Distribution Assembly Grooves for Wiring and Fluid Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The routing of wiring and hydraulic/compressed air conduits in multi-cavity hot runner injection molding apparatuses is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and difficult to disassemble due to the complexity and volume of wires and fluid lines, particularly in systems with many nozzles.
Innovation Solution
A preformed distribution member with grooves for routing electrical wiring and conduits is used, allowing for a modular distribution assembly that simplifies the routing of electrical and fluid services within the hot runner apparatus, reducing complexity and improving handling and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wire-receiving grooves are machined into mold plates to route wiring, then wiring can be directed through the hot runner mold, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive due to custom design requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution assembly is divided into multiple distribution members that can be individually configured and assembled. Each distribution member has pre-formed grooves for specific wiring routes, allowing modular assembly rather than custom-machining the entire routing system from scratch
Solution Approach 2:
The grooves for receiving and routing wiring are pre-formed in the distribution members during manufacturing, rather than being machined custom during mold assembly. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces the time and labor required during actual wiring installation
2Ease of operation
If conduits are machined or tubed to hydraulic fluid and compressed air sources, then actuators can be controlled, but the routing process becomes complex and volume of lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution assembly integrates both electrical wiring grooves and hydraulic/pneumatic conduit passages into a single unified structure. This merging of electrical and fluid distribution functions reduces the overall complexity by consolidating multiple separate routing systems into one integrated assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution members are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: routing electrical wiring, conducting hydraulic fluid, and transmitting compressed air. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated conduits for each utility type
3Adaptability or versatility
If large volumes of wires and fluid lines are present in the mold, then all services can be provided to nozzles, but disassembly for maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution system is segmented into multiple interchangeable distribution members that can be individually removed and replaced. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access and service specific nozzles without having to disassemble the entire wiring and conduit system
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution assembly is designed with dynamic accessibility, allowing selective removal of distribution members based on maintenance needs. The modular structure enables the system to adapt from a fixed complex assembly to a configurable arrangement that facilitates ease of repair
Data Source
AI summary
An injection molding apparatus includes a manifold having a manifold channel for receiving a melt stream of moldable material from a source and delivering the melt stream to a nozzle channel of a nozzle. A mold cavity communicates with the nozzle channel to receive the melt stream through the mold gate. A distribution assembly is located adjacent to the manifold. The distribution assembly includes at least one distribution member having a groove formed in an outer surface thereof and at least one conduit provided in the distribution member. The groove receives wiring from a heater of the nozzle and routes the wiring to a termination location or box. The conduit distributed fluid to various locations in the injection molding apparatus, such as actuation fluid for an actuator.