Blow Molding Locking Device Actuating Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current blow molding processes require significant labor and downtime for mold changes due to the need for manual handling and tool-based operations, which increases changeover times and reduces efficiency in high-performance machines.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a tool-free mold change process by coupling each locking device with an actuating element, such as manually operable levers or actuators, to facilitate the release and positioning of locking devices without the need for tools, allowing for automated or semi-automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual tool-based operations are used for mold changes, then the locking device can be securely fixed, but the changeover time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tool-based locking operations with an automated actuating element (such as a motor-driven mechanism) that automatically engages and secures the locking device. This substitution eliminates the need for manual tool handling while maintaining secure fixation, thereby reducing changeover time and increasing productivity during mold changes.
2Ease of operation
If manual tool handling is required for locking device operation, then precise control is achieved, but labor intensity increases and operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element is designed to automatically perform the locking and unlocking operations without requiring manual intervention or external tools. The system serves itself by integrating the actuating mechanism directly into the mold change process, enabling automated engagement and disengagement of the locking device, thereby simplifying the overall operation while reducing labor intensity.
3Strength
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then the mold parts can be securely held, but the release and positioning process requires significant time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic actuating element that can rapidly transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling quick release and positioning of mold parts. The actuating mechanism provides controlled mechanical force to secure the mold parts during operation, then quickly disengages to allow for rapid mold changes, thereby maintaining holding strength while minimizing the time required for mold changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly reduces changeover times by eliminating the need for manual tool handling and enabling faster adaptation of blow molds, thereby increasing production efficiency and minimizing downtime during mold changes.
Implementation Method 1
each locking device (48) has at least one actuating element (47) coupled to facilitate its release and positioning
Implementation Method 2
a preform is formed into the container after thermal conditioning within a blow mold of a blow molding station by the action of blowing pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
The method and the device are used to blow mould containers. A parison is transformed into the container after thermal conditioning within a blow mould of a blow moulding machine by the action of blowing pressure. In order to adjust to a contour of the container to be produced, prior to the moulding of the container, at least one part of a first blow mould is first removed from the blow station and replaced by at least one part of a second blow mould. Before the part of the first blow mould is removed, a locking device (48) which fixes this part in the blow station is released and after the insertion of the part of the second blow mould said locking device (48) is again positioned for fixing the part of the second blow mould. Each locking device (48) is coupled to an operating element (47).