Angle pin bush and mold slide equipped with same

Abstract

To provide an improved mold slide and angle pin bushing.SOLUTION: A mold slide has a slide part having a slide body movable along a first direction. The slide body has an angle pin hole formed therein to define an axis. The angle pin hole has a pocket at its end. An angle pin bushing seats in the pocket and defines an angle pin bore parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole. A mold part is adjacent to the slide part and is movable with respect to the slide part along a second direction different from the first direction. An angle pin is carried on the mold part. A portion of the angle pin is located within the mold part and moves relative to the angle pin bore in the angle pin bushing in cooperation with the mold part to move the slide part along the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This patent claims priority to co-pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 718,470, entitled "Angle Pin Bushing and Injection Mold Slide with Same," filed August 14, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This disclosure relates generally to injection molding apparatus, and more particularly to side action or slides for injection molding. [Background technology]

[0003] Many injection molded parts require what is commonly referred to as a side action or slide to clear a core from the injection path of the molded part. A common method of actuating this movement is by utilizing what is known in the industry as an angle pin. Other common terms for such parts include cam pins, pecker pins, and horn pins, depending on the area of ​​manufacture. When the term angle pin is used, this pin-like part is oriented at an angle relative to the axis of motion of the mold plate and slide. The pin's installation angle and pin length combine to produce the desired movement or stroke of the slide to clear the injection path from the cavity of the currently molded article.

[0004] Referring to Figures 1-4, a typical side-action or slide component, i.e., slide 20, has a body 22 with a coring element 24 extending therefrom. The coring element 24 is used to form a void or a desired surface or shape within the molded part. However, the coring element 24 is within the path of part ejection from the mold. Therefore, because slide 20 is movable, the coring element 24 can be moved toward the mold cavity prior to part formation and can be withdrawn from the mold cavity to allow the part to be ejected from the cavity and mold. In some examples, slide 20 has a slightly oversized, round or circular-shaped hole 26 in body 22 to accept an angle pin 28. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, slide 30 is similar to slide 20 in that it has a body 32 with a coring element 34 protruding from the body. However, in some examples, slide 30 has an elongated, non-circular, elliptical, or oblong hole, i.e., a slot 36 in body 32.

[0005] Figures 2 and 3 show a typical mold configuration incorporating slide 20. In this example, the mold has a first mold half 40 and a second mold half 42, which are movable toward and away from each other in the directions of arrows MC and MO, respectively, i.e., they close and open the mold. Figure 2 shows the mold with the mold halves 40, 42 closed, and Figure 3 shows the mold with the mold halves open. The mold halves 40, 42 define a mold cavity 44 from which a molded part can be molded in the closed position of Figure 2 and from which a molded part can be ejected in the open position of Figure 3. An angle pin 28 has a proximal end attached to second mold half 42 and passes through an opening 46 in the second mold half. A distal or working end 48 of angle pin 28 protrudes from the second mold half to engage slide 20. As shown in FIG. 2, with the mold halves 40, 42 closed, the coring element 24 extends into the mold cavity 44 to form a void, space, or other feature in the molded part. The coring element 24 must move outward to clear the mold cavity 44. In this example, the working end 48 and bore 26 of the angle pin 28 move the slide 20 in a direction perpendicular to the mold opening / closing direction MO / MC. Thus, simultaneously with the coring element 24 being moved out of the cavity 44, the mold halves 40, 42 are separated in the MO direction to the open position of FIG. 3, allowing the molded part to be ejected from the cavity 44. To perform Noh.

[0006] While both the hole 26 and slot 36 are cut at an angle that matches the installation angle of the angle pin 28, the diameter of the hole 26 or the radius of the slot 36 is always oversized to achieve the motion, i.e., stroke S, of the slide 20 (or 30), as depicted in Figures 2 and 3. This is typically referred to as a "fit" or "running fit." In the case of the angle pin 28 relative to the geometry of the hole 26 or slot 36, this running fit is effectively very loose, so that no additional force is required to facilitate the mold opening process. This conventional loose fit is illustrated in Figures 4 and 6. This loose fit also allows for deflection of the angle pin 28 under load without binding and breaking it. Again, depending on the manufacturing area, typical hole sizes can be 1 / 64" to 1 / 32" larger in diameter than the diameter of the angle pin 28.

[0007] As previously mentioned, it is sometimes desirable to machine an elongated slot 36 in the slide 30 rather than an oversized hole 26, as depicted in Figures 5 and 6. The purpose of this slot 36 shape is to add a significant or predetermined delay, i.e., a lost motion effect, to the lateral movement of the slide 30 relative to the separation of the mold halves 40, 42 and to eliminate the coring element 34 relative to the mold opening sequence in the direction MO. Adding this motion delay or lost motion can improve mold cycle time because the coring element 34 of the slide 30 aids in the natural contraction and adhesion of the cooled molded part by holding the part to the ejected mold half 40. A typical slot 36 shape is elliptical. The width of the ellipse is again oversized by 1 / 64 inch to 1 / 32 inch, with a full, larger-clearance oversized radius at each end of the slot. The slot length would be extended to the desired amount of mold halves 40, 42 separation before the angle pin 28 engages, and then the slide 30 is moved.

[0008] It has been established that the geometry of the hole 26 or elliptical slot 36 utilized to engage the angle pin 28 has an oversized internal surface geometry intentionally designed for ease of installation. The hole 26 or slot 36 is formed using a common drill and ream or milling process. While more sophisticated and precise methods for installing or forming angle pin hole geometries are known, the geometry itself is a legacy of machining practices available at the beginning of mold tool construction. This conventional geometry minimizes the surface contact area between the angle pin 28 and the slide hole 26 or slot 36 during operation. If, as in the case of the angle pin 28, the contact area between the oversized hole / slot radius is to be increased relative to the nominal size pin, only a tangential contact line between the angle pin and the slide hole / slot geometry will exist along the direction of travel, as depicted in Figures 4 and 6. This concentrates the load over a minimal surface area.

[0009] This minimum load-bearing surface area often generates enough frictional heat during use to cause galling of the angle pin 28, slide 20, or 30, or both. Also, the tangent points of contact wear. While such wear can distribute the load over a larger surface area, the engineering motion is altered from the design intent because the surface contact is no longer an engineering specification. Also, as shown in Figure 7, the angle pin 28 and the hole 26 or slot 30 may not be at exactly the same angle relative to each other. This can cause excessive loads or stresses on the angle pin 28 as a result of the contact point being at or near the tip of the pin and not along the wear line that runs the length of the pin. These problems require maintenance, such as replacing worn angle pins, repairing or replacing damaged slides, or replacing angle pins with larger diameter pins and modifying the die to accommodate the larger angle pins. This can lead to increased maintenance and repairs. The costs associated with repairs, revisions, and lost production can be significant. Depending on the size of the mold and the repairs or replacement parts required, it is not uncommon for these maintenance costs to be on the order of tens of thousands of dollars.

[0010] Due to the performance requirements of molding in general, today's dies and die parts are primarily manufactured from steel and aluminum alloys. Various surface treatments have been applied to both steel and aluminum parts to try and extend their useful life cycle. Invariably, these metal parts require lubrication to aid in smooth operation in production. However, adding lubricants to them introduces another level of potential problems.

[0011] It is important to further understand the wide variety of environments in which injection molds operate. While industrial resins require mold temperatures of 450°F, commodity resins require mold temperatures of only 60°F. Furthermore, cleanroom molding is a segment of the molding community that desires or requires specialized processes for molding parts for food packaging, medical devices, and other products, minimizing the potential for dust, grease, and other contaminants during production. Cleanrooms are positively pressurized chambers equipped with air filters to minimize airborne contaminant particles. All personnel are required to wear gowns, nets, and beanies, as well as shoe covers, before entering the cleanroom and for the duration of their time spent within it. Currently, food-grade greases are used for lubrication in cleanroom molding operations. Food-grade greases have very low performance characteristics in terms of pressure and heat resistance, both of which may be required in injection mold operations. Due to the precision of the molds and molding processes, clearances are minimal, and therefore grease is spread to thicknesses or thinnesses more typical of how oil lubricants are used. Oil is not an option as there is no containment system for the oil that would allow for the necessary mechanical manipulation of the components within the mold.

[0012] Additionally, current methodologies and contact points deposit normal wear particles within the mold tooling, and these particles typically become trapped within the lubricant or grease, where they can cause catastrophic failure of the mold tooling. However, it is also possible for the particles to migrate to other locations within the mold tool or molded part. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013] Simply put, both oil and grease, when used to operate injection molding tools, will flow over time and contaminate molds, molded parts, and production equipment. While FDA-approved grease is edible, grease contamination on food packaging, decorative parts or packaging, or medical device molded parts will cause these parts to be rejected. Rejected parts set in motion expensive processes specific to each part or processor's procedures for disposing of rejected parts. Penalties may be charged by the customer. Lost production time or machine downtime may occur. Parts may need to be remanufactured or repackaged. Significant resin loss may occur. The list goes on of potential impacts from rejected parts, none of which are desirable or inexpensive to remedy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] In one example, in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, a mold slide includes a slide having a slide body movable along a first direction. The slide body has an angle pin hole formed therein and defining an axis. The angle pin hole has a pocket at an end thereof. An angle pin bushing is seated in the pocket and defines an angle pin bore parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole. A mold section is adjacent to the slide section and is movable along a second direction different from the first direction. The mold section has an angle pin, a portion of the angle pin disposed within the mold section relative to an angle pin bore in the angle pin bushing, and movable in cooperation with the mold section to move the slide section along the first direction.

[0015] In one example, the slide and mold can be part of an injection molding tool.

[0016] In one example, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0017] In one example, the angle pin may be oriented parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole, and the axis may be oriented at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the first and second directions.

[0018] In one example, the angle pin hole may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape, and the body of the angle pin bushing has two limited flat areas on either side of the body.

[0019] In one example, the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape.

[0020] In one example, the angle pinhole may be a slot having a non-circular elliptical or oval cross-sectional shape.

[0021] In one example, the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing may be a non-circular oval or a slot having an oval cross-sectional shape.

[0022] In one example, the pocket can have a width greater than the remainder of the angle pin hole and can define a shoulder at the end of the pocket adjacent the remainder of the angle pin hole, and the angle pin bushing can be supported against the shoulder within the pocket.

[0023] In one example, the angle pin bushing can have an upper surface that is flush and parallel with the upper surface of the slide component that surrounds the angle pin hole.

[0024] In one example, the angle pin bushing may have a scalloped region on a portion of its outer surface. The scalloped region may define a step on the outer surface.

[0025] In one example, a clip recess can be formed adjacent the pocket and can have a depth corresponding to the location of a step formed in the outer surface of the angle pin bushing. A retaining clip can be received and retained in the clip recess and can abut against the step to retain the angle pin bushing in the pocket of the angle pin hole.

[0026] In one example, the angle pin bushing may be formed from a fabric / resin composite material.

[0027] In one example, the angle pin bushing may have an elongated slit formed along the length of the angle pin bushing and extending through the angle pin bushing from the outer surface to the angle pin bore.

[0028] In one example, the angle pin bushing may have a flat surface area formed on the exterior surface on each of the opposing sides of the angle pin bushing.

[0029] In one example, the angle pin bushing can have a lead-in relief at one end thereof, which can include a chamfer on the bottom surface of the slide body.

[0030] In one example, the axis of the angle pin hole, the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing, and the angle pin may each be oriented concentrically with respect to one another.

[0031] In one example, a retaining clip can be received in a clip recess adjacent the pocket, which can abut a shoulder on the angle pin bushing. A fastener hole can be formed through the retaining clip, and a fastener hole can be formed in the slide body to receive a fastener that retains the angle pin bushing in the pocket. The fastener hole and fastener bore can each have an axis that is at least parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole.

[0032] In one example according to the teachings of the present disclosure, an angle pin bushing for a mold slide includes a body having an outer surface extending between a top surface and a bottom surface, an angle pin bore formed through the body between the top surface and the bottom surface, and a top surface and an axis of the angle pin bore that are not perpendicular to one another.

[0033] In one example, the body may be formed from a fabric / resin composite material.

[0034] In one example, a slit can be formed along the length of the body from the outer surface through the body to the angle pin bore.

[0035] In one example, the top surface may be non-parallel to the bottom surface and the angle pin bore may be perpendicular to the bottom surface.

[0036] The drawings provided herein illustrate one or more examples or embodiments of the disclosure and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. There may be other examples and embodiments that are equally effective in achieving the objectives and that fall within the scope of the disclosure. The objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] 1 shows a perspective view of an example of a prior art slide with angle pinholes formed therein. [Figure 2]2 shows a cross-sectional view of an example mold having the angle pin and slide shown in FIG. 1 and in a closed position. [Figure 3] 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the mold and angle pin of FIG. 2, but with the mold in an open position. [Figure 4] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a prior art angle pin and hole for a slide as depicted in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 1 shows a perspective view of another example of a prior art slide having angle pin slots formed therein. [Figure 6] 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a prior art angle pin and slot for a slide as depicted in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] Although a cross-sectional view of the mold and angle pin of FIG. 3 is shown, the angle pin and hole are not aligned, i.e., not oriented at exactly the same angle. [Figure 8A] 1A-1C show perspective views of an example of an angle pin bushing for a slide hole and an example of an angle pin bushing for a slide slot, respectively, in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; [Figure 8B] 1A-1C show perspective views of an example of an angle pin bushing for a slide hole and an example of an angle pin bushing for a slide slot, respectively, in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; [Figure 9A] 8B shows another perspective view of the angle pin bushing of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9B] 8B shows a top view of the angle pin bushing of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9C] 8B shows a bottom view of the angle pin bushing of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9D] 8B shows a side view of the angle pin bushing of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9E] 8B shows a front view of the angle pin bushing of FIG. 8A. [Figure 10] 8A and 9A-9E are cross-sectional views of a mold similar to that of FIG. 2, but also including an example of an angle pin bushing similar to that of FIGS. 8A and 9A-9E mounted within a mold slide and engaging an angle pin. [Figure 11]11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the slide, slide hole, angle pin, and saddle shape of the angle pin bushing of FIG. 10 in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 12 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 11, but showing a cross-sectional view of the slide, slide slot, angle pin, and saddle shape of the angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 shows a partial exploded view of the slide and angle pin bushing arrangement of FIG. [Figure 14A] 14 shows a perspective view of an assembled slide of the type shown in FIGS. 10, 11, and 13 in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of an assembled slide of the type shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 15A] 1 illustrates a mandrel configuration and method for manufacturing a composite angle pin bushing according to the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 15B] 1 illustrates a mandrel configuration and method for manufacturing a composite angle pin bushing according to the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 1 illustrates an alternative angle pin bushing according to the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] FIG. 10 is a top view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 17C] FIG. 10 is a front view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 18A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] FIG. 10 is a top view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 18C] FIG. 10 is a front view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; [Figure 19B]FIG. 10 is a plan view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 19C] FIG. 10 is a front view of another alternative angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 19D] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a slide incorporating an angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 19E] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a slide incorporating an angle pin bushing in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] The use of the same reference numbers or letters throughout the description and drawings indicates similar or identical components, aspects, and features of the present disclosure.

[0039] The disclosed angle pin bushing and mold tool slide solve or ameliorate one or more of the aforementioned and / or other problems, drawbacks, and shortcomings associated with conventional known mold slide and angle pin methods. The disclosure relates to an angle pin bushing applied to a mold side action or slide to improve angle pin functionality. The disclosed angle pin bushing does so by exponentially increasing the contact surface area with the angle pin while taking into account the required geometry. The disclosed angle pin bushing is in the form of a replaceable insert designed to span the angle pin diameter. The disclosed angle pin bushing can extend the service life of both the angle pin and slide hole or slot, thereby reducing the preventative maintenance schedule for the slide element and mold tool or element. The disclosed angle pin bushing eliminates the need for lubricants or greases on the angle pin. These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure.

[0040] The saddle shape of the disclosed angle pin bushing establishes what will be the wear pattern of the slide hole or slot seen over the extended life cycle of the mold to the point where further wear is negligible. This minimal wear is in the range of millions of inches versus thousands of inches, essentially resulting in no measurable difference in slide stroke over time. The saddle shape is then flared to a typical functional clearance width for smooth operation. Again, the disclosed angle pin bushing geometry helps improve the overall function of the mold tooling.

[0041] 8A and 8B show two examples of angle pin bushings 50 and 52 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Angle pin bushing 50 defines a generally round or circular slide hole shape for a mold slide. Angle pin bushing 52 defines an oval or elliptical slide slot shape for a mold slide. FIGS. 9A-9E show various views of angle pin bushing 50 and describe it in detail. The descriptions other than the oval or elliptical shapes of the body and slot are equally applicable to angle pin bushing 52.

[0042] 9A-9E, the angle pin bushing 50 has a generally cylindrical body 54 having an outer surface 56, a top or end face 58, and a bottom or end face 60. A bore 62 extends completely longitudinally through the body 54 and is therefore open to both the top face 58 and the bottom face 60. The bore in this example need not be precisely circular, as discussed below with respect to the saddle shape, but is generally round or circular. The bottom face 60 is generally flat or planar and oriented perpendicular or orthogonal to the axis B of the bore 62. The top face 58 is oriented at an angle relative to the axis B such that the top face is neither parallel to the bottom face 60 nor perpendicular to the bore axis. A thin or narrow slit 64 is formed longitudinally along the body 54 from the outer surface 56 to the bore 62. The slit 64 forms a circumferential cut in the body 54.

[0043] A relatively low point L on the top surface 58, relative to its distance from the bottom surface 60, serves as a reference for the front of the angle pin bushing 50 (see FIG. 9D), while a relatively high point H on the top surface, relative to its distance from the bottom surface, serves as a reference for the back of the angle pin bushing. With these references in mind, the opposing sides of the body 54 can include relatively narrow, flat timing surfaces 66 that extend lengthwise along the angle pin bushing 50 between the top surface 58 and the bottom surface 60. These flat surfaces 66 can give the body 54 a generally circular shape, while the outer surface 56 can have a slightly elliptical shape. Also, in this example, the body 54 has a scalloped or reduced-thickness region 68 extending from the top surface 58 to the outer surface 56 at the front of the body 54, terminating midway along the length of the body. The scalloped region 68 The distal end or end defines a step 70 at the front of the angle pin bushing 50.

[0044] The angle pin bushing 52 has substantially the same structure in this example. However, instead of being substantially circular, the angle pin bushing 52 has a body 72 that is substantially oval or elliptical in shape. Additionally, the angle pin bushing 52 may have a bearing 74 with an oval or elliptical shape, if desired, to create the lost motion delay described above. Other features of the angle pin bushing 52 are essentially the same as those of the angle pin bushing 50 and, therefore, are depicted using the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 10 and in relation to the angle pin bushing 50, a simplified depiction of the mold and slide arrangement, i.e., the mold slide, is provided. The mold again includes as mold parts a first mold half (not shown) and a second mold half 42 carrying the angle pin 28. The mold halves are movable relative to one another in the directions of arrows MC / MO, as previously described. The mold also includes a slide portion, i.e., a slide 80 having a body 82 and a coring element 84. The slide 80 further includes a bore 86 having a generally round or circular cross-sectional shape. The bore 86 is formed at an angle through the body 82; in other words, it is not perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces 88 and 90 of the body, nor to the movement or sliding direction S.

[0046] The disclosed angle pin bushing 50 is received within the bore 86. In the disclosed example, the angle pin bushing 50 is received within a pocket 92, i.e., within the larger diameter portion of the bore 86 at one end of the slide bore. The bottom surface 60 of the angle pin bushing 50 rests against a shoulder 94 or ledge at the depth or end of the pocket, i.e., where the larger diameter pocket 92 terminates within the bore 86. The shoulder 94 stops further insertion of the angle pin bushing 50 into the bore, thus properly positioning the angle pin bushing at the desired depth within the bore of the slide 80. The beveled top surface 58 is oriented relative to the axis B of the bore 62 at the same angle as the angle of the bore 86 relative to the orientation and sliding direction S of the slide 80. By controlling the angle of the top surface 58, the length of the angle pin bushing 50, and the depth of the shoulder 94 within the bore 86, the top surface 58 is flush with the top surface 88 on the body 82 of the slide 80.

[0047] As used herein, the term "saddle shape" generally refers to the contact area between the angle pin and the bushing surface. Specifically, the radius of the angle pin bushing bore on the contact side is essentially the same as the angle pin catalog size. The actual angle pin is sized approximately 0.001 inches below the catalog size. Therefore, the bushing has a 0.0005" clearance at the operating radius, i.e., the contact area between the saddle or pin and the bushing. Furthermore, this radius extends approximately 90 degrees (45 degrees in each direction) from the center plane of the bushing on each contact side. Thus, it spans a 90-degree radius that is within 0.0005 inches of the angle pin diameter. This assembled or designed saddle geometry essentially approximates the wear over many cycles experienced in prior art loose-fit arrangements, i.e., the tangent of the wear contact point over time due to the increased surface contact between the pin, bore, and slide material. Otherwise, wear in the slide and angle pin structure would result in particulate matter being deposited in the grease as it progresses within the bushing. Due to the increased surface area provided by the disclosed angle pin bushing, the disclosed bushing will reject wear particles. Also, the saddle shape ensures that the disclosed composite bushing has a significant bearing surface against the angle pin. Current designs use significantly oversized holes or oval slots as described above, which cause wear problems.

[0048] The need for a loose or running fit required for existing slides and angle pins is reduced or eliminated, as shown in Figure 11. The diameter of the angle pin 28 in the bore 62 The geometry or shape of the saddle can very closely match the diameter of the pin that passes through the angle pin bushing 50. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 12, the angle pin bushing 52 can have a bore slot width, and the saddle shape or shape at each end of the bore 74 can also very closely match the pin diameter. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 10, the diameter of the hole 86 (or slot) in the slide 80 below the pocket can be larger than the diameter of the angle pin 28. This provides clearance at the leading or trailing edge of the angle pin 28 for reasons that will be explained below.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 13 , the angle pin bushing 50 may be retained within the body 82 of the slide 80 by a retaining clip 96. A clip recess 98 is formed in the body 82 on the top surface 88 to a depth shallower than the depth of the pocket 92. The clip recess 98 extends laterally outward from the pocket 92 further into the body 82 and terminates in a ledge 100. The depth of the ledge is the same as the depth of the step 70 on the angle pin bushing 50, and the scalloped or reduced thickness region 68 on the body 54 coincides with the clip recess 98. The retaining clip 96 is sized and shaped to fit within the cavity in the body 82 of the slide 80 formed by the clip recess 98 in the body and the scalloped region 68 on the angle pin bushing 50. The retaining clip 96 bears against both the step or step 70 on the angle pin bushing 50 and the ledge 100 in the pocket 92. A fastener such as a screw 102 can be inserted through a hole 104 in the retaining clip 96 and engage a threaded hole 106 in the clip recess 98 to secure the retaining clip 96 in place.

[0050] Additionally, angle pin bushings 52 having slot-shaped bores 74 may be similarly secured, but may also be secured within slides modified to accommodate the oval or elliptical shape of the body 72. The size and shape of the clip recess 98 in the slide body 82, the scalloped area 68 at the front of the angle pin bushing 50 or 52, and the retaining clip 96 can vary considerably and still function as intended. However, these elements and aspects of the mold tooling should be cooperatively molded to fit one another. Figures 14A and 14B show the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 installed in corresponding slides. Both the retaining clip 96 and the angle pin bushings 50, 52 can be flush with the top surface 88 of the slide when the slide is assembled.

[0051] The disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52, as shown and described herein, offer improvements over conventional angle pin approaches. Furthermore, the installation and retention of the disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 is also novel. As described below, the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 can be made from different materials, and thus the angle pin contact surface within the slide body is not limited to the slide body material as in the prior art. The material selected for the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 can be selected to maximize wear characteristics, cost, durability, friction characteristics, replacement schedule, etc., in light of a given mold application. The disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 are installed within matching angled pockets within holes or slots in the slide element or part. The size and shape of the pocket within the slide and the bushing bodies 54 and 72 can vary considerably from the disclosed embodiment, depending on the application to a given mold.

[0052] Pocket shoulders 94 in the slide body 54 or 72 limit the installation depth of the angle bushings 50 and 52 into the slide holes 86 or slots to a predetermined level. The angle pin bushings 50 and 52 in the disclosed example have two flat timing surfaces 66 on either side of the body 54 or 72. These surfaces or flats 66 orient the angle pin bushing 50 or 52 about its longitudinal axis so that the geometry of the bushing aligns with the corresponding slide body holes 86 or slots. Thus, the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 can be precisely aligned with the mold angle pin 28. The flats 66 and the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 are aligned precisely with the mold angle pin 28. The installation depth of the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 can be configured so that when installed, the bushing top surface 58 is flush with the top surface 88 of the slide 80, etc. The flat surface 66 can be wider on the angle pin bushing 52 due to the oval or elliptical shape of the body 72.

[0053] Regarding material selection, the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 as described herein may be manufactured from highly wear-resistant metals such as bronze, aluminum bronze, or other suitable metallic bearing materials. Such bushings may include a coating and / or lubricant on at least the interior surface of the respective bore 62 or 74 to minimize heat buildup due to friction and enable smooth operation. Products manufactured from these materials would be readily adopted by industry, as these types of common materials are familiar to the industry. However, the disclosed angle pin bushing configuration now broadens the scope and range of materials that can be used to manufacture the angle pin bushings 50 and 52. A desirable material selection for the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 would not require any lubrication, would be naturally wear-resistant to enhance the unique and novel configuration, and would be feasible in all current molding environments. In one example, such an alternative material would be a wear-resistant fabric / resin composite with a resin system that can function in a wide range of environments such as those encountered during manufacturing.

[0054] The disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 are essentially bushings, and some standard bushings are used for other purposes in injection molding. It should be understood, therefore, that in the field of mold tool formation, standard bushings are typically designed with an intentional interference press fit within their corresponding openings. Therefore, standard bushings typically require press-fitting or insertion with the aid of a press equipped with a hydraulic cylinder capable of generating several tons of pressure. This is necessary because the standard bushing is intentionally oversized in its outer diameter to create an interference fit within the mating hole in the mold tool. This process is inherently relatively simple, since the bushing and receiving bore are axially perpendicular to the mold tool surface, and the initial contact between the bushing and the orifice is parallel to one another.

[0055] In contrast, for the disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52, as depicted in FIG. 13, the installation is not parallel to the installation surface. The need to use a hydraulic press would be impractical, cumbersome, and time-consuming to accommodate the installation angle. This angle α is typically less than 90°, and in many instances is between about 10° and about 20°, depending on the desired slide rate per die separation rate for a given die tool application. The disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 may optionally have two geometric features that aid in installation with a slight press fit, eliminating the need to operate a hydraulic press to seat the bushing. The first such optional feature is a lead-in relief 110 adjacent the base, or bottom surface 60, of the angle pin bushing body 54 or 72. In this example, the relief 110 is angled and therefore not perpendicular to the bottom surface 60 of the angle pin bushing 50 or 52. In one example, the taper angle of the relief 110 may be the same as the angle α of the slide body hole 86 or slot. Additionally, the relief 110 is slightly chamfered so that it can be engineered to easily fit into the hole 86 or slot and maintain a surface intersection between the relief and the axially outer contour of the bushing that is parallel to the receiving angle of the mounting pocket 92.

[0056] A second feature of such an option is a narrow slit 64 located along the length of the angle pin bushings 50 and 52 and specifically within one of the two flat timing surfaces 66. The slit 64 allows the angle pin bushings 50 or 52 to be fully seated during installation. The placement of the slits 64 is intentionally located away from the operating surfaces, i.e., the inner front and rear pin contact surfaces of the angle pin bushings 50 and 52. This positioning allows the bushings to perform as intended while still allowing installation without requiring excessive force that could damage the bushings during this process.

[0057] With regard to the fabric / resin composite material described above, there are few limitations on the geometries that can be molded from the composite material through various manufacturing methods. A very common geometry is that of a cylinder. Conventional angle pin bushings could be fabricated as cylinders. However, they would still have a line of contact between the angle pin bushing and the angle pin. If a new geometry were machined into the cylinder, the fibers of the fabric / resin composite substrate would not be oriented to maximize the wear-resistant capabilities of the fabric / resin composite, which would be achieved by a continuous, uninterrupted surface of the wear-resistant composite, resulting in a product with performance deficiencies. Thus, in one example, the new geometry of the angle pin bushing 50 or 52 can be created with a unique mandrel, such as the mandrel 112 depicted in FIG. 15A. The mandrel 112 can be precisely shaped to form the geometry of the internal bushing. The fabric / resin composite material 114 can be wrapped around the mandrel to obtain a bushing body 54 with the desired thickness. The composite substrate 114 can be oriented to engage the working surface in direct contact with an appropriately sized angle pin, thereby maximizing the wear resistance characteristics of the composite. After the composite 114 is formed on the mandrel 112, the slits 66 and exterior surface features such as scalloped areas 68 and steps 70 can be machined into the bushing body.

[0058] While the disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 have been described as beneficial to the mold fabrication industry (molders of plastic parts), the mold tool building industry (machinery builders who build tooling) would also benefit from the availability and implementation of angle pin bushings constructed of either wear-resistant metal alloys or cloth / resin composites. As previously mentioned, significant forces may be required to move the slide. This force may necessitate fabricating the slide components themselves from what are commonly referred to as tool steel alloys. With angle pin bushings acting as bearing surfaces for the forces moving the slide, alternative materials such as certain stainless steels, aluminum, and others may also be considered for use as mold tool slides.

[0059] Tool steel alloys are more expensive per pound (weight), generally require more time to initially machine, and require heat treatment to maximize alloy properties. While the heat treatment process adds cost and time, greater expense arises from the secondary machining operations required to form the part. Additionally, heat treatment changes the molecular structure of the alloy. This change in molecular structure is known in the mold and tooling industry and is a factor considered in the initial machining process before heat treatment is performed. In summary, tool steel alloys are machined to leave excess steel during the initial machining process. The excess steel allows for warpage and dimensional changes that occur during the heat treatment process. Then, once the heat treatment process is complete, mold and tool manufacturers must now machine the hardened tool steel element a second time to correct the warpage and properly finish the part to the exact specifications desired. In this way, the disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 can expand the range of materials that can be used for slide body elements to include not only those commonly found in current materials and manufacturing technology, but also evolving materials and processes. Mold slides can include 3D printed elements and novel material combinations developed to enhance molding but that may not be well suited to load-bearing surfaces that interfere with the angle pins during molding. Again, the heat treatment process adds expense and delays, as this is typically a special treatment.

[0060] During operation, the mold angle pin 28 engages the angle pin bushing 50 or 52 in the following manner: the pin pulls the bushing out of the receiving pocket 92 during mold halves separation and then forces the bushing deeper into the pocket as the mold halves close. A shoulder 94 at the bottom of the pocket prevents the angle pin bushing 50 or 52 from being forced out through the sliding components as the mold halves close. A retaining clip 96 holds the angle pin bushing 50 or 52 in place, providing firm support at the top of the bushing as the angle pin exits the bushing. While the retaining clip 96 can have a variety of geometries to accomplish this task, the disclosed clip geometry provides support behind the force-bearing surface area of ​​the angle pin bushing 50 or 52, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 13. The disclosed angle pin bushing pocket 92 and retaining clip recess 98 are positioned at an angle to fit into the hole 86 or slot in a slide element, such as the slide 80, so that the pocket and recess depths are easily achieved and the pocket surfaces are parallel to the angle of the hole or slot, allowing for a single setup regardless of the machine tool being used.

[0061] The location and mounting method of the angle pin bushing within the slide component provides benefits to both the mold maker and mold builder. For the mold maker, the location of the angle pin bushing 50 or 52 ensures that when the angle pin 28 engages the bushing, the force required to effect the sliding motion is closer to the proximal end of the angle pin, i.e., closer to the mounting opening 46 where the angle pin is supported in the second mold half 42. A portion of the angle pin's working end 48 extends through the angle pin bushing 50 or 52, below or beyond the angle pin bushing and pocket 92, into the available clearance space or portion of the bore 86. In some cases, the angle pin hole 86 or angle pin mounting opening 46 is oriented or set so that the angle changes by seconds or minutes, i.e., by the magnitude of one degree from the design specification. Without the angle pin bushing 50 or 52, the tip of the angle pin 28 at its working end 48 would engage the slide at its tip, where it would pry and then deflect, as shown in FIG. 7. This could potentially cause catastrophic failure of the pin and damage the mold tool.

[0062] For mold builders, typical angle pin holes can be quite deep for large slides. Angle pin holes are required to be smooth along the entire depth of the hole. Creating a smooth, straight hole through a deep slide is limited to specialized equipment, such as a gun drill. Gun drilling is most often performed by a unique service provider that specializes in the gun drilling process. This requires the slide to be shipped to the service provider, resulting in significant expense and delay for the mold builder. The disclosed angle pin bushings 50 and 52 allow for conventional drilling of clearance holes through deep slides without concern for the surface finish of the hole that penetrates the entire slide angle pin hole profile. The angle pin bushings 50 or 52 provide a smooth working surface, and the necessary machining of the hole 86 and receiving pocket 92 in the slide is easily accomplished with conventional machine tool equipment.

[0063] 13, the angle pin hole 86 (or slot) in the slide 80, the angle pin bushing 50 (or 52), and the angle pin bore 62 (or 74) are each formed with axes that are oriented at least parallel to one another, if not concentric with one another. The retaining clip 96 abuts the step 70 on the angle pin bushing 50 (or 52) and is thus received within a portion of the pocket 92 and the clip recess 98. The retaining clip screw hole 104, the screw bore 106 in the slide 80, and the screw 102 secure the angle pin bushing 50 (or 52) to the hole 86 (or The retaining clip 96, screw hole 104, screw bore 106, and screw 102 each have axes that are at least parallel to one another and to the axes of the angle pin hole 86 (or slot), angle pin bushing 50 (or 52), and angle pin bore 62 (or 74). In this configuration, all of these various axes are parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole 86 (or slot). Thus, when a milling machine is used to form the slide pocket 92 in the body of the slide 80 for the angle pin bushing 50 (or 52) in the angle pin hole 86 (or slot), all of the various surfaces and holes can be formed without having to reposition the slide 80 to a different angle to form the bushing pocket 92 and retainer clip recess 98. More specifically, angle pin hole 86 can be drilled, bushing pocket 92 can be formed, clip recess 98 for retaining clip 96 can be formed, and threaded holes 104 and 106 for retaining clip 96 can be drilled, all at the same axial angle without changing the orientation of slide 80. This configuration therefore simplifies the manufacturing process while still providing many of the advantages of utilizing the disclosed angle pin bushing.

[0064] The angle pin 28 is oriented at a desired angle to create a desired amount of movement of the slide 80 in one direction while the second mold section 42 moves in a different direction. In one example, the slide 80 can move back and forth horizontally depending on whether the mold is opening or closing. The mold section 42 may also move up and down in a vertical direction perpendicular to the direction of slide movement. Various other directions of relative movement are possible as well.

[0065] As noted above, the configuration and structure of the disclosed angle pin bushing can vary considerably and still function as intended. Only a few of the many possible examples are described below. Referring to FIG. 16, an alternative embodiment of the angle pin bushing 120 is shown. In this embodiment, the angle pin bushing 120 is split into two separate bushing components 122a and 122b. Each component 122a and 122b has opposing bearing surfaces 124, defining the saddle shape of the bushing 120. Each bushing component 122a and 122b has a separate fastener hole 126 for securing the angle pin bushing 120 to an angle pocket in a slide. Components 122a and 122b may taper in height across the angle pin bushing 120, allowing angle pockets similar to those of the prior art to be used in the slide, with the top surface flush with the slide and the bearing surfaces oriented at the angle of the angle pin.

[0066] 17A-17C show another alternative example of an angle pin bushing 130. In this example, the angle pin bushing 130 has a rectangular body 132 that includes four fastener holes 134 surrounding an angle pin bore 136 for securing the angle pin bushing to a rectangular pocket in a slide. The angle pin bushing 130 may otherwise be similar to the previously described examples of angle pin bushings 50, 52.

[0067] 18A-18C show another alternative example of an angle pin bushing 140. In this example, the angle pin bushing 140 again has a rectangular body 142, but instead includes only two fastener holes 144 adjacent the front side of the angle pin bore 146 for securing the angle pin bushing within a rectangular pocket in the slide. The angle pin bushing 140 may otherwise be similar to the previously described angle pin bushings 50, 52, 130, examples.

[0068] 19A-19C show another alternative example of an angle pin bushing 150. In this example, the angle pin bushing 150 again has two fastener holes 154 adjacent to the front of the angle pin bore 156 for securing the angle pin bushing within the rectangular pocket of the slide. 19D and 19E , a slide 162 is formed with a pocket 164 that is orthogonal or perpendicular to the orientation of the top and bottom surfaces 158, 160 of the body 152. An angle pin hole 166 is formed from the bottom, or shoulder 168, of the pocket 164 through the remainder of the slide 162. The angle pin hole 166 is oriented at the same angle as the angle pin bore 156, and is therefore parallel, as described above. The diameter of the angle pin hole 166 is slightly larger than the diameter of the angle pin bore 156 to create clearance space below the angle pin bushing 150 for the working end of the angle pin during use, as described above.

[0069] The foregoing alternative examples are constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure and illustrate that the size, shape, features, and characteristics of the angle pin bushings may vary from the limited examples shown and described herein. In another example, each of the alternative angle pin bushings 120, 130, 140, and 150 eliminates the retaining clip, retaining screw, and clip recess by using fasteners to retain the body of the angle pin bushing directly within the slide pocket.

[0070] Mold tools and components incorporating mold slides with angle pins, as well as the disclosed angle pin bushings, are also subject to considerable variation. Injection molding tools are typically separated into two respective mold halves, as described above. These mold halves are commonly known as the "A" and "B" sides of the mold tool. The mold tool often includes one or more slides located on either the "A" or "B" side of the mold. Typically, one mold half is the cavity side or "A" side of the mold, and the other mold half is the core side or "B" side of the mold. The leader pin or post on the "A" side of the mold stands straight up and is aligned or parallel to the mold opening / closing direction. When assembled in the closed position, the leader pin aligns within a hole and standard bushing typically located on the "B" side. An angle pin may also be located on the "A" side of the mold and align with a hole or slot in the slide component. The slides are typically able to move toward each other when the mold closes. The size and productivity of mold tools can vary widely depending on the dimensions and complexity of the part and, therefore, the mold cavity. In one example, a mold can be a four-cavity tool with two opposing slides. In another example, a mold can have a dozen or more cavities and numerous complex slides. As noted above, molds can weigh on the order of hundreds or even thousands of pounds. The disclosed angle pin bushings are not intended to be limited to any particular mold type, size, or configuration.

[0071] Although certain angle pin bushing elements, aspects, features, and methods have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the teachings of the present disclosure that fall fairly within the scope of permissible equivalents.

Claims

1. A mold slide, comprising: a slide portion having a slide body movable along a first direction; the slide body has an angle pin hole formed therein defining an axis, the angle pin hole having a pocket at one end thereof; The mold slide further comprises: an angle pin bushing fixedly seated in the pocket and defining an angle pin bore parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole; a mold part adjacent to the slide part and movable relative to the slide part along a second direction different from the first direction; an angle pin carried on the mold section, a portion of which is located within the mold, and movable in cooperation with the mold section relative to the angle pin bore in the angle pin bushing, thereby moving the slide section along the first direction.

2. The mold slide of claim 1 , wherein the slide portion and the mold portion are part of an injection molding tool.

3. The mold slide of claim 1 , wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

4. 2. The mold slide of claim 1, wherein the angle pin is oriented parallel to an axis of the angle pin hole, the axis being oriented at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the first and second directions.

5. The mold slide of claim 1 , wherein the angle pin hole has a circular cross-sectional shape.

6. The mold slide of claim 5 , wherein the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing is circular in cross section.

7. 10. The mold slide of claim 1, wherein the angle pin hole is a slot having a non-circular elliptical or oval cross-sectional shape.

8. 8. The mold slide of claim 7, wherein the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing is a slot having a non-circular elliptical or oval cross-sectional shape.

9. 2. The mold slide of claim 1, wherein the pocket has a width greater than a portion located at an opposite end of the angle pin hole and defines a shoulder at an end of the pocket adjacent the portion located at the opposite end of the angle pin hole, the angle pin bushing being supported against the shoulder within the pocket.

10. 10. The mold slide of claim 9, wherein the angle pin bushing has an upper surface that is flush with and parallel to an upper surface of the slide portion surrounding the angle pin hole.

11. 2. The die slide of claim 1, wherein the angle pin bushing has a scalloped region on a portion of an outer surface of the angle pin bushing, the scalloped region defining a step on the outer surface of the angle pin bushing.

12. a clip recess is formed adjacent to the pocket, and the clip recess has a depth corresponding to the position of the step; 12. The mold slide of claim 11, wherein a retaining clip is received and held in the clip recess, the retaining clip abutting the step to hold the angle pin bushing in the angle pin hole pocket.

13. The mold slide of claim 1 , wherein the angle pin bushing is formed from a composite material of fabric and resin.

14. 2. The die slide of claim 1, wherein said angle pin bushing has an elongated slit formed along the length of said angle pin bushing and extending from an outer surface of said angle pin bushing to said angle pin bore.

15. 2. The mold slide of claim 1, wherein the angle pin bushing has a lead-in relief at one end thereof, the lead-in relief including a chamfer on a bottom surface of the slide body.

16. The mold slide of claim 1 , wherein the axis of the angle pin hole, the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing, and the angle pin are each oriented concentrically with respect to one another.

17. a retaining clip received in a clip recess adjacent the pocket, the retaining clip abutting a step on the angle pin bushing; 17. The mold slide of claim 16, wherein a fastener hole through the retaining clip and a threaded hole in the slide body receive a fastener that retains the angle pin bushing in the pocket, the fastener hole and threaded hole each having an axis that is at least parallel to the axis of the angle pin hole.

18. 2. The mold slide according to claim 1, wherein the material of the angle pin bushing is bronze or aluminum bronze.

19. the first direction and the second direction are not parallel to each other and not perpendicular to the axis of the angle pin hole; when the mold section is moved in the second direction toward a mold closing position, the angle pin applies pressure to the angle pin bushing to move the slide section in the first direction toward a mold closing position; 2. The mold slide of claim 1, wherein when the mold section is moved in the second direction toward the mold open position, the angle pin applies pressure to the angle pin bushing to move the slide section in the first direction toward the mold open position.

20. the angle pin has a pin diameter; the angle pin bore has a bore diameter with an active radius passing through at least a portion of the opposing pin contact side; 2. The mold slide of claim 1, wherein the pin diameter and the working radius define a clearance between the angle pin bore and the angle pin of approximately 0.0005 inches.

21. 21. The mold slide of claim 20, wherein each portion of the opposing pin contact sides of the angle pin bore has an active radius passing through approximately 90 degrees of the respective pin contact side.

22. An angle pin bush for a mold slide, a body having an outer surface extending between a top surface and a bottom surface; an angle pin bore formed through the body between the top surface and the bottom surface; the upper surface and the axis of the angle pin bore are not perpendicular to each other; An angle pin bushing for a mold slide, wherein the angle pin bore of the angle pin bushing is a slot having a non-circular elliptical or oval cross-sectional shape.

23. 23. The angle pin bushing of claim 22, wherein the top surface is non-parallel to the bottom surface, the angle pin bore is perpendicular to the bottom surface, and the body is formed of a composite material of fabric and resin.