Hot water supply device, hot water supply system, and molding system

Abstract

This hot water supply device 55 has a metering chamber R1, an inlet P1, an outlet P2, and a valve body 63. The inlet P1 is open from a -D3 side toward the metering chamber R1, and causes a molten metal ML from a furnace 53 to flow into the metering chamber R1. The outlet P2 is open from the -D3 side toward the metering chamber R1, and causes the molten metal ML in the metering chamber R1 to flow out to an injection device 9. The valve body 63 includes a plate-like part facing the D3 direction between the metering chamber R1 and the inlet P1 and the outlet P2. The valve body 63 moves between an inflow position and an outflow position by translation in a second direction intersecting the D3 direction. At the inflow position, the valve body 63 connects the inflow port P1 and the metering chamber R1 and isolates the outlet P2 from the metering chamber R1. At the outflow position, the valve body 63 connects the metering chamber R1 and the outlet P2 and isolates the inlet P1 from the metering chamber R1.

Description

Hot water supply device, hot water supply system and molding system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water heater that supplies molten (liquid) metal material (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "molten metal") to a molding machine such as a die-casting machine, and also to a water heater system and a molding system that include the water heater.

[0002] Techniques for controlling the supply of molten metal by moving a valve element are known (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 5 listed below).

[0003] Patent Documents 1 to 3 disclose sliding nozzles that control the outflow of molten steel from a bottom opening of a molten steel vessel to a mold. The valve element of the sliding nozzle is formed in a plate shape, and opens and closes the bottom opening of the molten steel vessel by sliding in a direction along the plane of the plate.

[0004] Patent Document 4 discloses a valve body that controls the inflow of molten metal from an inlet connected to a furnace into a metering chamber and the outflow of molten metal from the metering chamber to an injection device of a die-casting machine. The inlet, which allows molten metal from the furnace to flow into the metering chamber, is located on the side of the metering chamber. The outlet, which allows molten metal from the metering chamber to flow out to the injection device, is located below the metering chamber. The valve body is cylindrical and moves axially between an inlet position and an outlet position. At the inlet position, the inlet communicates with the metering chamber and the outlet is blocked from the metering chamber. At the outlet position, the metering chamber communicates with the outlet and the inlet is blocked from the metering chamber.

[0005] Patent Document 5 discloses a valve that controls the flow of molten metal from the bottom opening of a melting vessel that melts one shot of molten metal to the injection device of a die-casting machine. This valve is formed in a plate shape and opens and closes the bottom opening of the melting vessel by sliding in a direction along the plane of the plate.

[0006] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-71394 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2019-13938 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 60-142 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-18053 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-9052

[0007] There is a need for a molten metal supply device, a molten metal supply system, and a molding system that can suitably allow molten metal to flow in and out of the measuring chamber.

[0008] A water heater according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a metering chamber, an inlet, an outlet, and a valve body. The inlet opens toward the metering chamber from a first side in a first direction, allowing molten metal from a furnace to flow into the metering chamber. The outlet opens toward the metering chamber from the first side, allowing molten metal in the metering chamber to flow out to an injection device. The valve body includes a plate-shaped portion facing the first direction between the metering chamber and the inlet and outlet, and moves between an inlet position and an outlet position by translation in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The inlet position is a position that connects the inlet to the metering chamber and blocks the outlet from the metering chamber. The outlet position is a position that connects the metering chamber to the outlet and blocks the inlet from the metering chamber.

[0009] A hot water supply system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the hot water supply device and the furnace.

[0010] A molding system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the above-described water heater and a molding machine including the injection device.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the molten metal can be suitably introduced into and discharged from the measuring chamber.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a side view showing the configuration of a main part of a die-casting machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a hot water supply system according to an embodiment. FIG. 3(a), FIG. 3(b), and FIG. 3(c) are cross-sectional views explaining the operation of a valve mechanism according to a first aspect of the hot water supply system of FIG. 2. FIG. 4(a), FIG. 4(b), and FIG. 4(c) are cross-sectional views explaining the operation of a valve mechanism according to a second aspect of the hot water supply system of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of a valve drive unit that drives a valve element. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI of FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a hot water level sensor according to another example. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure of hot water supply processing executed by the hot water supply system of FIG. 2.

[0013] For aspects that are described relatively later among the multiple aspects, only differences from the previously described aspects will be described. Matters not specifically mentioned may be considered to be the same as or inferred from the previously described aspects. Furthermore, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals may be used to refer to corresponding configurations in multiple aspects, even if there are differences.

[0014] The drawings used in the following description are schematic. Therefore, for example, details may be omitted, or specific shapes and / or dimensions may be exaggerated. Furthermore, the detailed configurations may not match between drawings. However, this does not deny that features such as shapes and / or dimensions may be extracted based on the drawings.

[0015] For convenience, the drawings may be illustrated with a Cartesian coordinate system D1D2D3, and terms such as D1 direction, D2 direction, and D3 direction may be used. The D1 direction and D2 direction are horizontal directions, and the D3 direction is vertical. In the description of the embodiments, unless a contradiction arises, the terms "D1 direction" and "D2 direction" may be replaced with "lateral direction" or "horizontal direction," and the term "D3 direction" may be replaced with "vertical direction," "up-down direction," or "vertical direction."

[0016] The "horizontal direction" used in describing the mold opening / closing direction, etc., includes not only the horizontal direction but also angles inclined at an angle of less than 45° to the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the "vertical direction" used in describing the injection direction, etc., includes not only the vertical direction (the direction of gravity) but also angles inclined at an angle of less than 45° to the vertical direction. Note that the upper limit of the inclination angle in the "horizontal direction" and "vertical direction" may be 30°, 20°, or 10° instead of 45°.

[0017] The term "divided" used in describing the injection sleeve is intended to describe the configuration of the injection sleeve itself, not the manufacturing process of the injection sleeve. For example, when the injection sleeve is said to be divided into a first divided sleeve and a second divided sleeve, it does not mean that the injection sleeve is integrally formed during the manufacturing process and is divided (although it may be manufactured that way). The first divided sleeve and the second divided sleeve may be manufactured separately from the beginning.

[0018] The term "separated" used to describe the multiple split sleeves that make up the injection sleeve refers to the multiple split sleeves moving relative to the cylindrical injection sleeve (the multiple split sleeves being "united"). Therefore, for example, when two split sleeves are said to be separated, they may be partially in contact with each other (they do not need to be completely separated).

[0019] 1 is a side view (partially including a cross-sectional view) showing the configuration of a die-casting machine 1 (a molding machine in a broader sense) included in a molding system MS according to an embodiment. In addition to the die-casting machine 1, the molding system MS also includes, for example, a hot water supply system 51 shown in FIG. 2, which will be described later.

[0020] The die-casting machine 1 produces a die-cast product (a molded product in a general concept) by filling a molten metal ML (see FIG. 2 ; in a general concept, a molding material) into a mold 101. More specifically, the filling of the molten metal ML into the mold 101 is performed by an injection device 9 of the die-casting machine 1.

[0021] 2 is a schematic diagram showing a molten metal supply system 51 that supplies the molten metal ML to the injection device 9. The molten metal supply system 51 includes a furnace 53 that holds the molten metal ML, and a molten metal supply device 55 that supplies the molten metal ML held in the furnace 53 to the injection device 9. The molten metal ML flowing out from a molten metal supply pipe 65 of the molten metal supply device 55 is supplied to the injection device 9.

[0022] The molten metal supply device 55 has a measuring chamber R1 that contains one shot of molten metal ML, and a valve body 63 that controls the inflow and outflow of the molten metal ML in the measuring chamber R1. In the illustrated example, the valve body 63 is formed by the bottom of a container 61 that constitutes the measuring chamber R1.

[0023] The valve element 63 (or, from another perspective, the container 61) moves between an inflow position and an outflow position. The inflow position is the position where the valve element 63 is located in Figure 2, and allows flow from the furnace 53 to the measuring chamber R1 while prohibiting flow from the measuring chamber R1 to the injection device 9. The outflow position is the position where the valve element 63 has moved to the left from the position in Figure 2, and prohibits flow from the furnace 53 to the measuring chamber R1 while allowing flow from the measuring chamber R1 to the molten metal supply pipe 65.

[0024] The detailed configuration of the valve body 63 is as follows.

[0025] The molten metal supply device 55 has an inlet P1 and an outlet P2 that open from below (an example of the first side in the first direction) toward the measuring chamber R1. The inlet P1 is for allowing the molten metal ML from the furnace 53 to flow into the measuring chamber R1. The outlet P2 is for allowing the molten metal ML in the measuring chamber R1 to flow out to the injection device 9.

[0026] The valve element 63 includes a plate-like portion (in the example of FIG. 2 , the reference numeral is omitted because it is the entire valve element 63) facing in the vertical direction (an example of a first direction) between the measuring chamber R1 and the inlet port P1 and outlet port P2. The valve element 63 translates in the horizontal direction (an example of a second direction intersecting the first direction). This allows the valve element 63 to move between an inlet position and an outlet position.

[0027] At the inflow position, the valve body 63 communicates between the inlet P1 and the measuring chamber R1 and blocks the outlet P2 from the measuring chamber R1. At the outflow position, the valve body 63 communicates between the measuring chamber R1 and the outlet P2 and blocks the inlet P1 from the measuring chamber R1. At the neutral position between these positions, the valve body 63 blocks the measuring chamber R1 from both the inlet P1 and the outlet P2.

[0028] In this configuration, the molten metal ML is supplied from the furnace 53 to the injection device 9 via the measuring chamber R1, and therefore the likelihood of the molten metal ML being oxidized or cooled can be reduced compared to, for example, a mode in which the molten metal is supplied to the injection device 9 by a ladle. In other words, high-quality molten metal ML can be supplied to the injection device 9. Furthermore, because the supply amount of the molten metal ML can be adjusted by operating the valve body 63, the supply amount can be adjusted with higher precision compared to, for example, a mode in which the supply amount of the molten metal ML is adjusted by controlling an electromagnetic pump.

[0029] Another example of a valve configuration is one in which a cylindrical valve element and a cylindrical body housing the valve element slide in the axial direction. In this configuration, if the gap between the valve element and the cylindrical body is large (or, from another perspective, the contact pressure is small), the likelihood of molten metal penetrating into the gap increases. Conversely, if the gap is small (or the contact pressure is large), the sliding resistance increases, resulting in, for example, galling. Furthermore, adjustment of the contact pressure (for example, adjustment of the dimensions of the valve element and the cylindrical body) must be performed during the manufacturing process.

[0030] On the other hand, in the case of a valve element 63 including a plate-shaped portion, the contact pressure can be adjusted by a mechanism for attaching the valve element 63 to a member (described later) having an inlet P1 and an outlet P2, and depending on the configuration of the mechanism, it can also be adjusted on-site. From another perspective, the contact pressure can be adjusted without depending on the dimensional accuracy of the valve element 63, etc. Therefore, the possibility of the molten metal entering the gap is reduced, and smooth movement of the valve element 63 is facilitated. Furthermore, the configuration is simplified. Also, there is less need for an operation (dither operation) that vibrates the valve element to prevent the molten metal from sticking. In other words, control is also simplified.

[0031] The above is an overview of the molding system MS according to the embodiment. The following will explain the embodiment in the following order: 1. Die-casting machine (FIG. 1) 1.1. Die-casting machine in general 1.2. Injection device 2. Hot water supply system 2.1. Hot water supply system in general (FIG. 2) 2.2. Hot water supply device 2.2.1. Hot water supply device in general 2.2.2. Container 2.2.3. Valve 2.2.3.1. Valve mechanism according to the first embodiment 2.2.3.2. Valve body according to another example (FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c)) 2.2.3.3. Valve mechanism according to the second embodiment (FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c)) 2.2.4. Valve drive unit 2.2.4.1. Valve drive unit in general 2.2.4.2. Example using a double cylinder (FIGS. 5 and 6) 2.2.5. Molten metal level sensor 2.2.5.1. Molten metal level sensor in general 2.2.5.2. Example of using a laser displacement sensor (Fig. 7) 2.2.6. Gas pressure circuit 2.2.6.1. Gas pressure circuit in general 2.2.6.2. Configuration related to inert gas supply 2.2.6.3. Configuration related to inert gas suction 2.2.6.4. Other configurations of the gas pressure circuit 2.3. Furnace 2.4. Other configurations of the molten metal supply system 2.5. Molten metal transfer method, etc. 2.6. Operation of the molten metal supply system (Fig. 8) 3. Summary of embodiments

[0032] (1. Die Casting Machine) (1.1. Die Casting Machines in General) The die casting machine 1 may have various configurations, for example, may have a configuration similar to a known configuration. Note that descriptions of configurations and operations that may be known configurations and operations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0033] The die-casting machine 1 illustrated in Figure 1 is of a horizontal clamping, vertical injection type. That is, the mold opening / closing direction and the mold clamping direction are horizontal, and the injection direction is vertical. However, the die-casting machine 1 may be of a horizontal clamping, horizontal injection type, vertical clamping, horizontal injection type, or vertical clamping, vertical injection type. The type of metal molded by the die-casting machine 1 is arbitrary, and may be, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0034] The mold 101 is basically made of, for example, metal and has a fixed mold 103 and a movable mold 105 that moves in the mold opening / closing direction relative to the fixed mold 103. A cavity is formed between the two to be filled with molten metal ML. Note that the mold 101 is replaceable by the user, and therefore may be considered either not to be part of the die-casting machine 1 or to be part of the die-casting machine 1.

[0035] The die-casting machine 1 has, for example, a machine main body 3 that performs mechanical operations for molding, a controller 5 that controls the operation of the machine main body 3, and an interface 13 that acts as an intermediary between the controller 5 and an operator. The machine main body 3 has, for example, a mold clamping device 7 that opens, closes, and clamps the mold 101, an injection device 9 that injects molten metal into the clamped mold 101, and an extrusion device 11 that extrudes the die-cast product from a fixed mold 103 or a movable mold 105 (movable mold 105 in FIG. 1 ).

[0036] In a molding cycle, the mold clamping unit 7 moves the movable mold 105 toward the fixed mold 103 to close the mold. Furthermore, the mold clamping unit 7 applies a clamping force to the mold 101 according to the extension amount of the tie bars (reference numerals omitted) to clamp the mold. The injection unit 9 injects and fills the cavity of the clamped mold 101 with molten metal. The filled molten metal loses heat to the mold 101, is cooled, and solidifies. In other words, the molten metal becomes a molded product. The mold clamping unit 7 then moves the movable mold 105 away from the fixed mold 103 to open the mold. At this time, or thereafter, the extrusion unit 11 extrudes the molded product from the movable mold 105.

[0037] The mold clamping device 7 may have any configuration. For example, the mold clamping device 7 may be one that performs mold opening / closing and mold clamping using a toggle mechanism (as shown in the example), or may have separate drive mechanisms for mold opening / closing and mold clamping. Furthermore, the drive unit that generates the drive force for mold opening / closing and / or mold clamping may be electric, hydraulic, or a hybrid type that combines both. The mold clamping device 7 has a fixed die plate 15 that holds a fixed die 103, and a movable die plate 17 that holds a movable die 105.

[0038] The controller 5 may include, for example, a computer (not shown). The computer may include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and an auxiliary storage device (not shown). The CPU executes programs stored in the ROM and / or the auxiliary storage device to configure various functional units that perform various calculations (including control). The controller 5 may also include a logic circuit that executes certain operations, a power supply circuit, or a driver. The controller 5 may be provided in, for example, a control panel (not shown). Part of the controller 5 may also be configured as part of the interface 13. The controller 5 may be integrated into one hardware location or distributed across multiple locations.

[0039] In the above, the controller 5 has been described as a part of the die-casting machine 1. However, the controller 5 may be regarded as a conceptual entity that includes all of the various controllers that control the molding system MS. Furthermore, when focusing on each device included in the molding system MS, the controller 5 may be regarded as a controller for that device. For example, the controller 5 may be regarded as a controller for the injection device 9, the hot water supply system 51, or the hot water supply device 55. The same applies to the interface 13; for example, the interface 13 may be regarded as a component of the molding system MS, the injection device 9, the hot water supply system 51, or the hot water supply device 55.

[0040] The interface 13 may be provided at an appropriate position, and in the illustrated example, is provided on the fixed die plate 15 that holds the fixed die 103 in the mold clamping unit 7. The interface 13 has, for example, an input device (reference numeral omitted) that accepts input operations from an operator, and a display device (reference numeral omitted) that displays images.

[0041] (1.2. Injection Device) The injection device 9 may have various configurations as long as it can receive the molten metal ML from the melt supply device 55, and may have, for example, the same configuration as a known configuration. However, FIG. 1 illustrates an injection device 9 with a new configuration. The configuration of the injection device 9 in the illustrated example is, for example, as follows:

[0042] The injection device 9 has an injection sleeve 107 that communicates with the inside of the mold 101. The injection sleeve 107 has a first divided sleeve 107a fixed to the fixed mold 103 and a second divided sleeve 107b fixed to the movable mold 105. The first divided sleeve 107a and the second divided sleeve 107b are united to form the cylindrical injection sleeve 107 when the mold is closed.

[0043] Furthermore, the injection device 9 has a plunger 109 that slides inside the injection sleeve 107, and a plunger drive unit 21 that drives the plunger 109. The melt supply device 55 supplies molten metal into the injection sleeve 107. As the plunger 109 moves inside the injection sleeve 107 toward the mold 101, the molten metal in the injection sleeve 107 fills the mold 101.

[0044] The plunger 109 is driven by a plunger drive unit 21. The plunger drive unit 21 may be a hydraulic type (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder), an electric type, or a hybrid type that combines both.

[0045] The injection sleeve 107 and the plunger 109 may be replaced (or may not be replaced) when the mold 101 is replaced, and are consumables. Therefore, they may be considered to be either not part of the molding system MS or part of the molding system MS.

[0046] Although not shown, a portion of the upper end of the first split sleeve 107a (upper split sleeve) can be separated from and combined with the lower end portion (lower split sleeve). With the upper split sleeve separated, molten metal is poured into the sleeve body formed by combining the second split sleeve 107b and the lower split sleeve. After that, the upper split sleeve combines with the sleeve body, allowing injection by the plunger 109. The injection device 9 has a sleeve drive unit (not shown) for driving the upper split sleeve.

[0047] The supply of molten metal from the melt supply device 55 into the injection sleeve 107 is carried out via a gutter 111. That is, the molten metal flowing out from the melt supply pipe 65 of the melt supply device 55 is poured into the gutter 111, and the molten metal poured into the gutter 111 is poured into the injection sleeve 107 (sleeve main body). The lower end of the gutter 111 may be able to be moved in and out of an area vacated by separation of the upper divided sleeve. The injection device 9 has a gutter drive unit 23 that drives the gutter 111 for this movement in and out.

[0048] Gutter 111 and gutter drive unit 23 contribute to supplying hot water to injection sleeve 107. Therefore, unlike the description of the embodiment, gutter 111 and gutter drive unit 23 may be considered as part of hot water supply system 51. In this case, gutter 111 and gutter drive unit 23 may be considered as a device separate from hot water supply device 55, or may be considered as part of hot water supply device 55.

[0049] The gutter 111 can be (but does not have to be) replaced when the mold 101 is replaced. Therefore, the gutter 111 may be considered not to be part of the molding system MS, or may be considered to be part of the molding system MS.

[0050] The injection device 9 may have other appropriate components in addition to the above components. For example, although not shown, the injection device 9 may have a mechanism for raising and lowering the plunger driving unit 21 and a tie rod connected to the plunger driving unit 21 and engaging with the mold 101.

[0051] Although not particularly shown, an example of a configuration of the injection device 9 that is different from the configuration shown in the drawing will be given.

[0052] For example, in the injection sleeve 107 for vertical injection, the first split sleeve 107a does not have to be divided into upper and lower parts as described above. The molten metal may be poured from the molten metal supply pipe 65 into a communicating pipe connected to the first split sleeve 107a. Alternatively, the molten metal supply pipe 65 may be connected to the first split sleeve 107a. In this case, the gap between the injection sleeve 107 and the communicating pipe (or the molten metal supply pipe 65) may be blocked by an appropriate member to prevent the molten metal from flowing back from the injection sleeve 107 to the communicating pipe (or the molten metal supply pipe 65) when the plunger 109 is advanced toward the mold 101.

[0053] Furthermore, for example, the injection sleeve 107 for vertical injection may not have the first divided sleeve 107a and the second divided sleeve 107b that can be separated and combined, and may be used in its cylindrical form throughout the molding cycle. In this case, for example, the injection sleeve 107 may have molten metal poured into it from its upper opening when the mold is open. Alternatively, the injection sleeve 107 may be movable in the vertical direction (movement including tilting), and molten metal may be poured into it from its upper opening when it is separated from the mold 101.

[0054] Furthermore, for example, the injection sleeve 107 may be for horizontal injection. The injection sleeve 107 for horizontal injection is used, for example, in a cylindrical shape throughout the molding cycle and extends horizontally. One end of the injection sleeve communicates with the interior of the mold 101. The other end has a molten metal supply port that opens to the top. The molten metal is poured into the molten metal supply port.

[0055] As can be understood from the above example, the injection device 9 may be a so-called cold chamber machine or a semi-hot chamber machine.

[0056] (2. Hot Water Supply System) (2.1. Hot Water Supply System in General) As described above, hot water supply system 51 shown in Fig. 2 includes furnace 53 and hot water supply device 55. Furthermore, hot water supply system 51 includes connecting pipe 57 connecting the two, and material supply unit 59 that supplies ingots to furnace 53.

[0057] In the description of the embodiment, for convenience, connecting pipe 57 is described as a separate part from furnace 53 and water heater 55. However, connecting pipe 57 may be regarded as part of furnace 53 or as part of water heater 55. Similarly, material supply unit 59 may be regarded as part of furnace 53.

[0058] The melt supply system 51 may be disposed at any position relative to the die casting machine 1. For example, the structure from the furnace 53 to the melt supply pipe 65 may be located on the +D1 side of the fixed die plate 15 and at the center of the fixed die plate 15 in the D2 direction. The cross section of the structure from the furnace 53 to the melt supply pipe 65 shown in FIG. 2 may be a cross section parallel to the D1 direction.

[0059] 1, for example, when the molten metal supply system 51 is applied to a horizontal injection die casting machine, the structure from the furnace 53 to the molten metal supply pipe 65 may be arranged on the +D1 side of the fixed die plate 15 so as to avoid the injection device. The cross section of the structure from the furnace 53 to the molten metal supply pipe 65 shown in FIG. 2 may be a cross section that is inclined in the D1 direction.

[0060] (2.2. Meltwater Supply Apparatus) (2.2.1. Meltwater Supply Apparatus in General) As already described, meltwater supply apparatus 55 ( FIG. 2 ) has container 61 and valve element 63 that controls the flow of molten metal. Furthermore, meltwater supply apparatus 55 has, for example, valve drive unit 67 that drives valve element 63, meltwater level sensor 69 that detects the melt level in measuring chamber R1, and gas pressure circuit 71 that supplies inert gas (e.g., nitrogen or argon) to measuring chamber R1. These components will be described in order below.

[0061] (2.2.2. Container) The specific structure, shape, material, dimensions, etc. of the container 61 (measuring chamber R1) are arbitrary. For example, the container 61 may basically have its interior (measuring chamber R1) sealed (except for openings for the inflow and outflow of the molten metal and inert gas) (in the illustrated example), or it may not be sealed. Furthermore, the container 61 may have a built-in heater (reference numeral omitted) (in the illustrated example), or it may not have a built-in heater. The container 61 may be configured by combining an appropriate number of members of appropriate shapes.

[0062] Although not specifically indicated by a reference numeral in Fig. 2, the container 61 is composed of a container body (reference numeral omitted) with an open top and a lid that covers the top of the container body. The measuring chamber R1 is, for example, in the shape of a straight column with its axis extending vertically. However, for example, part or all of the lower side may be in the shape of a funnel (an inverted cone) (see Fig. 6).

[0063] The measuring chamber R1 is open downward. In the example of Fig. 2, this is opened by a through-hole 63a of a valve body 63 formed by the bottom of the container 61. The container 61 allows the molten metal to flow in from below and out of the container 61 downward.

[0064] (2.2.3. Valve) The valve element 63 shown in FIG. 2 moves together with the container 61. Such a mechanism may be referred to as a valve mechanism 62-1 according to a first aspect. On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c) described below, the valve element 63A may move relative to the container 61. Such a mechanism may be referred to as a valve mechanism 62-2 according to a second aspect. In the description of the embodiment, the reference numerals of the valve mechanism 62-1 and the valve element 63 are mainly used, but these reference numerals may be substituted for 62-2 and 63A unless a contradiction arises.

[0065] 2, the valve element 63 is formed by the bottom of the container 61. The valve element 63 of this embodiment may be formed integrally with the side surface of the container 61, or may be produced separately from the side surface and fixed to the side surface.

[0066] As described above, melt supply device 55 has inlet P1 and outlet P2. In the example of Fig. 2, inlet P1 and outlet P2 are formed in connecting pipe 57 (which may be considered as part of melt supply device 55, as described above). Inlet P1 communicates with furnace 53 via connecting pipe 57. Outlet P2 communicates with injection device 9 via melt supply pipe 65.

[0067] At the inflow position, the through-hole 63a of the valve body 63 overlaps with the inlet P1, thereby communicating the metering chamber R1 with the inlet P1. For example, the outlet P2 is closed on the metering chamber R1 side by the valve body 63. However, unlike the illustrated example, the outlet P2 may be partially or entirely located outside the valve body 63, with the metering chamber R1 side being open to the atmosphere (see FIG. 3(a)).

[0068] At the outflow position, the through hole 63a overlaps with the outlet P2, thereby connecting the measuring chamber R1 and the outlet P2. For example, the inlet P1 is closed on the measuring chamber R1 side by the valve body 63. However, this is not the case in an embodiment where the connecting pipe 57 is not sealed (an embodiment different from the embodiment).

[0069] In the neutral position, the through-hole 63a is located between the inlet P1 and the outlet P2 (not overlapping either of them). The description of the outlet position may be applied to the inlet P1 in this case. The description of the inlet position may be applied to the outlet P2 in this case.

[0070] The structure, shape, dimensions, material, etc. of the valve body 63 are arbitrary. The shape and dimensions, as well as the size and positional relationship of the through-hole 63a, the inlet port P1, and the outlet port P2, are also arbitrary. For example, the valve body 63 (and / or the member that slides against the valve body 63) may have a packing on the sliding surface. The plate-shaped portion of the valve body 63 may have any shape that can be roughly considered to be plate-shaped. A plate-like shape can be defined as, for example, a shape in which the thickness (or, from another perspective, the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the movement direction) is greater than the dimension in any other direction. The surface of the plate may have irregularities.

[0071] The valve mechanism according to the first embodiment may have various configurations different from those described above. For example, the facing direction of the valve body 63 (plate-shaped portion) may be horizontal. The molten metal may flow in and out of the lower part of the side surface of the measuring chamber R1. Furthermore, for example, the valve body 63 may have two through holes (flow paths from another perspective). At the inflow position, one through hole may overlap the inlet port P1, and the other through hole may not overlap the outlet port P2. At the outflow position, one through hole may not overlap the inlet port P1, and the other through hole may overlap the outlet port P2.

[0072] (2.2.3.2. Valve body according to another example) Figures 3(a) to 3(c) are cross-sectional views showing a valve body 63A according to another example in the valve mechanism of the first aspect. However, the valve body 63A is not another example of the valve body 63, but can also be regarded as a specific example of the valve body 63. Figure 3(a) shows the valve body 63A in an inflow position. Figure 3(b) shows the valve body 63A in an outflow position. Figure 3(c) shows the valve body 63A in a neutral position.

[0073] In this example, the valve body 63A is configured as a plate-like member separate from the side surface (cylindrical body) of the container 61. However, since the container 61 may be configured by combining two or more members, the valve body 63A may be regarded as part of the container 61, as in Fig. 2. The valve body 63A is configured to be wider on the right side of the figure (in the direction from the outlet P2 to the inlet P1) than the side surface of the container 61.

[0074] 3(a) to 3(c) also show examples of inlet P1 and outlet P2 that are different from those shown in FIG. 2. Specifically, inlet P1 and outlet P2 are provided in plate-shaped lower base 73 rather than in connecting pipe 57. Lower base 73 is interposed between valve body 63A and connecting pipe 57 so as to overlap the plate-shaped portion of valve body 63A (the entire valve body 63A in the illustrated example, and therefore the reference number is omitted) from below (from the outside, from another perspective). Accordingly, hot water supply pipe 65 is connected to lower base 73 rather than to connecting pipe 57.

[0075] (2.2.3.3. Valve mechanism according to second embodiment) Figures 4(a) to 4(c) are cross-sectional views showing the valve mechanism according to the second embodiment. The states of Figures 4(a) to 4(c) correspond to Figures 3(a) to 3(c).

[0076] In this example, the valve body 63A is not fixed to the container 61. Furthermore, a plate-shaped upper base 75 is fixed from below to the side portion (cylindrical body) of the container 61. However, the upper base 75 may be regarded as part of the container 61 rather than as a separate member from the container 61. The upper base 75 has an opening 75a that penetrates in the thickness direction. The valve body 63A slides between the lower base 73 and the upper base 75. In other words, the container 61 does not move.

[0077] The valve body 63A moves to the inlet position, the outlet position, and the neutral position, similar to the first embodiment. In each position, the positional relationship of the through-hole 63a of the valve body 63A with respect to the inlet P1 and the outlet P2 is the same. Furthermore, in all three positions, the through-hole 63a overlaps with the opening 75a. This allows the inflow and outflow of molten metal, similar to the first embodiment.

[0078] The structure, shape, dimensions, material, etc. of the upper base 75, which is not included in the first embodiment, are arbitrary. For example, the diameter of the opening 75a may be smaller than (as in the illustrated example), the same as, or larger than the inner diameter of the side surface of the container 61 (but smaller than the outer diameter of the side surface of the container 61). The upper base 75 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0079] (2.2.4. Valve Drive Unit) (2.2.4.1. Valve Drive Unit in General) The valve drive unit 67 ( FIG. 2 ) may have any configuration. For example, the valve drive unit 67 may be hydraulic (e.g., oil pressure), gas pressure (including those using air), or electric. More specifically, the valve drive unit 67 may be a hydraulic or gas pressure cylinder, or a linear motor. The valve drive unit 67 may also include a rotary motor and a conversion mechanism that appropriately converts rotary motion into linear motion. Examples of conversion mechanisms include a screw mechanism, a link mechanism, and a rack-and-pinion mechanism.

[0080] 2 illustrates a hydraulic or gas pressure cylinder as the valve drive unit 67. In this example, the cylinder body (cylindrical member) is fixed directly or indirectly to the connecting pipe 57 (from another perspective, the inlet port P1 and the outlet port P2), and the rod is fixed directly or indirectly to the valve body 63.

[0081] Although not particularly shown, the position of the valve element 63 may be detected by an appropriate sensor. The sensor may be, for example, a switch (e.g., a limit switch) that detects that the valve element 63 has reached the inflow position or the outflow position (or the neutral position as necessary), or may be a sensor (e.g., an encoder) that can continuously detect the position of the valve element 63. Furthermore, the sensor may be, for example, a sensor that directly detects the position of the valve element 63, or a sensor that detects the position of a movable part of the valve drive unit 67.

[0082] (2.2.4.2. Example using double cylinders) Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an example in which a double cylinder, described below, is used for the valve driver 67. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in Figure 5. For convenience, the valve driver 67 in this example may be referred to as valve driver 67A. As indicated by the reference numerals in Figure 6, the valve configurations shown in Figures 3(a) to 3(c) are used as examples.

[0083] The valve drive unit 67A has a double cylinder 77. The double cylinder 77 has a first cylinder 78A and a second cylinder 78B fixed to each other in series. Each cylinder (78A and 78B) has a cylinder member 78a, a piston 78b that slides within the cylinder member 78a, and a rod 78c that is fixed to the piston 78b and extends from the cylinder member 78a. The first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B are fixed to each other at the head side of the cylinder member 78a (the side opposite the rod 78c).

[0084] The rod 78c of the first cylinder 78A is fixed to the lower base 73 (from another perspective, the inlet port P1 and the outlet port P2). More specifically, in the illustrated example, the rod 78c of the first cylinder 78A is fixed to the lower base 73 via the following members: A horizontal first plate 79 including the lower base 73; Two vertical second plates 81 erected on the first plate 79, one of which is on the right side in the figure; A pair of first rods 83 extending from the second plate 81 on the right side in the figure; and a plate-shaped connecting portion 85 fixed to the tips of the pair of first rods 83.

[0085] The rod 78c of the second cylinder 78B is fixed to the valve body 63A. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the rod 78c of the second cylinder 78B is fixed to the right-hand third plate 87 of the two perpendicular third plates 87 fixed to the valve body 63A. The rod 78c of the first cylinder 78A passes through the second plate 81 on the right side of the figure.

[0086] The pair of first rods 83 may also contribute to guiding the cylinder members of the double cylinder 77. The illustrated example also illustrates a mechanism for guiding the container 61. Specifically, the above-mentioned second plates 81 are provided as a pair with the container 61 in between, and a second rod 89 is suspended between them. In addition, a pair of third plates 87 are provided with the container 61 in between, and the second rod 89 is inserted through and guided by the second rod 89.

[0087] 3(a) to 3(c) show examples of the operation of the double cylinder 77. For convenience, the coupling part 85 is shown fixed to the connecting pipe 57. However, the coupling part 85 may actually be fixed to the connecting pipe 57 as shown in the drawings.

[0088] 3A, in the inflow position, the rod 78c of each of the first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B is fully inserted into the cylinder member 78a. In other words, the piston 78b is positioned at the drive limit (hereinafter referred to as the "retract limit") on the head side (opposite the rod 78c).

[0089] 3B, in the outflow position, the rods 78c of both the first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B are fully extended from the cylinder members 78a. In other words, the pistons 78b are positioned at the drive limit (hereinafter referred to as the "forward limit") on the rod 78c side.

[0090] As shown in Figure 3(c), in the neutral position, the piston 78b in one of the first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B (the former in the illustrated example) is positioned at its rearmost position, and the piston 78b in the other cylinder is positioned at its forwardmost position.

[0091] In this way, by using the double cylinder 77, three positions, i.e., the inflow position, outflow position, and neutral position, can be realized by positioning the pistons 78b of the first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B at their forward or backward limits. In other words, three positions can be realized by a full stroke.

[0092] Although not shown, each cylinder may be provided with a limit switch that detects when the piston 78 b reaches its forward limit and a limit switch that detects when the piston 78 b reaches its backward limit. The controller 5 may detect that the valve body 63A has reached either position based on signals from the limit switches.

[0093] The first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B may be manufactured, for example, with the expectation that they will be used alone, or may be manufactured from the beginning with the expectation that they will form the double cylinder 77. Furthermore, the two may be fixed together by connecting head-side members that are manufactured separately, or by integrally configuring the head-side portions of both.

[0094] The first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B may have the same or different configurations. For example, the strokes of the first and second cylinders 78A and 78B may be the same (the neutral position may be midway between the inflow and outflow positions) or may be different. The cross-sectional areas of the pistons 78b may also be the same or different.

[0095] The operations illustrated in Figures 3(a) to 3(c) can be realized as long as the first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B are fixed in series. "In series" here means that driving force is applied in series, not that they are coaxially arranged. Furthermore, instead of fixing the cylinder members 78a to each other, the rods 78c may be fixed to each other (the cylinder members 78a may be fixed to the valve body 63A and the lower base 73), or the rods 78c and the cylinder members 78a may be fixed. Furthermore, the two cylinders fixed in series may be configured as multi-stage (telescopic) cylinders.

[0096] Unlike the illustrated example, the double cylinder 77 may be positioned to the left of the valve body 63 in the drawing so that it is fully extended at the inflow position and fully contracted at the outflow position. As can be understood from the explanation in the previous paragraph, it is also possible to determine whether the piston 78b in each cylinder is positioned at the forward limit or the backward limit in the fully extended (or fully contracted) state.

[0097] (2.2.5. Mold Level Sensor) (2.2.5.1. Mold Level Sensors in General) The amount of molten metal in the measuring chamber R1 can be determined, for example, by detecting the molten metal level using the mold level sensor 69 (FIG. 2). The controller 5 can detect, for example, based on a signal from the mold level sensor 69, that the amount of molten metal flowing into the measuring chamber R1 from the inlet P1 has reached the amount for one shot. Then, based on this detection, the controller 5 controls the valve drive unit 67 to switch the valve element 63 from the inlet position to the outlet position.

[0098] The molten metal level sensor 69 may have any configuration. Although not particularly shown, the following examples are given: A detection rod having a pair of electrodes extending in the vertical direction, which are energized when the molten metal level reaches the bottom, thereby detecting the molten metal level; A laser displacement sensor that irradiates the molten metal surface with a laser beam and receives the reflected light to measure the distance to the molten metal level; An ultrasonic sensor that irradiates the molten metal surface with an ultrasonic wave and receives the reflected wave to measure the distance to the molten metal level; A linear encoder that detects the upper and lower positions of a float floating in the molten metal; A sensor that detects the molten metal level based on changes in capacitance or inductance depending on its position relative to the molten metal. Note that Figure 2 shows a detection rod as an example.

[0099] As can be seen from the above example, the molten metal level sensor 69 may be a switch that detects when the molten metal level has reached a predetermined height, or may be a sensor that can continuously detect various levels of the molten metal level. The molten metal level sensor 69 may be either a contact type or a non-contact type. A non-contact type sensor may be located inside or outside the container 61. In the latter case, the non-contact type sensor may be capable of detecting the molten metal through the lid of the container 61. An example of such a sensor is an ultrasonic sensor. Furthermore, as will be described later, a laser displacement sensor may be used by making part of the lid translucent.

[0100] When the molten metal level sensor 69 continuously detects the height of the molten metal level, the controller 5 (or the calculation unit of the molten metal level sensor 69) may average multiple detection values ​​acquired at a predetermined sampling cycle within a predetermined period of time, and determine the amount of molten metal based on this average value (or control the valve driving unit 67). In this case, for example, the effect of waves on the molten metal surface on the accuracy of determining the amount of molten metal can be reduced.

[0101] The amount of molten metal in the measuring chamber R1 can also be detected by a sensor other than the molten metal level sensor. For example, as will be described later, in a mode in which the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1 is raised by reducing the pressure in the measuring chamber R1, the amount of molten metal in the measuring chamber R1 (the height of the molten metal level) can be determined by detecting the air pressure in the measuring chamber R1 with a pressure sensor. Also, the total weight of the container 61 and the molten metal in the container 61 may be measured with a load cell, or the flow rate at the inlet P1 may be measured with a flow meter.

[0102] (2.2.5.2. Example using a laser displacement sensor) Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which a laser displacement sensor is used as the molten metal level sensor 69. For convenience, the molten metal level sensor 69 using a laser displacement sensor will be referred to as molten metal level sensor 69A. Fig. 5, which was referred to in the explanation of the valve drive unit 67, also shows the molten metal level sensor 69A.

[0103] The molten metal level sensor 69A is located above and outside the container 61. A light-transmitting section 61c that transmits light is provided at the top of the container 61. The molten metal level sensor 69A irradiates the molten metal ML with laser light through the light-transmitting section 61c, receives light reflected from the molten metal surface, and detects the distance to the molten metal surface (and therefore the height of the molten metal surface). In this way, the amount of molten metal for one shot is measured.

[0104] The light transmitted through the light-transmitting portion 61c is, for example, visible light (e.g., wavelength of 360 nm or more and 830 nm or less). The material of the light-transmitting portion 61c is, for example, heat-resistant glass, more specifically, quartz glass or borosilicate glass. Note that the portions of the container 61 other than the light-transmitting portion 61c are made of, for example, metal and / or ceramic and do not transmit light.

[0105] In the example of Fig. 7, the molten metal level sensor 69A is housed in a housing 91. The housing 91 helps protect the molten metal level sensor 69A from heat and the like. The housing 91 has a light-transmitting portion 91a at its bottom. The description of the material of the light-transmitting portion 61c may be applied to the material of the light-transmitting portion 91a. The material of the portions of the housing 91 other than the light-transmitting portion 91a is made of, for example, metal and / or ceramic.

[0106] 7, in addition to the molten metal level sensor 69A, a detection rod (hereinafter referred to as the molten metal level sensor 69B) having a pair of electrodes is also provided. In this example, the molten metal level sensor 69B is used not to detect the amount of molten metal for one shot, but to detect that the molten metal level has reached a predetermined height when some kind of malfunction occurs in the molten metal level sensor 69A.

[0107] Therefore, the molten metal level detected by the molten metal level sensor 69B is set higher than the molten metal level corresponding to the amount of molten metal for one shot. This level may be constant regardless of changes in the amount of molten metal for one shot that occur, for example, when the mold 101 is replaced, or may be set according to changes in the amount of molten metal for one shot. The molten metal level detected by the molten metal level sensor 69B (in other words, a contact sensor) is higher than at least a part of the range of molten metal level that can be detected by the molten metal level sensor 69A (in other words, a non-contact sensor).

[0108] (2.2.6. Gas Pressure Circuit) (2.2.6.1. Gas Pressure Circuit in General) The gas pressure circuit 71 shown in Fig. 2 supplies inert gas to the measuring chamber R1. In the illustrated example, the gas pressure circuit 71 supplies inert gas to the measuring chamber R1 via a gas port 61d that connects the measuring chamber R1 with the outside of the container 61. The position of the gas port 61d may be any position above the assumed height of the molten metal surface in the measuring chamber R1.

[0109] The gas pressure circuit 71 may have various configurations as long as it is capable of supplying the inert gas to the measuring chamber R1. For example, the gas pressure circuit 71 may or may not be capable of controlling the pressure in the measuring chamber R1. Furthermore, the gas pressure circuit 71 may or may not be capable of supplying the inert gas to the furnace 53. The specific configuration for achieving the above-described operation is also arbitrary. The operation of the gas pressure circuit 71 is controlled by, for example, the controller 5.

[0110] 2, the gas pressure circuit 71 has a configuration shown in the lower part of the figure (a configuration including a tank 93) for supplying the inert gas to the measuring chamber R1, and a configuration shown in the upper part of the figure (a configuration including a gas cylinder 95) for sucking the inert gas from the measuring chamber R1. The gas pressure circuit 71 also has an exhaust flow path 97 that supplies the inert gas sucked from the measuring chamber R1 to the furnace 53. Specific configurations of these components are, for example, as follows:

[0111] (2.2.6.2. Configuration Related to Supply of Inert Gas) The gas pressure circuit 71 has a tank 93 that stores inert gas to supply the inert gas to the metering chamber R1. The tank 93 is connected to the metering chamber R1 (gas port 61d). The tank 93 is also used to increase the pressure in the metering chamber R1 by its pressure. By increasing the pressure in the metering chamber R1, for example, when supplying the molten metal from the metering chamber R1 to the injection sleeve 107, the molten metal can be quickly discharged from the metering chamber R1.

[0112] The tank 93 is a sealed container made of metal or the like. The tank 93 is filled with an inert gas at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. The pressure of the tank 93 decreases as the inert gas is supplied to the measuring chamber R1. The tank 93 is then replaced with a new tank 93 at an appropriate time. The pressure of the tank 93 is arbitrary. It is also possible to fill the tank 93 with an inert gas using an appropriate device without replacing it.

[0113] Valves for controlling the flow of gas may be provided as appropriate in the flow path (reference numerals omitted) connecting the tank 93 and the measuring chamber R1. In the illustrated example, the following valves are exemplified: a supply valve 151 controlled by the controller 5 to allow or prohibit flow from the tank 93 to the measuring chamber R1; a regulation valve 153 that adjusts the pressure of the gas supplied from the tank 93 to the measuring chamber R1 (to a predetermined pressure, for example); and a check valve 155 that prevents backflow into the tank 93. The specific configurations of these valves are also arbitrary.

[0114] (2.2.6.3. Configuration Related to Suction of Inert Gas) The gas pressure circuit 71 has a gas cylinder 95 for suctioning inert gas from the measuring chamber R1. The gas cylinder 95 has a cylinder member 95a and a ram 95b that is movable axially within the cylinder member 95a. The cylinder member 95a has a space in which inert gas is stored. The volume of this space changes with the movement of the ram 95b. This allows the inert gas to be sucked in or discharged.

[0115] Unlike the illustrated example, the gas cylinder 95 may have a piston that slides within the cylinder member 95a. In other words, a piston may be provided that divides the interior of the cylinder member 95a into two cylinder chambers. In this case, only one of the two cylinder chambers may be used for suction and discharge of the inert gas, or both of the two cylinder chambers may be used for suction and discharge of the inert gas. In the former case, the other of the two cylinder chambers is, for example, open to the atmosphere. In the latter case, when suction is performed in one cylinder chamber, discharge is performed in the other cylinder chamber. Note that in the configuration using the ram 95b and the configuration using only the cylinder chamber on the head side of the piston, fewer seals are required to reduce inert gas leakage than in the configuration using two cylinder chambers.

[0116] The drive mechanism for driving the gas cylinder 95 may have any configuration. For example, the drive mechanism may drive either the cylinder member 95a or the ram 95b (or piston) (the latter in the illustrated example). The drive mechanism may be electric or hydraulic. In the former case, a rotary motor or a linear motor may be used. In the example of FIG. 2, a rotary electric motor 157, a pulley and belt mechanism 159 that transmits the rotation of the electric motor 157, and a screw mechanism 161 that converts the rotation of the pulley and belt mechanism 159 into linear motion are provided.

[0117] For example, when the volume of the cylinder member 95a expands, the gas pressure circuit 71 allows flow from the metering chamber R1 to the cylinder member 95a and prohibits flow from the exhaust flow path 97 to the cylinder member 95a. Furthermore, for example, when the volume of the cylinder member 95a decreases, the gas pressure circuit 71 prohibits flow from the cylinder member 95a to the metering chamber R1 and allows flow from the cylinder member 95a to the exhaust flow path 97. This allows the inert gas to be sucked from the metering chamber R1 into the gas cylinder 95 and sent from the gas cylinder 95 to the exhaust flow path 97. Unlike the illustrated example, the gas cylinder 95 can also be used to supply the inert gas to the metering chamber R1.

[0118] The specific configuration of the flow paths and valves for achieving the above operation is arbitrary. In the illustrated example, a first check valve 161A, a second check valve 161B, and a control valve 163 are provided. The first check valve 161A allows flow from the metering chamber R1 to the cylinder member 95a and prohibits flow in the opposite direction. The second check valve 161B allows flow from the cylinder member 95a to the exhaust flow path 97 and prohibits flow in the opposite direction. The control valve 163 is controlled by the controller 5 and allows and prohibits flow between the cylinder member 95a and the exhaust flow path 97. For example, the control valve 163 is closed when inert gas is sucked from the metering chamber R1 and is opened when inert gas is delivered to the exhaust flow path 97. Note that in the illustrated example, the control valve 163 can be omitted.

[0119] 2, the flow path extending from the tank 93 to supply the inert gas to the measuring chamber R1 and the flow path extending from the cylinder member 95a to suck the inert gas from the measuring chamber R1 share a portion on the measuring chamber R1 side and share the gas port 61d. However, the two may be connected separately to the measuring chamber R1.

[0120] (2.2.6.4. Other Configurations of the Gas Pressure Circuit) The exhaust flow path 97 connects the gas cylinder 95 and the furnace 53. Therefore, the inert gas that flows into the exhaust flow path 97 is supplied to the furnace 53. This reduces, for example, oxidation of the molten metal in the furnace 53. Note that the exhaust flow path 97 does not necessarily have to be provided. For example, the inert gas discharged from the gas cylinder 95 may be released into the atmosphere.

[0121] The exhaust flow path 97 may be connected to any position within the furnace 53 as long as it is connected to a position above the molten metal surface within the furnace 53. In the illustrated example, the exhaust flow path 97 is connected to a temperature control region 53b (described later). However, the exhaust flow path 97 may also be connected to a melting region 53a (described later), or may be branched and connected to both the temperature control region 53b and the melting region 53a.

[0122] The gas pressure circuit 71 may have a pressure sensor 165 that detects the pressure of the inert gas supplied to the metering chamber R1. The position where the pressure is directly detected by the pressure sensor 165 is arbitrary, and may be, for example, a position in the flow path leading from the tank 93 to the metering chamber R1 (as in the illustrated example), a position in the metering chamber R1, or another flow path (for example, a flow path connecting the metering chamber R1 and the gas cylinder 95). The detected value of the pressure sensor 165 is input to, for example, the controller 5 and used to control the gas pressure circuit 71. Note that the pressure sensor 165 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0123] (2.3. Furnace) The furnace 53 may be a melting and holding furnace that also functions as a melting furnace for melting metal materials (as in the illustrated example), or it may be a holding furnace (in the narrow sense) that does not have a melting function and only has a heat retention function. The melting and holding furnace may melt only the ingot IG, or, although not specifically illustrated, may be configured to be able to melt returned material or other materials (e.g., chips). The ingot IG may be a new ingot and / or a recycled ingot. In the description of the embodiment, the ingot IG will be taken as an example.

[0124] The furnace 53 has a container-shaped furnace body 53c that stores molten metal. The furnace body 53c, although not specifically designated by a reference numeral, may have a container-shaped base and a heater that heats the inside of the base. The interior of the furnace body 53c may be divided by a partition 53d into a melting area 53a and a temperature control area 53b. The melting area 53a is used to melt the ingot IG. The temperature control area 53b is connected to a container 61 of the melt supply device 55 and is used to adjust the temperature of the molten metal to a temperature suitable for molding.

[0125] The opening above the furnace body 53c is closed by a lid 53e. The space above the molten metal surface in the temperature control zone 53b may be sealed by the lid 53e, or may not be completely sealed and be kept at atmospheric pressure. In the description of the embodiment, the latter may be taken as an example unless otherwise specified. The lid 53e has an opening above the melting zone 53a for supplying the material before melting into the furnace body 53c. The furnace 53 may or may not be configured to be able to close the opening. The area above the molten metal surface in the melting zone 53a may or may not be connected to the area above the molten metal surface in the temperature control zone 53b.

[0126] (2.4. Other Configurations of the Meltwater Supply System) The configuration of the connecting pipe 57 (its internal flow path; hereinafter, the same applies unless otherwise specified unless a contradiction occurs) connecting the furnace body 53c of the furnace 53 and the container 61 of the meltwater supply device 55 is arbitrary. In the example of FIG. 2, the connecting pipe 57 is inserted into the molten metal in the furnace body 53c from the molten metal surface. More specifically, the connecting pipe 57 is inserted through the lid 53e and inserted into the molten metal. Unlike the example shown in the figure, the connecting pipe 57 may be inserted into the side of the furnace 53 above the molten metal surface in the furnace 53 and bent and inserted into the molten metal. The connecting pipe 57 may also be connected to an opening located on the side of the furnace 53 below the molten metal surface in the furnace 53. The connecting pipe 57 may also have a built-in heater.

[0127] The material supply unit 59 that supplies the pre-melting material to the furnace body 53c may have any configuration. For example, the material supply unit 59 may be configured to immerse the lower portion of a vertically long ingot IG by the required length into the molten metal in the furnace body 53c, or may be configured to feed the required number of ingots IG (which may be as few as one) into the molten metal. The material supply unit 59 may be a robot or a belt conveyor. A robot that removes products from the mold 101 after mold opening may also serve as the material supply unit 59.

[0128] The furnace 53 may be provided with a molten metal level sensor 167 that detects the height of the molten metal level. The description of the molten metal level sensor 69 may be applied to the molten metal level sensor 167, unless a contradiction arises. The controller 5 may control the material supply unit 59 based on the detection value of the molten metal level sensor 167 so that the molten metal level at a predetermined time point (e.g., immediately before supplying molten metal) in each molding cycle becomes a predetermined height. In other words, the controller 5 may control the material supply unit 59 so as to supply one shot of material to the furnace 53 for each shot. In this case, for example, an error of less than 2 / 3, 1 / 2, or 1 / 3 of the amount of molten metal for one shot may exist.

[0129] The control of supplying one shot of material for each shot is not limited to that based on the molten metal level sensor 167. For example, in a configuration in which the required number of ingots IG are charged, an integer multiple (or even 1) of the number of ingots IG may correspond to the amount of molten metal for one shot, and the integer number of ingots IG may be supplied for each molding cycle. Also, in a configuration in which a vertically long ingot IG is gradually immersed in the molten metal, the ingot IG may be immersed a constant length for each molding cycle.

[0130] (2.5. Method of Transferring Molten Metal, etc.) In the example of FIG. 2 , the inlet P1 is located above the molten metal surface in the furnace 53. In this case, any method can be used to transfer the molten metal in the furnace 53 above the molten metal surface in the furnace 53. For example, the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 can be reduced by a gas cylinder 95. Alternatively, for example, although not specifically shown, pressure can be applied to the molten metal surface in the furnace 53 (e.g., in the temperature control region 53b) by an appropriate mechanism. Alternatively, for example, although not specifically shown, an electromagnetic pump can be provided in the connecting pipe 57. Two or more of the above methods can be combined. In the description of the embodiments, unless otherwise specified, the description may be based on an example in which the molten metal is transferred by reducing the pressure in the measuring chamber R1.

[0131] Unlike the example in Figure 2, the inlet P1 may be located, for example, below the molten metal surface in the furnace 53. In this case, the molten metal can be supplied from the furnace 53 to the measuring chamber R1 by its own weight. In this case, unlike the example shown in the figure, the connecting pipe 57 is connected to an opening located on the side of the furnace 53 below the molten metal surface in the furnace 53. The inlet P1 may be located at the same position as the opening in the vertical direction, or may be located above or below it. Note that even when the inlet P1 is located below the molten metal surface in the furnace 53, the above-mentioned method of reducing the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 may be used.

[0132] As described above, the controller 5 determines the molten metal level (the amount of molten metal in the measuring chamber R1) based on the detection value of the molten metal level sensor 69. However, the controller 5 can also determine the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1 based on the detection value of the molten metal level sensor 167 instead of the detection value of the molten metal level sensor 69. For example, unlike the example shown in the figure, in a configuration in which the inlet P1 is located below the molten metal level in the furnace 53, the molten metal may be supplied to the measuring chamber R1 until the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1 reaches the same height as the molten metal level in the furnace 53. In this case, the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1 can be indirectly detected by the molten metal level sensor 167.

[0133] In the above case, the method of adjusting the molten metal surface level in the furnace 53 so that the amount of molten metal for one shot is supplied to the measuring chamber R1 is not limited to adjusting the amount of material supplied to the furnace 53. For example, the pressure inside the furnace 53 may be adjusted.

[0134] (2.6. Operation of the hot water supply system) Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the hot water supply process executed by the controller 5. This process is started, for example, when a predetermined number of molding cycles are started, and is carried out in parallel with the molding cycles. Furthermore, in one molding cycle, steps ST21 to ST32 shown in Fig. 8 are carried out once. In the following description, for convenience, reference will be made to Figs. 3(a) to 3(c) which use the reference number of the valve body 63, while also referring to the reference number of the valve body 63A.

[0135] In step ST21, the controller 5 controls the valve drive unit 67 to move the valve element 63 to the neutral position (FIG. 3C), thereby blocking the measuring chamber R1 from the inlet port P1 and the outlet port P2, and ultimately sealing the measuring chamber R1 (except for the gas port 61d).

[0136] In step ST22, the controller 5 controls the gas pressure circuit 71 so that the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 becomes a predetermined pressure. For example, the controller 5 controls the electric motor 157 that drives the gas cylinder 95 so that the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 is reduced to a predetermined pressure that is lower than atmospheric pressure.

[0137] This allows the molten metal to quickly start flowing into the measuring chamber R1 when, for example, the valve element 63 is later moved to the inflow position (step ST24). The predetermined pressure may be, for example, a pressure at which the molten metal level at the inlet P1 does not move when the valve element 63 is moved to the inflow position, or a pressure lower than this that allows the molten metal to flow into the measuring chamber R1.

[0138] In step ST23, the controller 5 determines whether a condition for starting metering has been met. The condition may be, for example, that the molding cycle has progressed to a predetermined stage (in other words, that the die-casting machine 1 has reached a predetermined state). If the determination is affirmative, the controller 5 proceeds to step ST24, and if the determination is negative, the controller 5 waits (repeating step ST23).

[0139] In step ST24, the controller 5 controls the valve driving unit 67 to move the valve element 63 to the inflow position (FIG. 3A). This allows the molten metal in the furnace 53 to flow into the measuring chamber R1 through the valve element 63.

[0140] In step ST25, the controller 5 controls the gas pressure circuit 71 (the electric motor 157 that drives the gas cylinder 95, etc.) to start depressurizing the measuring chamber R1 by suctioning the inert gas in the measuring chamber R1. As a result, the molten metal flows into the measuring chamber R1, and the molten metal surface rises.

[0141] In step ST26, the controller 5 determines whether or not the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1 has reached a predetermined target height based on a signal from the molten metal level sensor 69. If the determination is affirmative, the controller 5 proceeds to step ST27, and if the determination is negative, the controller 5 waits (continuing to reduce the pressure in the measuring chamber R1).

[0142] In step ST27, the controller 5 controls the gas pressure circuit 71 to stop the depressurization. By stopping the depressurization, the molten metal surface in the measuring chamber R1 is maintained at the target height set in step ST26. In other words, the metering of one shot of molten metal is completed. Note that in addition to or instead of stopping the depressurization, control may be performed to close the inlet port P1 (for example, by moving the valve element 63 to the neutral position).

[0143] In step ST28, the controller 5 determines whether or not a condition for starting the supply of molten metal to the die-casting machine 1 has been met. This condition may be, for example, that the die-casting machine 1 is ready to receive molten metal into the injection sleeve 107, such as when mold closing is completed. If the determination is affirmative, the controller 5 proceeds to step ST29, and if the determination is negative, the controller 5 waits (repeats step ST28).

[0144] In step ST29, the controller 5 controls the valve drive unit 67 to move the valve element 63 to the outflow position (FIG. 3B), thereby supplying the molten metal in the measuring chamber R1 to the injection sleeve 107 through the outflow port P2.

[0145] In step ST30, the controller 5 controls the gas pressure circuit 71 (supply valve 151, etc.) to increase the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 by supplying inert gas to the measuring chamber R1. This allows the molten metal to be quickly supplied from the measuring chamber R1 to the injection sleeve 107. At this time, the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 may or may not reach a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0146] In step ST31, the controller 5 determines whether a predetermined termination condition is satisfied. The termination condition may be, for example, that the number of repetitions of the molding cycle has reached a number preset via the interface 13. If the determination is affirmative, the controller 5 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 8, and if the determination is negative, the controller 5 proceeds to step ST32.

[0147] In step ST32, the controller 5 controls the material supply unit 59 so that unmelted material (e.g., ingot IG) corresponding to one shot is supplied to the furnace 53. As a result, the height of the molten metal surface in the furnace 53 becomes the same as the height before the molten metal was supplied from the furnace 53 to the measuring chamber R1. Then, the controller 5 proceeds to step ST21.

[0148] The illustrated process may be modified as appropriate. For example, steps ST21 and ST22 may not be performed. Furthermore, in a configuration in which the molten metal level in the furnace 53 does not affect the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1, the ingot IG may be supplied to the furnace 53 at any time after measuring (for example, before supplying the molten metal).

[0149] (3. Summary of the embodiment) In the following description, for convenience, a symbol of one of various aspects may be selected and used. However, the matters described below also apply to aspects for which no symbol is used, unless a contradiction occurs.

[0150] The melt supply device 55 according to the embodiment includes a measuring chamber R1, an inlet P1, an outlet P1, and a valve body 63. The inlet P1 opens toward the measuring chamber R1 from a first side (-D3 side) in a first direction (D3 direction), allowing the molten metal ML from the furnace 53 to flow into the measuring chamber R1. The outlet P2 opens toward the measuring chamber R1 from the -D3 side, allowing the molten metal ML in the measuring chamber R1 to flow out to the injection device 9. The valve body 63 includes a plate-shaped portion (the entire valve body 63 in this embodiment) facing the D3 direction between the measuring chamber R1 and the inlet P1 and outlet P2. The valve body 63 moves parallel to the second direction (horizontal direction) intersecting the D3 direction between the inlet position and the outlet position. At the inlet position, the valve body 63 connects the inlet P1 to the measuring chamber R1 and blocks the outlet P2 from the measuring chamber R1. In addition, when in the outflow position, the valve body 63 communicates the measuring chamber R1 with the outflow port P2 and blocks the inflow port P1 from the measuring chamber R1.

[0151] From another perspective, a hot water supply system 51 according to an embodiment includes the hot water supply device 55 according to the embodiment described above and a furnace 53 .

[0152] From another perspective, the molding system MS according to the embodiment has the melt supply device 55 according to the embodiment as described above, and also has a molding machine (die-casting machine 1) including the injection device 9.

[0153] Therefore, as described in the overview of the embodiment, the molten metal is measured and supplied using the valve element 63, so that a high-quality molten metal can be supplied to the injection device 9 at a highly accurate amount. Furthermore, the sliding of the plate-shaped portion of the valve element 63 makes it easy to adjust the contact pressure of the valve element 63 to an appropriate level. As a result, the movement of the valve element 63 can be made smoother while reducing the possibility of the molten metal entering the gaps in the sliding surface of the valve element 63. Furthermore, the configuration and control are simplified.

[0154] The first direction (the direction in which the inlet P1 and the outlet P2 are open) may be a vertical direction. The first side may be downward. The second direction may be a horizontal direction.

[0155] In this case, compared to a configuration in which the inlet P1 and the outlet P2 open laterally at the bottom of the measuring chamber R1, the likelihood of the molten metal remaining in the measuring chamber R1 when the molten metal is supplied from the measuring chamber R1 to the injection device 9 is reduced, thereby improving the accuracy of the amount of molten metal supplied.

[0156] The valve body 63 may have a through hole 63a penetrating the plate-shaped portion in the thickness direction. The through hole 63a may be configured so that, at the inflow position, it overlaps with the inlet port P1 but does not overlap with the outlet port P2, and, at the outflow position, it overlaps with the outlet port P2 but does not overlap with the inlet port P1.

[0157] As an example of an embodiment different from the above embodiment, as already described, there is an embodiment in which the valve body 63 has two through holes, one of which overlaps with the inlet port P1 at the inflow position and the other of which overlaps with the outlet port P2 at the outflow position. Compared to this embodiment, since there is only one through hole 63a, the likelihood of molten metal leaking from the through hole 63a to the sliding surface of the valve body 63 is low. As a result, for example, the accuracy of the amount of molten metal supplied is improved. From another perspective, the need for a structure (e.g., a packing) to reduce such leakage is reduced, or the range of arrangement is reduced. In other words, the structure is simplified.

[0158] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3(a) to 3(c), the valve body 63 may move between the inlet position and the outlet position by moving relative to the inlet P1 and the outlet P2 together with the container 61 that forms the measuring chamber R1.

[0159] In this case, unlike the second embodiment (FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c)), for example, there is no sliding surface between the valve body 63 and the container 61. Naturally, there is no leakage of molten metal to the sliding surface. As a result, for example, the accuracy of the amount of molten metal supplied is improved. From another perspective, a structure for reducing such leakage (for example, a packing) is not required.

[0160] The valve body 63 may move between an inflow position and an outflow position by moving relative to the container 61 that forms the measuring chamber R1, and the inlet port P1 and outlet port P2, as illustrated in Figures 4(a) to 4(c).

[0161] In this case, unlike the first embodiment (FIGS. 2 and 3(a) to 3(c)), for example, it is not necessary to move the container 61 (and the molten metal in the container 61). Therefore, for example, although it depends on the specific configurations of the container 61 and the valve body 63, it is easy to reduce the driving force of the valve driving unit 67. Also, for example, the valve 63 and its surrounding structure (upper plate 75 and lower plate 73) can be designed and manufactured separately from the container 61. In other words, the valve 63 and the like are highly versatile. Therefore, for example, it is possible to manufacture the valve 63 and the like by imitating an existing configuration, and the productivity of the valve 63 and the like can be improved.

[0162] Molding system MS (water heater 55) may further include a valve drive unit 67A that translates valve element 63 in a predetermined direction (second direction, horizontal direction). Valve drive unit 67A may include two cylinders (first cylinder 78A and second cylinder 78B) fixed in series to each other in the predetermined direction.

[0163] In this case, for example, as described above, by driving each of the first cylinder 78A and the second cylinder 78B at their full strokes, three positions, i.e., the inflow position, the outflow position, and the neutral position, can be realized. As a result, for example, control such as controlling the position of the piston 78b based on the position of a position sensor that continuously detects the position of the piston 78b is not necessary. In other words, the position of the valve element 63 can be controlled with high precision using a simple control system.

[0164] The molding system MS (water supply device 55) may further have a non-contact sensor (e.g., a water level sensor 69A configured by a laser displacement sensor) that detects the height of the water surface in the measuring chamber R1 from outside the container 61 that constitutes the measuring chamber R1 via the container 61.

[0165] In this case, for example, there is a low probability that the molten metal will adhere to or even accumulate on the molten metal level sensor 69. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the probability that the detection accuracy will decrease due to such adhesion or accumulation.

[0166] The container 61 may have a light-transmitting portion 61c that transmits light. The non-contact sensor (laser displacement sensor) may detect the molten metal surface level based on light that passes from the molten metal surface in the measuring chamber R1 through the light-transmitting portion 61c to the outside of the container 61.

[0167] In this case, the influence of the heat of the molten metal and / or the fluctuation of the gas caused by the heat on the detection accuracy is low compared to an embodiment in which an ultrasonic sensor is used as the non-contact sensor, for example. In other words, high detection accuracy can be expected.

[0168] The molding system MS (water heater 55) may further have a contact sensor (e.g., a water level sensor 69B formed by a detection rod) that detects a water level that is located above at least a portion of the range of water level heights that can be detected by the non-contact sensor.

[0169] In this case, for example, as described above, even if a malfunction occurs in the non-contact sensor, the likelihood of excessive molten metal being supplied to the measuring chamber R1 is reduced. As a result, for example, a non-contact sensor with high detection accuracy but a low track record of use in terms of heat resistance can be selected.

[0170] The molding system MS (water heater 55) may have a gas pressure circuit 71 that supplies an inert gas to the measuring chamber R1.

[0171] In this case, for example, the probability of oxidation of the molten metal can be reduced, thereby improving the quality of the product.

[0172] The gas pressure circuit 71 may lower the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 below atmospheric pressure by sucking in an inert gas when the molten metal flows from the furnace 53 (or from the inlet P1 in another respect) to the measuring chamber R1.

[0173] In this case, for example, the molten metal can be quickly introduced into the measuring chamber R1. Furthermore, the inert gas is used to reduce oxidation of the molten metal and to introduce the molten metal into the measuring chamber R1. This allows for effective use of the inert gas. As a result, the configuration of the molding system MS is simplified.

[0174] When the molten metal flows from the measuring chamber R1 to the die casting machine 1 (from another perspective, the outlet P2), the gas pressure circuit 71 may supply an inert gas to make the pressure in the measuring chamber R1 higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0175] In this case, for example, the molten metal can be quickly supplied to the injection sleeve 107. Furthermore, the inert gas is used to reduce oxidation of the molten metal and to cause the molten metal to flow out of the measuring chamber R1. This allows for effective use of the inert gas. As a result, the configuration of the molding system MS is simplified.

[0176] The gas pressure circuit may include a cylinder member 95 a and a movable member (e.g., a ram 95 b) that moves axially inside the cylinder member 95 a. The space inside the cylinder member 95 a, whose volume changes as the ram 95 b moves, may be connected to the measuring chamber R1.

[0177] In this case, for example, by driving the ram 95b relative to the cylinder member 95a, the inert gas can be sucked from the metering chamber R1 and / or supplied to the metering chamber R1. As a result, it is easier to grasp the relationship between the drive amount and the flow rate compared to, for example, an embodiment in which the inert gas is sucked and / or supplied by a pump (this embodiment is also included in the technology disclosed herein). Furthermore, fine adjustment of the pressure is also easy. Although different from the operation of the embodiment, it is also possible to reduce the required amount of inert gas by supplying the inert gas sucked from the metering chamber R1 to the metering chamber R1.

[0178] The gas pressure circuit 71 may have an exhaust passage 97 that connects the measuring chamber R1 and the inside of the furnace 53 .

[0179] In this case, for example, the inert gas discharged from the measuring chamber R1 can be effectively utilized by supplying it to the furnace 53. Note that, unlike the example in Fig. 2, the exhaust flow path 97 may connect the measuring chamber R1 and the furnace 53 without passing through the gas cylinder 95. In this case, for example, the inert gas discharged from the measuring chamber R1 when the molten metal in the furnace 53 flows into the measuring chamber R1 due to its own weight may be supplied to the furnace 53, or the inert gas may be supplied to the furnace 53 from the tank 93 or the gas cylinder 95 via the measuring chamber R1.

[0180] The molding system MS may further include a material supply unit 59 that supplies one shot of unmelted material to the furnace 53 for each shot.

[0181] In this case, for example, the furnace 53 can be made smaller, thereby reducing the amount of heat dissipation and ultimately the required energy. In a mode in which the molten metal in the furnace 53 is pumped out using a ladle, the top of the furnace 53 is open for the ladle to be inserted and removed. Therefore, the molten metal in the furnace 53 easily dissipates heat upward. Furthermore, the temperature of the molten metal in the furnace 53 is set relatively high, taking into account the cooling of the molten metal while being transported by the ladle. As a result, the temperature difference between the molten metal and the ambient temperature is increased, promoting heat dissipation. To stabilize the temperature of the molten metal regardless of such heat dissipation factors, the furnace 53 is made relatively large. On the other hand, in a mode in which a ladle is not used, as in the embodiment, an increase in the size of the furnace 53 due to such factors can be avoided. Therefore, by combining a mode in which a ladle is not used with a mode in which one shot's worth of unmelted material is charged into the furnace 53 for each shot, the limit for reducing the capacity of the furnace 53 can be lowered. Furthermore, in a mode in which one shot of material is dropped for each shot, the molten metal level in the furnace 53 is raised by an amount corresponding to the drop in the molten metal level, so that the molten metal level in the furnace 53 is maintained at a constant height. As a result, for example, in a mode in which the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1 is affected by the molten metal level in the furnace 53, it is easy to control the molten metal level in the measuring chamber R1.

[0182] In the above embodiment, the die-casting machine 1 is an example of a molding machine. The D3 direction is an example of a first direction. The -D3 side is an example of a first side. The left-right direction (the direction of movement of the valve body 63) in FIG. 2 etc. is an example of a second direction. The valve body 63 is an example of a valve body and also an example of a plate-shaped portion that the valve body includes. The molten metal level sensor 69A is an example of a non-contact sensor. The molten metal level sensor 69B is an example of a contact sensor. The ram 95b is an example of a movable member.

[0183] The present invention is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, and may be implemented in various forms.

[0184] For example, the molding machine is not limited to a die-casting machine and may be another metal molding machine. Furthermore, for example, the measuring chamber does not need to be supplied with an inert gas. For example, the measuring chamber may be open to the atmosphere. Furthermore, in a mode in which an inert gas is supplied, the pressure may be any pressure, and for example, the pressure may be approximately the same as atmospheric pressure throughout the entire molding cycle.

[0185] This disclosure may be used to extract inventions that do not require the presence of a valve. For example, a water heater equipped with a non-contact sensor that detects the water level in the measuring chamber from outside the container that forms the measuring chamber may be extracted. Furthermore, a water heater in which the valve is driven by a double cylinder may be extracted.

[0186] 1... die-casting machine (molding machine), 9... injection device, 53... furnace, 55... melting device, 63... valve body, 107... injection sleeve, MS... molding system, R1... measuring chamber.

Claims

1. A water heater comprising: a measuring chamber; an inlet opening from a first side in a first direction toward the measuring chamber, for allowing molten metal from a furnace to flow into the measuring chamber; an outlet opening from the first side toward the measuring chamber, for allowing molten metal in the measuring chamber to flow out to an injection device; and a valve element including a plate-shaped portion facing the first direction between the measuring chamber and the inlet and outlet, and which moves in parallel in a second direction intersecting the first direction between an inlet position where the inlet communicates with the measuring chamber and the outlet is blocked from the measuring chamber, and an outlet position where the measuring chamber communicates with the outlet and the inlet is blocked from the measuring chamber.

2. The hot water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the first direction is a vertical direction, the first side is downward, and the second direction is a horizontal direction.

3. The water heater according to claim 1, wherein the valve body has a through hole that penetrates the plate-shaped portion in the thickness direction, and the through hole overlaps the inlet port but does not overlap the outlet port at the inflow position, and overlaps the outlet port but does not overlap the inlet port at the outflow position.

4. The hot water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the valve element moves between the inflow position and the outflow position by moving relative to the inlet and the outlet together with a container that constitutes the measuring chamber.

5. The hot water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the valve element moves between the inflow position and the outflow position by moving relative to a container constituting the measuring chamber, the inlet, and the outlet.

6. The hot water supply device according to claim 1, further comprising a non-contact sensor that detects the height of the hot water surface in the measuring chamber from outside the container that constitutes the measuring chamber via the container.

7. The water heater according to claim 6, wherein the container has a light-transmitting portion that transmits light, and the non-contact sensor detects the height of the water surface based on light that passes from the water surface in the measuring chamber through the light-transmitting portion to the outside of the container.

8. The water heater according to claim 6, further comprising a contact sensor for detecting a water level located above at least a part of the range of water level heights detectable by the non-contact sensor.

9. The water heater according to claim 1, further comprising a gas pressure circuit for supplying an inert gas to the measuring chamber.

10. The water heater according to claim 9, wherein the gas pressure circuit reduces the pressure in the measuring chamber below atmospheric pressure by sucking in the inert gas when the molten metal flows from the inlet to the measuring chamber.

11. The water heater according to claim 9, wherein the gas pressure circuit supplies the inert gas when the molten metal flows from the measuring chamber to the outlet, thereby increasing the pressure in the measuring chamber above atmospheric pressure.

12. The hot water supply device according to claim 9, wherein the gas pressure circuit has a cylinder member and a movable member that can move axially inside the cylinder member, and the space inside the cylinder member whose volume changes with the movement of the movable member is connected to the measuring chamber.

13. The water heater according to claim 9, wherein the gas pressure circuit has an exhaust passage connecting the measuring chamber and the inside of the furnace.

14. The hot water supply device according to claim 1, further comprising a valve drive unit that drives the valve element in the second direction, the valve drive unit having two cylinders fixed in series to each other in the second direction.

15. A hot water supply system comprising: the hot water supply device according to claim 1; and the furnace.

16. The hot water supply system according to claim 15, further comprising a material supply unit that supplies one shot of unmelted material to the furnace for each shot.

17. A molding system comprising: the water heater according to claim 1; and a molding machine including the injection device.

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