Modular Temperature Control Device for Plastic Injection Molds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for temperature control of molds used in plastic processing are inefficient, complex, and lack adaptability to individual needs, requiring improvements for rapid and reproducible temperature control.
Innovation Solution
A modular temperature control device with interchangeable temperature control modules, featuring flow channels and heating/cooling units, allowing for customizable configurations and efficient energy transfer, and a self-regulating backflow prevention system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional temperature control devices are used, then temperature control function is provided, but device complexity increases and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control device is divided into multiple interchangeable temperature control modules, each capable of independent operation. This modular segmentation allows the system to be configured flexibly for different mold sizes and temperature requirements without increasing overall system complexity, as modules can be selectively combined or removed based on specific application needs.
Solution Approach 2:
Each temperature control module is designed with universal functionality to work with various mold types and sizes. The modules incorporate standardized connection interfaces and adjustable flow channel configurations, enabling a single module design to serve multiple purposes across different injection molding applications, thereby improving adaptability without requiring complex specialized designs.
2Productivity
If traditional temperature control devices are used, then basic temperature control is achieved, but heating and cooling efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control modules feature locally optimized flow channel structures with varying cross-sectional areas and path lengths tailored to specific heating or cooling requirements. This local quality optimization ensures efficient heat transfer in critical areas while minimizing energy loss, allowing rapid temperature adjustment without excessive energy consumption throughout the entire mold.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables periodic activation of individual temperature control modules based on real-time temperature monitoring and control requirements. Rather than continuously operating all modules, the system can selectively activate specific modules as needed, improving heating and cooling efficiency while reducing overall energy loss through intelligent cyclic operation.
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
Enables efficient, fast, and reproducible temperature control of molds, reducing complexity and operational costs while maintaining high efficiency and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
Each temperature control module typically comprises a temperature control module body (7) made of a material, such as a metal, particularly steel, with high energy storage capacity and high energy transfer capacity; thus, each temperature control module body (7) enables the storage and transfer of thermal energy.
Implementation Method 2
A flow channel structure (8) is provided on the temperature control module side, which comprises at least one flow channel (9) through which a temperature control fluid can flow
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for controlling the temperature of a mould (2) for processing plastics material, comprising a modular temperature-control means (5) which is designed to control the temperature of a temperature-control fluid for controlling the temperature of a mould (2) for processing plastics material, the temperature-control means (5) comprising a plurality of temperature-control modules (6) which each have a flow channel structure (9) comprising at least one flow channel (9) through which the or a temperature-control fluid can flow, the temperature of which can be controlled or is controlled by means of the temperature-control means (5).