Multi-cavity mold system and method for molding cellulosic products in a multi-cavity mold system

Abstract

A multi-cavity mold system for forming a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulosic products from an air-formed cellulosic blank structure includes a first mold section and a second mold section arranged to cooperate with each other during the formation of the cellulosic products. The first mold section includes a plurality of first mold elements, and the second mold section includes a corresponding plurality of second mold elements, the second mold elements being arranged to be movable relative to a base structure. The system forms a plurality of cavities for the blanks between each first mold element and the corresponding second mold element during the formation of the products. Each second mold element is arranged to interact with a pressure member arranged on the base structure, which applies pressure to the cellulosic blank within each cavity during the formation of the products.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mold system for forming a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulosic articles from an air-formed cellulosic blank structure. The mold system includes a first mold section and a second mold section arranged to cooperate with each other during the formation of the cellulosic articles. The first mold section includes a first molding element and the second mold section includes a corresponding second molding element. The disclosure also relates to a method for forming a plurality of three-dimensional cellulosic articles in the mold system.

[0002] Background technology Cellulose fibers are often used as raw materials for manufacturing or creating products. Products made from cellulose fibers can be used in many different situations where there is a need to have sustainable products. A wide range of products can be made from cellulose fibers, some examples being disposable plates and cups, cutlery, lids, bottle caps, coffee pods, and packaging materials.

[0003] Molds are commonly used in fabricating cellulosic products from raw materials containing cellulose fibers, and traditionally, cellulosic products have been manufactured by wet-forming techniques. A commonly used material for wet-forming cellulosic fiber products is wet-formed pulp. Because wet-formed pulp is made from biomaterials and is recyclable after use, it has the advantage of being considered a sustainable packaging material. As a result, wet-formed pulp is rapidly gaining popularity for a variety of applications. Wet-formed pulp articles are generally formed by immersing a suction mold into a liquid or semi-liquid pulp suspension or slurry containing cellulose fibers. When suction is applied, the pulp mass is formed into the desired product shape by fiber deposition onto the mold. All wet-forming techniques require drying of the wet-formed product, which is a time- and energy-consuming part of production. Demands on the aesthetic, chemical, and mechanical properties of cellulosic products are increasing, and the properties of wet-formed cellulosic products impose limitations on mechanical strength, flexibility, material thickness flexibility, and chemical properties. Additionally, it is difficult to precisely control the mechanical properties of the product in the wet molding process.

[0004] One development in the field of cellulose product manufacturing is the molding of cellulose fibers without using wet-molding techniques. Instead of molding cellulose products from liquid or semi-liquid pulp suspensions or slurries, air-molded cellulose blank structures are used. The air-molded cellulose blank structures are inserted into a mold, and high molding pressures and temperatures are applied to the blank structures during molding, for example, by using standard press equipment. Molding systems used to mold cellulose products from air-molded cellulose blank structures have limited production capacity because the molding of the cellulose products occurs within the molding system with relatively long cycle times. The high pressures required to mold cellulose products limit the number of products that can be molded in a single pressure-molding step and require expensive, high-precision press equipment. One common challenge when molding two or more products in a single pressure-molding step is generating uniform molding pressure on the air-molded cellulose blank structures. Uniform molding pressure is desirable for obtaining high-quality cellulose products.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for improved methods and systems for forming cellulosic products from air-formed cellulosic blank structures.

[0006] overview The object of the present disclosure is to provide a multi-cavity mould system and a method for moulding a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulose products in a multi-cavity mould system which avoids the above-mentioned problems. This object is at least partly achieved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims contain further improvements of this system and method.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a multi-cavity mold system for forming a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulosic products from an air-formed cellulosic blank structure. The mold system includes a first mold section and a second mold section arranged to cooperate with each other during the forming of the cellulosic product. The first mold section includes a plurality of first mold elements, and the second mold section includes a corresponding plurality of second mold elements. The second mold elements are arranged to be movable relative to a base structure of the second mold section. The mold system is configured to form a plurality of mold cavities for the cellulosic blank structure between each first mold element and its corresponding second mold element during the forming of the cellulosic product. Each second mold element is arranged to interact with a pressure member arranged on the base structure, and the pressure member is configured to generate a molding pressure on the cellulosic blank structure within each mold cavity during the forming of the cellulosic product.

[0008] The advantage of these features is that the pressure elements disposed on the base structure generate molding pressure on the cellulose blank structure in all molding cavities during the formation of multiple individual three-dimensional cellulose products in one common molding step. The molding pressure in all cavities allows for high-quality molding of cellulose products without the production capacity limitations that would be present when forming only one product at a time in one common molding step. Even if the mold system used has a relatively long cycle time, the multiple molding elements increase production capacity. The cycle time may be varied depending on the type of cellulose product being produced in the mold system. For uniform pressure distribution during the formation of the cellulose products, the molding pressure is suitably equal or substantially equal in all molding cavities. The uniform molding pressure generated during the molding process by the mold system with the pressure elements results in high-quality cellulose products with consistent quality among the molded cellulose products. Alternatively, the molding pressure may be different between the mold cavities and the pressure member may be configured to distribute two or more different pressure levels to the mold cavities, which may be useful when different types of cellulosic products are produced simultaneously in a multi-cavity mold system.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second mold sections are arranged to be movable relative to one another. The movable arrangement of the mold sections provides an efficient method for forming multiple mold cavities for cellulosic blank structures between each first mold element and a corresponding second mold element. The movement of the mold sections can also be used to position the cellulosic blank structures within the mold cavities between the first and second mold elements.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the mold system is configured to generate a molding pressure through interaction with a pressure member as each secondary mold element moves relative to the base structure, the movable positioning of each secondary mold element effectively generating a molding pressure within the mold system with interaction from the pressure member, where the pressure member generates an appropriate pressure level as each secondary mold element moves.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the mold system is configured to generate a molding pressure level of at least 1 MPa, preferably in the range of 4-20 MPa, within each mold cavity during molding of the cellulose products through interaction from the pressure member. These pressure levels are utilized to ensure efficient molding of the multiple cellulose products at each molding step, where the cellulose products can be produced with high quality through interaction between the pressure member and each second molding element.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the pressure member includes a plurality of spring units disposed between the base structure and each of the plurality of second molding elements. Each of the plurality of spring units is adapted for use as a pressure member by interacting with a movably disposed second molding element. The pressure members can be utilized to generate a determined molding pressure that is applied to the cellulose blank structure when the first and second mold sections cooperate with each other during molding of the cellulose product, and when multiple molding cavities for the cellulose blank structure are formed between each first molding element and a corresponding second molding element. The movable position of each second mold section relative to the base structure controls the molding pressure together with the corresponding interacting spring.

[0013] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the pressurizing member includes a hydraulic unit having a plurality of pressure chambers disposed between the base structure and each of the plurality of second forming elements. The hydraulic units are suitable for use as pressurizing members by interacting with each of the movably disposed second forming elements. The hydraulic unit can be utilized to generate a molding pressure that is applied to the cellulose blank structure when the first and second mold sections cooperate with each other during the molding of the cellulose product, and when multiple molding cavities for the cellulose blank structure are formed between each of the first and corresponding second forming elements. The hydraulic unit is utilized to apply hydraulic pressure to each of the second mold sections to generate molding pressure within each molding cavity. When the hydraulic pressure moves the second forming element in a direction toward the first forming element, the molding pressure is generated in an accurate and efficient manner.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the mold system includes a heating unit configured to heat the cellulosic blank structure to a forming temperature ranging from 100° C. to 300° C. during the forming of the cellulosic product. The heating unit heats the cellulosic blank structure to the desired forming temperature, and the heating unit may be located, for example, within a mold section, to heat the cellulosic blank structure during the forming process.

[0015] The present disclosure further relates to a method for forming a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulose products from an air-formed cellulose blank structure in a multi-cavity mold system. The mold system includes a first mold section and a second mold section arranged to cooperate with each other during the forming of the cellulose product. The first mold section includes a plurality of first forming elements, and the second mold section includes a corresponding plurality of second forming elements. The second forming elements are arranged to be movable relative to a base structure of the second mold section. Each second forming element is arranged to interact with a pressure member arranged on the base structure. The method includes providing an air-formed cellulose blank structure, the cellulose blank structure being air-formed from cellulose fibers, and positioning the cellulose blank structure between the first mold section and the second mold section; forming a plurality of forming cavities for the cellulose blank structure between each first forming element and the corresponding second forming element; and generating a forming pressure on the cellulose blank structure in each forming cavity with the pressure member during the forming of the cellulose product.

[0016] The advantage of this method is that the pressurizing member generates molding pressure on the cellulose blank structure in all mold cavities during the molding of multiple individual three-dimensional cellulose products. The molding pressure in all cavities allows cellulose products to be molded with high quality and high production capacity in a single common molding step using inexpensive and precise press equipment. For uniform pressure distribution during molding of the cellulose products, the molding pressure is appropriately equal or substantially equal in all mold cavities. The uniform molding pressure generated by the mold system with the pressurizing member during the molding process results in high-quality cellulose products with consistent quality among the molded cellulose products. Alternatively, the molding pressure may vary between mold cavities, and the pressurizing member may be configured to distribute two or more different pressure levels to the mold cavities, which may be useful when different types of cellulose products are simultaneously produced in a multi-cavity mold system.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes, after placing the cellulose blank structure between the first mold part and the second mold part, moving the first mold part and the second mold part toward each other to form a plurality of mold cavities for the cellulose blank structure. The movement of the mold parts provides an efficient method for forming a plurality of mold cavities for the cellulose blank structure between each first mold element and a corresponding second mold element. The movement of the mold parts positions the cellulose blank structure within the mold cavities between the first mold element and the second mold element.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes generating a molding pressure through interaction with a pressure member as each second mold element moves relative to the base structure. The movement of each second mold element, together with the interaction with the pressure member, effectively generates a molding pressure within the mold system. The pressure member generates an appropriate pressure level as each second mold element moves.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the method further comprises generating a molding pressure level of at least 1 MPa, preferably in the range of 4-20 MPa, within each molding cavity through interaction from a pressure member, which pressure levels are utilized to ensure efficient molding of the plurality of cellulose products in each molding step, where the cellulose products can be produced with high quality through interaction between the pressure member and each second molding element.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the pressure member includes a plurality of spring units disposed between the base structure and each of the plurality of second molding elements. The spring units generate a molding pressure on the cellulose blank structure within each molding cavity. The plurality of spring units are adapted to generate the molding pressure within each molding cavity through interaction with a respective movably disposed second molding element. The pressure member can be utilized to generate the molding pressure applied to the cellulose blank structure when the first mold section and the second mold section cooperate with each other during molding of the cellulose product, and when multiple molding cavities for the cellulose blank structure are formed between each first molding element and the corresponding second molding element. The molding pressure is controlled by the movable positioning of each second mold section relative to the base structure, along with the corresponding interacting spring units. Each spring unit reduces the rigidity of the mold system to enable the movable positioning of each second molding element. This allows the first mold section to be moved in the pressing direction of the mold sections with relatively low geometric precision using a mechanical or hydraulic press. The pressure member makes the molding process more robust, even when using multiple cavities and relatively inexpensive press equipment with relatively tight tolerances.

[0021] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the pressurizing member includes a hydraulic unit. The hydraulic unit has a plurality of pressure chambers disposed between the base structure and each of the plurality of second forming elements. The hydraulic unit generates a forming pressure on the cellulose blank structure within each forming cavity. The hydraulic unit is adapted to generate the forming pressure within each forming cavity through interaction with each of the movably disposed second forming elements. The hydraulic unit generates the forming pressure applied to the cellulose blank structure when the first mold section and the second mold section cooperate with each other during the molding of the cellulose product, and when a plurality of forming cavities for the cellulose blank structure are formed between each of the first forming elements and the corresponding second forming element. The hydraulic unit is used to apply hydraulic pressure to each of the second mold sections to generate the forming pressure within each forming cavity. When the hydraulic pressure moves the second forming element toward the first forming element, the forming pressure is generated in an accurate and efficient manner. When using a hydraulic unit, the required tolerance for the movable positioning of the first mold section is significantly lower than when using a spring. The movement of the first mold section can be generated, for example, by a mechanical or hydraulic press used only to form the molding cavity. The hydraulic unit allows the use of extremely simple devices for moving the first mold section, such as toggle-type mechanical clamping units traditionally used in thermoplastic injection molding. The cost difference between a standard press and a clamping unit for injection molding can be more than 10 times higher, making a clamping unit advantageous if it generates the same force. Furthermore, the cycle time of a mold system using a clamping unit and hydraulic elements can be halved or even shortened compared to when using a standard press.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the mold system includes a heating unit. The method further includes heating the cellulosic blank structure to a forming temperature in the range of 100° C. to 300° C. during forming of the cellulosic product. The heating unit heats the cellulosic blank structure to the desired forming temperature, and the heating unit may be located, for example, within a mold section, to heat the cellulosic blank structure during the forming process.

[0023] The present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1a] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1b] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1c] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1d] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1e] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1f] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2a] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2b] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2c] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 is a side view diagrammatically illustrating a manufacturing unit layout of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an alternative embodiment of a manufacturing unit layout for a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a first mold section and a second mold section of a multi-cavity mold system according to the present disclosure.

[0025] Description of exemplary embodiments Various aspects of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to illustrate, not limit, the disclosure, where like designations refer to like elements, and variations of the described aspects are not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments but may be applicable to other variations of the disclosure.

[0026] Those skilled in the art will understand that the steps, services, and functions described herein, or portions of the steps, services, and functions described herein, may be performed using discrete hardware circuitry, using software working in conjunction with a programmed microprocessor or general-purpose computer, using one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or using one or more digital signal processors (DSPs). Also, where the present disclosure is described in terms of methods, it will be understood that the present disclosure may be embodied in one or more processors and one or more memories coupled to the one or more processors, where the one or more memories store one or more programs that, when executed by the one or more processors, perform the steps, services, and functions disclosed herein.

[0027] The present disclosure relates to a multi-cavity mold system S for forming multiple individual three-dimensional cellulosic products 1 from a single air-formed cellulosic blank structure 2. FIGS. 1a-1f schematically illustrate a first exemplary embodiment of the multi-cavity mold system S. An alternative exemplary embodiment of the multi-cavity mold system S is shown in FIGS. 2a-2c. A schematic manufacturing unit layout of the multi-cavity mold system S is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, and the first and second mold sections 3, 4 of the multi-cavity mold system S are shown in perspective view in FIG. 5.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, the cellulose blank structure 2 refers to a fibrous web structure made from cellulose fibers. Air-forming the cellulose blank structure 2 refers to forming the cellulose blank structure in a dry-forming process, in which cellulose fibers are air-formed to produce the cellulose blank structure. When forming the cellulose blank structure 2 in the air-forming process, air is used as a carrier medium to transport the cellulose fibers and form them into the fibrous blank structure 2. This differs from the typical papermaking process or conventional wet-forming process, in which water is used as a carrier medium for the cellulose fibers when forming paper or fibrous structures. In the air-forming process, a small amount of water or other substances may be added to the cellulose fibers as needed to change the properties of the cellulose product, but air is still used as a carrier medium in the forming process. The cellulose blank structure 2 may have a dryness that primarily corresponds to the ambient humidity in the atmosphere surrounding the air-formed cellulose blank structure 2, if appropriate. Alternatively, the dryness of the cellulose blank structure 2 can be controlled to achieve an appropriate dryness level when forming the cellulose product 1.

[0029] The cellulose blank structure 2 may be formed from cellulose fibers in a conventional air-molding process and may be constructed in a variety of ways. For example, the cellulose blank structure 2 may have a composition in which the fibers are of the same origin or alternatively include a mixture of two or more types of cellulose fibers, depending on the desired properties of the cellulose product 1. The cellulose fibers used in the cellulose blank structure 2 are strongly bonded to each other by hydrogen bonds during the molding process of the cellulose product 1. The cellulose fibers may be mixed with other substances or compounds to a certain extent. Cellulose fibers refer to any type of cellulose fiber, such as natural cellulose fibers or manufactured cellulose fibers.

[0030] The cellulose blank structure 2 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. A cellulose blank structure 2 having a single layer structure refers to a cellulose blank structure formed from one layer containing cellulose fibers. A cellulose blank structure 2 having a multi-layer structure refers to a cellulose blank structure formed from two or more layers containing cellulose fibers, where these layers may have the same or different compositions or structures. The cellulose blank structure 2 may have a reinforcing layer containing cellulose fibers, which is arranged as a support layer for the other layers of the cellulose blank structure 2. The reinforcing layer may have a higher tensile strength than the other layers of the cellulose blank structure 2. This is effective to prevent the cellulose blank structure 2 from being destroyed during the formation of the cellulose product 1 when one or more layers of the cellulose blank structure 2 have a composition with a low tensile strength. The reinforcing layer with a higher tensile strength thus serves as a support structure for the other layers of the cellulose blank structure 2. The reinforcing layer may be, for example, a tissue layer containing cellulose fibers, an airlaid structure containing cellulose fibers, or any other suitable layer structure.

[0031] The cellulose blank structure 2 is a fluffy, airy structure, and the cellulose fibers that form this structure are relatively loosely arranged relative to one another. The fluffy cellulose blank structure 2 is used for efficient shaping of the cellulose product 1, allowing the cellulose fibers to efficiently shape the cellulose product 1 during the shaping process.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1a-1f, 2a-2c, and 3-5, the multi-cavity mold system S comprises a first mold part 3 and a second mold part 4 arranged to cooperate with each other during molding of the cellulosic product 1.

[0033] The first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4 are arranged to be movable relative to each other, and the first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4 are arranged to be movable relative to each other in a pressing direction D P In the embodiment shown in Figures 1a to 1f and 2a to 2c, the second mould part 4 is stationary and the first mould part 3 is configured to be movable relative to one another in the pressing direction D P As shown by the double-headed arrow in Figures 1a and 2a, the first mold part 3 is arranged to be movable relative to the second mold part 4 in a pressing direction D P 1. The first mold part 3 is configured to be movable in both directions towards and away from the second mold part 4 by linear movement along an axis extending in the direction of the arrow A. In alternative embodiments, the first mold part 3 may be stationary and the second mold part 4 may be arranged to be movable relative to the first mold part 3, or both mold parts may be arranged to be movable relative to each other.

[0034] For all embodiments according to the present disclosure, the pressing direction D P The expression "movement in" refers to the pressing direction D PIt will be understood that this expression also includes, for all embodiments, both linear and non-linear movements of the mold sections, where the movement during molding results in a repositioning of the mold sections between two positions on an axis, where the axis is in the pressing direction D. P It extends to.

[0035] As further shown in FIGS. 1a-1f, 2a-2c, and 3-5, the first mold part 3 has a plurality of first mold elements 3a, and the second mold part 4 has a corresponding plurality of second mold elements 4a. The second mold elements 4a are arranged to be movable relative to a base structure 4b of the second mold part 4. The first mold elements 3a may be arranged, for example, as notches or recesses disposed in the first mold part 3, as shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1a-1f, or alternatively, as protrusions or extensions extending from the first mold part 3, as shown in the alternative embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2a-2c. The notches or recesses as shown in FIGS. 1a-1f, or alternatively, the protrusions or extensions as shown in FIGS. 2a-2c, are arranged to cooperate with corresponding second mold elements 4a in the second mold part 4 during the forming of the cellulose product 1. The second forming elements 4a may extend from the base structure 4b in a shape and configuration suitable for cooperating with the first forming elements 3a, for example as shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 1a-1f and 2a-2c. The second forming elements 4a may extend from the base structure 4b in the pressing direction D relative to the base structure 4b, for example as shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 1a-1f and 2a-2c. PThe first and second mold elements 3a, 4a may be slidably disposed on the base structure 4b, and the base structure 4b may be provided with a suitable opening or similar structure for receiving the second mold element 4a. The first and second mold elements 3a, 4a may have corresponding sizes and shapes, which may vary depending on the size and shape of the cellulosic product 1 to be molded in the multi-cavity mold system S. The first and second mold parts 3, 4 may be formed from any suitable material, such as, for example, steel, aluminum, other metals or metallic materials, or alternatively, composite materials or combinations of different materials. In the illustrated embodiment, the first mold part 3 has three first mold elements 3a, and the second mold part 4 has three corresponding second mold elements 4a. However, the first and second mold parts may include any suitable number of cooperating mold elements depending on the design and construction of the multi-cavity mold system S. A plurality of first forming elements 3a and a corresponding plurality of second forming elements 4a means two or more first forming elements 3a and two or more corresponding second forming elements 4a.

[0036] The multi-cavity mold system S is configured to form multiple molding cavities 5 for the cellulose blank structure 2 between each first molding element 3 a and a corresponding second molding element 4 a during molding of the cellulose product 1. The molding cavities 5 are defined by the spaces or volumes formed between the first molding elements 3 a and the second molding elements 4 a during the molding process when the cellulose blank structure 2 is disposed between the first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4. The molding cavities 5 are configured to define the shape of the cellulose product 1 during the molding process. Thus, the cellulose blank structure 2 is disposed within the molding cavities 5 during molding of the cellulose product 1, and the molding cavities 5 may be arranged in an appropriate shape and configuration to mold the cellulose product 1 into a desired shape and size.

[0037] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1a-1f, the first mold element 3a is arranged as a female unit and the second mold element 4a is arranged as a male unit, and these units interact with each other during the molding process to form a mold cavity 5 between the first mold element 3a and the second mold element 4a during the molding process, as shown in Figure 1d. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2a-2c, the first mold element 3a is arranged as a male unit and the second mold element 4a is arranged as a female unit, and these units interact with each other during the molding process to form a mold cavity 5 between the first mold element 3a and the second mold element 4a during the molding process, as shown in Figure 2c.

[0038] Each second forming element 4a is arranged to interact with a pressure member 6 arranged on the base structure 4b. The pressure member 6 applies a forming pressure P to the cellulosic blank structure 2 in each forming cavity 5 during forming of the cellulosic product 1, as will be explained further below. F The mold system S is configured to generate a molding pressure P due to interaction from the pressure member 6 when each second mold element 4a moves relative to the base structure 4b. F For uniform pressure distribution when molding the cellulose product 1, the molding pressure P F is suitably equal or substantially equal in all molding cavities 5, in which case the molding pressure P F is generated by the pressure member 6. Alternatively, the molding pressure P F may vary between the mould cavities 5, and the pressure member 6 may be configured to distribute two or more different pressure levels to the mould cavities, which may be useful when different types of cellulose products 1 are produced simultaneously in a multi-cavity mould system S.

[0039] The multi-cavity mold system S, by interaction from the pressure members 6, generates a molding pressure level P of at least 1 MPa, preferably in the range of 4-20 MPa, in each mold cavity 5 during molding of the cellulosic product 1.FL These pressure ranges are suitable for forming the cellulose product 1 in the system S, where strong hydrogen bonds are formed between the cellulose fibers in the cellulose blank structure 2. Therefore, during the forming of the cellulose product 1 in the multi-cavity mold system S, the forming pressure level P FL is at least 1 MPa in each molding cavity 5, and preferably in the range of 4 to 20 MPa. FL may be the same or substantially the same in all molding cavities 5 during the molding of the cellulose product 1, or alternatively, the molding pressure level P FL may vary between the moulding cavities 5 during the moulding of the cellulose product 1.

[0040] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1a to 1f and 5, the pressure member 6 comprises a hydraulic unit 6b. The hydraulic unit 6b has a number of pressure chambers 6c arranged between the base structure 4b and each of the second forming elements 4a. The second forming elements 4a may be arranged with piston portions 4e configured as hydraulic pistons in the corresponding pressure chambers, as shown diagrammatically in Figure 5. By filling the pressure chambers 6c with a suitable pressure medium, for example hydraulic oil, the hydraulic medium can apply a forming pressure P FThe pressure chambers 6c and the second forming elements 4a may have any suitable corresponding shape, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. The pressure chambers 6c are connected to a hydraulic pump system, hydraulic cylinders, spring-loaded hydraulic cylinders, or other similar systems or devices, which generate pressure applied to the second forming elements 4a by a pressure medium via channels arranged in the base structure 4b. One common hydraulic pump 14a may be connected to all pressure chambers 6c, as shown in FIG. 1f, or alternatively, two or more hydraulic pumps may be used, e.g., one hydraulic pump connected to each pressure chamber 6c. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1a-1f and 5, the pressure medium applies pressure to the lower surface 4c of the second forming element 4a, which is arranged to be connected to the pressure chamber 6c. Each second forming element 4a may have a sealing element 4d forming a hermetic seal between each pressure chamber 6c and the second forming element 4a. The hydraulic pump system used may have a conventional layout as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1f. A hydraulic pump 14a is driven, for example, by an electric motor and is connected to the pressure chamber 6c via a pressure valve 14c for switching the hydraulic pressure on and off. A pressure control valve 14d is used to regulate the pressure level. The pressure medium can be stored in a tank 14e and can be expanded into an accumulator tank 14b. As can be seen in FIG. 1f, the pressure medium flowing out of the pressure chamber 6c and from the pressure control valve 14d is returned to the tank 14e. The components of the hydraulic pump system are connected by appropriate conduits.

[0041] 1a-1f, to form multiple individual three-dimensional cellulose products 1 from a single air-formed cellulose blank structure 2 in a multi-cavity mold system S, an air-formed cellulose blank structure 2 is first provided from a suitable source. The cellulose blank structure 2 may be air-formed from cellulose fibers and placed on a roll or in a stack. The roll or stack can then be connected and placed in the multi-cavity mold system S. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cellulose blank structure may be air-formed from cellulose fibers while connected to the multi-cavity mold system S and fed directly into the mold sections. As shown in FIG. 1a, the cellulose blank structure 2 is placed between a first mold section 3 and a second mold section 4.

[0042] Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 1b, the first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4 are moved toward each other to form a plurality of molding cavities 5 for the cellulose blank structure 2. In FIG. 1b, the first mold part 3 is moved toward the second mold part 4, and as shown in FIG. 1c, a plurality of molding cavities 5 for the cellulose blank structure 2 are formed between each first molding element 3a and the corresponding second molding element 4a. In the position shown in FIG. 1c, the first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4 are arranged in contact with each other. In the position shown in FIG. 1c, the cellulose blank structure 2 arranged inside the molding cavity 5 can be cut to separate the cellulose blank structure 2 arranged outside the molding cavity 5. The mold parts may be arranged with a suitable cutting device for such a cutting operation.

[0043] When the first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4 are placed in contact with each other, a forming pressure P is applied to the cellulose blank structure 2 in each mold cavity 5 by the pressure member 6 during the forming of the cellulose product 1. FIn Figure 1d, hydraulic pressure generated by the pressure member 6 in the pressure chamber 6c by the pressure medium causes the second mold element 4a to move towards the first mold part 3. As mentioned above, the appropriate molding pressure level P FL is at least 1 MPa, preferably in the range of 4-20 MPa, in each forming cavity 5 due to interaction from the pressure member 6. When a pressure medium is flowing in the pressure chamber 6c, the second forming elements 4a are pushed in a direction towards the first forming elements 3a to apply a forming pressure PL to the cellulose blank structure 2 placed in the forming cavity 5. Thus, the movement of each second forming element 4a relative to the base structure 4b due to interaction from the pressure member 6 generates a forming pressure P F A suitable control unit may be used to control the pressure level exerted by the pressure medium on the second forming element. During the forming of the cellulose product 1, the cellulose blank structure 2 is heated to a forming temperature T in the range of 100°C to 300°C. F To ensure uniform pressure distribution during molding of the cellulose product 1, the molding pressure level P FL is suitably equal or substantially equal in all molding cavities 5. Alternatively, the molding pressure P F may differ between the molding cavities 5.

[0044] Once the cellulose product 1 has been molded in the multi-cavity mold system S, the first mold part 3 is moved away from the second mold part 4, as shown schematically in Figure 1e. To facilitate removal of the molded cellulose product 1, the second molding elements 4a can be pushed away from the base structure 4b, as shown by the arrows in Figure 1e. A spring, cylinder, such as a double-acting cylinder, or similar device can be used connected to each second molding element 4a to return the molding elements 4a to their initial position shown in Figure 1a after hydraulic pressure is released.

[0045] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2a-2c, the pressure member 6 comprises a plurality of spring units 6a arranged between the base structure 4b and each of the plurality of second forming elements 4a. Each spring unit 6a may be arranged as a single spring or as two or more cooperating springs, one or more of which are suitably compression springs. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2a-2c, each spring unit 6a applies a forming pressure P to the cellulose blank structure 2 in each forming cavity 5 during the forming of the cellulose product 1. F The springs are arranged as a stack of disc springs that cooperate to produce a. Other springs that can be used instead of disc springs are, for example, coil springs or other types of washer springs.

[0046] According to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2a-2c, to form multiple individual three-dimensional cellulose products 1 from a single air-formed cellulose blank structure 2 in a multi-cavity mold system S, an air-formed cellulose blank structure 2 is first provided from a suitable source. The cellulose blank structure 2 may be air-formed from cellulose fibers and arranged on a roll or in a stack. The roll or stack can then be connected and placed in the multi-cavity mold system S. Alternatively, the cellulose blank structure may be air-formed from cellulose fibers while connected to the multi-cavity mold system S and fed directly into the mold sections. In this embodiment, the cellulose blank structure 2 is placed between the first mold section 3 and the second mold section 4 as pre-cut individual pieces of material, as shown in FIG. 2a.

[0047] Thereafter, as shown in Figure 2b, the first mould part 3 and the second mould part 4 are moved towards each other to form a plurality of mould cavities 5 for the cellulose blank structure 2. In Figure 2b, the first mould part 3 is moved towards the second mould part 4 and a plurality of mould cavities 5 for the cellulose blank structure 2 are formed between each first mould element 3a and a corresponding second mould element 4a.

[0048] When the first mold part 3 and the second mold part 4 are placed in contact with each other, a forming pressure P is applied to the cellulose blank structure 2 in each mold cavity 5 by the pressure member 6 during the forming of the cellulose product 1. F In Figure 2c, the interaction between the first and second mold elements 3a, 4a causes the second mold element 4a to move in a direction away from the first mold part 3. As the second mold element 4a moves into the base structure 4b, the spring unit 6a is compressed, which causes a molding pressure level P FL is applied to the cellulosic blank structure 2 in the moulding cavity 5. To control the moulding pressure, a suitable control unit may be used to determine the movement of the first mould part 3 relative to the second mould part 4. As mentioned above, a suitable moulding pressure level P FL is at least 1 MPa, preferably in the range of 4 to 20 MPa, within each molding cavity 5 due to interaction from the pressure member 6. The molding pressure P F During the formation of the cellulose product 1, the cellulose blank structure 2 is heated to a forming temperature T F To ensure uniform pressure distribution during molding of the cellulose product 1, the molding pressure level P FL is suitably equal or substantially equal in all molding cavities 5. Alternatively, the molding pressure P F may differ between the molding cavities 5.

[0049] Once the cellulose product 1 has been molded within the multi-cavity mold system S, the first mold part 3 is moved away from the second mold part 4 and the cellulose product 1 can be removed, for example, using an ejector rod or similar device.

[0050] A pressure member 6 different from the one described above applies the molding pressure P F It should be understood that the signal may be used for generating

[0051] The multi-cavity mold system S heats the cellulose blank structure 2 to a molding temperature T in the range of 100°C to 300°C during molding of the cellulose product 1. F The system further comprises a heating unit 7 configured to heat the cellulose blank structure 2 to a temperature of 1000 K. This temperature range, together with the pressure ranges described above, is suitable for forming the cellulose product 1 in the system S, where strong hydrogen bonds are formed between the cellulose fibers in the cellulose blank structure 2.

[0052] Heating of the cellulose blank structure 2 may be performed prior to pressing in the multi-cavity mold system S, or at least partially prior to pressing in the multi-cavity mold system S. Alternatively, as shown schematically in Figures 1a-1f and 2a-2c, heating of the cellulose blank structure 2 may be performed in the first mold part 3 and / or the second mold part 4 while being pressed. Heating of the cellulose blank structure 2 may be performed by heating the mold 5, for example, by a heating unit 7 integral with the first mold part 3 and / or the second mold part 4. The molding pressure P F may be added prior to heating of the cellulose blank structure 2, for example, in a multi-cavity mold system S during pressing.

[0053] During the forming of the cellulose product 1, the first mold part 3 and / or the second mold part 4 must be applied to the cellulose blank structure 2 at a forming temperature T in the range of 100°C to 300°C. F To produce , the mold can be heated by heating unit 7 to a mold temperature in the range of 100°C to 500°C, or alternatively in the range of 100°C to 700°C. Heating unit 7 can be integrated into first mold part 3 and / or second mold part 4, suitable heating devices being, for example, electric heaters or fluid heaters. Another suitable heat source can also be used.

[0054] The heating unit 7 may have any suitable construction. A suitable heating unit, for example a heated mould section, may be used to heat the mould to a moulding temperature T F In another embodiment, the molding pressure P F is in the range of 1 to 100 MPa, preferably in the range of 4 to 20 MPa, and the molding temperature T F The temperature is in the range of 100 to 300°C. By using the deformation element 8, the molding pressure P F may be an isostatic molding pressure, as further described below.

[0055] For all embodiments, the first mould part 3 and / or the second mould part 4 may have a deformation element 8 for each first moulding element 3a and / or second moulding element 4a. The deformation element 8 applies a moulding pressure P to the cellulose blank structure 2 in the moulding cavity 5 during the moulding of the cellulose product 1. F The deformation elements 8 may be attached to the first mould part 3 and / or the second mould part 4 by suitable attachment means, for example by adhesive or mechanical fastening means. In the embodiment shown schematically in Figures 2a-2c, a deformation element 8 is attached to each of the first mould elements 3a.

[0056] During the forming of the cellulose product 1, the deformation element 8 applies a forming pressure P to the cellulose blank structure 2 in the forming cavity 5. F 2c, the deformation element 8 is shown diagrammatically in a deformed state corresponding to the shape of the cellulose product 1.

[0057] The deformation element 8 is deformed during the forming process as described above, and the deformation element 8 applies a forming pressure P to the cellulose blank structure 2 during the forming of the cellulose product 1. FThe molding pressure P required for the cellulose blank structure 2 is F 2c, for illustrative purposes, the deformation element 8 is made of a material that can be deformed when a force or pressure is applied, whereby the deformation element 8 is deformed during the forming process. For example, the deformation element 8 can be made of an elastic material that can recover its size and shape after deformation. The deformation element 8 is further adapted to withstand the high forming pressure P used during the forming of the cellulose product 1. F and molding temperature T F It may be made of a material with suitable properties to withstand the level.

[0058] During the forming process, the deformation element 8 is deformed to a particular forming pressure level P FL Molding pressure P F is applied to the cellulose blank structure 2. Even if the cellulose product 1 has a complex three-dimensional shape including notches, openings, and holes, or even if the cellulose blank structure 2 used has variable density, thickness, or basis weight levels, deformation allows for an even pressure distribution to be achieved.

[0059] Certain elastic or deformable materials have fluid-like properties when subjected to high pressure levels. If the deformation element 8 is formed from such a material, uniform pressure distribution can be achieved during the molding process, where the pressure applied by the deformation element 8 to the cellulose blank structure 2 is equal or substantially equal in all directions between the mold sections. A uniform fluid-like pressure distribution is achieved when the deformation element 8 is in a fluid-like state during the pressure. Therefore, molding pressure is applied to the cellulose blank structure 2 from all directions by such a material, and the deformation element 8 thus applies an isotropic molding pressure to the cellulose blank structure 2 during the molding of the cellulose product 1, as shown schematically by the arrows in FIG. 2c for illustrative purposes. The isotropic molding pressure from the deformation element 8 generates uniform pressure in all directions on the cellulose blank structure 2 within the molding cavity 5, for example, perpendicular to the walls of the molding cavity 5. The isotropic molding pressure provides an efficient molding process for the cellulose product 1, allowing the cellulose product 1 to be manufactured with high quality, even if it has a complex shape. According to the present disclosure, during the molding of the cellulose product, a molding pressure level P FL may be an isostatic molding pressure of at least 1 MPa, preferably 4 to 20 MPa for all embodiments.

[0060] The deformation element 8 may be formed from a suitable structure of elastic material, which is capable of generating uniform pressure in the cellulosic blank structure 2 during the molding process. By way of example, the deformation element 8 may be formed from a solid or substantially solid structure made of silicone rubber, polyurethane, polychloroprene or rubber, with a hardness in the range of 20 to 90 Shore A. Other materials for the deformation element 8 may be, for example, suitable gel materials, liquid crystal elastomers and MR fluids.

[0061] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary manufacturing unit layout for a multi-cavity mold system S, where the multi-cavity mold system S has the structure shown in FIGS. 1a-1f. A cellulose pulp structure suitable for forming the cellulose blank structure 2 is disposed on a roll 9, from which the pulp structure is fed to a mill unit 10. The mill unit 10 is arranged to separate fibers from the pulp structure and distribute the separated fibers into a forming chamber 11. The mill unit 10 may be of any conventional type, such as a sawtooth mill, hammer mill, or other type of pulp fiberizer, where the pulp structure is fed to the mill unit 10 through an inlet opening and the separated fibers are distributed into the forming chamber 11. A forming wire 12, in this embodiment, is arranged connected to the forming chamber 11, which forms an at least partially closed volume above the forming wire 12. The cellulose fibers in the pulp structure are separated in the mill unit 10 and disposed on the forming wire 12 for air-forming the cellulose blank structure 2. The separated fibers may instead be fed directly from the mill unit 10 to a mold section in an alternative embodiment not shown, which does not have a forming chamber.

[0062] The formed cellulose blank structure 2 may be intermittently fed to a multi-cavity mold system S to generate a continuous production stream, as shown in FIG. 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the multi-cavity mold system S includes a clamping unit 13 for locking the first mold section 3 connected to the second mold section 4 during the forming of the cellulose product. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping unit 13 includes an arm that is used to lock the first mold section 3 and the second mold section 4 relative to each other in the position shown in FIG. 1d. The forming of the cellulose product 1 is achieved in the manner described above in connection with FIGS. 1a-1f. The residual cellulose blank structure 2a remaining after the forming of the cellulose product 1 is recycled and re-introduced into the mill unit 10 along with the pulp structure from the roll 9.

[0063] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary layout of a similar alternative multi-cavity mold system, in which the pulp structure is disposed on a roll 9. The multi-cavity mold system S has the structure shown in FIGS. 1a-1f. A mill unit 10 is disposed to separate fibers from the pulp structure and distribute the separated fibers into a forming chamber 11. The mill unit 10 may be of any conventional type, such as a sawtooth mill, a hammer mill, or other type of pulp fiberizer. A forming wire 12 is disposed in this embodiment connected to the forming chamber 11. The cellulose fibers in the pulp structure are separated in the mill unit 10 and disposed on the forming wire 12 for air-molding the cellulose blank structure 2. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the multi-cavity mold system S includes a clamp unit 13 for locking the first mold part 3 connected to the second mold part 4 during molding of the cellulose product. The clamping unit 13 may be of the toggle type and has an arm that is used to lock the first and second mold parts 3, 4 relative to one another in the position shown in Figure 1d. The shaping of the cellulose product 1 is achieved in the manner described above in connection with Figures 1a-1f. The residual cellulose blank structure 2a left after shaping of the cellulose product 1 is recycled and re-introduced into the mill unit 10 together with the pulp structure from the roll 9.

[0064] The multi-cavity mold system S may further comprise a suitable control unit for controlling the molding of the cellulose product 1, as described above. The control unit may comprise suitable software and hardware for controlling the multi-cavity mold system S and the different process and method steps performed by the multi-cavity mold system S. The control unit may, for example, control the temperature, pressure, molding time, and other process parameters. The control unit may further be connected to associated process equipment, such as a pressing unit, a heating unit, a cellulose blank structure conveying unit, and a cellulose product conveying unit.

[0065] The present disclosure has been presented above with respect to specific embodiments. However, other embodiments than those described above are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. Method steps other than those described above, implementing the method by hardware or software, may be provided within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs configured to be executed by one or more processors of a multi-cavity mold system S is provided, the one or more programs including instructions for performing a method according to any one of the above-described embodiments. Alternatively, according to another exemplary embodiment, a cloud computing system can be configured to perform any of the aspects of the methods presented herein. The cloud computing system can include distributed cloud computing resources that collectively perform aspects of the methods presented herein under the control of one or more computer program products.

[0066] The one or more processors associated with the multi-cavity mold system S may be or include any number of hardware components for performing data or signal processing or for executing computer code stored in memory. The system may have associated memory, which may be one or more devices for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating the various methods described herein. The memory may include volatile or non-volatile memory. The memory may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities herein. According to exemplary embodiments, any distributed or local memory device may be utilized with the systems and methods herein. According to exemplary embodiments, the memory is communicatively connected to the processor (e.g., via a circuit or any other wired, wireless, or network connection) and includes computer code for executing one or more processes described herein.

[0067] It will be understood that the above description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the application or uses of the present disclosure. While specific examples have been described in the specification and shown in the drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, as defined in the claims. Furthermore, modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its essential scope. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the particular examples illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification as the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the teachings of the present disclosure; the scope of the present disclosure will include any embodiment encompassed by the foregoing description and the appended claims. Reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject matter protected by the claims; their sole function is to facilitate understanding of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1. Cellulose products 2. Cellulose blank structure 3 First mold part 3a First forming element 4 Second mold part 4a Second forming element 4b Base structure 4c Bottom side 4d sealing element 4e Piston part 5 Molding cavity 6 Pressure member 6a Spring unit 6b Hydraulic unit 6c Pressure Chamber 7 Heating Unit 8 Transformation Elements 9 rolls 10 mil units 11 Molding chamber 12 Formed Wire 13 Clamp unit 14a Hydraulic pump 14b Accumulator tank 14c molding pressure valve 14d Pressure control valve 14e Tank D P Press Direction P F Molding pressure P FL Molding Pressure Level S Multi-cavity mold system T F Molding temperature

Claims

1. A multi-cavity mold system (S) including an air-formed cellulose blank structure (2) for forming a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulose products (1) from the air-formed cellulose blank structure (2), the multi-cavity mold system (S) having a first mold part (3) and a second mold part (4) arranged to cooperate with each other during the forming of the cellulose products (1); the first mould section (3) has a plurality of first mould elements (3a), the second mould section (4) has a corresponding plurality of second mould elements (4a), the second mould elements (4a) being arranged to be movable relative to a base structure (4b) of the second mould section (4); the multi-cavity mould system (S) is configured to form a plurality of moulding cavities (5) for the cellulose blank structure (2) between each of the first moulding elements (3 a) and the corresponding second moulding element (4 a) during moulding of the cellulose product (1); the multi-cavity mould system (S) is configured to heat the cellulose blank structure (2) to a moulding temperature T F in the range of 100°C to 300°C during moulding of the cellulose product (1), and comprises a heating unit (7) arranged in the first mould section (3) and / or the second mould section (4); Each of the second forming elements (4 a) is arranged to receive pressure from a pressure member (6) arranged on the base structure (4 b), and the pressure member (6) applies a forming pressure (P Ｆ ), the pressure member (6) comprises a plurality of spring units (6a) arranged between the base structure (4b) and each of the plurality of second forming elements (4a), or The pressure member (6) has a hydraulic unit (6b), and the hydraulic unit (6b) has a plurality of pressure chambers (6c) arranged between the base structure (4b) and each of the plurality of second forming elements (4a). Multi-cavity mold system (S).

2. 2. The multi-cavity mold system (S) of claim 1, wherein the first mold part (3) and the second mold part (4) are arranged to be movable relative to each other.

3. The multi-cavity mold system (S) generates the molding pressure (P Ｆ 3. The multi-cavity mold system (S) according to claim 1 or 2, configured to generate a plurality of molded parts.

4. The multi-cavity mould system (S) is adapted to generate a moulding pressure level (P) of at least 1 MPa in each moulding cavity (5) during moulding of the cellulose product (1) by the pressure exerted by the pressing member (6). ＦＬ 4. The multi-cavity mold system (S) according to claim 1, configured to generate a plurality of molded parts.

5. The multi-cavity mold system (S) according to claim 4, wherein the molding pressure level (P FL ) is in the range of 4 to 20 MPa.

6. 1. A method for forming a plurality of individual three-dimensional cellulosic products (1) from an air-formed cellulosic blank structure (2) in a multi-cavity mold system (S), comprising: The multi-cavity mould system (S) comprises a first mould part (3) and a second mould part (4) arranged to cooperate with each other during moulding of the cellulose product (1), the first mould part (3) having a plurality of first mould elements (3a) and the second mould part (4) having a corresponding plurality of second mould elements (4a), the second mould elements (4a) being arranged to be movable relative to a base structure (4b) of the second mould part (4), each second mould element (4a) being arranged to receive pressure from a pressure member (6) arranged on the base structure (4b), the method comprising the following steps: providing the air-formed cellulose blank structure (2), the cellulose blank structure (2) being air-formed from cellulose fibers, and placing the cellulose blank structure (2) between the first mold part (3) and the second mold part (4); forming a plurality of molding cavities (5) for the cellulose blank structure (2) between each of the first molding elements (3a) and the corresponding second molding element (4a); heating the cellulose blank structure (2) to a forming temperature (T F ) in the range of 100°C to 300°C using heating units (7) arranged in the first mold part (3) and / or the second mold part (4) during the forming of the cellulose product (1); and During the molding of the cellulose product (1), a molding pressure (P) is applied to the cellulose blank structure (2) in each molding cavity (5) by the pressing member (6). Ｆ ), It has the pressure member (6) has a plurality of spring units (6a) arranged between the base structure (4b) and each of the plurality of second forming elements (4a), and the spring units (6a) generate the forming pressure (PF) on the cellulose blank structure (2) in each of the forming cavities (5), or The pressure member (6) has a hydraulic unit (6b), which has a plurality of pressure chambers (6c) arranged between the base structure (4b) and each of the plurality of second forming elements (4a), and the hydraulic unit (6b) generates the forming pressure (PF) on the cellulose blank structure (2) in each forming cavity (5). method.

7. 7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the step of, after placing the cellulose blank structure (2) between the first mold part (3) and the second mold part (4), moving the first mold part (3) and the second mold part (4) towards each other to form the plurality of molding cavities (5) for the cellulose blank structure (2).

8. The method further comprises: applying a forming pressure (P Ｆ 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising the step of generating a

9. The method includes: a molding pressure level (P) of at least 1 MPa in each molding cavity (5) due to the pressure exerted by the pressing member (6). ＦＬ 9. The method of claim 6, further comprising the step of generating a 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the molding pressure level (P FL ) is 4 to 20 MPa.

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