143 moves along the cam 142 of the drawer 13, thereby moving the drawer 13 towards the closed position.

[0153] Upon completion of compression of the dose 20 within the molding space, the upper mold half 12 and the lower mold half 11 move away from each other to an open position of the mold 1. During the opening operation of the mold 1, the extractor 122 can move to an advanced position relative to the core 121. More specifically, the extractor 122 may comprise a retaining portion configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the side wall 21 of the cap 2 (i.e., the extractor 122 locks the cap 2 with a portion of its side wall 21) to remove the cap from the core 121.

[0154] In one embodiment, the mold 1 includes a duct system 16 disposed within the lower mold half 11 and configured to allow a coolant to flow within (inside) the lower mold half 11. The duct system 16 includes one or more ducts configured to allow a coolant to flow through.

[0155] The duct system 16 comprises a first duct 161 provided in the body 111. The body 111 has a longitudinal portion defining a longitudinal surface 111A that contributes to (at least partially) forming the outer surface of the side wall 21 of the cap 2. The first duct 161 corresponds to the longitudinal portion of the body 111 and surrounds the molding space, thereby allowing the cooling liquid to circulate around the molding space. The first duct 161 has a delivery duct 161A and a return duct 161B, such that the liquid circulates towards the molding space through the delivery duct 161A of the first duct 161, which has a delivery direction, and away from the molding space through the return duct 161B of the first duct 161, which has a return direction opposite to the delivery direction. The duct system 16 comprises a second duct 162 provided in the plunger 112. The second duct 162 has a delivery duct 162A and a return duct 162B.

[0156] In one example, plunger 112 includes a longitudinally extending inner portion 112B (or stem) and an outer portion 112C that extends cylindrically about longitudinal axis A1 and partially surrounds inner portion 112B. Outer portion 112C includes laterally extending portions and longitudinally extending portions that at least partially define transverse surface 112A of plunger 112. Outer portion 112C partially surrounds inner portion 112B to form a slot between outer portion 112C and inner portion 112B.

[0157] The outlet duct 162A of the second duct 162 extends at least partially into the inner portion 112B, within the slot between the outer portion 112C and the inner portion 112B, corresponding to the lateral and longitudinal extension portions. The outlet duct 162A of the second duct 162 extends at least partially into the base 116 of the lower mold half 11.

[0158] The duct system 16 extends to the outside of the upper mold half 11 via a plurality of outer ducts 163 configured to fluidly connect the ducts provided in the plunger 112 and base 116 with the ducts provided in the main body 111 (i.e., the first duct 161 and the second duct 161). The outer duct 163 includes a delivery duct 163A connected to the delivery ducts 161A, 162A of the first duct 161 and the second duct 162. The outer duct 163 includes a return duct 163B connected to the return ducts 161B, 162B of the first duct 161 and the second duct 162.

[0159] The duct system 16 has an input end 164 mounted on the inner portion 112B of the plunger 112 and configured to supply coolant to the duct system 16. The duct system 16 has an output end 165 mounted on the base 116 of the lower mold half 11 and configured to allow the coolant to exit. The input end 164 of the duct system 16 is connected to the delivery duct 162A of the second duct 162, and the output end 165 is connected to the return duct 162B of the second duct 162.

[0160] Thus, the outlet duct 162A of the second duct 162 receives the cooling liquid from the input end 164. The liquid passes through the outlet duct 162A of the second duct 162, the outlet duct 163A of the outer duct 163, and the outlet duct 161A of the first duct 161. The liquid then passes through the return duct 161B of the first duct 161, the return duct 163B of the outer duct 163, and the return duct 162B of the second duct 162. Finally, the liquid exits the lower mould half 11 through the output end 165. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0161] [Patent Document 1] Patent document 102019000022992 [Patent Document 2] Patent document 102021000006557

Claims

1. A mold (1) for producing a cap (2) for a container by compressing a dose (20) in a molding cavity, said mold (1) comprising: a lower mould half (11) comprising a body (111) and a plunger (112), said plunger (112) being movable relative to said body (111) between a retracted position in which said plunger (112) cooperates with said body (111) to form a recess (R) for accommodating said dose (20), and an advanced position in which said plunger (112) at least partially occupies said recess (R); an upper mould half (12), in which the lower mould half (11) and the upper mould half (12) are mutually movable along a longitudinal axis (A1) between an open position of the mould (1) and a closed position of the mould (1) in which they define the moulding space, the recess (R) facing the moulding space; a drawer (13) movable along a radial direction (B) relative to said longitudinal axis (A1) between a retracted position distal to said forming space and a closed position proximal to said forming space, said drawer (13) comprising a head surface (13A) which, in its closed position, contributes to delimiting said forming space; a movement system configured to move said drawer (13) along said radial direction (B), The mold (1), wherein the movement system is configured to move the drawer (13) from the retracted position to the closed position as the upper mold half (12) and the lower mold half (11) approach each other.

2. The mobile system comprises: a longitudinally movable drive structure (141); - a cam (142) and a wheel (143) configured to interact with said cam (142) to move said drawer (13); 2. The mold (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cam (142) is attached to the drawer (13) and the wheel (143) is connected to the drive structure (141), or the cam (142) is connected to the drive structure (141) and the wheel (143) is attached to the drawer (13).

3. 3. The mold (1) according to claim 2, wherein the drawer (13), the cam (142) and the wheel (143) are associated with the same half mold of the lower half mold (11) and the upper half mold (12).

4. 4. The mold (1) according to claim 3, wherein the drawer (13) is associated with the body (111) of the lower mold half (11), the drive structure (141) is fixed to the plunger (112), and when the drawer (13) is in the closed position, the plunger (112) is in a position between the retracted position and the advanced position.

5. 5. The mold (1) of claim 4, comprising a plurality of spacers (15), each spacer being removably connected to the plunger (112) and interchangeable with other spacers (15) to vary the longitudinal distance between the drive structure (141) and the plunger (112) when the mold is in the open position.

6. 6. A mold (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the wheel (143) is associated with the drive structure (141) and the drawer (13) has a back surface that defines the cam (142) of the movement system.

7. 7. The mold (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the movement system is configured to keep the wheel (143) engaged with the cam (142) throughout the movement of the mold (1) between the open position and the closed position.

8. - said upper mould half (12) comprises a core (121), an extractor (122) movable relative to said core (121) between an advanced position and a retracted position, and an upper elastic assembly (123) connecting said extractor (122) to said core (121) and configured to be compressed when said extractor (122) is in said retracted position; - said lower mould half (11) comprises a lower elastic assembly (113) connecting said body (111) to said plunger (112) and adapted to be compressed when said plunger (112) is in said advanced position; A mold (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lower resilient assembly (113) is harder than the upper resilient assembly (123).

9. 9. A mold (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a plurality of drawers (13), each of which is interchangeable with another drawer (13) to vary the head surface (13A).

10. 10. A mold (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a guide (144) configured to guide the drawer (13) as it travels in the radial direction, and an elastic element (145) configured to maintain the drawer (13) in the retracted position when no other force is applied to the drawer (13).

11. 11. A mold (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the retracted position and the closed position of the drawer (13) define a stroke start position and a stroke end position along the radial direction, respectively, and the stroke start position is variable along the radial direction to vary the distance between the head surface (13A) of the drawer (13) and the molding space in the closed position.

12. 12. The mold according to claim 1, further comprising a duct system (16) configured to allow a coolant to flow through the interior of the lower mold half (11) and extending to the interior of the body (111) and the interior of the plunger (112) via ducts configured to fluidly connect ducts provided in the interior of the plunger (112) with ducts provided in the interior of the body (111).

13. A compression molding machine for producing caps (2), comprising a plurality of molds (1) according to any one or more of claims 1 to 12.

14. 1. A method for manufacturing a cap (2) for a container by compressing a dose (20) in a moulding space, comprising: - providing a lower mould half (11) comprising a body (111) and a plunger (112), said plunger (112) being movable relative to said body (111) between a retracted position in which said plunger (112) cooperates with said body (111) to form a recess (R) for accommodating said dose (20), and an advanced position in which said plunger (112) at least partially occupies said recess (R); - providing an upper mould half (12), said lower mould half (11) and said upper mould half (12) being mutually movable along a longitudinal axis (A1) between an open position of the mould (1) and a closed position of the mould (1), in which they define a moulding space, said recess (R) facing said moulding space; - providing a drawer (13) movable along a radial direction (B) relative to the longitudinal axis (A1) between a retracted position distal to the forming space and a closed position proximal to the forming space, the drawer (13) comprising a head surface (13A) which contributes to delimiting the forming space in the closed position of the drawer (13); - closing the mould (1) by moving the upper mould half (12) and the lower mould half (11) towards each other along the longitudinal axis (A1); - moving said drawer (13) from said retracted position to said closed position, A method wherein the movement of said drawer (13) is achieved by a movement system driven by the movement of said upper mould half (12) and said lower mould half (11) towards each other.

15. The moving system includes a longitudinally movable drive structure (141), a cam (142), and a wheel (143), wherein the cam (142) is attached to the drawer (13) and the wheel (143) is connected to the drive structure (141), or the cam (142) is connected to the drive structure (141) and the wheel (143) is attached to the drawer (13), and the step of moving the drawer (13) includes: - moving said drive structure (141) along said longitudinal axis (A1); - causing an interaction between said wheel (143) and said cam (142) to cause movement of said drawer (13) in response to said longitudinal movement of said drive structure (141).

16. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the drawer (13), the cam (142) and the wheel (143) are associated with the same half of the lower mould half (11) and the upper mould half (12), and the wheel (143) engages with the cam (142) throughout the movement of the mould (1) between the open and closed positions.

17. - said upper half mould (12) comprises a core (121) and an extractor (122) connected to said core (121) by an upper elastic assembly (123) and movable relative to said core (121) between an advanced position and a retracted position; - in said lower half mould (11), said body (111) is connected to said plunger (112) by a lower elastic assembly (113); - the movement of the upper mould half (12) and the lower mould half (11) towards each other causes a relative movement between the core (121) and the extractor (122) of the upper mould half (12) and between the body (111) and the plunger (112) of the lower mould half (11); - one of the following conditions applies: i) the drawer (13) is slidably coupled to the extractor (122), and the drive structure (141) is connected to the core (121); 17. The method of claim 16, wherein ii) the drawer (13) is slidably coupled to the body (111), and the drive structure (141) is connected to the plunger (112).

18. the relative movement of the extractor (122) and the core (121) of the upper mould half (12) is completed before the relative movement of the body (111) and the plunger (112) of the lower mould half (11) is completed; The method according to claim 17, wherein the forward movement of the drawer (13) to the closed position is completed before the relative movement between the body (111) of the lower mould half (11) and the plunger (112) is completed.

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