Injection molding machine control device, and injection molding machine

Abstract

We provide technology that restricts the use of injection molding machine functions that pose a risk of loss to the user's assets until an agreement is reached between the injection molding machine manufacturer and the user. [Solution] The injection molding machine management device includes a notification control unit that notifies the user whether to consent to use a function of the injection molding machine that poses a risk of causing loss to the user's assets when the function of the injection molding machine is activated; a data acquisition unit that acquires the result of the notification; and a decision unit that determines whether to enable or disable the function according to the result of the notification acquired by the data acquisition unit.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a management device for an injection molding machine and an injection molding machine.

Background Art

[0002] The adjustment device described in Patent Document 1 adjusts the molding conditions of an injection molding machine. This adjustment device includes an adjustment amount calculation unit and a molding condition adjustment unit. The adjustment amount calculation unit calculates an adjustment amount using a model obtained by machine learning or the like. The molding condition adjustment unit adjusts the molding conditions based on the adjustment amount calculated by the adjustment amount calculation unit.

[0003] The injection molding machine described in Patent Document 2 has a function of freely setting the sequence of injection molding. Hereinafter, the function of freely setting the sequence of injection molding may be referred to as a flexible sequence. The flexible sequence is a function of freely setting the type and order of processes.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In recent years, it has been considered to install functions using AI (artificial intelligence) or machine learning in injection molding machines. The inference of AI or machine learning has a black box structure in the middle from input data to output data, and the output data is not necessarily correct. Therefore, there is a risk of causing losses to the assets of users of injection molding machines by using the functions of injection molding machines.

[0006] It is undesirable for injection molding machine users to utilize risky functions without recognizing the risks, and without clearly defining the manufacturer's responsibilities. Furthermore, risky functions are not limited to those utilizing AI or machine learning. For example, flexible sequencing is also a risky function.

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention provides a technology that restricts the use of injection molding machine functions that pose a risk of loss to the user's assets until an agreement is reached between the injection molding machine manufacturer and the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An injection molding machine management device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a notification control unit that notifies the user whether or not to consent to the use of an injection molding machine function that poses a risk of causing loss to the user's assets when the function of the injection molding machine is activated; a data acquisition unit that acquires the result of the notification; and a decision unit that determines whether to enable or disable the function according to the result of the notification acquired by the data acquisition unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the use of injection molding machine functions that pose a risk of loss to the user's assets can be restricted until an agreement is reached between the injection molding machine manufacturer and the user. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the state of an injection molding machine upon completion of mold opening according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the state of an injection molding machine during mold clamping according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the components of a control system for an injection molding machine, arranged in functional blocks. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the functions of an injection molding machine stored in the memory unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a dialog box for confirming the license agreement. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows another example of a dialog box for confirming the license agreement. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of credential information. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the screen. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the control device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, identical or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0012] (injection molding machine) Figure 1 shows the state of an injection molding machine when the mold opening is complete according to one embodiment. Figure 2 shows the state of the injection molding machine when the mold is clamped according to one embodiment. In this specification, the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction are perpendicular to each other. The X-axis direction and Y-axis direction represent the horizontal direction, and the Z-axis direction represents the vertical direction. When the mold clamping device 100 is horizontal, the X-axis direction is the mold opening and closing direction, and the Y-axis direction is the width direction of the injection molding machine 10. The negative side in the Y-axis direction is called the operating side, and the positive side in the Y-axis direction is called the non-operating side.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 2, the injection molding machine 10 includes a mold clamping device 100 for opening and closing the mold device 800, an ejector device 200 for ejecting the molded product formed by the mold device 800, an injection device 300 for injecting a molding material into the mold device 800, a moving device 400 for moving the injection device 300 forward and backward with respect to the mold device 800, a control device 700 for controlling each component of the injection molding machine 10, and a frame 900 for supporting each component of the injection molding machine 10. The frame 900 includes a mold clamping device frame 910 for supporting the mold clamping device 100 and an injection device frame 920 for supporting the injection device 300. The mold clamping device frame 910 and the injection device frame 920 are respectively installed on the floor 2 via leveling adjusters 930. The control device 700 is disposed in the internal space of the injection device frame 920. Hereinafter, each component of the injection molding machine 10 will be described.

[0014] (Mold clamping device) In the description of the mold clamping device 100, the moving direction of the movable platen 120 at the time of mold closing (for example, the positive direction of the X axis) is defined as the front, and the moving direction of the movable platen 120 at the time of mold opening (for example, the negative direction of the X axis) is defined as the rear for the description.

[0015] The mold clamping device 100 performs mold closing, pressure boosting, mold clamping, pressure release, and mold opening of the mold device 800. The mold device 800 includes a fixed mold 810 and a movable mold 820.

[0016] The mold clamping device 100 is, for example, a horizontal type, and the mold opening and closing direction is a horizontal direction. The mold clamping device 100 includes a fixed platen 110 to which the fixed mold 810 is attached, a movable platen 120 to which the movable mold 820 is attached, and a moving mechanism 102 for moving the movable platen 120 in the mold opening and closing direction with respect to the fixed platen 110.

[0017] The fixed platen 110 is fixed to the mold clamping device frame 910. The fixed mold 810 is attached to the opposing surface of the fixed platen 110 with respect to the movable platen 120.

[0018] The movable platen 120 is positioned to move freely in the mold opening and closing direction relative to the mold clamping device frame 910. Guides 101 are laid on the mold clamping device frame 910 to guide the movable platen 120. A movable mold 820 is attached to the surface of the movable platen 120 facing the fixed platen 110.

[0019] The moving mechanism 102 performs mold closing, pressure increasing, mold clamping, depressurization, and mold opening of the mold device 800 by moving the movable platen 120 forward and backward relative to the fixed platen 110. The moving mechanism 102 includes a toggle support 130 positioned at a distance from the fixed platen 110, a tie bar 140 connecting the fixed platen 110 and the toggle support 130, a toggle mechanism 150 that moves the movable platen 120 in the mold opening and closing direction relative to the toggle support 130, a mold clamping motor 160 that operates the toggle mechanism 150, a motion conversion mechanism 170 that converts the rotational motion of the mold clamping motor 160 into linear motion, and a mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 that adjusts the distance between the fixed platen 110 and the toggle support 130.

[0020] The toggle support 130 is positioned at a distance from the fixed platen 110 and is mounted on the mold clamping device frame 910 so as to be movable in the mold opening and closing direction. The toggle support 130 may also be positioned so as to be movable along a guide laid on the mold clamping device frame 910. The guide for the toggle support 130 may be the same as the guide 101 for the movable platen 120.

[0021] In this embodiment, the fixed platen 110 is fixed to the clamping device frame 910, and the toggle support 130 is arranged to be movable relative to the clamping device frame 910 in the mold opening and closing direction. However, the toggle support 130 may be fixed to the clamping device frame 910, and the fixed platen 110 may be arranged to be movable relative to the clamping device frame 910 in the mold opening and closing direction.

[0022] The tie bars 140 connect the fixed platen 110 and the toggle support 130 at a distance L in the mold opening and closing direction. Multiple tie bars 140 (for example, four) may be used. Multiple tie bars 140 are arranged parallel to the mold opening and closing direction and stretch in accordance with the clamping force. At least one tie bar 140 may be provided with a tie bar strain detector 141 that detects the strain of the tie bar 140. The tie bar strain detector 141 sends a signal indicating its detection result to the control device 700. The detection result of the tie bar strain detector 141 is used for detecting the clamping force, etc.

[0023] In this embodiment, a tie bar strain detector 141 is used as a clamping force detector to detect the clamping force, but the present invention is not limited to this. The clamping force detector is not limited to strain gauge type, but may be piezoelectric, capacitive, hydraulic, electromagnetic, etc., and its mounting position is not limited to the tie bar 140.

[0024] The toggle mechanism 150 is positioned between the movable platen 120 and the toggle support 130, and moves the movable platen 120 in the mold opening and closing direction relative to the toggle support 130. The toggle mechanism 150 has a crosshead 151 that moves in the mold opening and closing direction, and a pair of link groups that bend and extend as the crosshead 151 moves. Each of the link groups has a first link 152 and a second link 153 that are bendable and extendable connected by a pin or the like. The first link 152 is pivotably attached to the movable platen 120 by a pin or the like. The second link 153 is pivotably attached to the toggle support 130 by a pin or the like. The second link 153 is attached to the crosshead 151 via a third link 154. When the crosshead 151 moves forward and backward relative to the toggle support 130, the first link 152 and the second link 153 bend and extend, and the movable platen 120 moves forward and backward relative to the toggle support 130.

[0025] Furthermore, the configuration of the toggle mechanism 150 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2. For example, in Figures 1 and 2, each link group has five nodes, but it may also have four, and one end of the third link 154 may be connected to the node between the first link 152 and the second link 153.

[0026] The clamping motor 160 is attached to the toggle support 130 and operates the toggle mechanism 150. The clamping motor 160 moves the crosshead 151 forward and backward relative to the toggle support 130, thereby bending and extending the first link 152 and the second link 153, and moving the movable platen 120 forward and backward relative to the toggle support 130. The clamping motor 160 is directly connected to the motion conversion mechanism 170, but it may also be connected to the motion conversion mechanism 170 via a belt, pulley, or the like.

[0027] The motion conversion mechanism 170 converts the rotational motion of the clamping motor 160 into the linear motion of the crosshead 151. The motion conversion mechanism 170 includes a screw shaft and a screw nut that screws onto the screw shaft. A ball or roller may be interposed between the screw shaft and the screw nut.

[0028] The mold clamping device 100 performs processes such as mold closing, pressure boosting, mold clamping, depressurization, and mold opening under the control of the control device 700.

[0029] In the mold closing process, the clamping motor 160 is driven to advance the crosshead 151 to the mold closing completion position at a set movement speed, thereby advancing the movable platen 120 and bringing the movable mold 820 into contact with the fixed mold 810. The position and movement speed of the crosshead 151 are detected using, for example, a clamping motor encoder 161. The clamping motor encoder 161 detects the rotation of the clamping motor 160 and sends a signal indicating the detection result to the control device 700.

[0030] Furthermore, the crosshead position detector for detecting the position of the crosshead 151 and the crosshead speed detector for detecting the movement speed of the crosshead 151 are not limited to the clamping motor encoder 161, and general-purpose devices can be used. Similarly, the movable platen position detector for detecting the position of the movable platen 120 and the movable platen speed detector for detecting the movement speed of the movable platen 120 are not limited to the clamping motor encoder 161, and general-purpose devices can be used.

[0031] In the boosting process, the clamping motor 160 is further driven to advance the crosshead 151 from the closed position to the clamping position, thereby generating clamping force.

[0032] In the clamping process, the clamping motor 160 is driven to maintain the position of the crosshead 151 in the clamping position. In the clamping process, the clamping force generated in the pressurization process is maintained. In the clamping process, a cavity space 801 (see Figure 2) is formed between the movable mold 820 and the fixed mold 810, and the injection unit 300 fills the cavity space 801 with liquid molding material. A molded product is obtained when the filled molding material solidifies.

[0033] The number of cavity spaces 801 may be one or more. In the latter case, multiple molded products can be obtained simultaneously. An insert material may be placed in part of the cavity space 801, and the molding material may be filled in the other part of the cavity space 801. A molded product in which the insert material and the molding material are integrated is obtained.

[0034] In the depressurization process, the clamping motor 160 is driven to retract the crosshead 151 from the clamping position to the mold opening start position, thereby retracting the movable platen 120 and reducing the clamping force. The mold opening start position and the mold closing completion position may be the same position.

[0035] In the mold opening process, the clamping motor 160 is driven to retract the crosshead 151 from the mold opening start position to the mold opening completion position at a set movement speed, thereby retracting the movable platen 120 and separating the movable mold 820 from the fixed mold 810. Subsequently, the ejector device 200 ejects the molded product from the movable mold 820.

[0036] The setting conditions for the mold closing process, the pressure boosting process, and the mold clamping process are set together as a series of setting conditions. For example, the movement speed and position of the crosshead 151 (including the mold closing start position, movement speed switching position, mold closing completion position, and mold clamping position), and the mold clamping force in the mold closing process and the pressure boosting process are set together as a series of setting conditions. The mold closing start position, movement speed switching position, mold closing completion position, and mold clamping position are arranged in this order from rear to front and represent the start and end points of the section in which the movement speed is set. The movement speed is set for each section. There may be one or more movement speed switching positions. There may be no movement speed switching positions. The mold clamping position and the mold clamping force may be set individually or individually.

[0037] The setting conditions for the depressurization process and the mold opening process are set similarly. For example, the movement speed and position of the crosshead 151 in the depressurization process and the mold opening process (mold opening start position, movement speed switching position, and mold opening completion position) are set together as a series of setting conditions. The mold opening start position, movement speed switching position, and mold opening completion position are arranged in this order from front to back and represent the start and end points of the sections in which the movement speed is set. The movement speed is set for each section. There may be one or more movement speed switching positions. There may be no movement speed switching positions. The mold opening start position and the mold closing completion position may be the same position. Also, the mold opening completion position and the mold closing start position may be the same position.

[0038] Furthermore, instead of the movement speed and position of the crosshead 151, the movement speed and position of the movable platen 120 may be set. Also, instead of the position of the crosshead (e.g., the clamping position) or the position of the movable platen, the clamping force may be set.

[0039] Incidentally, the toggle mechanism 150 amplifies the driving force of the clamping motor 160 and transmits it to the movable platen 120. This amplification ratio is also called the toggle ratio. The toggle ratio changes depending on the angle θ between the first link 152 and the second link 153 (hereinafter also referred to as the "link angle θ"). The link angle θ can be determined from the position of the crosshead 151. The toggle ratio is maximized when the link angle θ is 180°.

[0040] If the thickness of the mold device 800 changes due to replacement of the mold device 800 or a change in the temperature of the mold device 800, the mold thickness is adjusted so that a predetermined clamping force is obtained during mold clamping. In mold thickness adjustment, for example, the distance L between the fixed platen 110 and the toggle support 130 is adjusted so that the link angle θ of the toggle mechanism 150 becomes a predetermined angle at the time of mold touch when the movable mold 820 touches the fixed mold 810.

[0041] The mold clamping device 100 has a mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180. The mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 adjusts the mold thickness by adjusting the distance L between the fixed platen 110 and the toggle support 130. The timing of the mold thickness adjustment is, for example, between the end of one molding cycle and the start of the next molding cycle. The mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 includes, for example, a screw shaft 181 formed at the rear end of the tie bar 140, a screw nut 182 that is rotatably and immovably held by the toggle support 130, and a mold thickness adjustment motor 183 that rotates the screw nut 182 that is screwed onto the screw shaft 181.

[0042] A screw shaft 181 and screw nut 182 are provided for each tie bar 140. The rotational driving force of the mold thickness adjustment motor 183 may be transmitted to multiple screw nuts 182 via a rotational driving force transmission unit 185. Multiple screw nuts 182 can be rotated synchronously. It is also possible to rotate multiple screw nuts 182 individually by changing the transmission path of the rotational driving force transmission unit 185.

[0043] The rotational drive force transmission unit 185 is composed of, for example, gears. In this case, driven gears are formed on the outer circumference of each screw nut 182, a drive gear is attached to the output shaft of the mold thickness adjustment motor 183, and an intermediate gear that meshes with the multiple driven gears and the drive gear is rotatably held in the center of the toggle support 130. Note that the rotational drive force transmission unit 185 may be composed of a belt or pulley instead of gears.

[0044] The operation of the mold thickness adjustment mechanism 180 is controlled by the control device 700. The control device 700 drives the mold thickness adjustment motor 183 to rotate the screw nut 182. As a result, the position of the toggle support 130 relative to the tie bar 140 is adjusted, and the distance L between the fixed platen 110 and the toggle support 130 is adjusted. Multiple mold thickness adjustment mechanisms may be used in combination.

[0045] The interval L is detected using the mold thickness adjustment motor encoder 184. The mold thickness adjustment motor encoder 184 detects the amount and direction of rotation of the mold thickness adjustment motor 183 and sends a signal indicating the detection result to the control device 700. The detection result of the mold thickness adjustment motor encoder 184 is used to monitor and control the position and interval L of the toggle support 130. Note that the toggle support position detector for detecting the position of the toggle support 130 and the interval detector for detecting the interval L are not limited to the mold thickness adjustment motor encoder 184, but general-purpose devices can be used.

[0046] The clamping device 100 may have a mold temperature controller that adjusts the temperature of the mold device 800. The mold device 800 has a flow path for a temperature-controlled medium inside it. The mold temperature controller adjusts the temperature of the mold device 800 by adjusting the temperature of the temperature-controlled medium supplied to the flow path of the mold device 800.

[0047] In this embodiment, the mold clamping device 100 is a horizontal type in which the mold opening and closing direction is horizontal, but it may also be a vertical type in which the mold opening and closing direction is vertical.

[0048] In this embodiment, the clamping device 100 has a clamping motor 160 as a drive unit, but a hydraulic cylinder may be used instead of the clamping motor 160. Furthermore, the clamping device 100 may have a linear motor for opening and closing the mold, and an electromagnet for clamping the mold.

[0049] (Ejector device) In describing the ejector device 200, similar to the description of the clamping device 100, the direction of movement of the movable platen 120 when the mold is closed (for example, the positive X-axis direction) is described as forward, and the direction of movement of the movable platen 120 when the mold is open (for example, the negative X-axis direction) is described as backward.

[0050] The ejector device 200 is attached to the movable platen 120 and moves back and forth together with the movable platen 120. The ejector device 200 includes an ejector rod 210 that ejects the molded product from the mold device 800 and a drive mechanism 220 that moves the ejector rod 210 in the direction of movement of the movable platen 120 (in the X-axis direction).

[0051] The ejector rod 210 is positioned to move back and forth within a through-hole in the movable platen 120. The front end of the ejector rod 210 contacts the ejector plate 826 of the movable mold 820. The front end of the ejector rod 210 may or may not be connected to the ejector plate 826.

[0052] The drive mechanism 220 includes, for example, an ejector motor and a motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the ejector motor into the linear motion of the ejector rod 210. The motion conversion mechanism includes a screw shaft and a screw nut that screws onto the screw shaft. A ball or roller may be interposed between the screw shaft and the screw nut.

[0053] The ejector device 200 performs the ejection process under the control of the control device 700. In the ejection process, the ejector rod 210 is advanced from the standby position to the ejection position at a set travel speed, thereby advancing the ejector plate 826 and ejecting the molded product. Subsequently, the ejector motor is driven to retract the ejector rod 210 at a set travel speed, retracting the ejector plate 826 back to its original standby position.

[0054] The position and speed of the ejector rod 210 are detected, for example, using an ejector motor encoder. The ejector motor encoder detects the rotation of the ejector motor and sends a signal indicating the detection result to the control device 700. Note that the ejector rod position detector, which detects the position of the ejector rod 210, and the ejector rod speed detector, which detects the speed of the ejector rod 210, are not limited to ejector motor encoders, but general-purpose devices can be used.

[0055] (injection device) In the description of the injection device 300, unlike the descriptions of the clamping device 100 and the ejector device 200, the direction of movement of the screw 330 during filling (for example, the negative X-axis direction) is described as forward, and the direction of movement of the screw 330 during metering (for example, the positive X-axis direction) is described as backward.

[0056] The injection device 300 is mounted on a slide base 301, which is positioned to move back and forth relative to the injection device frame 920. The injection device 300 is positioned to move back and forth relative to the mold device 800. The injection device 300 touches the mold device 800 and fills the cavity space 801 within the mold device 800 with molding material. The injection device 300 includes, for example, a cylinder 310 for heating the molding material, a nozzle 320 provided at the front end of the cylinder 310, a screw 330 positioned within the cylinder 310 to move back and forth and to rotate, a metering motor 340 for rotating the screw 330, an injection motor 350 for moving the screw 330 back and forth, and a load detector 360 for detecting the load transmitted between the injection motor 350 and the screw 330.

[0057] Cylinder 310 heats the molding material supplied to its interior from the supply port 311. The molding material includes, for example, resin. The molding material is formed, for example, into pellets and supplied to the supply port 311 in a solid state. The supply port 311 is formed at the rear of cylinder 310. A cooler 312, such as a water-cooled cylinder, is provided on the outer circumference of the rear of cylinder 310. In front of the cooler 312, a first heater 313, such as a band heater, and a first temperature detector 314 are provided on the outer circumference of cylinder 310.

[0058] The cylinder 310 is divided into multiple zones along its axial direction (for example, the X-axis direction). A first heater 313 and a first temperature detector 314 are provided in each of the multiple zones. A set temperature is set for each of the multiple zones, and the control device 700 controls the first heater 313 so that the temperature detected by the first temperature detector 314 becomes the set temperature.

[0059] The nozzle 320 is located at the front end of the cylinder 310 and is pressed against the mold device 800. A second heater 323 and a second temperature detector 324 are provided on the outer circumference of the nozzle 320. The control device 700 controls the second heater 323 so that the detected temperature of the nozzle 320 reaches a set temperature.

[0060] The screw 330 is rotatably and reciprocally positioned within the cylinder 310. When the screw 330 is rotated, the molding material is fed forward along the helical groove of the screw 330. As the molding material is fed forward, it is gradually melted by the heat from the cylinder 310. As the liquid molding material is fed forward to the screw 330 and accumulates at the front of the cylinder 310, the screw 330 is retracted. Then, when the screw 330 is advanced, the liquid molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 is injected from the nozzle 320 and filled into the mold device 800.

[0061] A backflow prevention ring 331 is mounted on the front of the screw 330 so as to be able to move back and forth, acting as a backflow prevention valve to prevent backflow of the molding material from the front to the rear of the screw 330 when the screw 330 is pushed forward.

[0062] When the screw 330 is advanced, the backflow prevention ring 331 is pushed backward by the pressure of the molding material in front of the screw 330, and retracts relative to the screw 330 to a closed position (see Figure 2) that blocks the flow path of the molding material. This prevents the molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 from flowing backward.

[0063] On the other hand, when the screw 330 is rotated, the backflow prevention ring 331 is pushed forward by the pressure of the molding material being sent forward along the helical groove of the screw 330, and moves relative to the screw 330 to an open position (see Figure 1) that opens the flow path of the molding material. As a result, the molding material is sent forward of the screw 330.

[0064] The backflow prevention ring 331 may be either a co-rotating type that rotates together with the screw 330, or a non-co-rotating type that does not rotate together with the screw 330.

[0065] Furthermore, the injection device 300 may have a drive source that moves the backflow prevention ring 331 back and forth between an open position and a closed position relative to the screw 330.

[0066] The metering motor 340 rotates the screw 330. The drive source for rotating the screw 330 is not limited to the metering motor 340; for example, a hydraulic pump or the like may also be used.

[0067] The injection motor 350 moves the screw 330 forward and backward. Between the injection motor 350 and the screw 330, there is a motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the injection motor 350 into the linear motion of the screw 330. The motion conversion mechanism has, for example, a screw shaft and a screw nut that screws onto the screw shaft. Balls or rollers may be provided between the screw shaft and the screw nut. The drive source for moving the screw 330 forward and backward is not limited to the injection motor 350, but may also be, for example, a hydraulic cylinder.

[0068] The load detector 360 detects the load transmitted between the injection motor 350 and the screw 330. The detected load is converted into pressure by the control device 700. The load detector 360 is installed in the load transmission path between the injection motor 350 and the screw 330 and detects the load acting on the load detector 360.

[0069] The load detector 360 sends a signal of the detected load to the control device 700. The load detected by the load detector 360 is converted into pressure acting between the screw 330 and the molding material, and is used for controlling and monitoring the pressure the screw 330 receives from the molding material, the back pressure on the screw 330, and the pressure acting from the screw 330 on the molding material.

[0070] Furthermore, the pressure detector used to detect the pressure of the molding material is not limited to the load detector 360, but a general-purpose one can be used. For example, a nozzle pressure sensor or an in-mold pressure sensor may be used. The nozzle pressure sensor is installed in the nozzle 320. The in-mold pressure sensor is installed inside the mold device 800.

[0071] The injection device 300 performs processes such as metering, filling, and holding pressure under the control of the control device 700. The filling and holding pressure processes may be collectively referred to as the injection process.

[0072] In the metering process, the metering motor 340 is driven to rotate the screw 330 at a set rotational speed, and the molding material is fed forward along the helical groove of the screw 330. As this occurs, the molding material is gradually melted. As the liquid molding material is fed forward by the screw 330 and accumulates at the front of the cylinder 310, the screw 330 is retracted. The rotational speed of the screw 330 is detected, for example, using a metering motor encoder 341. The metering motor encoder 341 detects the rotation of the metering motor 340 and sends a signal indicating the detection result to the control device 700. Note that the screw rotational speed detector for detecting the rotational speed of the screw 330 is not limited to the metering motor encoder 341, and a general-purpose one can be used.

[0073] In the weighing process, the injection motor 350 may be driven to apply a set back pressure to the screw 330 in order to limit the rapid retraction of the screw 330. The back pressure on the screw 330 is detected, for example, using a load detector 360. The weighing process is completed when the screw 330 has retracted to the weighing completion position and a predetermined amount of molding material has accumulated in front of the screw 330.

[0074] The position and rotational speed of the screw 330 in the metering process are set together as a series of setting conditions. For example, the metering start position, rotational speed switching position, and metering completion position are set. These positions are arranged in this order from front to back and represent the start and end points of the sections in which the rotational speed is set. The rotational speed is set for each section. There may be one or more rotational speed switching positions. The rotational speed switching positions may not be set. In addition, back pressure is set for each section.

[0075] In the filling process, the injection motor 350 is driven to advance the screw 330 at a set speed, filling the cavity space 801 in the mold device 800 with the liquid molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330. The position and speed of the screw 330 are detected, for example, using an injection motor encoder 351. The injection motor encoder 351 detects the rotation of the injection motor 350 and sends a signal indicating the detection result to the control device 700. When the position of the screw 330 reaches the set position, a switchover from the filling process to the holding pressure process (so-called V / P switching) occurs. The position at which the V / P switching occurs is also called the V / P switching position. The set speed of the screw 330 may be changed depending on the position and time of the screw 330.

[0076] The position and movement speed of the screw 330 during the filling process are set together as a series of setting conditions. For example, the filling start position (also called the "injection start position"), the movement speed switching position, and the V / P switching position are set. These positions are arranged in this order from rear to front and represent the start and end points of the sections in which the movement speed is set. The movement speed is set for each section. There may be one or more movement speed switching positions. The movement speed switching positions may not be set at all.

[0077] For each section in which the movement speed of the screw 330 is set, an upper limit is set for the pressure of the screw 330. The pressure of the screw 330 is detected by the load sensor 360. If the pressure of the screw 330 is below the set pressure, the screw 330 moves forward at the set movement speed. On the other hand, if the pressure of the screw 330 exceeds the set pressure, for the purpose of protecting the mold, the screw 330 moves forward at a slower movement speed than the set movement speed so that the pressure of the screw 330 becomes below the set pressure.

[0078] Furthermore, during the filling process, after the screw 330 reaches the V / P switching position, the screw 330 may be temporarily stopped at the V / P switching position, and then the V / P switching may be performed. Immediately before the V / P switching, instead of stopping the screw 330, the screw 330 may be moved forward or backward at a slow speed. In addition, the screw position detector that detects the position of the screw 330 and the screw movement speed detector that detects the movement speed of the screw 330 are not limited to the injection motor encoder 351, but general-purpose ones can be used.

[0079] In the holding pressure process, the injection motor 350 is driven to push the screw 330 forward, maintaining the pressure of the molding material at the front end of the screw 330 (hereinafter also referred to as "holding pressure") at a set pressure, and pushing the molding material remaining in the cylinder 310 toward the mold device 800. This allows for the replenishment of molding material lost due to cooling shrinkage within the mold device 800. The holding pressure is detected, for example, using a load detector 360. The set value of the holding pressure may be changed according to the elapsed time from the start of the holding pressure process. Multiple holding pressures and holding times for maintaining the holding pressure in the holding pressure process may be set, and may be set together as a series of setting conditions.

[0080] During the holding pressure process, the molding material in the cavity space 801 within the mold device 800 is gradually cooled, and upon completion of the holding pressure process, the entrance to the cavity space 801 is sealed with solidified molding material. This state is called a gate seal, and prevents backflow of molding material from the cavity space 801. After the holding pressure process, the cooling process begins. During the cooling process, the molding material in the cavity space 801 is solidified. To shorten the molding cycle time, a metering process may be performed during the cooling process.

[0081] In this embodiment, the injection device 300 is an in-line screw type, but a pre-plasticization type or the like may also be used. In a pre-plasticization injection device, the molding material molten in a plasticizing cylinder is supplied to the injection cylinder, and the molding material is injected from the injection cylinder into the mold device. In the plasticizing cylinder, a screw is arranged to be rotatable but unable to move back and forth, or a screw is arranged to be rotatable and able to move back and forth. On the other hand, a plunger is arranged to be able to move back and forth in the injection cylinder.

[0082] Furthermore, although the injection device 300 in this embodiment is a horizontal type with the axial direction of the cylinder 310 being horizontal, it may also be a vertical type with the axial direction of the cylinder 310 being vertical. The clamping device combined with the vertical injection device 300 may be vertical or horizontal. Similarly, the clamping device combined with the horizontal injection device 300 may be horizontal or vertical.

[0083] (Mobile device) In describing the moving device 400, similar to the description of the injection device 300, the direction of movement of the screw 330 during filling (for example, the negative X-axis direction) is described as forward, and the direction of movement of the screw 330 during metering (for example, the positive X-axis direction) is described as backward.

[0084] The moving device 400 moves the injection device 300 forward and backward relative to the mold device 800. The moving device 400 also presses the nozzle 320 against the mold device 800, generating nozzle touch pressure. The moving device 400 includes a hydraulic pump 410, a motor 420 as a drive source, a hydraulic cylinder 430 as a hydraulic actuator, and the like.

[0085] The hydraulic pump 410 has a first port 411 and a second port 412. The hydraulic pump 410 is a bidirectional pump, and by switching the rotation direction of the motor 420, it can draw in working fluid (e.g., oil) from either the first port 411 or the second port 412 and discharge it from the other to generate hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic pump 410 can also draw working fluid from a tank and discharge it from either the first port 411 or the second port 412.

[0086] Motor 420 operates the hydraulic pump 410. Motor 420 drives the hydraulic pump 410 with a rotational direction and rotational torque corresponding to the control signal from the control device 700. Motor 420 may be an electric motor or an electric servo motor.

[0087] The hydraulic cylinder 430 comprises a cylinder body 431, a piston 432, and a piston rod 433. The cylinder body 431 is fixed to the injection device 300. The piston 432 divides the inside of the cylinder body 431 into a front chamber 435 as a first chamber and a rear chamber 436 as a second chamber. The piston rod 433 is fixed to the fixed platen 110.

[0088] The front chamber 435 of the hydraulic cylinder 430 is connected to the first port 411 of the hydraulic pump 410 via a first passage 401. The hydraulic fluid discharged from the first port 411 is supplied to the front chamber 435 via the first passage 401, pushing the injection device 300 forward. As the injection device 300 moves forward, the nozzle 320 is pressed against the fixed mold 810. The front chamber 435 functions as a pressure chamber that generates nozzle touch pressure on the nozzle 320 by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid supplied from the hydraulic pump 410.

[0089] Meanwhile, the rear chamber 436 of the hydraulic cylinder 430 is connected to the second port 412 of the hydraulic pump 410 via the second passage 402. The working fluid discharged from the second port 412 is supplied to the rear chamber 436 of the hydraulic cylinder 430 via the second passage 402, pushing the injection device 300 backward. As the injection device 300 is retracted, the nozzle 320 is separated from the fixed mold 810.

[0090] In this embodiment, the moving device 400 includes a hydraulic cylinder 430, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, instead of the hydraulic cylinder 430, an electric motor and a motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the electric motor into the linear motion of the injection device 300 may be used.

[0091] (Control device) The control device 700 is, for example, a computer and, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 701, a storage medium 702 such as memory, an input interface 703, and an output interface 704. The control device 700 performs various controls by having the CPU 701 execute a program stored in the storage medium 702. The control device 700 also receives signals from the outside through the input interface 703 and transmits signals to the outside through the output interface 704.

[0092] The control device 700 includes electronic circuits such as a CPU, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and performs various control operations described in this specification by executing instruction codes stored in memory or by circuit design for special applications.

[0093] The control device 700 repeatedly manufactures molded products by repeatedly performing processes such as metering, mold closing, pressure increasing, mold clamping, filling, holding pressure, cooling, depressurization, mold opening, and ejection. A series of operations to obtain a molded product, such as the operations from the start of one metering process to the start of the next metering process, is also called a "shot" or "molding cycle." The time required for one shot is also called the "molding cycle time" or "cycle time."

[0094] A single molding cycle includes, for example, a weighing process, a mold closing process, a pressurizing process, a clamping process, a filling process, a holding pressure process, a cooling process, a depressurizing process, a mold opening process, and an ejection process, in this order. The order here refers to the order in which each process begins. The filling, holding pressure, and cooling processes take place during the clamping process. The start of the clamping process may coincide with the start of the filling process. The completion of the depressurizing process coincides with the start of the mold opening process.

[0095] Furthermore, multiple processes may be performed simultaneously in order to shorten the molding cycle time. For example, the metering process may be performed during the cooling process of the previous molding cycle, or during the mold clamping process. In this case, the mold closing process may be performed at the beginning of the molding cycle. The filling process may also be started during the mold closing process. The ejection process may also be started during the mold opening process. If an on-off valve is provided to open and close the flow path of the nozzle 320, the mold opening process may be started during the metering process. This is because even if the mold opening process is started during the metering process, if the on-off valve closes the flow path of the nozzle 320, the molding material will not leak from the nozzle 320.

[0096] Furthermore, a single molding cycle may include steps other than the weighing step, mold closing step, pressurization step, mold clamping step, filling step, holding pressure step, cooling step, depressurization step, mold opening step, and ejection step.

[0097] For example, after the holding pressure process is completed and before the metering process begins, a pre-metering suck-back process may be performed in which the screw 330 is retracted to a preset metering start position. This reduces the pressure of the molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 before the metering process begins and prevents the screw 330 from retracting too quickly at the start of the metering process.

[0098] Furthermore, after the metering process is completed and before the filling process begins, a post-metering suck-back process may be performed in which the screw 330 is retracted to a preset filling start position (also called the "injection start position"). This reduces the pressure of the molding material accumulated in front of the screw 330 before the filling process begins and prevents leakage of the molding material from the nozzle 320 before the filling process begins.

[0099] The control device 700 is connected to an operating device 750 that accepts user input operations and a display device 760 that displays a screen. The operating device 750 and the display device 760 may be integrated, for example, by a touch panel 770. The touch panel 770, as the display device 760, displays a screen under the control of the control device 700. The screen of the touch panel 770 may display information such as the settings of the injection molding machine 10 and the current status of the injection molding machine 10. The screen of the touch panel 770 may also display operation parts such as buttons and input fields that accept user input operations. The touch panel 770, as the operating device 750, detects user input operations on the screen and outputs a signal corresponding to the input operation to the control device 700. This allows, for example, the user to operate the operation parts provided on the screen while confirming the information displayed on the screen to set the injection molding machine 10 (including inputting setting values). Furthermore, by operating the operation parts provided on the screen, the user can make the injection molding machine 10 operate in accordance with the operation part. The operation of the injection molding machine 10 may also include the operation (including stopping) of, for example, the clamping device 100, the ejector device 200, the injection device 300, the moving device 400, etc. Furthermore, the operation of the injection molding machine 10 may also include switching the screens displayed on the touch panel 770, which serves as the display device 760.

[0100] Although the operating device 750 and display device 760 of this embodiment have been described as being integrated as a touch panel 770, they may be provided independently. Furthermore, multiple operating devices 750 may be provided. The operating device 750 and display device 760 are positioned on the operating side (negative Y-axis direction) of the clamping device 100 (more specifically, the fixed platen 110).

[0101] (Control device for injection molding machines) Next, an example of a control device 600 for the injection molding machine 10 will be described with reference to Figure 3. The control device 600 may be part of the injection molding machine 10. For example, the control device 600 may be a control device 700. The technology of this disclosure is a technology that can be implemented inside the injection molding machine 10 and can be implemented independently of network functions. No additional sensors are required to implement the technology of this disclosure. Note that the control device 600 may be provided separately from the injection molding machine 10.

[0102] As shown in Figure 3, the management device 600 includes, for example, a notification control unit 601, a data acquisition unit 602, a decision unit 603, a storage unit 604, and a display control unit 605. Note that the functional blocks shown in Figure 3 are conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. All or part of the functional blocks can be configured by distributing or integrating them functionally or physically in any unit.

[0103] The notification control unit 601 notifies the user to confirm whether to approve or deny the use of a function of the injection molding machine 10 when activating a function of the injection molding machine 10 that poses a risk of causing loss to the user's assets. The user's assets include the injection molding machine 10, the mold device 800, and at least one of a remover (not shown). The remover enters between the movable mold 820 and the fixed mold 810 after the mold is opened and removes the molded product from the movable mold 820.

[0104] Users of the injection molding machine 10 include the owner of the injection molding machine 10, such as a corporation. Users of the injection molding machine 10 also include employees employed by the owner of the injection molding machine 10. Employees operate the injection molding machine 10. Notification of approval or denial of use only needs to be sent to at least one employee, but it is preferable that the recipient be an employee with specific qualifications.

[0105] In the following text, functions of the injection molding machine 10 that pose a risk of loss to the user's assets may be referred to as "risky functions." Conversely, functions of the injection molding machine 10 that do not pose a risk of loss to the user's assets may be referred to as "risk-free functions." When no distinction is made between risky and risk-free functions, they may simply be referred to as "functions."

[0106] Figure 4 shows an example of the functions of the injection molding machine 10. The functions of the injection molding machine 10 include, for example, (A) automatic adjustment of mold clamping force setting, (B) automatic adjustment of V / P switching setting, (C) automatic adjustment of metering delay setting, (D) automatic adjustment of mold open position setting, and (E) flexible sequence. In Figure 4, the functions with risk are (A), (B), (D), and (E), and the function without risk is (C).

[0107] (A) The automatic clamping force setting adjustment function estimates an appropriate clamping force from actual values ​​during injection molding and updates the clamping force setting. If the clamping force setting is too low, the mold device 800 will open due to the filling pressure of the molding material. As a result, molding material may enter the dividing surface between the fixed mold and the movable mold, disrupting the balance of the clamping force and posing a risk of damage to the mold device 800.

[0108] (A) The automatic clamping force setting adjustment function is a function that utilizes AI (artificial intelligence) or machine learning in this embodiment. The injection molding machine 10 has a trained model that outputs a set value for the clamping force by inputting actual values ​​during injection molding. The machine learning is, for example, supervised learning. The machine learning is performed, for example, by backpropagation using a neural network. Note that (A) the automatic clamping force setting adjustment function may be a function that does not utilize AI or machine learning.

[0109] (B) The V / P switching setting automatic adjustment function estimates the appropriate V / P switching position from actual values ​​during injection molding and updates the V / P switching position setting. If the V / P switching position is too far forward, the filling pressure of the molding material will become too high. As a result, there is a risk of damage to the mold device 800 or the injection molding machine 10 (e.g., breakage of the screw 330).

[0110] (B) The V / P switching setting automatic adjustment function is a function that utilizes AI or machine learning in this embodiment. The injection molding machine 10 has a trained model that outputs a set value for the V / P switching position by inputting actual values ​​during injection molding. Note that (B) The V / P switching setting automatic adjustment function may be a function that does not utilize AI or machine learning. Machine learning is, for example, supervised learning. Machine learning is performed, for example, by backpropagation using a neural network.

[0111] (C) The automatic metering delay setting adjustment function estimates an appropriate metering delay time from actual values ​​during injection molding and updates the metering delay time setting. The metering delay time is the waiting time from the holding pressure process to the metering process. This waiting time is the time required to reduce the back pressure of the screw 330 from the pressure at the end of the holding pressure process to the pressure at the start of the metering process. The metering delay time affects the quality of the molded product, but there is no risk of damage to the mold device 800 or the injection molding machine 10.

[0112] (C) The automatic adjustment function for metering delay settings is a function that does not utilize AI or machine learning in this embodiment. However, the automatic adjustment function for metering delay settings may utilize AI or machine learning. The injection molding machine 10 has a trained model that outputs a set value for the metering delay time by inputting actual values ​​during injection molding, for example. Machine learning is, for example, supervised learning. Machine learning is performed, for example, by backpropagation using a neural network.

[0113] (D) The automatic mold opening position setting adjustment function estimates an appropriate mold opening position from actual values ​​during injection molding and the position of the removal machine, and updates the set value of the mold opening position. The mold opening position is the position of the movable platen 120 or movable mold 820 when mold opening is complete. The closer the mold opening position is to the clamping position, the shorter the molding cycle. However, if the mold opening position is too close to the clamping position, the movable mold 820 or movable platen 120 will obstruct the path of the removal machine. As a result, there is a risk of damage to the mold device 800, damage to the removal machine, or damage to the injection molding machine 10.

[0114] (D) The automatic mold opening position setting adjustment function is a function that does not utilize AI or machine learning in this embodiment. However, the (D) automatic mold opening position setting adjustment function may utilize AI or machine learning. The injection molding machine 10 has a trained model that outputs a set value for the mold opening position by inputting actual values ​​during injection molding and the position of the removal machine. Machine learning is, for example, supervised learning. Machine learning is performed, for example, by backpropagation using a neural network.

[0115] (E) The flexible sequence is a function that allows the user of the injection molding machine 10 to freely set the injection molding sequence. In other words, the flexible sequence is a function that allows the user to freely set the type and order of the processes. Therefore, there is a risk of damage to the mold device 800, damage to the extraction machine, or damage to the injection molding machine 10.

[0116] As described above, the notification control unit 601 notifies the user to confirm whether or not to use a function of the injection molding machine 10 that poses a risk of causing loss to the user's assets when the function of the injection molding machine 10 is activated. This helps to draw the attention of the user of the injection molding machine 10. It also clarifies the scope of the manufacturer's responsibility for the injection molding machine 10.

[0117] The notification control unit 601 provides notification by displaying dialogs 761 and 762 on the display device 760 of the injection molding machine 10 to confirm whether or not to allow use, as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6. Note that the notification is not limited to a screen notification, but may also be a voice notification, for example. Furthermore, the notification may be a notification using both a screen and a voice.

[0118] The notification control unit 601 may, when confirming whether to approve or reject the use of a risky function, notify the user of the types of assets that may be at risk of loss if the risky function is enabled. As shown in Figure 4, the storage unit 604 stores the function, whether or not the function poses a risk, and the type of asset that poses the risk, linking them together. The notification control unit 601 refers to the data stored in the storage unit 604 and notifies the user of the types of assets that pose a risk, as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6. This allows the user to be presented with information to help them decide whether to approve or reject the function.

[0119] Furthermore, the functions, the presence or absence of risks associated with those functions, and the types of assets that pose risks are determined by the manufacturer of the injection molding machine 10 before shipment, and are not determined by the user of the injection molding machine 10.

[0120] The notification control unit 601 may notify the user of the degree of risk when confirming whether or not to allow the use of a risky function. The degree of risk may be expressed using words such as "low," "medium," or "high," or it may be expressed as a numerical value. By notifying the degree of risk rather than simply indicating whether or not there is a risk, the system can provide the user with information to help them decide whether or not to allow or reject the use.

[0121] The notification control unit 601 may notify the user that the risky function utilizes AI or machine learning when confirming whether or not to allow the use of a risky function. As shown in Figure 4, the memory unit 604 stores the function, whether or not the function poses a risk, and whether or not AI or machine learning is used in association with each other. The notification control unit 601 refers to the data stored in the memory unit 604 and notifies the user of the use of AI or machine learning as shown in Figure 5. This allows the user to be presented with information to help them decide whether or not to allow the use.

[0122] The notification control unit 601 may refer to the credentials required to change the approval / denial of use and issue a notification to confirm the approval / denial of use of the function only if the credentials meet the pre-set conditions. The credentials are, for example, the user level shown in Figure 4. The storage unit 604 stores the functions, the presence or absence of risks associated with the functions, and the user level in association with each other, as shown in Figure 4. The notification control unit 601 refers to the data stored in the storage unit 604 and issues a notification to confirm the approval / denial of use of the function only if the user level of the logged-in user meets the set conditions. The person who can make the approval / denial decision can be limited to qualified persons. For example, only persons with a user level of 2 or higher can make the approval / denial decision.

[0123] User levels are determined based on the levels shown in Figure 7, for example. Users with user level 1 can adjust existing molding conditions and log in without entering a password. Users with user level 2 can develop new molding conditions and log in by entering a predetermined password. Users with user level 3 can deal with problems when they occur and log in by entering a predetermined password. It is preferable that each user level has a different password. Note that the number of user levels is not limited to three, but may be four or more.

[0124] The data acquisition unit 602 acquires the results notified by the notification control unit 601. The user of the injection molding machine 10 inputs acceptance or rejection by operating the operating device 750 while looking at the dialogs 761 and 762 shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6, for example. The data acquisition unit 602 acquires the input signal from the operating device 750 and acquires the results notified by the notification control unit 601.

[0125] The decision unit 603 determines whether to enable or disable the function based on the results of the notification obtained by the data acquisition unit 602. This allows the user of the injection molding machine 10 to enable risky functions while being aware of the risks and clarifying the scope of responsibility of the manufacturer of the injection molding machine 10.

[0126] There may be multiple risky functions. Since the type of risk may vary for each risky function, the decision to approve or disapprove may also vary. Therefore, the decision unit 603 in this embodiment decides whether to enable or disable each risky function. Specifically, for example, the process shown in Figure 9, which will be described later, is performed for each risky function. This improves user convenience and makes it easier to add new functions.

[0127] The memory unit 604 stores the decisions made by the decision unit 603. By the memory unit 604 storing the decisions of the decision unit 603, the notification control unit 601 can be prevented from repeatedly issuing unnecessary notifications. However, depending on the severity of the risk, the notification control unit 601 may periodically issue repeated notifications. In addition, when a user of the injection molding machine 10 re-enables a function that was previously disabled, the notification control unit 601 may issue a notification to remind the user of their attention.

[0128] The display control unit 605 displays, for example, the screen 763 shown in Figure 8 on the display device 760. The screen 763 shows (a) the type of risky function, (b) the type of risky asset, and (c) the status of approval or rejection. In addition to (a), (b), and (c) above, the screen 763 may also show (d) the credentials required to change the approval or rejection status. By looking at the screen 763, the user can check the current approval or rejection status. They can also find out what functions are considered risky.

[0129] Screen 763 may have a first input section 764 that accepts input regarding changes to acceptance or rejection. The first input section 764 displays the current status of acceptance or rejection and switches the display according to the user's input. The display options are, for example, "Completed," "Rejected," and "Not Yet." "Completed" means that the user has agreed to the risks, "Rejected" means that the user does not agree to the risks, and "Not Yet" means that confirmation of acceptance or rejection has not yet been made. The user selects one option from multiple options.

[0130] As described above, the first input unit 764 accepts input regarding changes to the acceptance / rejection status. This allows users to change their acceptance / rejection status when their perception of risk changes. Preferably, input to the first input unit 764 is only possible when the user level of the logged-in user meets the set conditions. Those who can change the acceptance / rejection status can be limited to qualified individuals. For example, only those with a user level of 2 or higher can change the acceptance / rejection status.

[0131] Screen 763 may have a second input section 765 that accepts input to change the credentials required to change the acceptance / rejection status. The second input section 765 displays the current credentials required to change the acceptance / rejection status and switches the display according to the user's input operation. The display options are, for example, at the user level. The user selects one option from several options.

[0132] As described above, the second input unit 765 accepts input to change the credentials required to change whether or not to approve the use. This allows users to change their credentials when their perception of risk changes. Preferably, input to the second input unit 765 is only possible when the user level of the logged-in user meets the set conditions. This allows restricting those who can change their credentials to qualified individuals. For example, only those with a user level of 2 or higher can change their credentials.

[0133] The credentials displayed by the second input unit 765 may include not only the credentials required to change the approval / denial of usage, but also the credentials required to activate the agreed-upon functions. This allows users of the agreed-upon functions to be restricted to qualified individuals. For example, only users with user level 2 or higher can use the agreed-upon functions. This reduces risk. The credentials required to change the approval / denial of usage and the credentials required to activate the agreed-upon functions may be set separately.

[0134] An example of using the second input unit 765 will be explained. For example, a user with a user level of 2 or higher will actually use the agreed-upon function and determine whether or not a user with a user level of 1 is allowed to use the agreed-upon function. If it is determined that it is allowed, the display on the second input unit 765 will be changed from "2 or higher" to "1", thereby making the agreed-upon function available to the user with a user level of 1.

[0135] Next, an example of the processing performed by the management device 600 will be described with reference to Figure 9. The processing from step S101 onwards shown in Figure 9 is performed, for example, when a user of the injection molding machine 10 activates a predetermined function of the injection molding machine 10. It is preferable that the management device 600 prohibits the activation of the function if the user level of the logged-in user does not meet the set conditions, and for example, it is preferable not to display the function activation button on the touch panel.

[0136] The management device 600 may, after the function activation button is pressed, determine whether the user level of the logged-in user meets the setting conditions. If the user level meets the setting conditions, the management device 600 executes the processes from step S101 onwards. On the other hand, if the user level does not meet the conditions, the management device 600 terminates the process without activating the function.

[0137] Step S101 includes checking whether the agreement to the risks is "rejected". "Rejected" means that the user does not agree to the risks. Note that the agreement to the risks is set to "not yet" when the injection molding machine 10 is shipped. "Not yet" means that confirmation of acceptance or rejection has not yet been made.

[0138] If the user has confirmed whether they consent to use the service and the agreement regarding the risks is "rejected" (step S101, YES), the control device 600 terminates this process without activating any functions. On the other hand, if the agreement regarding the risks is not "rejected" (step S101, NO), the control device 600 performs step S102.

[0139] Step S102 includes checking whether or not there is an agreement to the risks. If there is an agreement to the risks (Step S102, NO), the user has agreed to the risks, so the management device 600 performs Step S106 and terminates the current process. Step S106 includes activating a function. On the other hand, if there is an agreement to the risks (S102, YES), the management device 600 performs Step S103.

[0140] Step S103 includes notifying the user whether they consent to use the risky function. For example, as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6, the notification control unit 601 notifies the user by displaying dialogs 761 and 762 on the display device 760 of the injection molding machine 10 to confirm consent. The content of the notification may simply include a statement that there is a risk, as shown in Figure 5, or it may include a disclaimer, as shown in Figure 6.

[0141] Step S104 includes checking whether the dialog displayed in step S103 was completed with "Accept". If the dialog was completed with "Accept" (step S104, YES), the user has agreed to the risk, so the management device 600 performs steps S105 and S106 and terminates the current process. Step S105 includes rewriting the agreement to the risk stored in the storage unit 604 to "Completed". Step S106 includes activating the function.

[0142] On the other hand, if the dialog does not complete with "Accept" (step S104, NO), the management device 600 performs step S107. Step S107 includes checking whether the dialog completed with "Disable". If the dialog completed with "Disable" (step S107, YES), the user does not agree to the risk, so the management device 600 performs step S108 and terminates the current process without activating the function. Step S108 includes rewriting the agreement to the risk stored in the memory unit 604 to "Reject".

[0143] On the other hand, if the dialog does not complete with "Disable" (step S107, NO), the dialog has completed with "Cancel," and the management device 600 terminates the process without activating any functions. In this case, the management device 600 maintains the agreement regarding the risk stored in the storage unit 604 as "Not yet reached."

[0144] The embodiments of the injection molding machine control device and injection molding machine according to the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various changes, modifications, substitutions, additions, deletions, and combinations are possible within the scope described in the claims. These also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 10 injection molding machine 600 Management device 601 Notification Control Unit 602 Data Acquisition Unit 603 Decision Section 604 Storage section 605 Display Control Unit

Claims

1. A notification control unit that notifies the user to confirm whether or not to use a function of the injection molding machine that poses a risk of causing loss to the user's assets when activating such function of the injection molding machine, A data acquisition unit that acquires the results of the aforementioned notification, A decision unit determines whether to enable or disable the function in accordance with the result of the notification obtained by the data acquisition unit, A control device for an injection molding machine, having the following features.

2. The aforementioned functions are multiple, The control device for an injection molding machine according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines whether to enable or disable each of the functions.

3. The injection molding machine management device according to claim 1, wherein the notification control unit, when confirming whether or not to approve the use of the function, notifies the user of the types of assets that pose a risk of loss if the function is enabled.

4. The notification control unit notifies the user that the function is using AI (artificial intelligence) or machine learning when confirming whether or not to use the function, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The notification control unit refers to the qualification information required to change the approval or rejection of use, and issues a notification to confirm the approval or rejection of use only if the qualification information satisfies the conditions set in advance, the management device for an injection molding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The injection molding machine management device according to claim 1, comprising a display control unit that displays a screen showing the type of function, the type of risky asset, and the status of approval or rejection of use.

7. The control device for an injection molding machine according to claim 6, wherein the screen has a first input unit for receiving input of changes to the consent or denial of use.

8. The control device for an injection molding machine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the screen displays the type of function, the type of risky asset, the status of approval or rejection of use, and the qualification information required to change the approval or rejection of use.

9. The control device for an injection molding machine according to claim 8, wherein the screen has a second input unit for receiving input to change the credentials.

10. An injection molding machine equipped with a control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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