Dehumidifying and drying apparatus for resin materials, and method for assisting the operation of the dehumidifying and drying apparatus for resin materials.

Abstract

The objective is to provide a resin material dehumidification and drying device that significantly reduces the burden on the operator compared to conventional devices and prevents setting errors. [Solution] The resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus 1 comprises a first unit D1 and a second unit D2 for dehumidifying and drying the resin material 41, a controller 4 for controlling the operation of the first unit D1 and the second unit D2, a touch panel display 3 connected to the controller 4, and a database 4a in which the drying conditions of the resin material 41 are registered. When the operator selects a material name selection button 31 on the menu screen 3a, the controller 4 receives a selection signal sent from the display 3, accesses the database 4a, reads the drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and displays the drying condition setting screen on the display 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a resin material dehumidifying and drying device and an operation support method for the resin material dehumidifying and drying device.

Background Art

[0002] An injection molding machine (hereinafter abbreviated as a molding machine) is a device that repeats a molding cycle of injecting and cooling a heated and melted resin material into a mold to produce a molded product, and can mass-produce molded products with complex shapes in a short time. A resin material dehumidifying and drying device dehumidifies and dries a resin material such as resin pellets and transports it to the molding machine.

[0003] Conventionally, a device has been proposed that associates drying data of a resin material to be transported to a molding machine with an identification code and stores it in a storage unit, and reads and presents specific processing procedure information associated with the identification code from the storage unit (Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-032427).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Resin materials need to be dehumidified and dried under specified drying conditions in the required amount for use in molding machines. Factories possess multiple types of resin materials, and different materials are used depending on the product being molded. The drying temperature and drying time for each resin material vary, and the drying conditions must be set to avoid under-drying or over-drying. However, conventional technology manages resin materials using identification codes that are not directly linked to the materials themselves. Therefore, if the operator does not understand the relationship between the resin material and the molded product, or if the operator does not associate the identification code with the resin material, operational errors are likely to occur. Furthermore, since the drying temperature and drying time settings are numerical, numerical input is burdensome for the operator. Therefore, preventing setting errors due to operator misunderstandings is a challenge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a resin material dehumidifying and drying device that can significantly reduce the burden on the operator compared to conventional devices and prevent setting errors.

[0007] The above problem is solved by the solution disclosed below as one embodiment.

[0008] The present invention relates to an operation support method for a resin material dehumidification and drying apparatus, comprising a unit for dehumidifying and drying a resin material, a controller, a touch panel display connected to the controller, and a database in which drying condition data for the resin material is registered. The controller is characterized in that, upon receiving a material name confirmation signal when the operator selects and confirms a material name on the menu screen of the display, it accesses the database, reads the drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and displays a drying condition setting screen on the display that reflects the drying condition data. With this configuration, the controller can centrally manage and present drying conditions such as drying temperature and drying time to the operator in association with the simply entered material name. Therefore, input work can be simplified and work errors can be prevented.

[0009] The resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to the present invention comprises a unit for dehumidifying and drying a resin material, a controller, a touch panel display connected to the controller, and a database in which drying condition data for the resin material is registered. The controller, upon receiving a material name confirmation signal when the operator selects and confirms a material name on the menu screen of the display, accesses the database, reads the drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and displays a drying condition setting screen on the display that reflects the drying condition data. With this configuration, the operator can specify the drying conditions for the resin material by simply inputting a material name, eliminating the need to input the drying conditions each time. Therefore, the input work can be simplified and errors can be prevented. Here, the number of units may be 1 to 4.

[0010] Multiple databases can be established. More specifically, this configuration has a first database that stores the setting conditions of the equipment, including drying settings, transport settings, and input amount settings, and a second database that stores the setting conditions of the materials, including drying conditions specific to each resin material. The second database functions as a material library. Furthermore, the databases can be combined into one. For example, it is possible to operate with a single database physically by using known software techniques such as partitioning the storage area.

[0011] Traditionally, settings were entered directly into the operation screen. In contrast, this configuration allows the operator to select a material name, which triggers the controller to access the material library, read the setting condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and input the drying setting value into a specific storage area in the first database. In other words, the controller writes or overwrites drying conditions such as drying temperature, drying time, and apparent specific gravity, which are unique to each resin material, into a specific storage area in the first database. This allows the operator to easily register new drying conditions and use already registered drying conditions. Therefore, a configuration with a superior user interface can be achieved.

[0012] As an example, the unit consists of a first unit and a second unit. When the controller receives a drying condition confirmation signal from the operator after they have confirmed and finalized the drying condition setting screen, it converts the amount of resin material to be prepared corresponding to the transport route of the resin material into a volume value by dividing it by the apparent specific gravity, and displays a preparation amount setting screen on the display that reflects the volume value. With this configuration, the controller can convert the required preparation amount into a volume value that takes into account the size and shape of the resin material and present it to the operator. Since the transport route, including the number of tanks used, is fixed, the height position can be uniquely determined from the converted volume value. In other words, the operator does not have to convert the height position of the resin material each time. Therefore, work errors can be prevented.

[0013] For example, when the controller receives a transport route confirmation signal from the operator after they have confirmed and finalized the route setting screen for the resin material, it displays a piping connection confirmation screen on the display that reflects the transport route. With this configuration, the operator can prevent overlooking or making mistakes in checking piping connections.

[0014] As an example, the transport path includes a first pipe for transporting the resin material, a second pipe for transporting the dried material obtained by dehumidifying and drying the resin material, and a third pipe connecting the first and second units. The first transport path connects the first pipe to the inlet of the first unit and the second pipe to the outlet of the first unit, and the second transport path connects the first pipe to the inlet of the first unit, the third pipe to the outlet of the first unit and the inlet of the second unit, and the second pipe to the outlet of the second unit. With this configuration, the required amount of material can be handled by dividing it between two small tanks. Furthermore, if the required amount of material is small, it can be handled by one small tank. The controller can optimize the drying timing by switching between multiple transport paths. Therefore, it is possible to respond to market demands for high-mix, low-volume production with short lead times.

[0015] As an example, the controller switches between the first transport route guidance screen and the second transport route guidance screen and displays them on the display in response to the input operation. This allows for smoother transport route switching operations associated with production changes and helps prevent human error.

[0016] As an example, the hopper that transports the dried material to the molding machine has a transport detection sensor attached to the tubing that detects the presence or absence of the dried material. When the controller receives a detection signal from the transport detection sensor during the transport of the dried material to the molding machine and determines that there is a blockage of the dried material in the tubing, it displays setting change guidance information on the display to reduce the amount of dried material transported to the molding machine. This configuration prevents the bridging phenomenon of the dried material from occurring inside the tubing, which would prevent the blockage from being resolved. Details of the bridging phenomenon will be described later.

[0017] As an example, the unit has a position detection sensor that detects a height position corresponding to the volume of the resin material, and when the controller receives a sensor position confirmation signal when the operator confirms and confirms the height position setting, it displays an operation start setting screen on the display, and when the controller receives an operation start confirmation signal when the operator confirms and confirms the operation start time setting, it starts operation control at the operation start time. With this configuration, the controller can prompt the operator to confirm the sensor position in a timely manner. Then, once a series of setting conditions are confirmed, the controller starts operation control at the operation start time. This prevents work errors. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, the burden on the operator can be reduced compared to conventional methods, and errors in the series of settings can be prevented. Therefore, a resin material dehumidification and drying device with an excellent user interface can be realized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to this embodiment, as seen from the front. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus shown in Figure 1, viewed from the rear. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the resin material dehumidification and drying apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic structural diagram of the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus shown in Figure 1, and is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the spring members when the tank is closed. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the spring members when the tank is open in the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6]FIG. 6A is a schematic front view of a hopper equipped with a transport detection sensor according to this embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic side view of a hopper equipped with a transport detection sensor according to this embodiment. FIG. 6C is a schematic plan view of a hopper equipped with a transport detection sensor according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7A is a configuration diagram schematically showing a first transport route according to this embodiment. FIG. 7B is a diagram schematically showing a route setting screen for the first transport route according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8A is a configuration diagram schematically showing a second transport route according to this embodiment. FIG. 8B is a diagram schematically showing a route setting screen for the second transport route according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9A is a configuration diagram schematically showing a third transport route according to this embodiment. FIG. 9B is a diagram schematically showing a route setting screen for the third transport route according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10A is a configuration diagram schematically showing a fourth transport route according to this embodiment. FIG. 10B is a diagram schematically showing a route setting screen for the fourth transport route according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing a comparison of the relationship between the production period of a product and cleaning work according to this embodiment with a conventional example and an example. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation of a resin material dehumidifying and drying device according to this embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation related to transport route setting / confirmation of this embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation related to drying condition setting / confirmation of this embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation related to charge amount setting / confirmation of this embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation related to the operation of this embodiment. [Figure 17]Figure 17A schematically shows the route setting screen according to this embodiment. Figure 17B schematically shows the pipe connection confirmation screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18A is a schematic diagram showing the menu screen according to this embodiment. Figure 18B is a schematic diagram showing the drying condition setting screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19A schematically shows the preparation amount setting screen according to this embodiment. Figure 19B schematically shows the sensor position confirmation screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 20] Figure 20A is a schematic diagram showing the operation start setting screen according to this embodiment. Figure 20B is a schematic diagram showing the operation start screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 21] Figure 21A schematically shows the first resin material registration / editing screen according to this embodiment. Figure 21B schematically shows the second resin material registration / editing screen according to this embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 22A schematically shows the basic settings selection screen according to this embodiment. Figure 22B schematically shows the operation settings selection screen according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] [Apparatus of this embodiment] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the resin material dehumidification and drying apparatus 1 has a main body 2 having a housing with casters, a first unit D1 and a second unit D2 arranged side by side on the main body 2, and a touch panel type display 3 attached to the main body 2. The first unit D1 and the second unit D2 each dehumidify and dry the resin material 41. The resin material dehumidification and drying apparatus 1 includes a first pipe 7 for transporting the resin material 41, a second pipe 8 for transporting the dried material 42 obtained by dehumidifying and drying the resin material 41, and a third pipe 9 that constitutes the transport path between the first unit D1 and the second unit D2.

[0021] The resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus 1 includes a controller 4 capable of controlling each device and a database 4a that stores setting condition data. As an example, the controller 4 and database 4a are built into the main unit 2 (not shown), and the display 3 is mounted on the front side of the main unit 2. Alternatively, a tablet terminal with the functions of the display 3, controller 4, and database 4a can be used.

[0022] In this specification, to facilitate the explanation of the positional relationships of the various parts in the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus 1, the directions are indicated by X, Y, and Z arrows in the figures. When the operator operates the touch panel display 3, from the operator's perspective, arrow X in the figures indicates the direction towards the user, arrow Y indicates the direction to the left, and arrow Z indicates the direction upwards. In addition, in all figures used to explain the embodiments, components having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations may be omitted.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the first unit D1 has a first tank 5 capable of dehumidifying, drying, and discharging the resin material 41, and the second unit D2 has a second tank 6 capable of dehumidifying, drying, and discharging the resin material 41. The first tank 5 has a cylindrical body 5a, a funnel-shaped receiving portion 5b that receives the body 5a, and a first connecting portion 2a that is connected to the receiving portion 5b and the body 5a to support the body 5a so that it can be tilted. The second tank 6 has a cylindrical body 6a, a funnel-shaped receiving portion 6b that receives the body 6a, and a second connecting portion 2b that is connected to the receiving portion 6b and the body 6a to support the body 6a so that it can be tilted. The first unit D1 and the second unit D2 are each equipped with a suction-type fine powder removal hopper (helical hopper). As an example, the first tank 5 and the second tank 6 are tanks of the same specifications.

[0024] For example, the first unit D1 and the second unit D2 are identical units. They suck up pelletized resin material 41 stored in the material tank 21 using an attached hopper, drop it from the hopper into a drying container, and dehumidify and dry it in the drying container using drying air from a heater to produce dried material 42. For example, the first unit D1 and the second unit D2 are positioned side by side in a rotationally symmetrical manner with respect to a vertical axis passing through the center of the main body 2. This makes it easy to open and close the first tank 5 and the second tank 6. For example, the first unit D1 and the second unit D2 have the same structure. This allows for standardization of the dehumidifying and drying unit, making assembly work easier. Furthermore, production work can be started smoothly, and setup work associated with production changeovers can be carried out smoothly. Furthermore, maintenance work can be easily performed.

[0025] Figure 4 is a structural diagram of the first tank 5 in a closed state. Figure 5 is a structural diagram of the first tank 5 in an open state. Areas P4 enclosed by dashed lines in the figures show enlarged views of the first connecting section 2a. The first tank 5 is connected and fixed with the opening of the body section 5a and the opening of the receiving section 6b in close contact, and locking members 5c for releasing the connection between the body section 5a and the receiving section 6b are provided at multiple locations. As an example, three locking members 5c are provided at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the first tank 5. The locking members 6c have the same configuration as the locking members 5c.

[0026] In the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first connecting portion 2a has a first mounting portion 11 that connects and fixes to the body portion 5a, a second mounting portion 12 that connects and fixes to the receiving portion 6b, and a hinge pin 14 that connects the first mounting portion 11 to the second mounting portion 12 so that it can tilt. The first mounting portion 11 is made of sheet metal processed into a frame shape, and the first shaft 11a passes through it in the forward direction (arrow X in the figure). The second mounting portion 12 is made of sheet metal processed into a frame shape, and the second shaft 12a passes through it in the forward direction (arrow X in the figure). In addition, the third shaft 13 passes through the first shaft 11a and the second shaft 12a in an orthogonal direction. As an example, a pair of third shafts 13 are provided at a predetermined interval front and rear, and coil springs are provided as spring members 15 for each. The second connecting portion 2b has the same configuration as the first connecting portion 2a.

[0027] According to this embodiment, when cleaning the inside of the first tank 5, the force with which the body 5a tilts when the first tank 5 is opened is suppressed by the spring member 15. In other words, since it is prevented that the body 5a will tilt forcefully when the first tank 5 is opened, the burden on the operator when opening the first tank 5 is reduced. As shown in Figure 5, the body 5a stops at a predetermined inclination angle when the coil spring, which is the spring member 15, is compressed. Therefore, the operator can easily perform the cleaning work smoothly and safely. Note that the spring member 15 is not limited to the coil spring described above, and other configurations such as leaf springs, air springs, air cylinders, shock absorbers, and other known spring members can be provided.

[0028] Each unit D1 and D2 is equipped with position detection sensors 5d and 6d that detect the height position corresponding to the volume of resin material 41. For example, position detection sensors 5d and 6d are a pair of sensors and are capacitive proximity sensors. As an alternative configuration, known proximity sensors such as optical sensors or ultrasonic sensors can also be used.

[0029] The first unit D1 has a position detection sensor 5d that detects a height corresponding to the volume of resin material 41. The position detection sensor 5d is located on the outer surface of the first tank 5, and its position can be adjusted vertically (see Figure 1). The second unit D2 has a position detection sensor 6d that detects a height corresponding to the volume of resin material 41. The position detection sensor 6d is located on the outer surface of the second tank 6, and its position can be adjusted vertically (see Figure 2).

[0030] A suction-type fine powder removal hopper 22 is provided in the molding machine 50. The second pipe 8 of the resin material dehumidification and drying device 1 is connected to the hopper 22, and the drying material 42 is transported to the molding machine 50 via the hopper 22. Figure 6A is a schematic front view of the hopper 22. Figure 6B is a schematic side view of the hopper 22. Figure 6C is a schematic top view of the hopper 22. The hopper 22 has a pipe 22a connected to its main body, and a transport detection sensor 22b is attached to the pipe 22a. The transport detection sensor 22b is signal-connected to the controller 4. For example, the pipe 22a is made of glass, and the transport detection sensor 22b is a capacitive proximity sensor.

[0031] [Transportation route of this embodiment] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram showing the first transport route F1. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing the route setting screen 3c1 for the first transport route F1. Figure 8A is a schematic diagram showing the second transport route F2. Figure 8B is a schematic diagram showing the route setting screen 3c2 for the second transport route F2. Figure 9A is a schematic diagram showing the third transport route F3. Figure 9B is a schematic diagram showing the route setting screen 3c3 for the third transport route F3. Figure 10A is a schematic diagram showing the fourth transport route F4. Figure 10B is a schematic diagram showing the route setting screen 3c4 for the fourth transport route F4.

[0032] Database 4a stores setting condition data corresponding to the first transport route F1, the second transport route F2, the third transport route F3, and the fourth transport route F4. Controller 4 is signal-connected to the first unit D1 and the second unit D2. Controller 4 is also signal-connected to the display 3 and to database 4a.

[0033] The first transport route F1 connects the first pipe 7 to the inlet D1a of the first unit D1 and the second pipe 8 to the outlet D1b of the first unit D1. The second transport route F2 connects the first pipe 7 to the inlet D1a of the first unit D1, connects the third pipe 9 to the outlet D1b of the first unit D1 and the inlet D2a of the second unit D2, and connects the second pipe 8 to the outlet D2b of the second unit D2.

[0034] The third transport route F3 connects the first pipe 7 to the inlet D2a of the second unit D2 and the second pipe 8 to the outlet D2b of the second unit D2. The fourth transport route F4 connects the first pipe 7 to the inlet D2a of the second unit D2, connects the third pipe 9 to the outlet D2b of the second unit D2 and the inlet D1a of the first unit D1, and connects the second pipe 8 to the outlet D1b of the first unit D1.

[0035] The controller 4 switches between displaying a first guidance screen showing the first transport route F1, a second guidance screen showing the second transport route F2, a third guidance screen showing the third transport route F3, and a fourth guidance screen showing the fourth transport route F4 on the display 3, in response to the operator's input. This allows for smooth piping connection work associated with production changeovers.

[0036] For example, controller 4 transitions to a navigation screen showing the piping connection procedure in the first transport route F1 in response to the operator's input. Controller 4 also transitions to a navigation screen showing the piping connection procedure in the second transport route F2 in response to the operator's input. This makes it easy to reliably perform piping connection work regardless of the operator's skill level.

[0037] For example, when the second operation is performed on the second transport route F2, the controller 4 sets the second drying start time to the second unit D2 according to the production start time at the external molding machine 50, and sets the first drying time to the first unit D1 according to the second drying start time. For example, when the fourth operation is performed on the fourth transport route F4, the controller 4 sets the second drying start time to the first unit D1 according to the production start time at the external molding machine 50, and sets the first drying time to the second unit D2 according to the second drying start time. This allows for smooth setup work associated with production changeovers, regardless of the operator's skill level. Furthermore, by preventing excessive drying, further improvement in the quality of the molded products can be expected.

[0038] Figure 11 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the production period of products A and B and cleaning work according to this embodiment, comparing the conventional example and the embodiment. The production procedure and production changeover procedure will be described below.

[0039] Conventional systems had one dehumidifying and drying unit and one large tank, and the transport route for resin materials was fixed. Before starting production of product A, a cleaning procedure is required. During the cleaning procedure, the molding machine 50 is not in operation. Therefore, when switching production from product A to product B, the cleaning procedure time and timing became a bottleneck, preventing the operating rate of the molding machine 50 from increasing.

[0040] The embodiment has two dehumidifying and drying units and uses two tanks, allowing the transport route of the resin material to be switched. In this embodiment, by using a small first tank 5 and a small second tank 6, the cleaning time for each tank is halved compared to the conventional example. Also, the time for supplying resin material to each tank is halved compared to the conventional example. When producing product A on the second transport route F2, cleaning of the first tank 5 becomes possible when it is empty before the production of product A is completed. Therefore, the supply time and pre-drying time of the resin material can be brought forward.

[0041] Then, after the production of product A is completed, the second tank 6 is cleaned and the system switches to the fourth transport route F4. One end of a fitting is provided at each end of the first pipe 7, the second pipe 8, and the third pipe 9, and the other end of the fitting is provided at the inlet D1a and outlet D1b of the first unit D1, and at the inlet D2a and outlet D2b of the second unit D2, respectively, making it easy to switch the piping connections. Therefore, the start time of production of product B can be made earlier than in the conventional example.

[0042] [Operating Procedure of This Embodiment] Figure 12 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation of the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. When the main power of the resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus 1 is turned on, a guidance screen is displayed on the display 3. The controller 4 performs the transport route setting / confirmation operation in step S10 according to the operator's input. Then, the controller 4 performs the drying condition setting / confirmation operation in step S20 according to the operator's input. Then, the controller 4 performs the loading amount setting / confirmation operation in step S30 according to the operator's input. Once the series of setting operations is completed, the controller 4 performs the operation operation in step S40 according to the operator's input. These operating procedures are examples and can be omitted as appropriate. For example, when reading already registered drying conditions and operating, steps S20 and S30 can be omitted.

[0043] Next, the operating procedures for various settings of the resin material dehumidifying and drying device 1 will be explained below.

[0044] Figure 13 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation related to setting / confirming the transport route in step S10. In step S11, when the route setting screen 3c is displayed on the display 3, the controller 4 performs the transport route setting / confirmation operation according to the operator's input. For example, pressing the left arrow button or the right arrow button on the route setting screen 3c switches to other route setting screens (see Figure 17A). For example, the route setting screen 3c1 for the first transport route F1 (see Figure 7B), the route setting screen 3c2 for the second transport route F2 (see Figure 8B), the route setting screen 3c3 for the third transport route F3 (see Figure 9B), and the route setting screen 3c4 for the fourth transport route F4 (see Figure 10B) are displayed in sequence.

[0045] The operator checks the displayed route setting screen 3c and presses the confirmation button 30 on the selected screen. When the confirmation button 30 is pressed, the display 3 transitions to step S12A and sends a transport route confirmation signal to the controller 4. On the other hand, if the operator presses the return button 39 on the route setting screen 3c, the system returns to the initial state in step S11.

[0046] When the controller 4 receives the transport route confirmation signal in step S12B, it transitions to step S13A and transmits a piping route confirmation signal to the display 3. When the display 3 receives the piping route confirmation signal in step S13B, it transitions to step S14 and displays the piping connection confirmation screen 3d as shown in Figure 17B.

[0047] The operator checks the displayed pipe connection confirmation screen 3d and connects the pipes. One end of a fitting is provided at each end of the first pipe 7, the second pipe 8, and the third pipe 9, and the other end of the fitting is provided at the inlet D1a and outlet D1b of the first unit D1, and at the inlet D2a and outlet D2b of the second unit D2. For example, when a pipe is connected, the lamp at the location of the pipe connection on the pipe connection confirmation screen 3d lights up.

[0048] The operator confirms the piping connection settings and presses the confirmation button 30 when the piping connection is confirmed. When the confirmation button 30 is pressed, the display 3 transitions to step S15A and sends a piping connection confirmation signal to the controller 4. On the other hand, if the operator presses the return button 39 on the piping connection confirmation screen 3d, it returns to the initial state in step S14. When the controller 4 receives the piping connection confirmation signal in step S15B, it proceeds to the next step.

[0049] Figure 14 is a schematic flowchart showing the operation related to setting / confirming drying conditions in step S20. In step S21, when the menu screen 3a is displayed on the display 3, the controller 4 sets / confirms the drying conditions according to the operator's input. For example, the menu screen 3a displays the material name selection button 31 as a display bar between 2 and 10. For example, the material name consists of 2 to 6 letters. For example, the material name consists of a combination of 2 to 6 letters and 2 or fewer numbers. For example, the material name may be LCP, PPS, PA6, TPE, PAI, PSU, PET, PA66, PC, ABS, or other known and commonly used material names.

[0050] The operator selects one of the multiple material name selection buttons 31 displayed on the menu screen 3a and presses the confirmation button 30. When the confirmation button 30 is pressed, the display 3 transitions to step S22A and sends a material name confirmation signal to the controller 4. On the other hand, if the operator presses the cancel button 38 on the menu screen 3a, the system returns to step S21.

[0051] When the controller 4 receives the material name confirmation signal in step S22B, it transitions to step S23, accesses the database 4a, and reads the drying condition data that corresponds one-to-one with the material name. After reading the drying condition data, the controller 4 transitions to step S24A and transmits the drying condition data to the display 3. When the display 3 receives the drying condition data in step S24B, it transitions to step S25 and displays the drying condition setting screen 3b as shown in Figure 18B.

[0052] For example, the drying condition setting screen 3b displays the drying temperature and drying time on the drying condition display unit 32. Figure 18B shows that the drying temperature is 80°C and the drying time is 4 hours. The operator confirms the displayed drying temperature and drying time and presses the confirmation button 30. When the confirmation button 30 is pressed, the display 3 proceeds to the next step.

[0053] Figure 15 is a schematic flowchart illustrating the operation related to setting / confirming the amount of ingredients in this embodiment. In step S31, the display 3 transmits a drying condition confirmation signal to the controller 4 in response to the operator's input. In step S31B, upon receiving the drying condition confirmation signal, the controller 4 sets / confirms the amount of ingredients.

[0054] The controller 4 proceeds to step S32, where it converts the amount of resin material 41 corresponding to the transport route and drying conditions into a volume value by dividing it by the apparent specific gravity. Once the controller 4 has converted to the volume value, it proceeds to step S33A and transmits a charge amount setting signal to the display 3. In step S33B, when the display 3 receives the charge amount setting signal, it proceeds to step S34 and displays the charge amount setting screen 3e as shown in Figure 19A.

[0055] In this specification, apparent specific gravity is the ratio of the weight of the resin material 41 to the volume it occupies when placed in the first tank 5 or the second tank 6. Apparent specific gravity can also be expressed as bulk specific gravity or bulk density.

[0056] As an example, the preparation amount setting screen 3e displays the preparation amounts to be prepared in the first unit D1 and the second unit D2, respectively, on the preparation amount display unit 33. The apparent specific gravity of the resin material 41 to be used is displayed on the apparent specific gravity display unit 34. The number of tanks to be used is displayed on the number of tanks used display unit 35. The preparation amount converted to the volume value is displayed on the volume value display unit 36. In Figure 19A, the preparation amount is displayed as 130 kg, the apparent specific gravity as 0.6, the number of tanks used as 2, and the volume value as 109 liters.

[0057] The operator confirms the displayed capacity value and presses the confirmation button 30. When the confirmation button 30 is pressed, the display 3 transitions to step S35A and sends a preparation amount confirmation signal to the controller 4. On the other hand, when the operator presses the return button 39 on the preparation amount setting screen 3e, the system returns to the initial state in step S34.

[0058] When the controller 4 receives the input quantity confirmation signal in step S35B, it transitions to step S36A and transmits a sensor position confirmation signal to the display 3. When the display 3 receives the sensor position confirmation signal in step S36B, it transitions to step S37 and displays the sensor position confirmation screen 3f as shown in Figure 19B.

[0059] As an example, the sensor position confirmation screen 3f displays the amount of preparation converted to the volume value on the volume value display unit 36. Since the transport route, including the number of tanks used, is determined, the height position can be uniquely determined from the converted volume value. The operator adjusts the positions of the position detection sensor 5d and the position detection sensor 6d vertically to match the scale of the height position uniquely indicated from the volume value.

[0060] The operator confirms the displayed capacity value, adjusts the sensor position vertically, and presses the confirmation button 30. When the confirmation button 30 is pressed, the display 3 transitions to step S38A and sends a sensor position confirmation signal to the controller 4. In step S38B, when the controller 4 receives the sensor position confirmation signal, it proceeds to the next step.

[0061] Figure 16 is a schematic flowchart illustrating the operation of this embodiment. In step S41, the display 3 displays the operation start setting screen 3g, as shown in Figure 20A. As an example, the operation start setting screen 3g displays the "Start Now" button 37a and the "ON Timer" button 37b. The "Start Now" button 37a is set to start operation immediately without using the ON Timer. The "ON Timer" button 37b is set to start pre-drying in accordance with the scheduled production start time.

[0062] The operator selects and presses the displayed operation button. When the selected operation button is pressed, the display 3 transmits an operation start confirmation signal to the controller 4. When the controller 4 receives the operation start confirmation signal in step S42B, it proceeds to step S43 and starts operation control at the operation start time. Figure 20B is a schematic diagram showing the operation start screen 3h according to this embodiment. Note that some of the display screens may be omitted.

[0063] In step S44, the controller 4 receives a detection signal from the transport detection sensor 22b during the transport of the dried material 42 (dehumidified and dried resin material 41) to the molding machine 50. If the controller 4 determines in step S45 that there is a blockage of dried material 42 in the pipe 22a, it sends a setting change guidance signal to the display 3 to reduce the amount of dried material 42 transported to the molding machine 50. In step S46B, the display 3 receives the setting change guidance signal and displays the setting change guidance information in step S47. This configuration prevents the bridging phenomenon of the dried material 42 from occurring inside the pipe 22a, which would prevent the blockage of the dried material 42 from being resolved. Here, the bridging phenomenon is a phenomenon in which the dried material 42 connects in the inner diameter direction of the pipe 22a, causing the transport of the dried material 42 to be hindered.

[0064] More specifically, when the dry material 42 is being transported to the molding machine 50, if the transport detection sensor 22b detects the dry material 42, the controller 4 controls the system to not transport the dry material 42 to the hopper 22 of the molding machine 50. On the other hand, if the transport detection sensor 22b does not detect the dry material 42, the controller 4 controls the system to transport the dry material 42 to the hopper 22 of the molding machine 50. When the transport of the dry material 42 to the molding machine 50 is not stalled, transporting the dry material 42 to the hopper 22 of the molding machine 50 will result in a detection signal from the transport detection sensor 22b. However, if a bridging phenomenon occurs at a position higher than the transport detection sensor 22b attached to the pipe 22a, causing the transport of the dry material 42 to stall and become jammed, there will be no detection signal from the transport detection sensor 22b for the dry material 42. If there is no detection signal from the transport detection sensor 22b during the transport of the drying material 42 to the molding machine 50, the drying material 42 is transported to the hopper 22 of the molding machine 50. When bridging occurs in the drying material 42, the drying material 42 inside the pipe 22a is pressed down by the drying material 42 coming from above and hardens, preventing the drying material 42 from being cleared. Therefore, when the controller 4 determines that there is a blockage in the drying material 42, it displays setting change guidance information on the display 3 to reduce the amount of drying material 42 being transported. This prevents the drying material 42 from becoming unresolved.

[0065] For example, when a blockage occurs in the drying material 42, the controller 4 records the blockage information in the material library and makes it available for display as a history. This facilitates feedback to the operator. In an alternative configuration, the operator may record the blockage information in the drying material 42 in the material library and make it available for display as a history.

[0066] During the execution of the operation control, the controller 4 receives a detection signal sent from the transport detection sensor 22b in step S44, and if it determines in step S45 that there is no blockage in the dry material 42 (dehumidified and dried resin material 41) being transported to the molding machine 50 and that the transport is normal, it continues the operation and determines in step S48 whether the transport of the dry material 42 to the molding machine is complete.

[0067] When the controller 4 determines in step S48 that the transport of the drying material 42 to the molding machine is complete, it proceeds to step S49A and transmits a completion signal to the display 3. When the display 3 receives the completion signal in step S49B, it proceeds to the next step. After that, the resin material dehumidifying and drying device 1 terminates its operation.

[0068] Figure 21A schematically shows the first resin material registration / editing screen 3p according to this embodiment. Figure 21B schematically shows the second resin material registration / editing screen 3q according to this embodiment. As an example, display 3 displays the first resin material registration / editing screen 3p, and the operator registers and edits drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, such as drying temperature (SV), upper limit of drying temperature, lower limit of drying temperature, drying time, upper limit of drying time, and lower limit of drying time. As an example, display 3 displays the second resin material registration / editing screen 3q, and the operator registers and edits drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, such as pre-drying temperature, pre-drying time, and apparent specific gravity based on weight.

[0069] The series of drying condition data described above are pre-registered in database 4a as a material library. For example, when the main power of the resin material dehumidifying dryer 1 is turned on, the controller 4 displays an initial screen on the display 3, and the operator can select whether to register new drying conditions or use already registered drying conditions.

[0070] Figure 22A schematically shows the basic setting selection screen 3r according to this embodiment. Figure 22B schematically shows the operation setting selection screen 3s according to this embodiment. As an example, display 3 displays the basic setting selection screen 3r, and the operator selects the database editing button, resin material registration setting button, user function setting button, date and time setting button, monitor setting button, error history button, simple sensor monitor button, peripheral device communication button, and language setting button, causing controller 4 to jump to the link destination corresponding to these selected buttons and display a predetermined setting screen, allowing the operator to perform the desired setting / confirmation. As an example, display 3 displays the operation setting selection screen 3s, and the operator selects the route setting button, drying setting button, resin material transport setting button to the main unit of the device, resin material transport setting button to the molding machine, and resin material preparation amount setting button, causing controller 4 to jump to the link destination corresponding to these selected buttons and display a predetermined setting screen, allowing the operator to perform the desired setting / confirmation.

[0071] As described above, a series of drying condition data can be added to database 4a as a material library. The set drying condition data can be overwritten and saved with the same material name, or saved under a different material name, using known software techniques.

[0072] In this embodiment, when the operator selects a material name, the controller 4 accesses the material library in database 4a, reads setting condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and writes or overwrites the drying conditions, such as drying temperature, drying time, and specific gravity, which are unique to each resin material, in a specific storage area in the first database. This allows the operator to easily register new drying conditions as well as use already registered drying conditions. Therefore, a configuration with an excellent user interface can be achieved.

[0073] The resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus 1 of this embodiment significantly reduces the burden on the operator compared to conventional methods and prevents setting errors. Furthermore, it can respond to market demands for high-mix, low-volume production with short lead times. It also prevents excessive or insufficient drying, leading to further improvements in the quality of molded products. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] 1 Resin material dehumidification drying equipment 2 Main body, 2a 1st connection part, 2b 2nd connection part 3 Display, 3a Menu screen, 3b Drying condition setting screen, 3c Route setting screen, 3D piping connection confirmation screen, 3E preparation amount setting screen, 3F sensor position confirmation screen, 3g Operation Start Settings Screen, 3h Operation Start Screen, 3p Resin Material Registration / Editing 1st Screen, 3q Resin material registration / editing second screen, 3r Basic settings selection screen, 3s Operation settings selection screen 4 controllers, 4a databases 5 First tank, 5a Body, 5b Receiving part, 5c Locking member, 5d Position detection sensor 6. Second tank, 6a. Body, 6b. Receiving part, 6c. Locking member, 6d. Position detection sensor. 7 Pipe 1 8 2nd tube 9 3rd tube 11 First mounting section, 11a First shaft 12 Second mounting section, 12a Second shaft 13. Third shaft 14 Hinge pins 15 Spring component 21 Material Tanks 22 Hopper, 22a Tube, 22b Transport detection sensor 30 Confirm button 31. Select Material Name Button 32 Drying condition display section 33. Preparation quantity display section 34. Apparent specific gravity display section 35 Display section for the number of tanks in use 36 Capacity value display section 37a Start Now button, 37b ON Timer Operation button 38 Cancel button 39 Back button 41 Resin materials, 42 Dry materials 50 Molding machine D1 Unit 1, D1a Entrance, D1b Exit D2 Unit 2, D2a Entrance, D2b Exit F1 First transport route, F2 Second transport route, F3 Third transport route, F4 Fourth transport route

Claims

1. The system comprises a unit for dehumidifying and drying a resin material, a controller, a touch panel display connected to the controller, and a database in which drying condition data for the resin material is registered. The controller, upon receiving a material name confirmation signal when the operator selects and confirms a material name on the menu screen of the display, accesses the database, reads the drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and displays a drying condition setting screen on the display that reflects the drying condition data. A resin material dehumidification and drying device characterized by the following.

2. The unit consists of a first unit and a second unit, and when the controller receives a drying condition confirmation signal when the operator confirms and confirms the drying condition setting screen, it converts the amount of resin material to be prepared corresponding to the transport route of the resin material into a volume value by dividing it by the apparent specific gravity and displays a preparation amount setting screen on the display that reflects the volume value. A resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

3. When the controller receives a transport route confirmation signal indicating that the operator has confirmed and finalized the route setting screen for the resin material, it displays a piping connection confirmation screen on the display that reflects the transport route. A resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to claim 2, characterized by the above.

4. The transport path includes a first pipe for transporting the resin material, a second pipe for transporting the dried material obtained by dehumidifying and drying the resin material, and a third pipe connecting the first unit and the second unit, wherein the first transport path is connected to the inlet of the first unit and the second pipe is connected to the outlet of the first unit, and the second transport path is connected to the inlet of the first unit and the third pipe is connected to the outlet of the first unit and the inlet of the second unit, and the second pipe is connected to the outlet of the second unit. A resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to claim 2, characterized by the above.

5. The hopper has a transport detection sensor attached to the tubular body of the hopper that transports the dried material to the molding machine to detect the presence or absence of the dried material, and when the controller receives a detection signal sent from the transport detection sensor during the transport of the dried material to the molding machine and determines that there is a blockage of the dried material in the tubular body, it displays setting change guidance information on the display to reduce the amount of dried material transported to the molding machine. A resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to claim 4, characterized by the above.

6. The unit has a position detection sensor that detects a height position corresponding to the volume of the resin material, and the controller displays an operation start setting screen on the display when it receives a sensor position confirmation signal when the operator confirms and confirms the height position setting, and starts operation control at the operation start time when it receives an operation start confirmation signal when the operator confirms and confirms the operation start time setting. A resin material dehumidifying and drying apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized by the above.

7. A method for assisting the operation of a resin material dehumidification and drying apparatus comprising a unit for dehumidifying and drying resin materials, a controller, a touch panel display connected to the controller, and a database in which drying condition data for the resin material is registered, wherein the controller, upon receiving a material name confirmation signal when the operator selects and confirms a material name on the menu screen of the display, accesses the database, reads the drying condition data corresponding one-to-one with the material name, and displays a drying condition setting screen on the display that reflects the drying condition data. A method for assisting the operation of a resin material dehumidification and drying apparatus characterized by the above.

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