Method for injection molding of bichromatic lenses and electronic shelf labels

Abstract

This disclosure provides an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens and an electronic shelf label, the injection molding method for a bichromatic lens comprising the steps of: positioning a first mold along the horizontal direction; injection molding a flat, first-color lens horizontally by feeding molten first material into the cavity of the first mold from a first gate of the first mold; and injection molding a second-color lens onto the first-color lens by feeding molten second material into the cavity of the second mold from a second gate of the second mold. This disclosure solves the technical problem of inferior injection molding effect for bichromatic lenses, which affects product quality.

Description

Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority from a Chinese patent application with application number 202310679409.X, filing date June 8, 2023, and invention title "Injection Molding Method of Bicolor Lens and Electronic Shelf Label", and a Chinese utility model application with application number 202321459449.5, filing date June 8, 2023, and invention title "Lens Structure, Mold and Electronic Shelf Label".

Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of electronic shelf labels, and particularly to an injection molding method of bicolor lenses, a lens structure, a mold and an electronic shelf label.

Background Art

[0003] In the current phase, for bicolor transparent lenses, due to the use of PC material, they cannot reach a 3H hardness (surface hardness 3H test standard: tested with a Mitsubishi brand 3H pencil under a load of 750 g, and no scratches on the surface). Currently, the lenses in electronic shelf labels mainly adopt the following several solutions.

[0004] 1. The IML (In-Mold Labeling) process has the disadvantages of high cost and inability to reach the 3H test standard in terms of hardness. 2. Injection molding + screen printing has the disadvantage that since the pattern is screen printed, the back surface of the lens needs to be flat and the internal structure cannot be designed. 3. Sheet cutting + screen printing has the disadvantages that since the pattern is screen printed, the back surface of the lens needs to be flat, the internal structure cannot be designed, and complex curved surface shaping cannot be performed on the sheet material.

[0005] Regarding the problem that the electronic shelf label related to the related technology is inferior in lens hardness and other structures cannot be added, currently, no effective solution has been provided.

[0006] Furthermore, because lenses are flat and need to move during molding, it is difficult to mold them stably using conventional molds. Not only is it difficult to meet the requirements for the shape of the lens, but they are also prone to shifting, crushing, or whitening during injection molding, which affects the quality of the product after molding.

[0007] Despite the issue of inferior injection molding performance of the aforementioned bichromatic lenses, which negatively impacts product quality, no effective solution has yet been proposed.

[0008] Based on this, the inventors, drawing on their many years of experience and practice in the relevant industry, propose a method for injection molding bichromatic lenses and electronic shelf labels to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] This disclosure aims to provide an injection molding method for bichromatic lenses and an electronic shelf label that effectively reduces the occurrence of conditions such as crushing and whitening during injection molding of bichromatic lenses and reduces the risk of press burning. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The above-mentioned objectives of this disclosure can be achieved by the following technical solutions.

[0011] This disclosure is, A step of positioning the first mold along the horizontal direction, The steps include: horizontally injection molding a flat, first-color lens by feeding molten first material into the cavity of the first mold from the first gate of the first mold; The present invention provides an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens, comprising the step of injecting a molten second material into the cavity of the second mold from a second gate of the second mold, thereby injection molding a second color lens into the first color lens.

[0012] This disclosure provides a lens structure used in the screen lens of an electronic shelf label, the lens structure being, The lens body is transparent and has a hardness equal to or greater than a predetermined hardness, The frame includes a colored annular frame connected to the lens body along the edge of the lens body and enclosed by the lens body to form a recess, wherein a functional structural member is provided on and / or within the recess.

[0013] The melting point of the material used in the lens body is higher than the melting point of the material used in the frame.

[0014] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the lens body and the frame are bonded together to form an integrated structure.

[0015] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the lens body has a lamp hole for emitting light rays.

[0016] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the functional structural member includes a heat-welded column for fixing a circuit board, the heat-welded column being located within the recess.

[0017] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the functional structural member includes a plurality of first snaps for engaging with an electronic shelf label body, wherein the plurality of first snaps are spaced apart and provided on the frame.

[0018] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the functional structural member includes a barcode area for installing a barcode, wherein the barcode area is located within the frame.

[0019] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the functional structural member includes an ultrasonic wire for ultrasonic welding, wherein the ultrasonic wire is positioned in a predetermined welding area within the frame.

[0020] In one selectable embodiment of this disclosure, the preset hardness is 3H hardness.

[0021] In a selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the lens body is made of polymethyl methacrylate having a hardness higher than 3H hardness.

[0022] In a selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the frame is made of ABS plastic or a composite material of ABS plastic and polycarbonate.

[0023] The present disclosure provides a mold for injection molding the above lens structure, and the mold includes a first injection molding part for injection molding the lens body in the lens structure, and a second injection molding part for injection molding the frame in the lens structure.

[0024] In a selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the first injection molding part has at least one first gate, and the first gate is located at a position facing the lamp hole of the lens body.

[0025] In a selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the second injection molding part has at least one second gate, and the fluid passage area of the second gate gradually increases along the flow direction of the injection molding material.

[0026] The present disclosure further provides an electronic shelf label, and the electronic shelf label includes a rear case, a battery provided in the rear case, a screen connected to a circuit board, The electronic shelf label is a two-color lens formed by the above two-color lens injection molding method, the two-color lens is connected to the rear case, and the screen and the circuit board are located between the two-color lens and the rear case, or is the above lens structure, the lens structure is connected to the rear case, and the screen and the circuit board are located between the lens structure and the rear case.

Advantages of the Invention

[0027] The beneficial effects of this disclosure are as follows:

[0028] 1. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the surface strength of the first color lens can meet at least the 3H test standard and has the advantage of high surface abrasion resistance. 2. The injection molding method for the bichromatic lens employs a bichromatic injection molding process, resulting in a smooth and natural appearance after injection molding, and enabling the design of complex internal structures while ensuring a favorable appearance. 3. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the first color lens may be in the form of a transparent flat plate, thereby minimizing the visible effect of press burn on the first color lens, avoiding deformation and / or discoloration of the edges of the first color lens, and contributing to an improvement in the overall quality of the bicolor lens. IV. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, since the melting point of the first material is higher than that of the second material, it becomes possible to injection mold the first-color lens and the second-color lens in the front-to-back direction, thereby reducing the risk of press burn. V. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the fluid passage area of ​​the second gate gradually increases along the flow direction of the second material, thereby reducing the impact force of the material on the first color lens when the second color lens is injection molded, effectively reducing the probability of press burning occurring during the injection molding of the bicolor lens, and further reducing the risk of press burning. 6. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the first gate allows the first color lens to be injected in a point injection manner, and after the injection molding is completed, the first material can be automatically torn off, thus avoiding situations where brittle cracking or chipping is likely to occur during injection molding by the first gate. Furthermore, the first gate is located in the first mold and opposite the lamp hole of the first color lens, providing good concealment and improving the appearance. 7. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, multiple positioning members cooperate to press the side edge of the first-color lens, thereby ensuring stable molding of the first-color lens, avoiding situations such as crushing or whitening, and ensuring product quality. 8. By ensuring that the hardness of the lens body is equal to or greater than a predetermined hardness, the lens structure can be made to meet the predetermined hardness requirement, which has the advantage of high surface wear resistance. Furthermore, a frame is provided along the edge of the lens body, and the frame is annular with a color. Since the lens body is a transparent lens, different colors can be arranged according to the requirements. By setting the frame and surrounding it with the lens body to form a recess, functional structural members can be provided on and / or within the frame. This realizes the design of functional structural members within the lens structure, improves the user experience of the lens structure, and extends its service life. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0029] The following drawings are intended solely to schematically illustrate and interpret the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0030] [Figure 1] This is a flowchart of the injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 2A] This is a perspective view (part 1) of a bichromatic lens in an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens at a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] This is a perspective view (part 1) of a bichromatic lens in an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens at a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a front view of a bichromatic lens in an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a front view of the separated state of a bichromatic lens in an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] This is a second perspective view of a bichromatic lens in an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens at a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B]This is a second perspective view of a bichromatic lens in an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens at a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] This is a plan view of the first color lens in an injection molding method for a bicolor lens at a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] This is a plan view of the first color lens in a bichromatic lens injection molding method at a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of the position of the second gate in the injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of pressing the first color lens by a positioning member in the injection molding method for a bicolor lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the pressing of the first color lens by a positioning member in an injection molding method for a bicolor lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled state of an electronic shelf label at a certain viewing angle, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled state of an electronic shelf label from a different perspective, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the battery and rear case in a separated state. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure in which the screen and the circuit board are connected in an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13A] This is a schematic diagram showing an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the screen, circuit board, and bichromatic lens are separated at a certain viewing angle. [Figure 13B] This is a schematic diagram showing an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the screen, circuit board, and bichromatic lens are separated, from a different viewing angle. [Figure 14A] This is a schematic diagram showing the assembled state of the screen, circuit board, and bichromatic lens in an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure at a certain viewing angle. [Figure 14B]This is a schematic diagram showing the screen, circuit board, and bichromatic lens assembled in an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, from a different viewing angle. [Figure 15A] This is a schematic diagram showing the bichromatic lens and rear case separated in an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure at a certain viewing angle. [Figure 15B] This is a schematic diagram showing the bichromatic lens and rear case separated in an electronic shelf label from a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an electronic shelf label in which a battery and a circuit board are connected from a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16B] This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an electronic shelf label from a different perspective, illustrating the connection between the battery and the circuit board. [Figure 17A] This is the first perspective view of a lens structure at a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] This is a perspective view (part 1) of the lens structure at a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] This is a front view of a lens structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] This is a front view showing the lens body and frame separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A] This is a second perspective view of the lens structure at a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20B] This is a second perspective view of the lens structure at a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21A] This is a plan view of the lens body at a certain viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21B] This is a plan view of the lens body from a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22A] This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled state of an electronic shelf label from a certain viewpoint, relating to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22B] This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled state of an electronic shelf label from a different perspective, relating to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23A]This is a schematic diagram showing the screen and circuit board and lens structure of an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in a separated state at a certain viewing angle. [Figure 23B] This is a schematic diagram showing the screen and circuit board and lens structure separated in an electronic shelf label from a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24A] This is a schematic diagram showing the assembled state of the screen, circuit board, and lens structure in an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure at a certain viewing angle. [Figure 24B] This is a schematic diagram showing the assembled state of the screen, circuit board, and lens structure in an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, from a different viewing angle. [Figure 25A] This is a schematic diagram showing the lens structure and rear case of an electronic shelf label in an embodiment of the present disclosure, separated from each other at a certain viewing angle. [Figure 25B] This is a schematic diagram showing the lens structure and rear case of an electronic shelf label in a separate state from a different viewing angle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26A] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing how the battery and the circuit board are connected. [Figure 26B] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing how the battery and the circuit board are connected. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031] To better understand the technical features, objectives, and effects of this disclosure, specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Embodiment 1

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, this disclosure provides a method for injection molding a bichromatic lens, and the injection molding method for the bichromatic lens is Step S1 involves positioning the first mold along the horizontal direction, Step S2 involves horizontally injection molding a flat, first-color lens 1 by feeding molten first material into the cavity of the first mold from the first gate of the first mold, The process includes step S3, injecting molten second material into the cavity of the second mold from the second gate 5 of the second mold, thereby injection molding a second color lens 2 into a first color lens 1.

[0033] In this disclosure, a flat, plate-shaped lens of a first color 1 is injection molded horizontally by first positioning a first mold along the horizontal direction and feeding molten first material into the cavity of the first mold from the first gate of the first mold. By pre-positioning the first mold, it is ensured that the flat, plate-shaped lens of the first color 1 can be molded stably in the horizontal direction, thus avoiding situations such as crushing or whitening. After injection molding the lens of the first color 1, a second color lens 2 is injection molded onto the lens of the first color 1 by feeding molten second material into the cavity of the second mold from the second gate 5 of the second mold. This effectively reduces the risk of press burn and ensures product quality.

[0034] Here, the first material may be manufactured from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) with a hardness higher than 3H hardness (the surface hardness of lens 1 of the first color meets the 3H test standard after injection molding), and its melting point is approximately 270°C. The second material may be manufactured from ABS plastic, but is not limited to ABS plastic, and its melting point is approximately 230°C. Of course, the second material may also be manufactured from a composite material of ABS plastic and polycarbonate, which has superior strength to ABS plastic and polycarbonate, and allows for easier adjustment of the material's properties according to the requirements of the injection molding process, thereby improving product quality. Here, the composite material of ABS plastic and polycarbonate is a mixture of ABS plastic and polycarbonate, a conventional material, and here we limit the content of ABS plastic and polycarbonate in the composite material.

[0035] The first-color lens 1 and the second-color lens 2 are made of two different materials, and during the injection molding process for the first-color lens 1 and the second-color lens 2, press burns are likely to occur (for example, if the first-color lens 1 is injected first, and then the second-color lens 2 collides with the first-color lens 1 during injection molding, causing deformation or discoloration). Furthermore, this process is prone to causing problems such as damage to the lens's appearance pattern or uneven coloring. Therefore, in this disclosure, by setting the melting point of the first material higher than that of the second material, it becomes possible to injection mold the first-color lens 1 and the second-color lens 2 in the order they are being molded (i.e., the first-color lens 1 is injected first, and then the second-color lens 2 is injected). Specifically, because the melting point of the material used for the first-color lens 1 is higher than that of the material used for the second-color lens 2, the first-color lens 1 can be pre-injected, and after the first-color lens 1 has been injected, the second-color lens 2, which has a lower melting point, can be injected. This ensures that the first-color lens 1 is not damaged, thereby achieving the objective of injection molding the first-color lens 1 and the second-color lens 2 in alternating order. Furthermore, in this disclosure, if the first-color lens 1 is a transparent lens and the second-color lens 2 is injection-molded, the visual effect of press burn on the first-color lens 1 can be minimized, preventing deformation and / or discoloration of the edges of the first-color lens 1, and contributing to an improvement in the overall quality of the bicolor lens.

[0036] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid passage area of ​​the second gate 5 is larger than that of the first gate and gradually increases along the flow direction of the second material, thereby reducing the impact force of the material on the first color lens 1 when the second color lens 2 is injection molded. This effectively reduces the probability of press burning occurring during the injection molding of the bicolor lens, further reducing the risk of press burning and ensuring product quality.

[0037] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 2A to 4, 6A and 6B, the first color lens 1 may be a transparent flat plate and have a lamp hole 101 for emitting light rays, and the position of the lamp hole 101 may correspond to the position of a flash lamp so that light rays pass through and are emitted from the lamp hole 101. Here, the first gate is located in the first mold and is positioned opposite the lamp hole 101 of the first color lens 1, and the first color lens 1 is injection molded into the cavity of the first mold by feeding the first material into the cavity of the first mold through the first gate. While it is necessary to provide a protruding flash lamp at the position of the lamp hole 101, if the first gate is provided at this location, the shape formed after injection molding is completed and the injection-molded material is torn apart is also close to a circular protrusion, so it can be matched to the original shape at the lamp hole 101, resulting in a near-perfect match visually, improving the appearance and concealing the gate cutting position during injection molding. By injection molding the first color lens 1 using a point injection method with the first gate, the first material can be automatically torn apart after injection molding is completed, thus avoiding situations where brittle cracking or chipping is likely to occur during injection molding with the first gate.

[0038] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 3 to 5B, the second color lens 2 is annular in shape and, while in a molten state, can adhere closely to the first color lens 1 (the first and second materials are fused together), so that the second color lens 2 can be bonded to the first color lens 1 along its edge to form an integrated structure.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the second gate 5 is located in the second mold and is positioned opposite the side of the second color lens 2. The second gate 5 may be fan-shaped or trapezoidal, but is not limited to these shapes. The fluid passage area of ​​the second gate 5 gradually increases along the flow direction of the second material. Compared to the injection molding method of point injection (injection method of the first gate), the increased fluid passage area of ​​the second gate 5 can reduce the pressure when the second material enters the cavity of the second mold. This reduces the risk of press burning of the injection-molded first color lens 1 and ensures product quality. Here, the first gate may be circular with a diameter of approximately 1 mm, and the second gate 5 may be elongated, extending along the longitudinal direction of the second color lens 2. The dimensions of the communication position between the second gate 5 and the cavity of the second mold are approximately 5 (length) × 0.4 (width) mm.

[0040] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, since the first color lens 1 is in the shape of a transparent flat plate, it is necessary to position the first mold horizontally in steps S1 and S2. A plurality of positioning members 4 are provided on the outer circumference of the first mold, and the plurality of positioning members 4 cooperate to press against the sides of the first mold. This ensures that during the molding of the first color lens 1, the plurality of positioning members 4 always cooperate to press against the sides of the first color lens 1, thereby ensuring stable molding of the first color lens 1 and avoiding situations such as crushing or whitening. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, since the first color lens 1 is rectangular, in this embodiment, in order to achieve the objective of positioning the first color lens 1, it is necessary to set up at least four positioning members 4 so as to press against the four sides of the first mold, each of them.

[0041] Furthermore, since the first-color lens 1 and the second-color lens 2 are injection molded at different stations (i.e., the first-color lens 1 is injection molded at the first station, and the second-color lens 2 is injection molded at the second station), after the first-color lens 1 is injection molded, multiple positioning members 4 must work together to press the sides of the first-color lens 1, move the first-color lens 1 from the first station to the second station, and then, after moving it to the second station, the second-color lens 2 must be injection molded.

[0042] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the second-color lens 2 is provided with a plurality of heat-welded columns 201, the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 are located within the recess 3, and the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 cooperate to fix the circuit board 50. Here, the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 may be injection-molded integrally with the second-color lens 2.

[0043] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the second color lens 2 is provided with a plurality of first snaps 202, which are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second color lens 2 and are provided on the edge of the second color lens 2, and the bicolor lens and the electronic shelf label body can be assembled by locking them together with the plurality of first snaps 202. Here, the plurality of first snaps 202 may be injection molded integrally with the second color lens 2.

[0044] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the second color lens 2 is provided with a barcode area 203 on the side facing away from the recess 3, and a product barcode can be placed in the barcode area 203.

[0045] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, an ultrasonic wire 204 for ultrasonic welding is provided in a preset welding area of ​​the second color lens 2. Here, the specific location of the preset welding area can be set according to actual requirements and is not limited thereto.

[0046] The features and advantages of the injection molding method for bichromatic lenses described herein are as follows: 1. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the surface strength of the first color lens 1 can meet at least the 3H test standard and has the advantage of high surface abrasion resistance. 2. The injection molding method for the bichromatic lens employs a bichromatic injection molding process, resulting in a smooth and natural appearance after injection molding, and enabling the design of complex internal structures while ensuring a favorable appearance. 3. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the first color lens 1 may be in the form of a transparent flat plate, thereby minimizing the visible effect of press burn on the first color lens 1, avoiding deformation and / or discoloration of the edges of the first color lens 1, and contributing to an improvement in the overall quality of the bicolor lens. IV. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, since the melting point of the first material is higher than that of the second material, it becomes possible to injection mold the first-color lens 1 and the second-color lens 2 in the front-to-back direction, thereby reducing the risk of press burn. V. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the fluid passage area of ​​the second gate 5 gradually increases along the flow direction of the second material, thereby reducing the impact force of the material on the first color lens 1 when the second color lens 2 is injection molded, effectively reducing the probability of press burning occurring during the injection molding of the bicolor lens, and further reducing the risk of press burning. 6. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, the first gate allows the first color lens 1 to be injected in a point injection manner, and after the injection molding is completed, the first material can be automatically torn off, thus avoiding situations where brittle cracking or chipping is likely to occur during injection molding by the first gate. Furthermore, the first gate is located in the first mold and is positioned opposite the lamp hole 101 of the first color lens 1, providing good concealment and improving the appearance. 7. In the injection molding method for the bicolor lens, multiple positioning members 4 cooperate to press the side edge of the first-color lens 1, thereby ensuring stable molding of the first-color lens 1, avoiding situations such as crushing or whitening, and ensuring product quality. Embodiment 2

[0047] As shown in Figures 17A to 21B, the present disclosure provides a lens structure used in a screen lens for an electronic shelf label, the lens structure comprising a lens body 6 and a frame 7, wherein the lens body 6 is a transparent lens and has a hardness equal to or greater than a preset hardness, the frame 7 is annular in shape and has a color, the frame 7 is connected to the lens body 6 along its edge, the frame 7 surrounds the lens body 6 to form a recess 3, and a functional structural member is provided on and / or within the recess 3.

[0048] Here, the predetermined hardness may be set by the user, and in one specific embodiment of this disclosure, the predetermined hardness may be set to at least 3H hardness or higher (i.e., the lens body 6 satisfies the test criterion for surface hardness of 3H).

[0049] In this disclosure, by ensuring that the hardness of the lens body 6 is equal to or greater than a predetermined hardness, it is possible to ensure that the lens structure meets the predetermined hardness requirement, and it has the advantage of high surface wear resistance. Furthermore, a frame 7 is provided along the edge of the lens body 6, and the frame 7 is annular in shape with a color, and since the lens body 6 is a transparent lens, different colors can be arranged as required. By installing the frame 7 and surrounding it with the lens body 6 to form a recess 3, functional structural members can be provided on the frame 7 and / or in the recess 3, thereby realizing the design of functional structural members for the interior of the lens structure, improving the user experience of the lens structure and extending its service life.

[0050] In one selectable embodiment of this disclosure, the melting point of the material used for the lens body 6 is higher than that of the material used for the frame 7, in order to enable the lens body 6 and frame 7 to be injection molded in the front-to-back direction. Specifically, because the melting point of the material used for the lens body 6 is higher than that of the material used for the frame 7, the lens body 6 can be injection molded in advance, and then the frame 7, which has a lower melting point, can be injection molded after the lens body 6 has been injection molded, ensuring that the lens body 6 is not damaged, thereby achieving the objective of injection molding the lens body 6 and frame 7 in the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, in this disclosure, the lens body 6 is made of a transparent lens, which minimizes the visible effect of press burn on the lens body 6 during the injection molding of the frame 7, avoiding deformation and / or discoloration of the edges of the lens body 6, and contributing to an improvement in the overall quality of the lens structure.

[0051] Here, the lens body 6 may be made of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which has a hardness greater than 3H hardness, but is not limited to this, and has a melting point of approximately 270°C. The frame 7 may be made of ABS plastic, but is not limited to this, and has a melting point of approximately 230°C. Of course, the frame 7 may also be made of a composite material of ABS plastic and polycarbonate, which has superior strength to ABS plastic and polycarbonate, and allows for easier adjustment of the material's properties according to the requirements of the injection molding process, thereby improving product quality. The composite material of ABS plastic and polycarbonate is a mixture of ABS plastic and polycarbonate, and is a conventional material, and here we limit the content of ABS plastic and polycarbonate in the composite material.

[0052] Furthermore, since the molten frame 7 can adhere closely to the lens body 6 (the materials used for the frame 7 and the materials used for the lens body 6 have fusion properties), the lens body 6 and the frame 7 can be bonded together to form an integrated structure.

[0053] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 22A and 22B, the lens body 6 has a lamp hole 101 for emitting light rays. The position of the lamp hole 101 may correspond to the position of a flash lamp so that light rays pass through and are emitted from the lamp hole 101.

[0054] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the functional structural member includes a plurality of heat-welded columns 201, the heat-welded columns 201 are located within the recess 3, and the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 cooperate to fix the circuit board 50. Here, the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 may be injection-molded integrally with the frame 7.

[0055] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the functional structural member includes a plurality of first snaps 202, the plurality of first snaps 202 are provided on the frame 7 at intervals, and the lens structure and the electronic shelf label body can be assembled by locking the plurality of first snaps 202 together. Here, the plurality of first snaps 202 may be injection molded integrally with the frame 7.

[0056] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the functional structural member includes a barcode area 203, the barcode area 203 is located on the frame 7 and on the side facing away from the recess 3, and a product barcode can be placed in the barcode area 203.

[0057] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 21A and 21B, the functional structural member includes an ultrasonic wire 204 for ultrasonic welding, the ultrasonic wire 204 being located in a preset welding area on the frame 7. Here, the specific location of the preset welding area can be set according to actual requirements and is not limited thereto.

[0058] The features and advantages of the lens structure disclosed herein are as follows: 1. In this lens structure, by ensuring that the hardness of the lens body 6 is equal to or greater than a predetermined hardness, it is possible to ensure that the lens structure satisfies the predetermined hardness requirement, and it has the advantage of having high surface wear resistance. 2. The lens structure can be arranged in different colors as required, and by installing a frame 7 and surrounding it with the lens body 6 to form a recess 3, functional structural members can be provided on the frame 7 and / or within the recess 3, thereby realizing the design of functional structural members within the lens structure, improving the user experience of the lens structure and extending its service life. Embodiment 3

[0059] This disclosure further provides a mold for injection molding the above-described lens structure 80, comprising a first injection molding section for injection molding the lens body 6 in the lens structure 80, and a second injection molding section for injection molding the frame 7 in the lens structure 80.

[0060] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the first injection molding section has at least one first gate, which may be located opposite the lamp hole 101 of the lens body 6 in Figures 21A and 21B. The lens body 6 is injection molded into the cavity of the first injection molding section by feeding the injection material into the cavity of the first injection molding section through the first gate. While it is necessary to install a protruding flash lamp at the location of the lamp hole 101, if the first gate is provided at this location, the shape formed after the injection molding is completed and the injection molded material is torn apart is also close to a circular protrusion, so it can be matched to the original shape of the lamp hole 101, resulting in a near-perfect visual match, improving the appearance and concealing the gate cut position of the injection molding.

[0061] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, the second injection molding section has at least one second gate, the fluid passage area of ​​the second gate gradually increases along the flow direction of the injection molding material (i.e., it is flared or bell-mouth shaped), and compared to the point injection injection molding method, the increased fluid passage area of ​​the second gate reduces the pressure when the injection molding material enters the cavity of the second injection molding section, thereby reducing the risk of press burn on the injection-molded lens body 6 and ensuring product quality. Here, the gate in point injection is generally circular with a diameter of about 1 mm, and in this embodiment, the second gate may be elongated in shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the frame 7, and the dimensions of the communication position between the second gate and the cavity of the second injection molding section are about 5 (length) × 0.4 (width) mm. Embodiment 4

[0062] As shown in Figures 2A to 16B, the present disclosure provides an electronic shelf label comprising a rear case 20, a battery 30, a screen 40, and a bichromatic lens 10 formed by the above-described injection molding method for bichromatic lenses, wherein the battery 30 is provided inside the rear case 20, the screen 40 is connected to a circuit board 50, the bichromatic lens 10 is connected to the rear case 20, and the screen 40 and the circuit board 50 are positioned between the bichromatic lens 10 and the rear case 20.

[0063] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 11, 15A, and 15B, a plurality of ribs 2001 are provided within the rear case 20, and the plurality of ribs 2001 cooperate to secure the battery 30. Specifically, the plurality of ribs 2001 can be arranged within the rear case 20 to match the shape of the battery 30 (the plurality of ribs 2001 can be distributed at intervals in the circumferential direction of the battery 30), the battery 30 can be assembled between the plurality of ribs 2001, and then the ends of the plurality of ribs 2001 can be heat-welded, thereby the plurality of ribs 2001 cooperate to secure and fix the battery 30, ensuring the stability of the battery 30 assembly. Here, the plurality of ribs 2001 and the rear case 20 may be integrally injection-molded, but are not limited to this.

[0064] Furthermore, the battery 30 can, but is not limited to, a button battery pack.

[0065] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 12 to 15B, the screen 40 and the circuit board 50 are electrically connected via a connector 60, thereby enabling the screen 40 to display product information.

[0066] Furthermore, the screen 40 may, but is not limited to, an electronic ink screen. In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 5A, 5B, 14A, and 14B, the screen 40 and the circuit board 50 are assembled and then incorporated as a whole into the recess 3 of the bichromatic lens 10, and the ends of the multiple heat-welded columns 201 of the second color lens 2 in the bichromatic lens 10 are heat-welded so that the multiple heat-welded columns 201 cooperate to fix the screen 40 and the circuit board 50. Here, the multiple heat-welded columns 201 may cooperate to lock and fix the screen 40 and the circuit board 50, or through holes may be made in the corners of the circuit board 50, at least some of the heat-welded columns 201 may be inserted into the through holes, and the ends of the heat-welded columns 201 may be heat-welded to fix and assemble the screen 40 and the circuit board 50 to the bichromatic lens 10.

[0067] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 5A, 5B and 11, a plurality of second snaps 2002 are provided at intervals along the edge of the rear case 20, and the rear case 20 and the bichromatic lens 10 are locked together by the engagement of the plurality of second snaps 2002 with the plurality of first snaps 202 of the second color lens 2 in the bichromatic lens 10, thereby facilitating assembly and disassembly.

[0068] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 16A and 16B, the battery 30 and the circuit board 50 are electrically connected via an elastic piece 70, so that the battery 30 can supply power to the circuit board 50 and ensure the normal operation of the electronic shelf label.

[0069] The assembly process for the electronic shelf label of this disclosure first involves assembling the battery 30 into the rear case 20, heat-welding the ends of a plurality of ribs 2001 by a heat-welding process so that the heat-welded ribs 2001 work together to secure and fix the battery 30, then crimping and fixing the screen 40 and circuit board 50 together, and electrically connecting the two by a connector 60, then assembling the screen 40 and circuit board 50 as a whole into the recess 3 of the bichromatic lens 10, heat-welding the ends of a plurality of heat-welded columns 201 in the recess 3 so that the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 work together to fix the screen 40 and circuit board 50, and finally locking the bichromatic lens 10 and the rear case 20 together by fitting a plurality of first snaps 202 and a plurality of second snaps 2002 to complete the assembly of the electronic shelf label. Embodiment 5

[0070] As shown in Figures 11, 12, and 17A to 26B, the present disclosure provides an electronic shelf label comprising a rear case 20, a battery 30, a screen 40, and a lens structure 80 formed by the above-described injection molding method for a bichromatic lens, wherein the battery 30 is provided inside the rear case 20, the screen 40 is connected to a circuit board 50, the lens structure 80 is connected to the rear case 20, and the screen 40 and the circuit board 50 are positioned between the lens structure 80 and the rear case 20.

[0071] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 11, 25A, and 25B, a plurality of ribs 2001 are provided within the rear case 20, and the plurality of ribs 2001 can cooperate to secure the battery 30. Specifically, the plurality of ribs 2001 can be arranged within the rear case 20 to match the shape of the battery 30 (the plurality of ribs 2001 can be distributed at intervals in the circumferential direction of the battery 30), the battery 30 can be assembled between the plurality of ribs 2001, and then the ends of the plurality of ribs 2001 can be heat-welded, thereby the plurality of ribs 2001 cooperate to secure and fix the battery 30, ensuring the stability of the battery 30 assembly. Here, the plurality of ribs 2001 and the rear case 20 may be integrally injection-molded, but are not limited to this.

[0072] Furthermore, the battery 30 can, but is not limited to, a button battery pack.

[0073] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 12 and 23A to 25B, the screen 40 and the circuit board 50 are electrically connected via a connector 60, thereby enabling the screen 40 to display product information.

[0074] Furthermore, the screen 40 may, but is not limited to, an electronic ink screen.

[0075] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 23A and 23B, the screen 40 and circuit board 50 are assembled and then incorporated as a whole into the recess 3 of the lens structure 80, and the ends of the multiple heat-welded columns 201 of the frame 7 in the lens structure 80 are heat-welded so that the multiple heat-welded columns 201 cooperate to fix the screen 40 and circuit board 50. Here, the multiple heat-welded columns 201 may cooperate to lock and fix the screen 40 and circuit board 50, or through holes may be made in the corners of the circuit board 50, at least some of the heat-welded columns 201 may be inserted into the through holes, and the ends of the heat-welded columns 201 may be heat-welded to fix and assemble the screen 40 and circuit board 50 to the lens structure 80.

[0076] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 11, 25A, and 25B, a plurality of second snaps 2002 are provided at intervals along the edge of the rear case 20, and the rear case 20 and the lens structure 80 are locked together by the engagement of the plurality of second snaps 2002 with a plurality of first snaps 202 of the frame 7 in the lens structure 80, thereby facilitating assembly and disassembly.

[0077] In one selectable embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figures 26A and 26B, the battery 30 and the circuit board 50 are electrically connected via an elastic piece 70, so that the battery 30 can supply power to the circuit board 50 and ensure the normal operation of the electronic shelf label.

[0078] The assembly process for the electronic shelf label of this disclosure first involves assembling the battery 30 into the rear case 20, heat-welding the ends of a plurality of ribs 2001 by a heat-welding process so that the heat-welded ribs 2001 work together to secure and fix the battery 30, then crimping and fixing the screen 40 and circuit board 50 together, and electrically connecting the two by a connector 60, then assembling the screen 40 and circuit board 50 as a whole into the recess 3 of the lens structure 80, heat-welding the ends of a plurality of heat-welded columns 201 in the recess 3 so that the plurality of heat-welded columns 201 work together to fix the screen 40 and circuit board 50, and finally locking the lens structure 80 and the rear case 20 together by fitting a plurality of first snaps 202 and a plurality of second snaps 2002 to complete the assembly of the electronic shelf label.

[0079] The foregoing are merely exemplary specific embodiments of the Disclosure and do not limit the scope of the Disclosure. Equivalent modifications and amendments made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and principles of the Disclosure should all fall within the scope of the rights protected by the Disclosure.

Claims

1. A step of positioning the first mold along the horizontal direction, The steps include: horizontally injection molding a flat, first-color lens by feeding molten first material into the cavity of the first mold from the first gate of the first mold; The process includes the step of injecting a molten second material into the cavity of the second mold from a second gate of the second mold, thereby injection molding a second color lens into the first color lens. A method for injection molding bichromatic lenses.

2. The first color lens is a transparent flat plate and has a lamp hole for emitting light rays, and the first gate is located in the first mold and is positioned opposite the lamp hole of the first color lens. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

3. The first material is polymethyl methacrylate, which has a hardness higher than 3H hardness. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 2.

4. The fluid passage area of ​​the second gate gradually increases along the flow direction of the second material. A method for injection molding a bichromatic lens according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The second colored lens is an annular shape having a color, and the second colored lens is bonded to the first colored lens along its edge to form an integrated structure. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 4.

6. The second gate is located in the second mold and opposite the side of the second color lens, and the second gate is fan-shaped or trapezoidal. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 5.

7. The second material is ABS plastic, or a composite material of ABS plastic and polycarbonate. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 5.

8. The melting point of the first material is higher than the melting point of the second material. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

9. In the process of injection molding the first color lens, the first mold is placed horizontally, and a plurality of positioning members are provided on the outer circumference of the first mold, so that the plurality of positioning members cooperate to press against the side of the first mold, thereby enabling the plurality of positioning members to cooperate to press against the side of the first color lens. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

10. The first color lens is injection molded at the first station, and the second color lens is injection molded at the second station. Multiple positioning members cooperate to press the side edge of the first color lens and move the first color lens from the first station to the second station. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 9.

11. The second color lens is provided with heat-welded columns for fixing the circuit board. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

12. The second color lens is provided with a plurality of first snaps for securing it to the electronic shelf label body. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

13. The second color lens is provided with a barcode area for placing a barcode. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

14. An ultrasonic beam for ultrasonic welding is provided in a preset welding area of ​​the second color lens. The injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to claim 1.

15. Rear case and The battery provided inside the rear case, A screen connected to the circuit board, A bichromatic lens formed by an injection molding method for a bichromatic lens according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: a bichromatic lens connected to the rear case, wherein the screen and the circuit board are positioned between the bichromatic lens and the rear case. Electronic shelf label.

16. Multiple ribs are provided within the rear case, and these heat-welded ribs cooperate to secure the battery. The electronic shelf label according to claim 15.

17. The screen and the circuit board are provided within the bichromatic lens, and multiple heat-welded columns of the second color lens in the bichromatic lens cooperate to fix the screen and the circuit board in place. The electronic shelf label according to claim 15.

18. Multiple second snaps are provided on the edge of the rear case, and the rear case and the bichromatic lens are locked together by the fitting of the multiple second snaps with the multiple first snaps of the second color lens in the bichromatic lens. The electronic shelf label according to claim 15.

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