Die-Casting Column Extraction via Movable Platen Web

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing die-casting machines face challenges in efficiently extracting columns due to sagging and increased space requirements, particularly with long columns, as previous solutions either rely on cumbersome column extension cylinders or incomplete column removal methods.

Innovation Solution

A column pull-out device with a web on the movable platen for detachable connection, which supports the columns and reduces stress, allowing for shorter columns and more dynamic machine operation by using a 'pilgrim step' method to extract columns fully.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a column extension cylinder is used to pull columns out of the space between movable and fixed platens, then column extraction is enabled, but the columns sag and require excessive space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolumn extraction capabilityVSAvoidmachine length and space requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the column extension function from a separate cylindrical mechanism and integrates it into the movable platen's own structure. The columns are pulled out by the movable platen's movement itself, eliminating the need for external extension cylinders and reducing overall machine length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The movable platen serves multiple functions: it performs the primary molding function and simultaneously acts as the column extraction mechanism. By integrating the extraction function into the movable platen's movement, the system eliminates separate extraction components and reduces space requirements.

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

2Stability of the object's composition

If long columns are used for die-casting machines, then structural stability is maintained, but column sagging occurs during extraction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidcolumn sagging
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces support elements that counteract the gravitational effect on long columns during extraction. These support elements provide upward or lateral support to prevent the columns from sagging under their own weight, allowing long columns to be used without sagging problems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

3Device complexity

If columns are not completely pulled out of the space between platens, then extraction is simplified, but access to molds is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextraction mechanism simplicityVSAvoidmold access capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses a dynamic, multi-stage extraction process where columns are progressively pulled out in steps during the molding cycle. The movable platen moves back and forth to extract columns incrementally, achieving complete extraction while maintaining operational simplicity through the existing platen movement mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2792465B1Column extension device
Publication Date: 2015.11.18 BUHLER AG
  • EP2792465B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2792465B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP2792465B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

The present invention relates to a column extension device for at least one column (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) of a molding machine (1), in particular a die-casting machine, comprising a fixed mounting plate (2) with a first mold half (3) arranged thereon and a movable mounting plate (4) with a second mold half (5) arranged thereon, wherein the movable mounting plate (4) can be moved on columns (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) detachably fastened in the fixed mounting plate (2), preferably four columns (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) detachably fastened at the corners of the fixed mounting plate (2), characterized in that the column extension device comprises the following units: a fastening device (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) arranged on the movable mounting plate (4) for detachable connection with a column, a further fastening device (15a, 15b) for detachable connection with a column which is arranged on a bridge (11a, 11b),which is located on the side of the movable mounting plate (4) facing away from the fixed mounting plate (2). The present invention further relates to such a forming machine and a method for drawing out a column from such a forming machine.