Injection molding equipment

Abstract

To provide an injection molding apparatus capable of simplifying the apparatus.SOLUTION: There is provided an injection molding apparatus that comprises: a first fixed mold attachment / detachment unit configured to attach and detach a first fixed mold; a second fixed mold attachment / detachment unit configured to attach and detach a second fixed mold; a first movable mold attachment / detachment unit configured to attach and detach a first movable mold; a first injection unit configured to inject a first molding material through a first gate opening of the first fixed mold; a second injection unit configured to inject a second molding material through a second gate opening of the second fixed mold; and a position changing unit configured to change a position of the first movable mold attachment / detachment unit such that the first movable mold is located at a position facing the first fixed mold or the second fixed mold. The position changing unit includes: a driving unit; a rotation shaft member configured to rotate by the driving unit; and a rotation disk coupled to the rotation shaft member and provided with the first movable mold attachment / detachment unit. The rotation disk is configured to rotate about a rotation axis of the rotation shaft member, and a flow path that communicates with the first movable mold and through which a medium flows is formed in the rotation shaft member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an injection molding apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There is known an injection molding apparatus in which a material plasticized by a plasticizing device is supplied to a cavity formed by a pair of molds and injected from a nozzle.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a rotary injection molding machine that includes three injection units, three fixed dies, and three movable dies. In the rotary injection molding machine described in Patent Document 1, each movable dies is rotatably attached to a rotary die mounting platen and clamped to each fixed dies, and a molding material is injected from the injection unit to form a three-color molded product. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Publication number 2-23390 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In injection molding machines such as those described above, it is sometimes necessary to cool the movable mold in order to cool the inside of the cavity after injection. However, in injection molding machines for molding multicolor molded products such as those described in Patent Document 1, the movable mold rotates, and therefore, when cooling the movable mold by passing water through it, for example, the routing of hoses becomes cumbersome and the device becomes complicated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the injection molding apparatus according to the present invention is a first fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the first fixed mold can be attached / detached; a second fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the second fixed mold can be attached / detached; a first movable die attaching / detaching section that can attach / detach a first movable die configured to be clamped to each of the first fixed die and the second fixed die; a first injection unit that injects a first molding material through a first gate opening of the first fixed mold; a second injection unit that injects a second molding material through a second gate opening of the second fixed mold; a position changing unit that changes the position of the first movable die attaching / detaching unit so that the first movable die is positioned at a position facing the first fixed die or the second fixed die; Including, The position change unit A drive unit; a rotating shaft member rotated by the drive unit; a rotary disk connected to the rotary shaft member and provided with the first movable die attachment / detachment part; and the rotating disk rotates around the rotation axis of the rotating shaft member, The rotary shaft member has a flow path formed therein that communicates with the first movable die and through which a medium flows. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an injection molding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an injection molding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a first injection unit of the injection molding apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a flat screw of the injection molding device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a barrel of the injection molding device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a fixed mold unit of the injection molding apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a movable mold unit of the injection molding apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a movable mold unit of the injection molding apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 5 is a flowchart for explaining a molded product generation process by a control unit of the injection molding device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a rotating shaft member of the injection molding apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a rotating shaft member of the injection molding apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a first mold flow path and a second mold flow path of the injection molding device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a first injection unit of an injection molding apparatus according to a modified example of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below do not unduly limit the content of the present invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described below are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[0009] 1. Injection molding equipment 1.1. Overall structure First, an injection molding apparatus according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view that schematically shows injection molding apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows injection molding apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. Note that FIGS. 1 and 2 show an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis as three mutually orthogonal axes. The X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are, for example, horizontal directions. The Z-axis direction is, for example, vertical directions.

[0010] 1 and 2, the injection molding apparatus 100 includes, for example, a first injection unit 10, a second injection unit 12, a fixed mold unit 20, a movable mold unit 30, a mold clamping section 40, and a control section 50. For convenience, the first injection unit 10 is shown in a simplified form in FIG.

[0011] Injection molding apparatus 100 performs multi-color molding by sequentially injecting multiple molding materials to form a molded product. In the illustrated example, injection molding apparatus 100 includes two injection units 10 and 12, and performs multi-color molding using two different molding materials. Multi-color molding is not limited to injection molding using molding materials of different colors, but also includes injection molding using molding materials of different types.

[0012] Specifically, first, a first molding material is injected from a first injection unit 10 toward a cavity formed by a fixed mold unit 20 and a movable mold unit 30. Next, a second molding material is injected from a second injection unit 12 toward the first molding material placed in the cavity. This makes it possible to manufacture a molded product made of the first molding material and the second molding material.

[0013] Each component of the injection molding apparatus 100 will now be described.

[0014] 1.2. Injection unit 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the first injection unit 10. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the first injection unit 10 has, for example, a material supply section 110, a plasticizing section 120, and an injection section 160.

[0015] The material supply unit 110 supplies raw materials to the plasticizing unit 120. The material supply unit 110 is configured by, for example, a hopper. The material supply unit 110 is supplied with pellet-shaped or powder-shaped materials.

[0016] The plasticizing section 120 is configured to plasticize the material supplied from the material supplying section 110, generate a fluid, paste-like first molding material, and guide the first molding material to the injecting section 160. As shown in FIG. 3 , the plasticizing section 120 has, for example, a screw case 122, a screw driving section 124, a flat screw 130, a barrel 140, and a heating section 150.

[0017] Plasticization is a concept that includes melting, and refers to changing from a solid to a fluid state. Specifically, for materials that undergo glass transition, plasticization refers to raising the temperature of the material above the glass transition point. For materials that do not undergo glass transition, plasticization refers to raising the temperature of the material above the melting point.

[0018] The screw case 122 is a housing that houses the flat screw 130. The flat screw 130 is housed in a space surrounded by the screw case 122 and the barrel 140.

[0019] The screw driving unit 124 is provided in the screw case 122. The screw driving unit 124 is configured by, for example, a motor. The screw driving unit 124 rotates the flat screw 130. A shaft 126 connected to the screw driving unit 124 is connected to the flat screw 130. The screw driving unit 124 is controlled by the control unit 50. Although not shown, the shaft 126 and the flat screw 130 may be connected via a reducer.

[0020] The flat screw 130 has a generally cylindrical shape whose size in the direction of the rotation axis R is smaller than its size in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis R. In the illustrated example, the rotation axis R is parallel to the Y axis. The flat screw 130 rotates about the rotation axis R due to the torque generated by the screw driving unit 124. The flat screw 130 has a main surface 131, a groove-forming surface 132 opposite to the main surface 131, and a side surface 133 connecting the main surface 131 and the groove-forming surface 132. Here, FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the flat screw 130.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 4 , a first groove 134 is formed in the groove forming surface 132 of the flat screw 130. The first groove 134 has, for example, a central portion 135, a connecting portion 136, and a material inlet 137. The central portion 135 faces a communication hole 146 formed in the barrel 140. The central portion 135 communicates with the communication hole 146. The connecting portion 136 connects the central portion 135 and the material inlet 137. In the example shown, the connecting portion 136 is formed in a spiral shape extending from the central portion 135 toward the outer periphery of the groove forming surface 132. The material inlet 137 is formed on the outer periphery of the groove forming surface 132. That is, the material inlet 137 is formed on the side surface 133 of the flat screw 130. The material supplied from the material supply unit 110 is introduced into the first groove 134 from the material inlet 137, and is transported through the connecting portion 136 and the central portion 135 to the communication hole 146 formed in the barrel 140. In the illustrated example, two first grooves 134 are formed.

[0022] There is no particular limitation on the number of first grooves 134. Although not shown, three or more first grooves 134 may be formed, or only one first groove 134 may be formed.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 3, the barrel 140 is provided opposite the flat screw 130. The barrel 140 has an opposing surface 142 that faces the groove forming surface 132 of the flat screw 130. A communication hole 146 is formed in the center of the opposing surface 142. Here, Fig. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the barrel 140.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 5, second grooves 144 and communication holes 146 are formed in the opposing surface 142 of the barrel 140. A plurality of second grooves 144 are formed. In the illustrated example, six second grooves 144 are formed, but the number is not particularly limited. The plurality of second grooves 144 are formed around the communication holes 146 when viewed from the Y-axis direction. One end of each second groove 144 is connected to the communication holes 146, and the second grooves 144 extend in a spiral shape from the communication holes 146 toward the outer periphery of the opposing surface 142. The second grooves 144 have the function of guiding the plasticized first molding material to the communication holes 146.

[0025] The shape of the second groove 144 is not particularly limited, and may be linear. One end of the second groove 144 does not have to be connected to the communication hole 146. Furthermore, the second groove 144 does not have to be formed on the opposing surface 142. However, in consideration of efficiently guiding the first molding material to the communication hole 146, it is preferable that the second groove 144 be formed on the opposing surface 142.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3 , the heating section 150 is provided in the barrel 140. The heating section 150 heats the material supplied between the flat screw 130 and the barrel 140. The output of the heating section 150 is controlled by the control section 50. The plasticizing section 120 heats the supplied material while transporting it toward the communicating hole 146 using the flat screw 130, the barrel 140, and the heating section 150, to generate a plasticized first molding material, and causes the generated first molding material to flow from the communicating hole 146 to the injection section 160.

[0027] The injection section 160 injects the first molding material produced in the plasticization section 120 toward the movable mold unit 30. The injection section 160 has, for example, a cylinder 162, a plunger 164, a plunger drive section 166, and a nozzle 168. The cylinder 162 is a substantially cylindrical member connected to the communication hole 146. The plunger 164 moves inside the cylinder 162. The plunger 164 is driven by the plunger drive section 166, which is composed of a motor, gears, etc. The plunger drive section 166 is controlled by the control section 50.

[0028] The injection unit 160 performs a metering operation and an injection operation by sliding the plunger 164 within the cylinder 162. The metering operation refers to an operation of guiding the first molding material located in the communication hole 146 into the cylinder 162 and measuring it within the cylinder 162 by moving the plunger 164 in the +X axis direction away from the communication hole 146. The injection operation refers to an operation of injecting the first molding material within the cylinder 162 toward the movable mold unit 30 via the nozzle 168 by moving the plunger 164 in the -X axis direction approaching the communication hole 146.

[0029] The nozzle 168 injects the first molding material toward the movable mold unit 30. A nozzle insertion hole 230a into which the nozzle 168 is inserted and a first gate opening 230b through which the first molding material injected from the nozzle 168 passes are formed in the first fixed mold 230 attached to the fixed mold unit 20. A nozzle hole 169 communicating with the communication hole 146 is formed in the nozzle 168. By carrying out the above-mentioned metering operation and injection operation, the first molding material measured in the cylinder 162 is sent to the nozzle hole 169 via the communication hole 146. Then, the nozzle 168 injects the first molding material from the nozzle hole 169 through the first gate opening 230b. For convenience, the fixed mold unit 20 is simplified or omitted from the illustration in FIG.

[0030] The material supply section 110 of the second injection unit 12 is supplied with a raw material different from the raw material supplied to the material supply section 110 of the first injection unit 10. The second injection unit 12 injects a second molding material different from the first molding material through the second gate opening 232b of the second fixed mold 232. The second injection unit 12 has basically the same configuration as the first injection unit 10. Therefore, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0031] 1.3. Fixed Unit Fig. 6 is a perspective view schematically showing the fixed type unit 20. As shown in Figs. 2 and 6, the fixed type unit 20 has, for example, a fixed plate 210, a first fixed type attachment / detachment part 220, a second fixed type attachment / detachment part 222, and a biasing member 240. For convenience, the first fixed type 230 and the second fixed type 232 are not shown in Fig. 2. For convenience, the biasing member 240 is not shown in Fig. 6.

[0032] The fixed plate 210 has a generally plate-like shape. As shown in Fig. 2, the fixed plate 210 is fixed to the support base 60 via support rods 62. In the illustrated example, the first injection unit 10 and the second injection unit 12 are connected to the surface of the fixed plate 210 facing the -Y axis direction.

[0033] The first fixed type attachment / detachment part 220 and the second fixed type attachment / detachment part 222 are provided on the fixed plate 210. In the example shown, the fixed type attachment / detachment parts 220, 222 are provided on a surface of the fixed plate 210 facing the +Y axis direction. The fixed type attachment / detachment parts 220, 222 are provided side by side in the X axis direction, for example.

[0034] The first fixed mold attachment / detachment section 220 is configured to be able to detachably attach the first fixed mold 230. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the first fixed mold attachment / detachment section 220 has a pair of clamping sections 221, and holds the first fixed mold 230 by clamping the first fixed mold 230 between the pair of clamping sections 221. The second fixed mold attachment / detachment section 222 is configured to be able to detachably attach the second fixed mold 232. In the example shown in the figure, the second fixed mold attachment / detachment section 222 has a pair of clamping sections 223, and holds the second fixed mold 232 by clamping the second fixed mold 232 between the pair of clamping sections 223.

[0035] The first fixed mold 230 is held by the first fixed mold attachment / detachment part 220. A first gate opening 230b through which the first molding material is injected is formed on the surface of the first fixed mold 230 facing the +Y axis direction. Furthermore, a recessed part (not shown) that forms a cavity is formed on the surface of the first fixed mold 230 facing the +Y axis direction.

[0036] The second fixed mold 232 is held by the second fixed mold attachment / detachment part 222. A second gate opening 232b through which the second molding material is injected is formed on the surface of the second fixed mold 232 facing the +Y axis direction. Furthermore, a recessed part (not shown) that forms a cavity is formed on the surface of the second fixed mold 232 facing the +Y axis direction. The fixed molds 230, 232 are made of a material such as metal, ceramic, or resin.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2, the biasing member 240 is provided on the fixed plate 210. The biasing member 240 biases the rotating plate 346 of the movable mold unit 30 toward the movable plate 310 when the mold is opened after the mold is clamped. In the example shown in the figure, the biasing member 240 biases the rotating plate 346 toward the movable plate 310 when the movable mold unit 30 moves in the +Y-axis direction after the mold is clamped. The biasing member 240 is made of an elastic body. The biasing member 240 prevents the rotating plate 346 from being left behind on the fixed mold unit 20 when the mold is opened. It can be controlled.

[0038] Note that "mold clamping" refers to moving the movable mold unit 30 in a direction approaching the fixed mold unit 20, and bringing the first fixed mold 230 into contact with the first movable mold 330 or the second movable mold 332. Also, "mold opening" refers to moving the movable mold unit 30 in a direction away from the fixed mold unit 20, and separating the first fixed mold 230 from the first movable mold 330 or the second movable mold 332.

[0039] 1.4. Mobile Unit Fig. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing the movable unit 30. As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 7, the movable unit 30 has a movable plate 310, a first movable mold attachment / detachment section 320, a second movable mold attachment / detachment section 322, and a position change section 340. For convenience, the first movable mold 330 and the second movable mold 332 are not shown in Fig. 2.

[0040] The movable plate 310 has a generally plate-like shape. As shown in FIG. 7, through holes 312 are formed in the four corners of the movable plate 310. As shown in FIG. 1, tie bars 64 pass through the through holes 312. The tie bars 64 are connected to the fixed mold unit 20 and the mold clamping section 40. The movable plate 310 can be moved in the Y-axis direction by the mold clamping section 40.

[0041] The first movable mold attaching / detaching section 320 and the second movable mold attaching / detaching section 322 are provided on a turntable 346 of the position changing section 340. The first movable mold attaching / detaching section 320 is configured to be able to attach and detach the first movable mold 330. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the first movable mold attaching / detaching section 320 has a pair of clamping sections 321, and holds the first fixed mold 230 by clamping the first fixed mold 230 between the pair of clamping sections 321. The second movable mold attaching / detaching section 322 is configured to be able to attach and detach the second movable mold 332. In the example shown in the figure, the second movable mold attaching / detaching section 322 has a pair of clamping sections 323, and holds the second movable mold 332 by clamping the second movable mold 332 between the pair of clamping sections 323.

[0042] The first movable mold 330 is held by the first movable mold attachment / detachment section 320. A recess (not shown) that forms a cavity is formed on the surface of the first movable mold 330 facing the -Y axis direction. The first movable mold 330 is configured so as to be clampable with each of the first fixed mold 230 and the second fixed mold 232. That is, a cavity can be formed by the recess formed in the first movable mold 330 and the recess formed in the first fixed mold 230, or a cavity can be formed by the recess formed in the first movable mold 330 and the recess formed in the second fixed mold 232.

[0043] The second movable mold 332 is held by the second movable mold attachment / detachment section 322. A recess (not shown) that forms a cavity is formed on the surface of the second movable mold 332 facing the -Y axis direction. The second movable mold 332 is configured so as to be clampable with each of the first fixed mold 230 and the second fixed mold 232. That is, a cavity can be formed by the recess formed in the second movable mold 332 and the recess formed in the first fixed mold 230, and a cavity can be formed by the recess formed in the second movable mold 332 and the recess formed in the second fixed mold 232. The movable molds 330, 332 are made of a material such as metal, ceramic, or resin, for example.

[0044] The position changer 340 is connected to the movable plate 310. The position changer 340 has, for example, a drive unit 342, a rotary shaft member 344, a rotary disk 346, and an eject mechanism 348. For convenience, the eject mechanism 348 is not shown in FIG. 2.

[0045] The driving unit 342 rotates the rotating shaft member 344. The driving unit 342 is configured by, for example, a motor. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the torque generated by the driving unit 342 is transmitted to the rotating shaft member 344 via the belt 341 and the pulley 343.

[0046] The rotating shaft member 344 is rotated by the driving unit 342. Here, FIG. 8 is a perspective view that schematically shows the rotating shaft member 344 and the rotating disk 346. As shown in FIG. 8, the rotating shaft member 344 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The rotating shaft member 344 rotates about a rotation axis Q. In the illustrated example, the direction of the rotation axis Q is the Y-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 2, the rotating shaft member 344 is rotatably held by the movable plate 310 via a pulley 343. The internal structure of the rotating shaft member 344 will be described later.

[0047] The turntable 346 is connected to the rotating shaft member 344. The turntable 346 is substantially disk-shaped. As the rotating shaft member 344 rotates, the turntable 346 rotates around the rotation axis Q of the rotating shaft member 344. The turntable 346 is provided with a first movable mold attachment / detachment unit 320 and a second movable mold attachment / detachment unit 322. In the illustrated example, the movable mold attachment / detachment units 320 and 322 are provided on the surface of the turntable 346 facing the -Y axis direction.

[0048] By rotating the turntable 346, the position changing unit 340 changes the position of the first movable mold attaching / detaching unit 320 so that the first movable mold 330 is positioned opposite the first fixed mold 230 or the second fixed mold 232. Furthermore, the position changing unit 340 changes the position of the second movable mold attaching / detaching unit 322 so that the second movable mold 332 is positioned opposite the first fixed mold 230 or the second fixed mold 232. Specifically, when the first movable mold 330 is positioned opposite the first fixed mold 230, the position changing unit 340 positions the second movable mold 332 at a position opposite the second fixed mold 232, and when the first movable mold 330 is positioned opposite the second fixed mold 232, the position changing unit 340 positions the second movable mold 332 at a position opposite the first fixed mold 230.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 7, the eject mechanism 348 is provided on the movable plate 310. The eject mechanism 348 is a mechanism for removing a molded product formed by sequentially injecting the first molding material and the second molding material from the first movable mold 330 or the second movable mold 332. In the example shown, the eject mechanism 348 is a pin, and can be moved in the Y-axis direction by a drive unit (not shown). A through hole 349 through which the eject mechanism 348 passes is formed in the movable molds 330, 332.

[0050] The eject mechanism 348 is provided at a position facing the second fixed mold 232. No eject mechanism is provided at a position facing the first fixed mold 230. After the second molding material is injected from the second gate opening 232b of the second fixed mold 232, the eject mechanism 348 can be moved in the -Y axis direction through the through hole 349 to push out the molded product remaining in the first movable mold 330 or the second movable mold 332.

[0051] 1.5. Mold clamping section The mold clamping section 40 moves the movable mold unit 30, which has a rotary shaft member 344 and a turntable 346, back and forth in the injection direction. The drive section 342 moves in conjunction with the turntable 346. The mold clamping section 40 moves the drive section 342 in conjunction with the rotary shaft member 344. The injection direction is the direction in which the first molding material is injected from the first injection unit 10, and in the illustrated example, is the Y-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 2, the mold clamping section 40 has, for example, a mold clamping plate 42, a mold drive section 44, and a ball screw section 46.

[0052] The mold clamping plate 42 is fixed to the support base 60 via a support rod 66. The mold clamping plate 42 is a substantially plate-shaped member.

[0053] The mold driving unit 44 is connected to the mold clamping plate 42. The mold driving unit 44 is composed of, for example, a motor, gears, etc. The mold driving unit 44 is connected to the movable mold unit 30 via a ball screw unit 46. The driving of the mold driving unit 44 is controlled by the control unit 50. The ball screw unit 46 transmits the power generated by the drive of the mold drive unit 44 to the movable mold unit 30. The ball screw unit 46 is movable in the Y-axis direction relative to the mold clamping plate 42. The mold clamping unit 40 performs mold clamping and mold opening by moving the movable mold unit 30 using the mold drive unit 44 and the ball screw unit 46.

[0054] The output of the mold driver 44 is greater than the output of the plunger driver 166. Therefore, the mold clamping unit 40 can reliably clamp the mold. If the output of the plunger driver 166 is greater than the output of the mold driver 44, the molding material may leak out of the cavity. The output of the mold driver 44 is greater than the output of the screw driver 124, for example.

[0055] The output of the screw driver 124 of the first injection unit 10 and the output of the screw driver 124 of the second injection unit 12 may be the same as or different from each other. Furthermore, the output of the plunger driver 166 of the first injection unit 10 and the output of the plunger driver 166 of the second injection unit 12 may be the same as or different from each other.

[0056] The ball screw portion 46 is connected to a housing 350 of the movable unit 30 via a spacer 48. The ball screw portion 46, the spacer 48, and the housing 350 do not rotate when driven by the drive portion 342 of the movable unit 30. A clearance may be provided between the ball screw portion 46 and the rotating shaft member 344. A clearance may be provided between the housing 350 and the pulley 343. The housing 350 houses a portion of the rotating shaft member 344.

[0057] 1.6. Control Unit The control unit 50 is configured, for example, by a computer having a processor, a main memory device, and an input / output interface for inputting and outputting signals from and to the outside. The control unit 50 performs various functions, for example, by having the processor execute a program loaded into the main memory device. Specifically, the control unit 50 controls the injection units 10 and 12, the movable mold unit 30, and the mold clamping unit 40. Note that the control unit 50 may be configured not as a computer but as a combination of multiple circuits. Here, FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the control unit 50.

[0058] The user operates, for example, an operation unit (not shown) to output a processing start signal for starting processing to the control unit 50. The operation unit is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, etc. When the control unit 50 receives the processing start signal, it starts the molding product generation processing.

[0059] 9, in step S1, the control unit 50 controls the mold clamping unit 40 and the position changing unit 340 to set the fixed molds 230, 232 and the movable molds 330, 332 to their initial positions (step S1). In the initial position state, the fixed molds 230, 232 and the movable molds 330, 332 are spaced apart, resulting in a mold open state. Furthermore, in the initial position state, the first fixed mold 230 and the first movable mold 330 face each other, and the second fixed mold 232 and the second movable mold 332 face each other.

[0060] Next, in step S2, the control unit 50 controls the mold clamping unit 40 to move the movable molds 330, 332 in the -Y axis direction, abutting the first fixed mold 230 and the first movable mold 330, and abutting the second fixed mold 232 and the second movable mold 332, thereby clamping the molds.

[0061] Next, in step S3, the control unit 50 controls the injection units 10 and 12 to inject the first molding material and the second molding material. The control unit 50 controls the second injection unit 10 to inject the first molding material into the cavity formed by the first fixed mold 230 and the first movable mold 330. Furthermore, the control unit 50 controls the second injection unit 12 to inject the second molding material into the cavity formed by the second fixed mold 232 and the second movable mold 332.

[0062] Next, in step S4, the control unit 50 controls the mold clamping unit 40 to move the movable molds 330, 332 in the +Y-axis direction to open the molds. While opening the molds, the control unit 50 controls the eject mechanism 348 to push out the intermediate product remaining in the second movable mold 332 and remove it from the second movable mold 332. This intermediate product is made up of only the second molding material and will not become a molded product. After pushing out the intermediate product, the control unit 50 returns the eject mechanism 348 to its initial position. An intermediate product made of the first molding material that will become a molded product remains in the first movable mold 330.

[0063] Next, in step S5, the control unit 50 controls the position changing unit 340 to rotate the turntable 346, so that the first fixed mold 230 and the second movable mold 332 face each other, and so that the second fixed mold 232 and the first movable mold 330 face each other. The control unit 50 controls the position changing unit 340, for example, to rotate the turntable 346 by 180° around the rotation axis Q.

[0064] Next, in step S6, the control unit 50 controls the mold clamping unit 40 to move the movable molds 330, 332 in the -Y axis direction, abutting the first fixed mold 230 and the second movable mold 332, and abutting the second fixed mold 232 and the first movable mold 330, thereby clamping the molds.

[0065] Next, in step S7, the control unit 50 controls the injection units 10 and 12 to inject the first molding material and the second molding material. Specifically, the control unit 50 controls the first injection unit 10 to inject the first molding material into the cavity formed by the first fixed mold 230 and the second movable mold 332. Furthermore, the control unit 50 controls the second injection unit 12 to inject the second molding material into the cavity formed by the second fixed mold 232 and the first movable mold 330. An intermediate product made of the first molding material injected in step S3 remains in the first movable mold 330. By injecting the second molding material into this intermediate product, a molded product made of the first molding material and the second molding material can be molded.

[0066] Next, in step S8, the control unit 50 controls the mold clamping unit 40 to move the movable molds 330, 332 in the +Y-axis direction to open the molds. While opening the molds, the control unit 50 controls the eject mechanism 348 to push out the molded product remaining in the second movable mold 332 and remove it from the second movable mold 332.

[0067] Next, in step S9, the control unit 50 determines whether or not to end the molded product generation process. For example, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the molded product generation process. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (if "YES" in step S9), the control unit 50 ends the molded product generation process. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (if "NO" in step S9), the control unit 50 returns the process to step S1.

[0068] Alternatively, in step S9, the control unit 50 determines whether the number of times the eject mechanism 348 has been operated is equal to or greater than a predetermined number. If it is determined that the number of times is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (YES in step S9), the control unit 50 ends the molded product generation process. If it is determined that the number of times is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number (NO in step S9), the control unit 50 returns the process to step S1.

[0069] When the process returns to step S1, in step S3 from the second time onwards, the control unit 50 controls the second injection unit 12 to inject the second molding material into the intermediate product made of the first molding material. Therefore, in step S4 from the second time onwards, the control unit 50 controls the eject mechanism 348 to push out the molded product remaining in the second movable die 332.

[0070] Considering that the second molding material would be wasted, it is preferable not to inject the second molding material from the second injection unit 12 in the first step S3. However, considering the simplification of the program of the control unit 50, it is preferable to inject the second molding material from the second injection unit 12 in the first step S3.

[0071] 1.7. Rotating shaft members As shown in FIG. 2, the rotating shaft member 344 is formed with a flow path 410 that communicates with the first movable die 330 and the second movable die 332. The flow path 410 includes a first axial flow path 411 and a second axial flow path 412. The first axial flow path 411 and the second axial flow path 412 are spaced apart from each other. The axial flow paths 411 and 412 are formed from the side surface 402 to the bottom surface 404 of the rotating shaft member 344. In the illustrated example, the bottom surface 404 is the surface facing the -Y-axis direction of the rotating shaft member 344. A medium for cooling the movable dies 330 and 332 flows through the axial flow paths 411 and 412. An example of the medium is water.

[0072] An inlet groove 420 and an outlet groove 422 are formed on the side surface 402 of the rotating shaft member 344. Here, Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the vicinity of the inlet groove 420 and the outlet groove 422 of the rotating shaft member 344. Fig. 11 is a diagram schematically showing the vicinity of the inlet groove 420 and the outlet groove 422 of the rotating shaft member 344.

[0073] 10 and 11, the inlet groove 420 and the outlet groove 422 are spaced apart from each other. The inlet groove 420 and the outlet groove 422 go around the entire side surface 402. In other words, the inlet groove 420 and the outlet groove 422 are formed on the side surface 402 over 360°.

[0074] The inlet groove 420 is connected to a medium inlet 411a of the first axial flow path 411. The medium inlet 411a is formed on the bottom surface of the inlet groove 420. The shape of the medium inlet 411a is, for example, circular. The outlet groove 422 is connected to a medium outlet 412a of the second axial flow path 412. The medium outlet 412a is formed on the bottom surface of the outlet groove 422. The shape of the medium outlet 412a is, for example, circular. The medium inlet 411a and the medium outlet 412a face in opposite directions.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 10 , the inlet groove 420 is connected to an inlet pipe 430. The inlet pipe 430 passes through the housing 350. The inlet pipe 430 is connected to, for example, a pump (not shown) for circulating the medium. The outlet groove 422 is connected to an outlet pipe 432. The outlet pipe 432 passes through the housing 350. The inlet pipe 430 and the outlet pipe 432 do not rotate with the rotation of the rotating shaft member 344. For convenience, the inlet pipe 430 and the outlet pipe 432 are not shown in FIG. 2 . Furthermore, the housing 350, the inlet pipe 430, and the outlet pipe 432 are not shown in FIG. 11 .

[0076] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, packings 441, 442, 443, 444, and 445 are provided on the side surface 402 of the rotating shaft member 344. The inlet groove 420 is provided between the first packing 441 and the second packing 442. The outlet groove 422 is provided between the second packing 442 and the third packing 443. For example, O-rings are used as the packings 441, 442, and 443. The packings 441 and 442 can reduce the possibility that the medium flowing through the inlet groove 420 will leak to the outside. The packings 442 and 443 can reduce the possibility that the medium flowing through the outlet groove 422 will leak to the outside. The fourth packing 444 is provided in the +Y-axis direction of the first packing 441. The fifth packing 445 is provided on the −Y axis side of the third packing 443. The packings 444 and 445 can further reduce the possibility of the medium leaking to the outside. The packings 441, 442, 443, 444, and 445 rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the rotary shaft member 344 while abutting against the housing 350, for example.

[0077] Here, FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the first mold flow path 414 formed in the first movable mold 330 and the second mold flow path 416 formed in the second movable mold 332. As shown in FIG.

[0078] 12, the first mold flow path 414 is formed so as to follow the outer periphery of the first movable mold 330 when viewed in the Y-axis direction. The first mold flow path 414 is connected to the first axial flow path 411 via a first connecting pipe 434. The second mold flow path 416 is formed so as to follow the outer periphery of the second movable mold 332 when viewed in the Y-axis direction. The second mold flow path 416 is connected to the first mold flow path 414 via a second connecting pipe 436. Furthermore, the second mold flow path 416 is connected to the second axial flow path 412 via a third connecting pipe 438.

[0079] The medium passes through the rotating shaft member 344, the first movable die 330, and the second movable die 332 in this order, and then returns to the rotating shaft member 344. In the example shown, the medium passes through the inlet pipe 430, the inlet groove 420, the first axial flow path 411, the first connecting pipe 434, the first type flow path 414, the second connecting pipe 436, the second type flow path 416, the third connecting pipe 438, the second axial flow path 412, the outlet groove 422, and the outlet pipe 432, in this order. The first axial flow path 411, the first connecting pipe 434, the first type flow path 414, the second connecting pipe 436, the second type flow path 416, the third connecting pipe 438, and the second axial flow path 412 form the flow path 410. The medium flowing out of the outlet pipe 432 may be cooled by a cooling mechanism (not shown) and returned to the inlet pipe 430, or may be discarded as is. The medium flows through the first axial flow path 411 and the like while the control unit 50 is performing the molding production process.

[0080] Although not shown, a flow path through which the medium flows is formed in the first fixed die 230 and the second fixed die 232. The flow path formed in the first fixed die 230 and the flow path formed in the second fixed die 232 are connected to each other. The medium flowing through the movable dies 330, 332 is discharged without passing through the fixed dies 230, 232.

[0081] 1.8. Effects In the injection molding apparatus 100, the position change unit 340 includes a drive unit 342, a rotating shaft member 344 rotated by the drive unit 342, and a turntable 346 connected to the rotating shaft member 344 and provided with the first movable mold attachment / detachment unit 320. The turntable 346 rotates around the rotation axis Q of the rotating shaft member 344, and the rotating shaft member 344 is formed with a flow path 410 through which the medium flows, leading to the first movable mold 330. Therefore, the injection molding apparatus 100 can be simplified compared to, for example, a case in which a hose through which the medium flows is directly connected to the movable mold without forming a flow path in the rotating shaft member. For example, if the hose is directly connected to the movable mold, the hose rotates with the rotation of the rotating shaft member, making the hose routing complicated and the apparatus complex. Furthermore, water leakage may occur.

[0082] In the injection molding apparatus 100, an inlet groove 420 that is connected to a medium inlet 411a of a flow path 410 and that runs around the side surface 402, and an outlet groove 422 that is connected to a medium outlet 412a of the flow path 410 and that runs around the side surface 402, are formed on the side surface 402 of the rotating shaft member 344, and the inlet groove 420 and the outlet groove 422 are spaced apart from each other. Therefore, in the injection molding apparatus 100, the inlet pipe 430 that introduces the medium into the inlet groove 420 does not rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating shaft member 344, allowing the medium to flow into the flow path 410. Furthermore, in the injection molding apparatus 100, the outlet pipe 432 through which the medium flows out from the outlet groove 422 does not rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating shaft member 344, allowing the medium to flow out from the outlet groove 422. This allows the apparatus to be simplified.

[0083] Injection molding apparatus 100 includes mold clamping unit 40 that moves rotating shaft member 344 back and forth in the injection direction, and mold clamping unit 40 moves drive unit 342 in conjunction with rotating shaft member 344. Therefore, injection molding apparatus 100 can simplify the mechanism that transmits torque generated by drive unit 342 to rotating shaft member 344 compared to a case in which the mold clamping unit does not move the drive unit in conjunction with the rotating shaft member.

[0084] Injection molding apparatus 100 includes an eject mechanism 348 provided at a position opposite second fixed mold 232, and no eject mechanism is provided at a position opposite first fixed mold 230. Therefore, injection molding apparatus 100 can be simplified compared to a case where an eject mechanism is provided at a position opposite first fixed mold 230.

[0085] Although not shown, the eject mechanism 348 may be provided in two locations: a position facing the first fixed mold 230 and a position facing the second fixed mold 232. In the above example, the eject mechanism 348 is driven in conjunction with the movement of the movable molds 330, 332 in the +Y-axis direction. However, the eject mechanism 348 may be driven independently of the movement of the movable molds 330, 332.

[0086] The injection molding apparatus 100 includes a second movable mold attaching / detaching section 322 that can attach and detach a second movable mold 332 that is configured to be clampable to each of the first fixed mold 230 and the second fixed mold 232, and the position changing section 340 positions the second movable mold 332 at a position facing the second fixed mold 232 when the first movable mold 330 is positioned at a position facing the first fixed mold 230, and positions the second movable mold 332 at a position facing the first fixed mold 230 when the first movable mold 330 is positioned at a position facing the second fixed mold 232. Therefore, in the injection molding apparatus 100, when the second molding material is injected from the second injection unit 12 toward the first movable mold 330 through the second gate opening 232b of the second fixed mold 232, the first molding material can be injected from the first injection unit 10 toward the second movable mold 332 through the first gate opening 230b of the first fixed mold 230. This makes it possible to improve productivity for producing molded articles made from the first molding material and the second molding material.

[0087] In the injection molding apparatus 100, the medium passes through the rotating shaft member 344, the first movable mold 330, and the second movable mold 332 in this order, and then returns to the rotating shaft member 344. Therefore, in the injection molding apparatus 100, the two movable molds 330 and 332 can be cooled with a single continuous flow path.

[0088] 1.9 Materials Supplied Examples of materials supplied from the material supply unit 110 include materials containing various materials as main components, such as thermoplastic materials, metal materials, and ceramic materials. Here, the term "main material" refers to the material that forms the core of the shape of the molded product, and refers to a material that accounts for 50% by mass or more of the molded product. The above-mentioned materials include those in which the main material is melted alone, and those in which some components contained together with the main material are melted and turned into a paste.

[0089] Examples of the thermoplastic material include thermoplastic resins, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) resin, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyacetal (POM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polycarbonate (PC), modified polyphenylene ether, polybutylene terephthalate, and other general-purpose engineering plastics, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyarylate, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyetherimide, and polyetheretherketone. Examples of suitable materials include engineering plastics such as PEEK.

[0090] The thermoplastic material may contain pigments, metals, ceramics, and other additives such as wax, flame retardants, antioxidants, and thermal stabilizers. The thermoplastic material is plasticized and converted into a molten state in the plasticizing section 120 by the rotation of the flat screw 130 and the heating of the heating section 150. The first and second molding materials thus produced are then hardened by a decrease in temperature after being injected from the nozzle 168. It is desirable that the thermoplastic material be heated to or above its glass transition point and injected from the nozzle 168 in a completely molten state.

[0091] In place of the thermoplastic material described above, for example, a metal material may be used as the main material in the plasticizing unit 120. In this case, it is desirable that a powder material made by powdering the metal material is mixed with a component that melts when the first molding material and the second molding material are produced, and then the powder material is introduced into the plasticizing unit 120.

[0092] Examples of metal materials include single metals such as magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni), or alloys containing one or more of these metals, as well as maraging steel, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, aluminum alloys, cobalt alloys, and cobalt-chromium alloys.

[0093] Instead of the above-mentioned metal materials, ceramic materials can be used as the main material in the plasticizing portion 120. Examples of ceramic materials include oxide ceramics such as silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, aluminum oxide, and zirconium oxide, and non-oxide ceramics such as aluminum nitride.

[0094] The powder material of the metallic material or ceramic material supplied from the material supply unit 110 may be a mixed material obtained by mixing multiple types of powder of a single metal, alloy powder, or ceramic material. The powder material of the metallic material or ceramic material may also be coated with, for example, the thermoplastic resin described above or other thermoplastic resins. In this case, the thermoplastic resin may be melted in the plasticizing unit 120 to exhibit fluidity.

[0095] A solvent, for example, may be added to the powder material of the metal material or ceramic material supplied from the material supply unit 110. Examples of the solvent include water; (poly)alkylene glycol monoalkyl ethers such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, and propylene glycol monoethyl ether; acetate esters such as ethyl acetate, n-propyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, and isobutyl acetate; aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, and xylene; ketones such as methyl ethyl ketone, acetone, methyl isobutyl ketone, ethyl-n-butyl ketone, diisopropyl ketone, and acetylacetone; alcohols such as ethanol, propanol, and butanol; tetraalkylammonium acetates; sulfoxide-based solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide and diethyl sulfoxide; pyridine-based solvents such as pyridine, γ-picoline, and 2,6-lutidine; tetraalkylammonium acetates (e.g., tetrabutylammonium acetate); and ionic liquids such as butyl carbitol acetate.

[0096] In addition, for example, a binder may be added to the powder material of the metal material or ceramic material supplied from the material supply unit 110. Examples of binders include acrylic resin, epoxy resin, silicone resin, cellulose-based resin, and other synthetic resins. Alternatively, PLA, PA, PPS, PEEK, or other thermoplastic resins may be used.

[0097] 2. Modified injection molding equipment Next, an injection molding apparatus according to a modification of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an injection molding apparatus 200 according to a modification of this embodiment. In the following, in injection molding apparatus 200 according to a first modification of this embodiment, components having the same functions as the components of injection molding apparatus 100 according to the above-described embodiment will be given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0098] Injection molding apparatus 200 differs from injection molding apparatus 100 described above in that, as shown in FIG. 13, flat screw 130 has first side surface 133a and second side surface 133b.

[0099] The flat screw 130 has, for example, a first portion 130a and a second portion 130b. The first portion 130a is located closer to the barrel 140 than the second portion 130b. The first portion 130a is located between the barrel 140 and the second portion 130b. The shape of the first portion 130a is, for example, circular when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The center C1 of the first portion 130a is located on the rotation axis R when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The first portion 130a has a groove forming surface 132 and a first side surface 133a that intersects with the groove forming surface 132. In the illustrated example, the first side surface 133a is perpendicular to the groove forming surface 132. A material inlet 137 for the first groove 134 is formed in the first side surface 133a.

[0100] The second portion 130b is provided on the opposite side of the first portion 130a from the barrel 140. In the illustrated example, the second portion 130b is located further in the -Y-axis direction than the first portion 130a. The shaft 126 is connected to the second portion 130b. The second portion 130b is connected to the first portion 130a. The shape of the second portion 130b is, for example, circular when viewed in the Y-axis direction. The center C2 of the second portion 130b is located on the rotation axis R when viewed in the Y-axis direction.

[0101] The second portion 130b has a second side surface 133b. The second side surface 133b is farther from the barrel 140 than the first side surface 133a. The distance between the second side surface 133b and the barrel 140 is greater than the distance between the first side surface 133a and the barrel 140.

[0102] When viewed in the Y-axis direction, the diameter D2 of the second portion 130b is larger than the diameter D1 of the first portion 130a. The distance L2 between the second side surface 133b and the screw case 122 is smaller than the distance L1 between the first side surface 133a and the screw case 122. The distance L1 is the shortest distance between the first side surface 133a and the screw case 122. The distance L2 is the shortest distance between the second side surface 133b and the screw case 122.

[0103] The first molding material injected from the first injection unit 10 is an elastomer resin. Examples of elastomer resins include urethane resin and silicone resin. The second molding material injected from the second injection unit 12 is a resin other than an elastomer resin. Examples of the second molding material include ABS resin.

[0104] When the first molding material is an elastomer resin and the second molding material is a resin that is not an elastomer resin, the distance L2 between the second side surface 133b and the screw case 122 in the first injection unit 10 is smaller than the distance L2 between the second side surface 133b and the screw case 122 in the second injection unit 12.

[0105] Elastomer resin is a lightweight resin with high elasticity and stretchability compared to non-elastomer resins such as ABS resin. Therefore, if elastomer resin gets into the gap between the flat screw and the screw case, it is difficult to remove the infiltrated elastomer resin, and it may even reach the shaft and stop the flat screw from rotating.

[0106] To address the above-described problem, in the injection molding apparatus 200, the distance L2 between the second side surface 133b and the screw case 122 in the first injection unit 10 that handles the elastomer resin is made smaller than the distance L2 between the second side surface 133b and the screw case 122 in the second injection unit 12 that does not handle the elastomer resin. This reduces the possibility that the elastomer resin will get between the second portion 130b and the screw case 122.

[0107] In addition, the injection molding apparatus 200 may be configured so that the injection units 10 and 12 are detachable depending on the material to be supplied. Also, the first injection unit 10 may inject a thermosetting resin, and the second injection unit 12 may inject a thermoplastic resin.

[0108] The above-described embodiment and modifications are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate.

[0109] The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as the configurations described in the embodiments, for example, configurations with the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations with the same purpose and effects. The present invention also includes configurations that replace non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects or purposes as the configurations described in the embodiments. The present invention also includes configurations that add publicly known technology to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0110] The following can be derived from the above-described embodiment.

[0111] One aspect of the injection molding apparatus comprises: a first fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the first fixed mold can be attached / detached; a second fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the second fixed mold can be attached / detached; a first movable die attaching / detaching section that can attach / detach a first movable die configured to be clamped to each of the first fixed die and the second fixed die; a first injection unit that injects a first molding material through a first gate opening of the first fixed mold; a second injection unit that injects a second molding material through a second gate opening of the second fixed mold; a position changing unit that changes the position of the first movable die attaching / detaching unit so that the first movable die is positioned at a position facing the first fixed die or the second fixed die; Including, The position change unit A drive unit; a rotating shaft member rotated by the drive unit; a rotary disk connected to the rotary shaft member and provided with the first movable die attachment / detachment part; and the rotating disk rotates around the rotation axis of the rotating shaft member, The rotary shaft member has a flow path formed therein that communicates with the first movable die and through which a medium flows.

[0112] This injection molding device can simplify the device.

[0113] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, The side surface of the rotating shaft member is provided with: an inlet groove connected to the medium inlet of the flow path and surrounding the side surface; an outflow groove connected to a medium outflow outlet of the flow path and surrounding the side surface; is formed, The inlet groove and the outlet groove may be spaced apart from each other.

[0114] With this injection molding device, the medium can be introduced into the flow path without rotating the inlet pipe that introduces the medium into the inlet groove in accordance with the rotation of the rotating shaft member.Furthermore, the medium can be discharged from the outlet groove without rotating the outlet pipe that discharges the medium from the outlet groove in accordance with the rotation of the rotating shaft member.

[0115] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, a mold clamping unit that moves the rotary shaft member back and forth in the injection direction, The mold clamping unit may move the drive unit in conjunction with the rotary shaft member.

[0116] According to this injection molding device, it is possible to simplify the mechanism for transmitting the torque generated in the drive unit to the rotary shaft member.

[0117] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, an ejection mechanism provided at a position opposite to the second fixed die, An eject mechanism does not necessarily have to be provided at a position opposite the first fixed mold.

[0118] This injection molding device can simplify the device.

[0119] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, a second movable die attaching / detaching section that can attach / detach a second movable die configured to be clamped to each of the first fixed die and the second fixed die, The position change unit When the first movable die is positioned at a position opposite the first fixed die, the second movable die is positioned at a position opposite the second fixed die; When the first movable die is located at a position facing the second fixed die, the second movable die may be located at a position facing the first fixed die.

[0120] This injection molding device can improve productivity for producing molded products made from the first molding material and the second molding material.

[0121] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, The medium may pass through the rotating shaft member, the first movable die, and the second movable die in that order, and then return to the rotating shaft member.

[0122] According to this injection molding device, two movable molds can be cooled with one continuous flow path.

[0123] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, the first injection unit and the second injection unit each have a plasticizing section that plasticizes the supplied material; The plasticizing section includes: a flat screw having a groove forming surface on which grooves are formed; a barrel having an opposing surface facing the groove forming surface and having a communication hole formed therein; a case for accommodating the flat screw; and The flat screw is a first side surface that intersects with the groove forming surface and has an inlet through which the material is introduced; a second side surface that is farther from the barrel than the first side surface; and The distance between the second side surface and the case may be smaller than the distance between the first side surface and the case.

[0124] This injection molding device can reduce the possibility of the first molding material getting into the gap between the second side surface and the case.

[0125] In one aspect of the injection molding apparatus, the first molding material is an elastomer resin, the second molding material is a resin other than an elastomer resin, The distance between the second side surface and the case of the first injection unit may be smaller than the distance between the second side surface and the case of the second injection unit.

[0126] This injection molding device can reduce the possibility that the first molding material, which is an elastomer resin, will get between the second side surface and the case. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 10...first injection unit, 12...second injection unit, 20...fixed mold unit, 30...movable mold unit, 40...mold clamping section, 42...mold clamping plate, 44...mold drive section, 46...ball screw section, 48...spacer, 50...control section, 60...support base, 62...support rod, 64...tie bar, 66...support rod, 100...injection molding apparatus, 110...material supply section, 120...plasticizing section, 122...screw case, 124...screw drive section, 126...shaft, 130...flat screw, 130a...first part, 130 b...second portion, 131...main surface, 132...groove forming surface, 133...side surface, 133a...first side surface, 133b...second side surface, 134...first groove, 135...center portion, 136...connection portion, 137...material inlet, 140...barrel, 142...opposing surface, 144...second groove, 146...communicating hole, 160...injection portion, 162...cylinder, 164...plunger, 166...plunger drive portion, 168...nozzle, 169...nozzle hole, 200...injection molding device, 210...fixed plate, 220...first fixed mold attachment / detachment portion, 221...clamping portion, 2 22...second fixed mold attachment / detachment section, 223...clamping section, 230...first fixed mold, 230a...nozzle insertion hole, 230b...first gate opening, 232...second fixed mold, 232b...second gate opening, 310...movable plate, 312...through hole, 320...first movable mold attachment / detachment section, 321...clamping section, 322...second movable mold attachment / detachment section, 323...clamping section, 330...first movable mold, 332...second movable mold, 340...position changing section, 341...belt, 342...drive section, 343...pulley, 344...rotating shaft member, 346...rotating plate, 348...eject outlet mechanism, 349...through hole, 350...casing, 402...side surface, 404...bottom surface, 410...flow path, 411...first axial flow path, 411a...medium inlet, 412...second axial flow path, 412a...medium outlet, 414...first type flow path, 416...second type flow path, 420...inlet groove, 422...outlet groove, 430...inlet pipe, 432...outlet pipe, 434...first connecting pipe, 436...second connecting pipe, 438...third connecting pipe, 441...first packing, 442...second packing, 443...third packing, 444...fourth packing, 445...fifth packing

Claims

1. a first fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the first fixed mold can be attached / detached; a second fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the second fixed mold can be attached / detached; a first movable die attaching / detaching section that can attach / detach a first movable die configured to be clamped to each of the first fixed die and the second fixed die; a first injection unit that injects a first molding material through a first gate opening of the first fixed mold; a second injection unit that injects a second molding material through a second gate opening of the second fixed mold; a position changing unit that changes the position of the first movable die attaching / detaching unit so that the first movable die is positioned at a position facing the first fixed die or the second fixed die; a second movable die attaching / detaching section that can attach / detach a second movable die configured to be clamped to each of the first fixed die and the second fixed die; Including, The position change unit A drive unit; a rotating shaft member rotated by the drive unit; a rotary disk connected to the rotary shaft member and provided with the first movable die attachment / detachment part; and the rotating disk rotates around the rotation axis of the rotating shaft member, a flow path through which a medium flows that is connected to the first movable die is formed in the rotary shaft member; The position change unit When the first movable die is positioned at a position opposite the first fixed die, the second movable die is positioned at a position opposite the second fixed die; When the first movable die is positioned at a position opposite the second fixed die, the second movable die is positioned at a position opposite the first fixed die; An injection molding apparatus, wherein the medium passes through the rotating shaft member, the first movable mold, and the second movable mold in that order, and returns to the rotating shaft member.

2. a first fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the first fixed mold can be attached / detached; a second fixed mold attachment / detachment section to which the second fixed mold can be attached / detached; a first movable die attaching / detaching section that can attach / detach a first movable die configured to be clamped to each of the first fixed die and the second fixed die; a first injection unit that injects a first molding material through a first gate opening of the first fixed mold; a second injection unit that injects a second molding material through a second gate opening of the second fixed mold; a position changing unit that changes the position of the first movable die attaching / detaching unit so that the first movable die is positioned at a position facing the first fixed die or the second fixed die; Including, The position change unit A drive unit; a rotating shaft member rotated by the drive unit; a rotary disk connected to the rotary shaft member and provided with the first movable die attachment / detachment part; and the rotating disk rotates around the rotation axis of the rotating shaft member, a flow path through which a medium flows that is connected to the first movable die is formed in the rotary shaft member; the first injection unit and the second injection unit each have a plasticizing section that plasticizes the supplied material; The plasticizing section includes: a flat screw having a groove forming surface on which grooves are formed; a barrel having an opposing surface facing the groove forming surface and having a communication hole formed therein; a case for accommodating the flat screw; and The flat screw is a first side surface that intersects with the groove forming surface and has an inlet through which the material is introduced; a second side surface that is farther from the barrel than the first side surface; and an injection molding apparatus, wherein the distance between the second side and the case is smaller than the distance between the first side and the case.

3. In claim 1 or 2, The side surface of the rotating shaft member is provided with: an inlet groove connected to the medium inlet of the flow path and surrounding the side surface; an outflow groove connected to a medium outflow outlet of the flow path and surrounding the side surface; is formed, The injection molding apparatus, wherein the inlet groove and the outlet groove are spaced apart from each other.

4. In any one of claims 1 to 3, a mold clamping unit that moves the rotary shaft member back and forth in the injection direction, The mold clamping unit moves the drive unit in conjunction with the rotary shaft member.

5. In any one of claims 1 to 4, an ejection mechanism provided at a position opposite to the second fixed die, An injection molding apparatus in which an ejection mechanism is not provided at a position opposite to the first fixed mold.

6. In claim 2, the first molding material is an elastomer resin, the second molding material is a resin other than an elastomer resin, An injection molding apparatus, wherein a distance between the second side surface and the case in the first injection unit is smaller than a distance between the second side surface and the case in the second injection unit.

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