Deep Grip Mechanism for Blow Mold Using Moveable Inserts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional blow molding technologies face challenges in creating deep-grip bottles without increasing the size of the blow molding module or reducing the number of stations, as existing molds cannot accommodate moveable inserts due to space constraints.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating low-profile moveable inserts driven by mechanisms like pistons or cams within the mold hanger, which move into the mold cavity during the blowing process to form a deep pinch grip while the plastic is still molten, allowing for a deeper grip without enlarging the module's lateral space envelope.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If moveable inserts are added to deepen the grip, then the grip depth is improved, but the lateral space envelope increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrip depthVSAvoidlateral space envelope
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The moveable inserts are nested within the mold cavity, allowing them to be stored inside the mold structure when not in use. The inserts slide into position from within the mold, eliminating the need for external space and maintaining the compact lateral envelope while still enabling deep grip formation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of adding space in the lateral dimension to accommodate moveable inserts, the solution uses the vertical dimension by having inserts slide upward or downward within the mold cavity. This dimensional transition allows grip deepening without increasing the lateral space envelope of the blow molding module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Shape

If the module size is increased to accommodate deep grip molding, then the grip depth is improved, but the production efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrip depthVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The mold includes moveable inserts that can dynamically change position during the blow molding process. The inserts are initially in a first position allowing standard bottle formation, then move to a second position to create the deep grip feature. This dynamic adaptability enables deep grip molding without requiring a larger module or sacrificing production efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Area of stationary object

If fewer stations are used to maintain module size, then the module configuration is preserved, but the production rate deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule configurationVSAvoidproduction rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The moveable inserts serve multiple functions: they enable deep grip formation, maintain compatibility with existing module configurations, and preserve the original number of stations. By making the mold itself adaptable through moveable components, the system achieves enhanced functionality without compromising the existing productive module architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 enables the production of bottles with deeper ledges and a secure grip without increasing the module's size, maintaining production efficiency and allowing for the use of existing blow molding stations, resulting in a stable and energy-efficient design.

Implementation Method 1

a piston configured to be pushed by the bottom of the cavity into the mold to push the moveable insert into the mold

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS9993959B2Deep grip mechanism for blow mold and related methods and bottles
Publication Date: 2018.06.12 GRAHAM PACKAGING CO LP
  • US9993959B2 patent drawing
  • US9993959B2 patent drawing
  • US9993959B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a mold for forming a deep grip container, the mold having drive mechanisms opposably to drive moveable inserts into the mold. The drive mechanisms may be located entirely within the mold and may include a slotted cam. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a blow molded bottle with a deep pinch grip comprising: providing a mold hanger having an outer envelope and providing within the outer envelope a drive mechanism to drive moveable inserts into the mold after blowing molten plastic into contact with the mold. Further disclosed is a blow molded bottle with a deep pinch grip manufactured according to the disclosed methods.